176: Reviving Intimacy in a Sexless Marriage: Where To Start

Podcast Guest: Ralph Brewer

April 13th, 2026

176 Ralph

Listen to the Show:

In this Episode

In this episode, Ralph Brewer shares his powerful journey through infidelity and divorce and offers practical, research-informed insights on rebuilding confidence, improving intimacy, and overcoming common relationship struggles like “dead bedrooms,” codependency, and emotional disconnection.

The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Marriage Commission.”

Time Markers

00:00 Introduction to Ralph Brewer
00:38 Background and coaching work
01:38 Marriage, intimacy topic intro
02:29 Discovering infidelity story
04:35 Rebuilding life after divorce
05:34 Dead bedroom insights begin
06:40 Lack of intimacy explained
08:57 Anxious vs avoidant patterns
11:48 Causes of sexual disconnect
13:19 Myth: sex should be effortless
14:57 “Nice guy” relationship mistakes
17:11 Codependency and hidden expectations
18:56 Extreme lack of boundaries example
20:57 Healthy masculinity explained
22:00 Finding balance in relationships
24:43 Infidelity patterns and causes
27:48 Men isolating after divorce
29:11 Lack of male friendships
31:32 Over-reliance on partner
33:11 Real-life transformation example
36:02 Physical health and attraction
39:39 Scheduling intimacy and connection


Insights

Ralph Brewer:
Sexual health and intimacy matter—they influence overall well-being, mental health, and relationship strength, and small efforts can make a big difference.

Liz Hale:
Plan for intimacy—be intentional about creating time and space for connection, while staying flexible and open to how it unfolds.

Dave Schramm:
Connection requires full attention—being emotionally attuned and present is more powerful than just spending time together.

About Ralph

Ralph Brewer is the founder of Help For Men and creator of Dad Starting Over, two influential platforms supporting men through divorce, dead bedrooms, and modern relationship breakdowns. He is the author of five books, including his most recognized title, The Dead Bedroom Fix, which has earned hundreds of 5-star reviews on Amazon and become a go-to resource for men ready to reclaim their confidence and clarity. 

Ralph combines honest storytelling with practical guidance—offering mentorship, not therapy—to help men rebuild their lives, relationships, and self-worth. Through coaching programs, digital courses, and his private Brotherhood community, he provides tools men can actually use. Whether you’re divorced, stuck in a strained marriage, or just feeling invisible, Ralph’s message meets men where they are—and calls them to lead themselves forward. 

Ralph's Resources:

https://helpformen.com/

https://helpformen.com/media-press

Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:

StrongerMarriage.org

podcast.strongermarriage.org 

Facebook: StrongerMarriage.org

Instagram: @strongermarriagelife

TikTok: @strongermarriagelife 

Dr. Dave Schramm:

https://drdaveschramm.com

https://drdavespeaks.com

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU

Facebook Marriage Group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579

Facebook Parenting Group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/542067440314642

Dr. Liz Hale:

http://www.drlizhale.com/