S3 E4: I'm No Longer the Object of Men's Desires—I'm the Subject of My Own Story with Suzannah Weiss

In this episode of When We’re Not Hustling, host Jessie Sage sits down with Suzanna Weiss, a sexologist and author of Subjectified: Becoming a Sexual Subject. Weiss shares her journey toward sexual empowerment, beginning with overcoming an eating disorder tied to societal objectification and evolving through experiences like sex parties and sex writing. Her book challenges traditional narratives around women’s sexuality, urging women to reclaim agency and become active participants in their own desires, rather than passive objects of male fantasy. This episode offers a nuanced discussion on the complexities of sexual subjectivity and self-expression, encouraging listeners to embrace their desires and assert their individuality.

In this Episode:

00:02:40 Introduction of guest Suzannah Weiss and her new book
00:04:32 Discussion on Suzannah’s background and work
00:07:21 Suzannah’s personal journey with sexuality and empowerment
00:09:50 Exploration of consent and desire
00:15:10 Discussion on societal views about sex and gender roles
00:25:25 Examination of men’s experiences with desire
00:32:28 Suzannah’s book tour experience and public readings
00:38:19 Insights on beauty, femininity, and empowerment
00:43:56 Tuning into personal boundaries and consent in sex work
00:53:55 Final thoughts on Suzannah’s book and its impact
00:54:24 Closing segment with Suzannah’s current reads and excitements

Guest:

Suzannah Weiss is a writer and sexologist based in Los Angeles. She is the author of Subjectified: Becoming a Sexual Subject, which describes her search for sexual empowerment and her vision for a world where women are subjects, not just objects, of desire. She has written over 8800 articles, which have appeared in publications such as The New York Times and The Washington Post. As a sex educator certified by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists, Suzannah has taught courses and given talks on topics including consent, orgasms, childbirth, non-monogamy, and neurodiversity. She is regularly quoted as an expert in publications like Cosmopolitan and Men’s Health and also works as a sex/love coach, birth doula, and sexual assault counselor. She holds a Master of Professional Studies in Sexual Health from the University of Minnesota, a Bachelor of Science in Cognitive Neuroscience from Brown University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Gender & Sexuality Studies and Modern Culture & Media from Brown University. She likes to play with words in silly ways that tap into big truths.

Instagram: @weisssuzannah

X: @suzannahweiss

Website: www.suzannahweiss.com

Recommendation:

Audiobooks:

Man’s Seach for Meaning, by Victor E. Frankl

In an Unspoken Voice, by Peter Levine

Sensual Faith: The Art of Coming Home to Your Body, by Lyvonne Briggs

Music:

Oh No, by OK Go (Album)

Best Coast (Band)

The Rest: