Body Wisdom Aging Sex & Self

with Suzanne Noble

(Season 4 | Episode 168)

[Tessa] In this episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, we explore the transformative journey of embracing aging, sexuality, and new adventures with our guest, Suzanne Noble. Our conversation dives deep into the heart of what it means to be an “open nester,” a term that celebrates the possibilities that come with the children leaving home while rejecting the label of “empty nester.” I am thrilled to welcome Suzanne back as we discuss her insights on evolving relationships with passion and vitality in our later years. Body Wisdom Aging Sex & Self with Suzanne Noble

EPISODE TIME-CODE

5:13 The Reality of Aging and Sexuality

8:12 Embracing Curiosity, Compassion, and Courage

13:08 Expanding the Definition of Pleasure

22:56 Finding New Identities as We Age

27:25 Navigating Relationships in Later Life

33:28 Evolving Desires and Acceptance

Suzanne kicks off our discussion with an update on her life since we last connected, reflecting on the changes brought about by the pandemic and her foray into podcasting. Driven by a desire to create a space for conversations about sex and aging, she co-founded a podcast that has resonated deeply with audiences, particularly coinciding with the release of the film “Good Luck to You, Leo Grande.” This film opened the floodgates for discussions about older women’s sexual experiences, and Suzanne quickly found herself as a relatable voice amidst a burgeoning dialogue.

As we engage, Suzanne shares her journey of navigating intimacy and connection in an evolving landscape of relationships. We discuss how her past open relationship inspired her to make sex and age a central theme of her podcast. The information she has gathered from experts sheds light on the challenges faced by older individuals regarding sex, dating, and relationships. From recognizing physical changes, such as vaginal atrophy and erectile dysfunction, to understanding the lack of reliable information available from medical professionals, this episode tackles vital topics that can often be overlooked.

Notably, we talk about societal perceptions of aging and how they shape our identities. We dissect the stigma surrounding terms like “senior” and “menopause,” advocating for a more compassionate understanding of these phases of life. Suzanne articulates the importance of curiosity, compassion, and courage in exploring and enjoying our sexuality as we age. The nuanced conversation touches on reducing the focus on orgasm as the ultimate goal of sexual experiences, instead celebrating pleasure in all its forms.

As the discussion deepens, we delve into the surprising discoveries that come from engaging with experts in the field. Suzanne highlights how many men and women aren’t aware of the available resources for maintaining sexual health and pleasure, thus emphasizing the need for open dialogue. The importance of communication within relationships is underscored, with both Suzanne and I stressing that it’s never too late to articulate desires and cultivate intimacy.

Body Wisdom Aging Sex & Self with Suzanne Noble

The episode also touches on body confidence—an important theme as we age. Through Suzanne’s experiences at a nude village in France, we explore the liberating nature of body positivity and acceptance. In such environments, individuals are reminded that everyone has their unique characteristics and imperfections, fostering a supportive atmosphere that can aid in reclaiming confidence.

Throughout our conversation, Suzanne’s energy and candidness exemplify the essence of being open to new experiences and redefining our lives in later years. She shares how her children embrace her newfound voice, using her work as both an icebreaker in social situations and an educational resource.

Suzanne Noble is the founder of The Advantages of Age and Startup School for Seniors and a highly successful podcast Sex Advice for Seniors.

Resources for You

We want to provide you with support and many many resources for your own Open Nesting Journey. Our resource page has so much to offer as does our private discussion group on Facebook about queerness, relationship fluidity in the empty nest, and other topics of interest:

Open Nesters Resource Page

The Open Nesters Private Facebook Group

About Tessa

Tessa Krone is the engine behind and the face of The Open Nesters.

Tessa holds an MA in Consciousness Studies and is a speaker, coach, program, and journey facilitator & leader, author and, of course, Podcaster.

Her offerings are based on her mission to help people open to their most self-expressed, loving selves. Tessa’s specialties include embodiment from all the senses and elements of our inner and outer lives, ranging from mindfulness, dance, play, and sensory exploration in nature. If she had one superpower, it would be to help people, especially as they age, to live more open-hearted lives.

Please email Tessa to make a connection. If you like, please answer the question:

What do you need to OPEN your NEST? In your LIFE. In your BODY. In your SPIRIT. Do you need MORE…