Emily Nagoski

Dr. Emily Nagoski is a sex educator, sex researcher, and author known for her contributions to the understanding of women's sexuality. Nagoski holds a doctorate in health behavior with a minor in human sexuality from Indiana University School of Public Health and a master's degree in counseling from Indiana University. She has worked as a researcher at The Kinsey Institute and began her career as a sex educator at the University of Delaware, volunteering as a peer sex educator while studying psychology. Nagoski served as director of wellness education at Smith College for eight years before transitioning to full-time writing and public speaking. She has taught graduate and undergraduate courses in human sexuality, relationships and communication, stress management, and sex education.

Nagoski is the author of the New York Times bestseller "Come as You Are: The Surprising New Science That Will Transform Your Sex Life" and co-author of "Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle." "Come as You Are" introduced scientific research demonstrating that the most significant factor in sexual fulfillment is not anatomy, but individual perception and emotional context. The book popularized the metaphor of a car's accelerator and brakes to explain sexual desire, suggesting that lack of desire is often due to too many inhibiting factors rather than insufficient motivation. "Burnout," co-written with her twin sister Amelia, explores the causes and management of stress, with a focus on structural factors affecting women.

Nagoski's book "Come Together: The Science (and Art!) of Creating Lasting Sexual Connections" addresses the importance of prioritizing pleasure in sexual relationships over frequency, orgasm count, or novelty. She draws on personal experiences to provide insight into sexual wellness and relationship dynamics.

Nagoski has appeared in "The Principles of Pleasure," a Netflix docuseries about sex, and is recognized for her TED Talks on sexual health and wellness. She also operates a podcast and newsletter and maintains an active presence on social media. Nagoski is a recipient of the Indiana University School of Public Health W.W. Patty Distinguished Alumni Award. As a speaker, she addresses topics such as women's sexual wellbeing, healthy relationships, and the prevention of sexual violence and harassment, emphasizing scientific rigor and practical guidance in her work.