In a striking episode of her podcast, “Under The Sheets,” host Tatiana Ashborn engaged in an open dialogue with her grandmother, known affectionately as Grandma G, about intimate topics that often elude family discussions. The August 2022 episode has since garnered attention for its candid exploration of sexuality, bridging generational gaps and challenging societal norms.
During the conversation, Tatiana asked her 80-year-old grandmother if she had ever visited a lingerie store, specifically referencing Ann Summers. Instead of a simple anecdote, Grandma G surprised listeners with her frankness, discussing her thoughts on sex and relationships. Tatiana’s approach towards these sensitive subjects reflects a family dynamic where sex was never entirely taboo, yet questions remained unanswered.
Growing up, Tatiana found the sex education provided in schools lacking in vital areas such as pleasure and personal experiences. By her late teens, she sought knowledge from older couples, leading to the creation of her play, “Dirty Talk,” which portrayed various characters navigating their sexual experiences. However, when the pandemic halted the play’s production, she pivoted to podcasting, seeking to explore intimacy in a new format.
As the lockdown limited her interviews to immediate family, Tatiana turned to her five older brothers, prompting discussions about their own experiences with sex education and relationships. Recognizing that their shared generational perspective might not encompass all experiences, she decided to include her grandmother in the conversation to gain a broader understanding.
Society often assumes that discussions about sex become obsolete with age, but Tatiana challenged this notion. Grandma G, with her rich history of love, heartbreak, and intimacy, offered invaluable insights. Her warmth and humor made her an ideal candidate for such a conversation. Initially aiming for a more reserved discussion, Tatiana and her grandmother soon ventured into candid topics, including grooming preferences and their perceptions of intimacy.
Grandma G revealed her belief that a “trimmed bush” is preferable and expressed a wish to have explored her sexual experiences sooner, noting it would have alleviated some pressure surrounding relationships. The conversation took a humorous turn when Grandma G recounted a memorable encounter involving a banana, leading to laughter and a deeper connection between grandmother and granddaughter.
As the dialogue unfolded, Grandma G shared stories that highlighted her vibrancy and enjoyment of life, including an anecdote about being caught with her husband due to a creaky bed. Despite the initial shock, the discussion underscored the importance of recognizing that intimacy and connection are ageless.
The episode concluded on a poignant note, with Grandma G humorously admitting her uncertainty about the whereabouts of a specific intimate object, leaving listeners with a sense of closeness and understanding. Tatiana reflected on the significance of such discussions, emphasizing that they can bridge generational gaps and foster deeper connections within families.
The timing of this podcast episode has taken on greater significance following the passing of Tatiana’s grandfather shortly after the recording. This loss has made her grandmother’s insights even more cherished, providing a glimpse into the love story that defined their relationship.
Through this bold conversation, Tatiana Ashborn demonstrated the value of discussing intimacy and relationships openly. It serves as a reminder that these topics are not only relevant at any age but are essential for understanding the complexities of human connection. This episode has encouraged families to engage in similar dialogues, fostering a greater understanding of love and intimacy across generations.
