A relationship without sex is invalid, and couples over 65 without it are sitting on the edge of a cliff.
The episode begins by addressing relationships without passion, focusing on individuals over 40. The speaker asserts that a relationship without sex is invalid, comparing such couples to sitting on the edge of a cliff. They explain that many couples stay together out of fear, habit, or practical reasons like eviction, not love. A common hope is that sex will return after children leave home, though the speaker notes this rarely happens. The movie 'Failure to Launch' is cited as an example where parents regain sexual freedom after their son moves out. The speaker discusses how sex, passion, or drunkenness can be replaced by eating, which is described as equally powerful. They mention that some people stay in relationships because they cannot stand being alone with themselves. The episode also touches on cases where both partners have no sexual desire and form good companionship instead. A specific anecdote involves a couple claiming absolute freedom in a sexless relationship, but the speaker observes underlying terror and insecurity during a holiday. The speaker criticizes the selfishness of keeping a partner asexual and emphasizes respecting when a partner's sexual life ends. They conclude that relationships without sex are like sitting on dynamite and lack clarity. The episode ends with a call to action for listeners to follow the podcast on various platforms.
