EPISODE OVERVIEW: I interview Dr. Shemeka Thorpe, an award-winning sexuality educator and researcher at the University of Kentucky, to discuss all things sexual well-being.  We talk about everything from sexual function and orgasms, to normalizing the use of lube prior to menopause and reasons your partner may not be initiating sex.This is the conversation that as women, we’ve all been waiting for, and Dr. Shemeka delivers a wealth of information (and it’s based on research) on how to explore and get more of, the big “P” -  PLEASURE!In this episode we talk about:How to feel empowered to figure out what brings you pleasure and try new thingsDr. Shemeka’s research, which focuses on the sexual well-being of Black women – including pleasure, sexual function, desire, and moreReasons why women fake orgasmsThe 6 components of female sexual functionCauses of pain during sex, and why women don't mention it to partners or doctors How Black women and men define pleasure (the results will blow your mind!)The orgasm gap between Black women and their partnersMethods to have constructive conversations with your partner about your sexual needs and desires.ABOUT THE GUEST: Dr. Shemeka Thorpe is an award-winning sexuality educator and researcher at the University of Kentucky. She obtained her PhD from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in Community Health Education. Her research focuses on the sexual well-being of Black women using sex-positive and intimate justice frameworks. Dr. Thorpe strives to make research relevant for Black communities by integrating sex research and community health education.How you can connect with Dr. Shemeka:InstagramFacebookWebsiteRESOURCES MENTIONED:Kimbritive - the sexual wellness home for Black women providing content, community, and expert care where we are seen, heard, and celebrated Brittany Broaddus @theintimacyfirm Goody Howard @AskGoody Use Your Mouth Cards Sexologist Shamyra - www.onthegreencouch.com @Afrosexology_ or www.afrosexology.comJOIN THE SISTA CIRCLE COMMUNITYSubscribe to The Sista Circle Podcast:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyStitcherFollow The Sista Circle Podcast:IG: @thesistacirclepodcastFacebook: @thesistacirclepodcastYouTube: The Sista Circle Podcast  Subscribe to The Sista Circle Podcast Mailing List HereBuy Me a Coffee (Support the Show): HereSupport the show