Le Shaw Institute

This is Jenna Owsianik’s story, our Scientific Writer at le Shaw. "Sex journalism roles have a way of finding me. I first broke into the beat when a teacher in journalism school invited me to work as a researcher on a TV show about the history of sex. Though the show was never greenlit, I became captivated by the evolution of sexual technologies, ranging from the first dildo from millennia ago, trysts in early automobiles, and the rise of the golden age of adult entertainment. I was also enthralled by the history of sex work in ancient times and the pioneering research of Alfred Kinsey and Masters and Johnson. A few years later I ran a publication covering the future of sex, diving into cutting-edge topics such as sex robots, teledilonics, virtual sex, and human augmentation. Rather than looking back, I was looking ahead toward the many ways technology can enhance human sexuality and intimate experiences. I also founded SexForEveryBody.com, an adult sex ed publication committed to making resources on ethical porn and sextech more accessible and inclusive. Writing about sextech has led me to fascinating thinkers in the field, including le Shaw’s Scientific Director Dr. Simon Dubé whose research covers erobotics and space sex. That’s how I landed my position as Scientific Writer for le Shaw’s online publication, which is dedicated to advancing knowledge and igniting change. My favorite topics to write about are sexual wellbeing, tech innovations, and the orgasm gap. For me, sex has always been an intellectual turn-on—a compelling lens for exploring technological shifts, power dynamics, human connection, and societal change. For as much as our culture is obsessed by sex, we also lack access to science-backed sexual health and wellness resources—and open, sex-positive spaces to share and discuss them. I’m proud to be part of a team that strives to make sex research easier to find and understand."

🔴 Standing Together for Change 🔴 On this International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers, we are proud to stand alongside our partners—The Cupcake Girls, Woodhull Freedom Foundation, New Moon Network, and SWOP Behind Bars—to honor the lives lost and recognize the resilience of those facing violence and systemic discrimination. Sex workers, like all individuals, deserve safety, dignity, and respect. By collaborating with organizations committed to advocacy and justice, we can amplify our efforts to challenge stigma, demand equitable policies, and promote the rights and wellbeing of sex workers everywhere. Together, we are building a world rooted in compassion and free from violence. Let us continue to speak out, support, and stand united for a more just and inclusive future. 💬 Add your voice to this movement and advocate for dignity for all. #EndViolenceAgainstSexWorkers #HumanRights #Solidarity #DignityForAll #SafetyAndRespect #BreakTheStigma

Recent research from the Kinsey Institute reveals the depth of emotional connections and conversations happening on cam sites. In their most recent private session, of the members who responded: 37% engaged in small talk. 23% had meaningful, non-sexual conversations. 19% developed a crush on a model. 17% expressed love to a model. 10% vented about personal issues. 7% discussed feelings of loneliness. In fact, 1 in 5 clients report forming meaningful emotional connections with their models—highlighting the human element often overlooked. For many, these interactions go beyond the physical, offering companionship, understanding, and authentic feelings. Additionally, most meaningful moments occur before sexual activities in sessions, with 79% engaging in non-sexual talk, 68% having emotionally meaningful discussions, and 64% sharing private information. This survey, conducted by the Kinsey Institute, challenges common misconceptions and shines a light on the nuanced dynamics of client-model relationships. Cam sites often serve as spaces for emotional connection and companionship, particularly for those experiencing loneliness. This research has yet to be published. So stay tuned for more exciting data and publications! Advance Science, Ignite Change 🔥 #ResearchInsights #HumanConnection #EmotionalHealth #LeShaw

Advocating for Sexual Health and Wellbeing on Human Rights Day Human rights encompass the right to health, and that includes sexual health and wellness. Everyone deserves access to education, resources, and care that empower them to lead fulfilling lives, free from stigma and discrimination. This Human Rights Day, let’s reaffirm our commitment to prioritizing wellbeing and ensuring that every individual can approach their sexual health with confidence and dignity. Your voice matters, and so does your health. Together, we can create a future where human rights and wellness go hand in hand. #HumanRightsDay #SexualHealthMatters #RightToHealth #SexualWellness

Celebrating Pansexual Pride Day: Honoring Love Without Boundaries Today, we celebrate the profound beauty of connection that transcends gender. Pansexuality embodies love in its most inclusive and authentic form, highlighting the richness of human diversity. This day is a reminder to amplify pansexual voices and foster a community rooted in acceptance and understanding. Love knows no limits, and neither should we. Let’s come together to honor freedom, authenticity, and the courage to embrace who we truly are. Every day is a step toward greater inclusivity. #PansexualPrideDay #LoveWithoutBoundaries #CelebrateDiversity #LoveIsLove

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! 🚨 Every day, women face violence that destroys lives and futures. On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, we say NO MORE. 1 in 3 women globally experience violence in their lifetime—this is unacceptable. Today, on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, we stand with The Cupcake Girls to break the silence on violence and its lasting impacts on women’s health and well-being. Together, we’re advocating for a world where every woman feels safe and empowered, and survivors are supported in reclaiming their lives. Let’s foster conversations and build systems that prioritize respectful, trauma-informed care. 💡 It’s time to act. Explore resources on the link and join the fight for a safer, stronger future where women thrive. https://buff.ly/3AhUKz4 Together, we can make a difference. The time for silence is over. #EndViolenceAgainstWomen #SupportSurvivors #WomenDeserveSafety #StopTheViolence

This is Athena Gayle’s story, our Scientific Writer at le Shaw. "It started with sex in space. This has been my Roman Empire. We’re two seconds away from tourism in space and what will humans want to do when they’re on a space-cation? Have sex. So of course, Dr. Simon Dube’s research “Sexual Health in Space: a 5-year Scoping Review” caught my interest—which led to a LinkedIn post—catching the attention of said Dr. Simon Dube. Leading to my work at le Shaw. I’m Athena Gayle, the Sex Copywriter. I write about sex. I collaborate with sextech startups and sexual pleasure brands. I’m passionate about the kink community and promoting amazing sex lives. In some spaces, I’m known as the Pleasure Fairy. I love to talk about sex. I love to learn about sex. And yes, I carry around lube samples to hand out to folks on the go. I’ve done extensive product testing—everything from the latest lubrications, BDSM gear, innovative sextech, and beyond. I’ve written over 200k words of guidance for couples to explore everything from intimacy building to sensation play, power dynamics to bondage, and impact play to edging. I have crafted articles on topics such as ethical gangbangs, golden showers, building a sex room, erotic spanking, and cuckolds. Aside from sex copywriting, email marketing is my jam. Building automated flows, a/b testing subject lines, and creating engaging email campaigns for sex brands fills my technical cup. At le Shaw, I’m a Science Writer. In short, I take lengthy jargon-filled research papers and transform them into short, snackable articles for the layman. I love to start mine with a story–bringing the reader in. I want you to see yourself in the research. My favorite articles I’ve written are Millennials, Gen Z, and Sex Work; It’s Time for the Sext Talk; Are Millennials More Sexually Aggressive?; Too Stressed For Sex. I firmly believe if everyone prioritized daily orgasms, the world would be a much happier place."

The best thing about sex research conferences is to connect and learn from so many brilliant, like-minded friends and scientists from around the globe. This community has never been more important. #SSSS2024 w/ Drs. Markie Twist and Rhonda Balzarini

Le Shaw is heading to the amazing 2024 Annual Conference of the Society for the Scientific Study of Sexuality (#SSSS2024) in San Diego, CA. Looking forward to seeing stellar friends, colleagues, new people, and their important research! Come talk to us! We want to know all about you and your essential work. w/ Bobbi Bidochka, le Shaw Director #Sexresearch #ProudSponsor

At LeShaw, we’re shaping the future of sexual health and wellness with bold, evidence-based solutions. Research shouldn't just sit on a shelf—because it drives real-world change, empowering everyone to challenge norms and advocate for the right to health. From promoting sex-positive values to advancing human rights, our work impacts communities everywhere. By bridging science and advocacy, with industry, we’re shaping a healthier, more inclusive future. Explore how we’re making a lasting impact. #SexualHealth #Innovation #Wellbeing #Empowerment #FutureFocused #LeShaw