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E280: The Initiation Mistakes You Don’t Even Realize You’re Making

October 1, 2026 · 47 min

Show notes

Initiating sex in your relationship should feel exciting, not frustrating. But for most couples, it’s anything but smooth.


Whether you're feeling stuck, rejected, or just plain awkward when it comes to getting things started in the bedroom, today’s episode is here to help!


We surveyed our audience, and only 17% of people said they’re happy with how initiation is going in their relationship. That means a lot of us are struggling with:

🚨 Feeling like one partner is always initiating while the other never does

🚨 Getting caught off guard and feeling pressured to have sex in the moment

🚨 Waiting until the end of the night, when you're both exhausted

🚨 Using "lazy" or unsexy initiation attempts (boob honks, anyone?)

🚨 Feeling like your partner only flirts when they want something


Sound familiar? You’re not alone. In this episode, we’re breaking down the most common mistakes couples make when initiating sex.


🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ The #1 reason why most couples struggle with initiation

✅ Why timing matters just as much as how you initiate

✅ The major mistake that makes sex feel like a pop quiz, and what to do instead

✅ What to say (and what not to say) when initiating sex

✅ How to make your partner feel wanted instead of pressured


And of course, we’re sharing our top tool to completely transform the way you initiate, so you and your partner can experience more connection, better intimacy, and yes… way more satisfying sex!


Ready to stop guessing what actually works?

The Art of Initiation helps you figure out how each of you actually likes sex to be initiated, so you can make getting things started feel a whole lot more fun (and a whole lot less awkward).


You’ll uncover your Initiation Styles, figure out what makes each of you more open to getting turned on, and get 61 specific ways to initiate that you can actually try together.


And right now, you can get instant lifetime access for just $49 (normally $89).

GET THE ART OF INITIATION FOR $49 →https://buy.vmtherapy.com/art-of-initiation

Sale ends Tuesday, October 6 at 11:59 pm PT.

Stay Connected Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/vanessaandxander Get our weekly email, real talk, expert tips, and zero shame: https://vmtherapy.com/subscribe Subscribe to Pillow Talks wherever you get your podcasts! ========================== THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR ========================== 👏Thanks Quince. Upgrade your everyday. Download the Quince app for app-exclusive offers. Get free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada too. ➡︎https://quince.com/pillow

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