The Matchmaking Tree

Why is one German tree considered to be the Cupid of Europe? Once upon a time a clandestine love led to a ritual that rivals the dating apps of today. From its centuries-old roots to love under the leaves, this feel-good tale of a tree is a testament to the real romantics out there. Modern courtship could use a little more nature, and thanks to its postal address, there is a charming and whimsical way to reach out to prospective connections via a knothole far, far away in the forest. Send your love note to:The Bride and Groom OakWaldstraße 104808 ZschernitzGermany Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever wonder why some of the best stories make you say, “Oh no… please don’t do that” before immediately leaning in closer?From ancient mythology to modern prestige television, this taboo theme has been used to explore power, fate, trauma, and the unraveling of societies. In this episode, we trace its use from the tragedies of Greek myth to the shocking twists of contemporary cinema, unpacking why writers continue to return to this most controversial of narrative tools. Is it just for shock value, or is there something deeper at play? Join us to hear more about storytelling’s most infamous forbidden fruit. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the secret to unlocking new dimensions of reality is simply letting your mind wander? Dive into the Default Mode Network (DMN)—the brain’s backstage crew, working away when there's no specific demand on it. Don’t be fooled—while it might seem it's like “doing nothing,” the DMN is busy with some of your brain’s most important work. We’ll dive into how this network influences creativity, self-reflection, and even your very sense of reality. From meditation to daydreaming, this episode uncovers how quiet moments in our minds might just be the key to accessing new perspectives. Get ready to rethink what “doing nothing” really means, and how it might be the gateway to unlocking your brain’s hidden potential. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One minute, you’re smitten. The next, you’re watching someone pronounce “salmon” with the L and wondering how fast you can escape. This week, Bryde teaches Jeremie all about “the ick”—that sudden, irrational wave of disgust that can turn attraction into repulsion in an instant. Where does it come from? Is it evolutionary self-protection or just our brains being dramatic? From Love Island to TikTok trends, we explore how the ick has evolved, its connection to cringe, and why it might be keeping modern daters single. Plus, a rapid-fire game of “Ick or Red Flag?” that will have you questioning everything. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is post-sex affection the secret to long-term relationship satisfaction? In this final installment of Carnal Knowledge, we dive into the power of aftercare with resident expert Anna. From cuddles to heartfelt conversations, discover why those tender moments after intimacy matter more than you might think. Anna breaks down fascinating research linking aftercare to stronger bonds, better sex, and lasting relationship happiness—even for busy parents. Plus, hilarious tangents on dishwasher debates and the quirks of cohabitation keep things playful. As Anna bids farewell to pursue her studies in sex-positive therapy, this episode wraps up her journey with warmth, wisdom, and lots of laughs.Link to study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24777441/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Everyone's horny and sexual function is for every body, AND there are some unique considerations for folks living with disability when it comes to personal pleasure. This week, Anna breaks down a literary review that discusses the historical context for studying sex and disability, as well as the positive aspects and particular challenges to sex positivity. A mind-opening conversation is had about how our misconceptions of what disability feels and looks like may be limiting how we see the sexual identity of others, and even perpetuate it unconsciously. The conversation also covers Jeremie's new nightmare, the Homunculus, as well as a heartwarming anecdote about a real best friend facilitating a sexy session for his buddy. Listen to get smarter. Study:https://compass.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/soc4.12508?casa_token=_kvPPo72SpkAAAAA%3A-QXXwUOCX-Ks1YWZ6nzWN2Clkl5o5r36poLp_sm7BNz_pIBsF3FqcyiUE4DZ7ypTVSnTLhN5RtPf-Go Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

William A Moore is making (wet) dreams come true by providing penis enhancements that blow the competitors out of the water. Lips, cheeks, butts, boobs, of course there’s also filler for a penis you might want to plump up. Moore chats with the hosts about PhalloFill, a non-invasive procedure using hyaluronic acid to help someone reach their girth goal. They chat about the contraindications (of which there are few), the implications of body dysmorphia as a red flag for treatment, and the importance of choosing safe, reversible options. There are physical, mental, and relational benefits such a procedure can offer and if you love someone who would love to be more of a shower, share this episode. How cozy does it sound to curl up in bed spooning a newly girthy penis? For more: https://phallofill.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Disney should really produce an adult, kink-themed experience for all the now grownups who first became aware of their fantasies after seeing them depicted by cartoon characters in beloved childhood movies. How did “Peter Pan” influence a young, religious cult community escapee to become her fully expressed self? Read all about it! Ariel Anderssen joins the hosts this week to discuss the life trajectory she covers in her memoir, “Playing To Lose: How a Jehovah’s Witness Became a Submissive BDSM Model”. She describes the loneliness of trying to come to terms with her desires in the age before the internet could show her that she wasn’t alone. When Ariel finally connected with right medium for her passions, she blossomed into a creator of a wide variety of content that elevates how we can all think about sex-work and self expression, and she shares some of her favourite sub activities with the hosts, as well as safety advice for those looking to get into. modelling. For more of this “knotty” sub, order her memoir and check out all of her socials here:Twitter: https://x.com/ArielAnderssenYoutube: @ArielsTwilightYearsWebsite: https://www.arielanderssenauthor.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If Lady Di (Princess of Wales) was still living, she could probably dominate only fans, right? Enter Lauren Spencer, a 50-something, successful adult content creator and ambassador for TurnOnVideo.com, adored for her soft, teasing manner, and of course, her uncanny resemblance to the OG Spencer MILF. Ms. Spencer shares a little about her journey as a naughty phone operator in the 90s and the no-brainer decision to go all in on camera when the pandemic shut her business in 2020. The hosts are “gobsmacked” when Lauren shares the most obscene scene that she has ever encountered on camera (trigger warning, poop), and are titillated by the zero fucks she gives about being a recognized adult content creator.More Lauren:TurnOnVideo.comInstagram: @laurenspencer_uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if closeness was overwhelming to your senses? For neurodivergent individuals, sensory avoidant or sensory seeking behaviours can cause havoc in relationships if not properly understood. The good news is that communication, no surprise, can make a world of difference. This week the hosts sit down with certified somatic sex coach and trauma specialist, Nuria Reed, and the conversation takes some twists and turns, including some thoughts on spiritual frameworks for healing, a chaotic kundalini awakening, and the impact of aging and shifting values on personal identity. This is a unique conversation for and from unique minds, and a reminder that self acceptance is key to healing, and that healing happens in relationship.Find more of Nuria's offerings at www.nuriareed.com or on Instagram @nuriareed Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.