PodcastsEducationImperfect Love

Imperfect Love

Dr. Carla Marie Manly
Imperfect Love
Latest episode

148 episodes

  • Imperfect Love

    The Romance Wrecker: How Stress and Anxiety Ruin Your Sex Life

    06/05/2026 | 51 mins.
    We often ignore or blame ourselves for a decline in sexual desire. We may even chalk it up to hormones, relationship issues, or boredom. And while all of these factors can surely contribute to a reduced sex drive, anxiety, burnout, stress--and even unresolved trauma--can take a big toll. Today, I'm joined by a top-notch sex and intimacy coach, Annette Benedetti, who will help you come home to your body so that you can enjoy the pleasure and connection you deserve. Topics discussed include sex, sexual intimacy, relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma, panic attacks, libido, orgasm, sensuality, pleasure, joy, and healing.

    Please note that this episode contains sensitive material; listener discretion is advised.
    Emergency Assistance Details: If you or someone you know needs immediate support, please call your emergency services. In the US, 24/7 help is available by calling "911," "988" (Suicide and Crisis Hotline), or SAMSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). As applicable, additional resources may be provided in the show notes.
    Non-Emergency Online Mental Health Information: https://www.nami.org/support-education/nami-helpline/
    and https://odphp.health.gov/myhealthfinder/healthy-living/mental-health-and-relationships

    IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: No expert is offering medical or psychological direction or advice; the content is purely informational in nature. Please consult your physician or healthcare provider before undertaking any new regimen or procedure.

    Connect with Dr. Carla Manly:
    Website: https://www.drcarlamanly.com
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcarlamanly/
    Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/drcarlamanly/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drcarlamanly
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-marie-manly-8682362b/
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr_carlamanly_imperfect_love
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr_carla_manly

    Books by Dr. Carla Manly:
    Joy From Fear: Create the Life of Your Dreams by Making Fear Your Friend
    Date Smart: Transform Your Relationships and Love Fearlessly
    Aging Joyfully: A Woman’s Guide to Optimal Health, Relationships, and Fulfillment for Her 50s and Beyond
    The Joy of Imperfect Love: The Art of Creating Healthy, Securely Attached Relationships
    Imperfect Love Relationship & Oracle Card Deck by Dr. Carla Manly:
    Etsy
    Amazon

    Connect with Annette Benedetti:
    Website: https://talksexwithannette.com/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annettebenedetti/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Talksexwithannette
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talksexwithannette
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talksexwithannette

    Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://drcarlamanly.com/
  • Imperfect Love

    Finding Real Love in a Chaotic World

    05/29/2026 | 43 mins.
    Finding real love can be tricky, and in today's world, meeting organically can be next to impossible. As a result, it's easy to feel hopeless and resigned to being alone or, worse yet, accept a partner who is not a good fit. Yet there are steps you can take to set the stage for finding a partner who is truly a great match. Today, we're joined by Jackie Dorman, relationship coach, professional matchmaker, and author whose techniques have helped thousands of singles find the long-term relationship of their dreams.

    Topics discussed include love, relationships, dating, marriage, divorce, dating apps, dating online, healthy relationships, parents, intergenerational patterns, compatibility, infatuation, chemistry, attraction, unhealthy patterns, genuine love, healthy patterns, communication, modern dating, organic dating, and imperfect love.

    Please note that this episode contains sensitive material; listener discretion is advised.
    Emergency Assistance Details: If you or someone you know needs immediate support, please call your emergency services. In the US, 24/7 help is available by calling "911," "988" (Suicide and Crisis Hotline), or SAMSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). As applicable, additional resources may be provided in the show notes.
    Non-Emergency Online Mental Health Information: https://www.nami.org/support-education/nami-helpline/
    and https://odphp.health.gov/myhealthfinder/healthy-living/mental-health-and-relationships

    IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: No expert is offering medical or psychological direction or advice; the content is purely informational in nature. Please consult your physician or healthcare provider before undertaking any new regimen or procedure.

    Connect with Dr. Carla Manly:
    Website: https://www.drcarlamanly.com
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcarlamanly/
    Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/drcarlamanly/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drcarlamanly
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-marie-manly-8682362b/
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr_carlamanly_imperfect_love
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr_carla_manly

    Books by Dr. Carla Manly:
    Joy From Fear: Create the Life of Your Dreams by Making Fear Your Friend
    Date Smart: Transform Your Relationships and Love Fearlessly
    Aging Joyfully: A Woman’s Guide to Optimal Health, Relationships, and Fulfillment for Her 50s and Beyond
    The Joy of Imperfect Love: The Art of Creating Healthy, Securely Attached Relationships
    Imperfect Love Relationship & Oracle Card Deck by Dr. Carla Manly:
    Etsy
    Amazon

    Connect with Jackie Dorman:
    Website: http://www.jackiedorman.com/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackiedormanofficial/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jackiedormanofficial
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jackiedorman
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jackiedormanofficial

    Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://drcarlamanly.com/
  • Imperfect Love

    LOVE BOOST: 5 Simple Steps to Make Your Relationship GREAT!

    05/22/2026 | 47 mins.
    Many people – whether married or in other long-term love relationships – begin to feel that they don't want to settle for a romantic partnership that lacks sparkle, connection, and joy. And this makes sense, especially if destructive dynamics are at work behind the scenes. Although many love relationships lose their luster over time, I've found that a bit of polishing and loving attention can help them shine more brightly than ever before. Today, I'm joined by a renowned relationship expert, researcher, and author, Dr. Terri Orbuch, who will walk us through the five simple steps that can help your romantic relationship go from dull and merely tolerable to great. Topics discussed include connection, emotional connection, intimacy, sex, sexual intimacy, attachment style, healthy disagreements, conflict, 10-minute rule, novelty, mystery, companionship, friendship, divorce, marriage, long-term relationship, happiness, and stability.

    Topics discussed include connection, emotional connection, intimacy, sex, sexual intimacy, attachment style, healthy disagreements, conflict, 10-minute rule, novelty, mystery, companionship, friendship, divorce, marriage, long-term relationship, happiness, and stability.

    Please note that this episode contains sensitive material; listener discretion is advised.
    Emergency Assistance Details: If you or someone you know needs immediate support, please call your emergency services. In the US, 24/7 help is available by calling "911," "988" (Suicide and Crisis Hotline), or SAMSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). As applicable, additional resources may be provided in the show notes.
    Non-Emergency Online Mental Health Information: https://www.nami.org/support-education/nami-helpline/
    and https://odphp.health.gov/myhealthfinder/healthy-living/mental-health-and-relationships

    IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: No expert is offering medical or psychological direction or advice; the content is purely informational in nature. Please consult your physician or healthcare provider before undertaking any new regimen or procedure.

    Connect with Dr. Carla Manly:
    Website: https://www.drcarlamanly.com
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcarlamanly/
    Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/drcarlamanly/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drcarlamanly
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-marie-manly-8682362b/
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr_carlamanly_imperfect_love
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr_carla_manly

    Books by Dr. Carla Manly:
    Joy From Fear: Create the Life of Your Dreams by Making Fear Your Friend
    Date Smart: Transform Your Relationships and Love Fearlessly
    Aging Joyfully: A Woman’s Guide to Optimal Health, Relationships, and Fulfillment for Her 50s and Beyond
    The Joy of Imperfect Love: The Art of Creating Healthy, Securely Attached Relationships
    Imperfect Love Relationship & Oracle Card Deck by Dr. Carla Manly:
    Etsy
    Amazon

    Connect with Dr. Terri Orbuch:
    Website: https://drterrithelovedoctor.com/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terriorbuch/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrTerriLoveDr/#

    Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://drcarlamanly.com/
  • Imperfect Love

    Say "YES!" to Joyful Connection, Purpose, and a BEAUTIFUL LIFE!

    05/15/2026 | 42 mins.
    Do life's stressors leave you feeling out of balance and disconnected from yourself? From personal and professional experience, I've found that many people struggle with finding the internal peace and purpose they desire, want, and need. Yet in real life, it's not easy to find or use the tools that can reduce stress and increase inner joy, confidence, and self-awareness. But what if the life of your dreams is waiting just outside your door? Today, I'm joined by an amazing special guest, Dr. Jordan Ashley of the nonprofit Souljourn Yoga Foundation. Dr. Ashley helps people around the world transform and deepen their connection with themselves, their purpose, and the outer world.

    Topics discussed include fear, anxiety, stress, balance, embodiment, peace, getting unstuck, purpose, passion, self-awareness, community, connection, fulfillment, acts of service, education, travel, yoga, inspiration, yoga retreat, underprivileged girls, underprivileged women, helping others, Cambodia, Morocco, giving back, community service, mentorship, transformation, empowerment, and joy.

    Please note that this episode contains sensitive material; listener discretion is advised.
    Emergency Assistance Details: If you or someone you know needs immediate support, please call your emergency services. In the US, 24/7 help is available by calling "911," "988" (Suicide and Crisis Hotline), or SAMSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). As applicable, additional resources may be provided in the show notes.
    Non-Emergency Online Mental Health Information: https://www.nami.org/support-education/nami-helpline/
    and https://odphp.health.gov/myhealthfinder/healthy-living/mental-health-and-relationships

    IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: No expert is offering medical or psychological direction or advice; the content is purely informational in nature. Please consult your physician or healthcare provider before undertaking any new regimen or procedure.

    Connect with Dr. Carla Manly:
    Website: https://www.drcarlamanly.com
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcarlamanly/
    Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/drcarlamanly/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drcarlamanly
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-marie-manly-8682362b/
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr_carlamanly_imperfect_love
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr_carla_manly

    Books by Dr. Carla Manly:
    Joy From Fear: Create the Life of Your Dreams by Making Fear Your Friend
    Date Smart: Transform Your Relationships and Love Fearlessly
    Aging Joyfully: A Woman’s Guide to Optimal Health, Relationships, and Fulfillment for Her 50s and Beyond
    The Joy of Imperfect Love: The Art of Creating Healthy, Securely Attached Relationships

    Imperfect Love Relationship & Oracle Card Deck by Dr. Carla Manly:
    Etsy
    Amazon

    Connect with Dr. Jordan Ashley:
    Website: https://www.souljournyoga.com/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/souljournyoga/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SouljournYoga/
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@souljournyoga

    Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://drcarlamanly.com/
  • Imperfect Love

    Healing From the Raw Pain of Infidelity & Betrayal

    05/08/2026 | 48 mins.
    If you've ever been betrayed by a loved one, especially a romantic partner, you know how deeply painful it can be. When those we count on most betray our trust, it can take years to process the betrayal, heal, and move forward. So if you're aching over a new or old wound stemming from disloyalty, know that you are not alone. Today, I'm joined by an amazing expert, Joe Sanok, a licensed psychotherapist, author, and podcaster, who will share his journey of betrayal with us. Joe will take us through the process of how to heal so you can open your heart to those worthy of your trust.

    Topics discussed include betrayal, infidelity, parenting, single parenting, marriage, divorce, children, anger, resentment, disgust, Gottman Method, The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, stonewalling, criticism, contempt, defensiveness, cheating, honesty, transparency, healing, apology, amends, trust, and support.

    Sensitive Episode:
    Please note that this episode contains sensitive material; listener discretion is advised.
    Emergency Assistance Details: If you or someone you know needs immediate support, please call your emergency services. In the US, 24/7 help is available by calling "911," "988" (Suicide and Crisis Hotline), or SAMSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). As applicable, additional resources may be provided in the show notes.
    Non-Emergency Online Mental Health Information: https://www.nami.org/support-education/nami-helpline/
    and https://odphp.health.gov/myhealthfinder/healthy-living/mental-health-and-relationships

    IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: No expert is offering medical or psychological direction or advice; the content is purely informational in nature. Please consult your physician or healthcare provider before undertaking any new regimen or procedure.

    Connect with Dr. Carla Manly:
    Website: https://www.drcarlamanly.com
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcarlamanly/
    Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/drcarlamanly/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drcarlamanly
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-marie-manly-8682362b/
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr_carlamanly_imperfect_love
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr_carla_manly

    Books by Dr. Carla Manly:
    Joy From Fear: Create the Life of Your Dreams by Making Fear Your Friend
    Date Smart: Transform Your Relationships and Love Fearlessly
    Aging Joyfully: A Woman’s Guide to Optimal Health, Relationships, and Fulfillment for Her 50s and Beyond
    The Joy of Imperfect Love: The Art of Creating Healthy, Securely Attached Relationships

    Imperfect Love Relationship & Oracle Card Deck by Dr. Carla Manly:
    Etsy
    Amazon

    Connect with Joe Sanok:
    Website: https://practiceofthepractice.com/
    https://greatlakesonlinecounseling.com/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/practiceofthepractice/
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Practiceofthepractice

    Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://drcarlamanly.com/
More Education podcasts
About Imperfect Love
The messy road of life is difficult to navigate alone, and it’s often tough to figure out the next best step. Hosted by psychologist and author Dr. Carla Marie Manly, the Imperfect Love podcast sheds light on the complicated, sensitive problems that affect us all. Dr. Carla responds to listeners’ real-life questions with a mindfulness-based approach. She delivers quality, nourishing advice on finding love and happiness by learning to embrace life's imperfections. In supportive conversations with Dr. Carla, you’ll be inspired to cultivate inner joy and create the loving relationships you deserve. With her unique body-mind-spirit focus, she’ll help you create self-love and transform your challenges into growth opportunities. Each episode is an invitation to explore what does and doesn’t work for you. Collectively, the episodes will help you live the life you were meant to live—the life you want to live—right now. Looking to grow and change for the better? Discover and hone the skills that will bring you fulfillment and success. Explore the shifts that will help you create the life of your dreams. Increase your self-esteem as you let go of the fear and perfectionism that feed everything from anxiety and body image issues to people-pleasing. Get unstuck and gain confidence by turning negative messages into fuel for change. Feel the transformation that comes from loving your wonderful, imperfect self. Tired of unsatisfying love relationships? Learn how to attract “perfectly flawed” love that helps you feel seen and respected. Explore love’s highs and lows as you discover how to avoid pitfalls and build emotionally intimate relationships. Discover effective skills for cultivating boundaries, emotional intelligence (EQ), and communication skills to improve your dating life, marriage, or other romantic relationship. Delve into hot topics including narcissism, red flags, toxic patterns, sexuality, apologies, insecure attachment issues, situationships, conflict, trauma, and more. Looking for genuine, supportive friendships? Get the tools you need to create connections with people who understand, accept, and appreciate you. Learn how to let go of unhealthy friends and discover how to build friendships with people who will respect your boundaries and value you for who you are. Struggling with parenting, in-laws, siblings, or other family issues? Explore challenging family dynamics and attachment problems from multiple angles. Master communication strategies and discover how to shift dysfunctional family patterns with mindful love and empathy. Feeling burned out or unsatisfied at work? Investigate the problems that make work feel like a depressing chore. Discover the power of workplace EQ and the importance of work-life balance. Learn to use self-care to avoid burnout and feel passionate about your job. Yearning for respect, equality, and unconditional love? If you identify as a member of the LGBTQIA2S+ community or other marginalized group and have been rejected because of who you are or who you love, you’ll find inclusivity and affirmation. Dr. Carla's platform is welcoming of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Above all, Imperfect Love creates a warm and accepting space for you to reconnect with your inherent goodness, wisdom, and spirituality. Discover the benefits of self-care and healthy mindset shifts to create positive patterns and internal abundance. Embrace effective stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, journaling, and breathwork to reduce anxiety, calm your mind, and take control of your emotions. Manifest the inner joy that allows you to be the very best version of yourself. Enjoy Imperfect Love at http://DrCarlaManly.com. Disclaimer: This podcast is purely educational and is not a replace for professional psychological support. In case of emergency, contact your nearest hospital or emergency hotline such as “911” (US), “999” (UK), or “112” (EU).
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