Ep 354 Oxytocin, Intimacy, and Fertility: A Sex Expert’s Guide with Susan Bratton

On this episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I am joined by intimacy expert and author Susan Bratton (@susanbratton)  to explore the powerful connection between passion, pleasure, and fertility. Too often, trying to conceive becomes mechanical and stressful, leaving intimacy feeling like a chore. Susan brings her 20+ years of experience helping couples transform “having sex” into “making love” and shares practical tools to reignite joy and connection on the fertility journey. We dive into her three keys to conception, relaxation, connection, and engorgement, and how practices like yoni massage, oxytocin-boosting foods, and conscious lovemaking can not only increase the chances of conceiving but also create a more vibrant and lasting intimacy. Susan also shares insights on male performance challenges, natural fertility-friendly products, and why cultivating oxytocin can be life-changing for both partners. If you’ve been feeling like intimacy has become all about the baby-making schedule, this episode will give you a refreshing and empowering perspective on bringing back the romance and planting the seeds for a lifetime of passion. Key Takeaways: Why fertility often makes intimacy feel mechanical and how to shift that. The three keys to conception from a sex expert’s perspective: relaxation, connection, and engorgement. How yoni massage and nitric oxide support female arousal and fertility. Oxytocin’s overlooked role in conception, joy, and long-term intimacy. Practical tools to reduce stress, reignite pleasure, and support both partners through TTC. Guest Bio: Susan Bratton (@susanbratton), widely known as the “Intimacy Expert to Millions,” is a champion for lifelong passion and connection. She is the co-founder of Personal Life Media, creator of the Better Lover brand, and CEO of The20, a company producing organic and botanical supplements to support vitality. A best-selling author of over 40 books and programs, including Relationship Magic and Revive Her Drive, Susan has been featured on ABC, CBS, NBC, and is one of the most downloaded guests on countless podcasts worldwide. Connect with Susan: Visit her websiteFollow her on FacebookFollow her on InstagramWatch her videos in YoutubeGet your free bottle here! —------------------------------------------------ For more information about Michelle, visit www.michelleoravitz.com Take the quiz and start your journey here: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey To learn more about ancient wisdom and fertility, you can get Michelle’s book at: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility The Wholesome Fertility facebook group is where you can find free resources and support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewholesomelotus/ Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.  

In this episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I’m sharing my personal experience attending my fourth week-long Joe Dispenza retreat. From spontaneous moments of connection with the quantum field to powerful coherence healing experiences, I’ll walk you through what actually happens at these retreats and how Dr. Joe blends science and spirituality to help people transform and heal. I’ll also share the unexpected manifestation that left me speechless… and how I’ve started writing affirmations into thin air (yes, really!). Whether you're on a healing journey, exploring meditation, or just curious about how your mind shapes your reality, this episode is filled with practical inspiration, quantum insights, and deep personal reflection. Key Takeaways:  What it’s really like to attend a Joe Dispenza week-long retreat (and why they sell out so quickly How Dr. Joe bridges quantum physics, neuroscience, and ancient wisdom The science behind the breathwork technique that activates the pineal gland Why becoming “nothing” during meditation is actually the path to transformation A real-life manifestation story involving a wild yellow flower The role of coherence healing and how it’s helping people shift physically and emotionally How letting go of control is key—especially on the fertility journey A simple technique to encode intentions using your finger in the air (yes, it works!) Why you don’t have to attend a retreat to benefit from the work __________________________________________________________ For more information about Michelle, visit www.michelleoravitz.com Take the quiz and start your journey here: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey To learn more about ancient wisdom and fertility, you can get Michelle’s book at: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility The Wholesome Fertility facebook group is where you can find free resources and support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewholesomelotus/  

On today’s episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I’m joined by Brooke Harmer (@thewellnourishedmama_), the founder of The Well Nourished Mama, a nutritionist and postpartum health expert who supports women through pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. Brooke’s journey began as a food blogger helping college students eat well on a budget, but after becoming a mother herself, she shifted her focus to helping women heal nutritionally after birth and prepare their bodies for future pregnancies. In this conversation, we explore how pregnancy, birth, and postpartum dramatically shift a woman’s biochemistry, gut microbiome, and hormonal balance, and why many women facing secondary infertility are actually experiencing a deep nutritional depletion. Brooke shares the foundational habits and healing foods that help rebuild nutrient stores and support fertility, whether it’s your first or third time trying to conceive. From bone broth and Brazil nuts to the power of minerals and full-fat dairy, this episode is packed with essential advice for replenishing the body and preparing for a thriving pregnancy. 🎧 Tune in if you’re navigating secondary infertility, prepping for conception after baby, or simply want to learn how to nourish your body through all seasons of motherhood. Key Takeaways: - Postpartum depletion can significantly impact future fertility. - The body undergoes major gut, immune, and hormonal shifts during pregnancy and childbirth. - Healing takes time, more than the traditional 6 weeks postpartum. - Eating 3 well-balanced meals a day is foundational for hormone and fertility health. - Minerals and full-fat foods are essential for restoring the body’s cellular function and hormonal balance. Guest Bio: Brooke Harmer (@thewellnourishedmama_), is a certified perinatal nutritionist who empowers women to take a proactive, holistic approach to their health during pregnancy and postpartum. Blending evidence-based science with ancient nutritional wisdom, Brooke supports women in nourishing their bodies, working in sync with their medical providers, and thriving through every stage of motherhood. She’s the author of two best-selling cookbooks and the host of The Well Nourished Mama Podcast, a top 50 show that has become a go-to resource in the mama community for practical, grounded wellness guidance. Learn more about Brooke: Visit her website here —--------------------------- For more information about Michelle, visit www.michelleoravitz.com Take the quiz and start your journey here: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey To learn more about ancient wisdom and fertility, you can get Michelle’s book at: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility The Wholesome Fertility facebook group is where you can find free resources and support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewholesomelotus/

In this episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, psychic, medium, and medical intuitive Julie Ryan (@askjulieryan) returns to share her extraordinary “buffet of psychicness.” Julie has a rare ability to scan the body, facilitate energetic healings, and connect with spirits, including those of future children. You’ll hear a live fertility reading for one of my clients, where Julie uncovers energetic insights, identifies physical and emotional blocks, and even connects with two spirit babies waiting to join the family. We explore the body’s innate ability to heal, the role of mindset and nervous system regulation in fertility, and how to navigate the often overwhelming medical side of the journey. Julie also teaches her simple yet powerful “Two-Minute Rule” for reducing stress instantly, shares her process for regenerating energetic blueprints, and reminds us that healing is always possible. Whether you’re seeking answers, hope, or a deeper spiritual connection on your fertility path, this conversation offers both comfort and empowerment. Key Takeaways: The body has an innate ability to heal itself, healers and practitioners facilitate the process, but true healing comes from within. Spirit babies can attach to a mother’s energy field long before conception, offering reassurance and hope on the fertility journey. Shifting out of fear and stress is crucial, as the body enters creation mode—not survival mode, when it feels safe and calm. The “Two-Minute Rule” is a simple tool to quickly identify irrational fears and keep stress and inflammation levels low. Energetic healing can address both physical and emotional blocks, supporting reproductive health alongside conventional care. Guest Bio: Julie Ryan is a psychic medium and medical intuitive with the ability to sense medical conditions, facilitate energetic healings, and communicate with spirits, both living and deceased. Known as a “buffet of psychicness™,” she can scan animals, access past lives, and even gauge how close someone is to passing. Julie is the author of Angelic Attendants and the Angel Messages® children’s books, and hosts the popular Ask Julie Ryan show, heard in over 100 countries. A businesswoman, inventor, and serial entrepreneur, she has founded nine companies across five industries and holds patents for surgical devices sold worldwide. Learn more about Julie Ryan: Visit her website hereFollow her on: Instagram, Facebook and LinkedInWatch her on Youtube —--------------------------- For more information about Michelle, visit www.michelleoravitz.com Take the quiz and start your journey here: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey To learn more about ancient wisdom and fertility, you can get Michelle’s book at: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility The Wholesome Fertility facebook group is where you can find free resources and support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewholesomelotus/  

On today’s solo episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I explore the often-misunderstood world of manifestation, especially as it relates to trying to conceive. If you’ve ever felt guilty for having negative thoughts or wondered whether your mindset is blocking your fertility, this episode is for you. I break down the energetic and physical layers of manifestation, share how flow state and nervous system regulation impact your ability to create (including fertility), and offer actionable tips for integrating mindset work in a way that supports, not overwhelms, your journey. From ancient wisdom to real-life stories (including how I manifested my dream job and meeting my husband), I share how true manifestation stems from a state of ease, alignment, and wholeness. Key Takeaways:  Manifestation is not about toxic positivity or blaming yourself for your fertility journey Flow state, deep presence and openness, is the true foundation of creation Fertility is an extension of the body’s creative energy and should be supported holistically Validation of your emotions is essential, resisting them leads to stagnation Aligning body and mind through practices like meditation, journaling, and joy-based activities can help shift your energetic state Affirmations work best when they feel safe, believable, and rooted in gratitude Links and Resources: Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi\ The Power of Your Subconscious Mind by Joseph Murphy If you’re curious about how to quiet your mind and gently support your body with mindset tools, my Rooted Membership is designed for you. It’s a space where I share hypnosis audios, meditations, and mindset practices to bring calm to your fertility journey. You can even try it free for 7 days and see how it feels. https://www.michelleoravitz.com/rooted-fertility-mindset-membership  ______________________ For more information about Michelle, visit www.michelleoravitz.com Take the quiz and start your journey here: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey To learn more about ancient wisdom and fertility, you can get Michelle’s book at: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility The Wholesome Fertility facebook group is where you can find free resources and support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewholesomelotus/    

On this powerful solo episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I explore the deep connection between blocked creativity, emotional trauma, and the womb—and how this interplay can directly affect your fertility. While so many focus on ovulation tracking, supplements, and diet, it’s often the unspoken, unprocessed emotions that quietly influence conception. In this episode, I share the wisdom of ancient traditions and modern science, revealing how the womb is not just a physical organ but an energetic, emotional, and creative center. From Chinese medicine’s heart-womb connection to somatic healing practices like visualization and movement, I offer actionable ways to reconnect with your womb and unlock its healing potential. Whether you're trying to conceive or simply seeking a deeper relationship with your body, this episode will invite you to listen inward, release what’s been stored, and restore safety and softness to the womb space. Key Takeaways: How trauma, grief, and emotional blocks can be stored in the womb The ancient and energetic significance of the womb as a creative center How the heart and uterus are connected through Chinese medicine Practices to restore safety and regulation in the nervous system Simple tools like visualization, movement, and self-compassion to nurture the womb For more information about Michelle, visit www.michelleoravitz.com Take the quiz and start your journey here: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey To learn more about ancient wisdom and fertility, you can get Michelle’s book at: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility  The Wholesome Fertility facebook group is where you can find free resources and support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504  Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewholesomelotus/ Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

On today’s episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I’m joined by Jillian Greaves @jilliangreavesrd, a functional medicine dietitian and women’s health expert, to unpack the complex but often overlooked, relationship between blood sugar balance, hormonal birth control, and fertility. Jillian shares her personal health journey from battling persistent symptoms like acne, bloating, anxiety, and hair loss to uncovering the deeper root causes through functional medicine. We dive into how hormonal birth control impacts your hormones, gut, liver, and micronutrient status, and why so many women feel worse when coming off the pill. Jillian also breaks down why managing blood sugar is essential not only for hormone balance but also for egg quality, ovulation, and creating safety in the body. Whether you're navigating post-birth control symptoms, thinking about conception, or simply curious about how nutrition and nervous system regulation influence your cycle, this episode is packed with insights that will leave you feeling empowered and informed. Key Takeaways: Hormonal birth control suppresses your natural hormone cycle and can lead to long-term nutrient depletion, gut imbalance, and inflammation. Coming off the pill is often a bumpy process that requires patience, support, and targeted care. Balanced blood sugar is the foundation of hormonal health and fertility—swings in either direction can create stress signals in the body. Fasting and trendy diets like intermittent fasting may backfire for women, especially those trying to conceive. Nutrition is powerful, but blood sugar regulation also depends on stress management, sleep, and circadian rhythm alignment. Guest Bio: Jillian Greaves @jilliangreavesrd is a functional medicine dietitian and women's health expert who helps women address the root causes of hormonal imbalances, period problems, and fertility challenges. After facing years of frustrating symptoms and inadequate answers from conventional care, Jillian turned to functional medicine to heal her own body and now supports others through a personalized, evidence-based approach. She offers private coaching, advanced lab testing, and practical guidance to help women feel empowered in their health journeys. Links and Resources: Visit Jillian’s Instagram Book a free discovery call via her website For more information about Michelle, visit www.michelleoravitz.com To learn more about ancient wisdom and fertility, you can get Michelle’s book at: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility The Wholesome Fertility facebook group is where you can find free resources and support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewholesomelotus/ Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.  

On today’s episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I am joined by Laetitia Felix @mindset_bodyandsoul, a fertility mindset coach who shares her deeply personal and powerful journey through infertility, loss, and ultimately conception. After experiencing three ectopic pregnancies and an early miscarriage, Leatitia was told IVF was her only option—but she knew in her heart there was another path. In this vulnerable conversation, she opens up about how slowing down, healing her nervous system, and connecting to her spiritual self helped her conceive naturally—against the odds and through the same fallopian tube doctors advised removing. We also explore spirit baby communication, the emotional toll of unexplained infertility, and how reclaiming your inner wisdom can be the most radical act of self-love. This episode is an invitation to stop, listen, and trust the messages your body and spirit may already be sending you. Key Takeaways: Laetitia Felix conceived naturally after three ectopic pregnancies and an early loss—through the same tube doctors recommended removing. IVF was presented as her only option, but she chose to explore inner healing and spiritual connection instead. Emotional processing, mindset work, and womb healing played a major role in restoring her health and fertility. Connecting with her spirit baby gave her reassurance, peace, and a sense of divine timing. Fertility healing isn’t one-size-fits-all—trusting your intuition and calming the nervous system are foundational. Guest Bio: Laetitia Felix @mindset_bodyandsoul is a certified Fertility Mindset Coach based in London, originally from France. After navigating her own challenging path to motherhood—including multiple pregnancy losses—she now supports women on similar journeys through her holistic Mind, Body, and Soul approach. Laetitia helps women process emotional trauma, release both conscious and unconscious blocks, and reconnect with their inner wisdom to prepare for conception. Deeply passionate about this work, she brings compassion, lived experience, and powerful tools to guide women—whether they’re just starting out or healing after loss. Links and Resources: Visit Laetitia’s Instagram Book a free discovery call via her website For more information about Michelle, visit www.michelleoravitz.com To learn more about ancient wisdom and fertility, you can get Michelle’s book at: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility The Wholesome Fertility facebook group is where you can find free resources and support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewholesomelotus/ Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.  

On today’s episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I dive deep into the topic of unexplained infertility—a term often given when standard fertility tests show “normal” results, yet conception still isn’t happening. I share how Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), functional testing, and a deeper mind-body approach can offer clarity where conventional medicine falls short. We’ll explore key overlooked areas such as egg and sperm quality, thyroid health, gut imbalances, endocrine disruptors, and the vital role of nervous system regulation. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or years into your fertility journey, this episode will empower you with insights that go far beyond the typical lab work. Key Takeaways: TCM can detect subtle imbalances long before they appear in clinical tests. Factors like egg quality, sperm DNA fragmentation, endometrial inflammation, and thyroid health are frequently missed. Nervous system regulation and stress support are essential but often overlooked in fertility care. Gut health and exposure to endocrine disruptors significantly impact hormonal and reproductive function.  ------------------ For more information about Michelle, visit www.michelleoravitz.com To learn more about ancient wisdom and fertility, you can get Michelle’s book at: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility The Wholesome Fertility facebook group is where you can find free resources and support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewholesomelotus/ Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.  

On today’s episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I am joined by spirit baby medium Anne-Claire Le Bihan @anneclairelebihan, who guides women in connecting with the souls of their future children. With a background in midwifery and naturopathy, Anne-Claire shares how her own pregnancy journey awakened her intuitive abilities and led her to support women experiencing unexplained infertility. Together, we dive into the messages spirit babies want to share, why they might delay incarnating, and how making space emotionally, spiritually, and even physicalyl, can open the path to conception. Anne-Claire offers practical tools for tuning into these messages, from meditation and journaling to setting intentions before sleep. Whether you're struggling to conceive, feeling called to connect spiritually with your future child, or simply open to a deeper perspective on fertility, this episode offers a beautiful blend of soul, surrender, and hope.   Key Takeaways:  Making space—mentally, emotionally, and physically—is essential for welcoming in new life. Guest Bio: Anne-Claire Le Bihan @anneclairelebihan is a Spirit Baby Medium and Spiritual Fertility Guide who has helped hundreds of women around the world connect with their Spirit Babies and bring their dreams of motherhood to life. Through her Bring Your Spirit Baby Home program, private sessions, and meditations, Anne-Claire guides women to clear emotional and energetic blocks, deepen their trust, and align their body, mind, and spirit for conception. Blending intuition with grounded spiritual tools, her mission is to empower women to feel supported, connected, and truly held on their journey to motherhood. Links and Resources: Follow Anne-Claire on Instagram Get Your Free Spirit Baby Meditation Here Visit Anne Claire's website For more information about Michelle, visit www.michelleoravitz.com To learn more about ancient wisdom and fertility, you can get Michelle’s book at: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility The Wholesome Fertility facebook group is where you can find free resources and support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewholesomelotus/ Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.