I was so honored to spend time chatting with Sophie Ullett on Girl Boner Radio last week, the show’s second time being filmed! We need more voices like Sophie’s and countless conversations on stopping the epidemic of sexual abuse and “slut”-shaming. (And yes, they are sadly linked.)
The episode also features a teaser for a not-to-be-missed documentary and tips from Girl Boner’s current sex-pert, Kait of Passion By Kait. (She’s fantastic!)
Stream the episode on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or my homepage, or scroll down to watch the video. If you’re short on time, feel free to jump to the portions you’re most interested in, using the following time line.
*Please note that the episode contains brief descriptions of sexual abuse for educational purposes.
0:30: I introduce the show.
1:10: See a teaser for UnSlut: A Documentary Film, directed by Emily Linden!
2:20: I introduce featured guest, actress and singer Sophie Ullett! We chat about her background and when she started acting.
*6:20: Sophie discusses the sexual abuse she endured as a child, including her mixed emotions at the time and how she eventually spoke up about what happened.
15:15: Sophie shares how she healed from the trauma and related alcohol abuse. Did she see a therapist? What helped most?
19:15: How did Sophie feel about herself while acting out sexually? Then we talk about growing and healing through sex, and some of the double standards involved with “slut” shaming—such as women being “promiscuous”versus “guys will be guys.”
22:30: More on slut-shaming—including bullying fellow women online, “slutty” Halloween costumes and Define Slut—the groovy t-shirt campaign led by Emily Linden’s UnSlut Project.
26:00: I read a question from a listener whose love of sexting her boyfriend has spurred tension in their relationship. Then our resident Sex-Pert of this month Kait Scalisi, MPH shares awesome advice!
32:00: Sophie and I discuss Kait’s suggestions, then I remind listeners about Kait’s fabulous Sexual Clarity Quickie Package—which is only $98 and includes a huge bonus for Girl Boner fans. (Woot!)
36:00: What is Sophie’s life like now? Learn about her biggest passion and ways we can all put an end to sexual bullying and the message she most wants anyone struggling with the effects of trauma to hear.
42:00: Outro – I share ways you can support Girl Boner® and wish everyone a beautiful week!
What did you think of our chat? How have you been “slut” shamed? What’s your take on sexting? I love hearing your thoughts! ♥
Inion N. Mathair says
I think every women has been slut-shamed at some point in her life. I was such a big girl in high school and when I lost the weight it seemed like that word was tossed around quite a bit in reference to me. I found it rather ironic since I was still technically a virgin and hadn’t even been on a date, but Mathair told me to keep my head up. I also believe that a woman embracing her sexuality through any venue is empowering and beautiful. Given every woman is unique and special, their journey to discover that sexuality is their own and shouldn’t be judged by anyone. It’s sad to say but It seems like there’s a lot of girl on girl shaming when we should be uplifting each other. I grew up in house that was very female-centric and we continue to embrace that feminine empowerment in our careers just as you are, August. Great post and awesome show.
August McLaughlin says
Thanks so much for reading and listening! I love the empowerment that shines through you from your beautiful mom — and absolutely agree that all women have probably been sexually bullied at some point. And you’re right! Females shaming females is particularly sad… We really need to be able to rely on one another.
amyskennedy says
This was such a good show–these are things that need to be said to everyone at a very young age–slut shaming starts younger and younger. I can remember not wanting to tell my soon to be husband how many partners I’d had, because of how I thought he’d perceive me. I was slut-shaming myself! We have to remind ourselves and others that it’s okay to want sex, and it’s okay to dress any way I want to and NOT want sex. Once again, thank you!
August McLaughlin says
I have to wonder if most women have self-slut-shamed at some point. Thanks so much of your openness and support! Those reminders you mentioned are vital.
David N. Walker says
August, I know you can’t say everything in a few hundred words on a blog that you do on your radio program, but I wish you’d put more of the meat of your subject in the blog instead of just referring to the radio program. Love you, though, and I think you’re doing something important.
August McLaughlin says
I may when I have a few assistants and zillions of listeners, David! I try to only promote episodes in this fashion when I have video (a new addition) and feel they’re particularly important. Thanks so much for the kind words and support. Much love right back!
kindredspirit23 says
Good info again, August. Thanks. I didn’t watch all of the video, but did jump to areas I wanted to hear. It has affected me. I know that over the next few days it will assimilate into my mind.