If we can’t talk about the possibility of sex and romance between older adults, then we’re denying them–and ourselves–lives of dignity and pleasure at a time when they need every positive reason to live.
Jane Fleishman, PhD, MEd, MS, AASECT Certified Sexuality Educator, is an accomplished educator, writer, program developer, and researcher. In 2016, she received a PhD in Human Sexuality from the Widener University Center for Human Sexuality Studies at the age of 62 after a successful career as an organizational/training consultant for a large public mental health system.
Most recently, Jane is the principal in her own consulting practice, Speaking Of, LLC, based in Northampton, Massachusetts, and specializes in training, writing, consulting for organizations, couples, and individuals, and policy review related to all aspects of sexuality for older adults. Her work has helped organizations of many different sizes develop tools to understand their organizational plights and dilemmas and implement changes in their work environment that align with their values, principles, and vision.
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Jane's curious nature has led her to research older adults who are in same-sex relationships. Jane hosts Our Better Half, a regular podcast on topics related to sex in the second half of life, and is the author of The Stonewall Generation: LGBTQ Elders on Sex, Activism, and Aging, a Nautilus Award winner and Kirkus Review starred selection. Jane’s TEDx Talk, “Is It OK for Grandma to Have Sex?” has received over 70,000 views.
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What truly sets Jane apart is her unwavering dedication to inclusivity and diversity. She understands that sexuality is a deeply personal and individual experience, and she goes above and beyond to create an environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and respected. Her commitment to promoting sexuality education as a vital part of overall well-being is truly remarkable.
—Rosara Torrisi, Certified Sex Therapist and Co-Host, Our Better Half