Bye Awkward Side Hugs! Getting Over Our Fear of Opposite-Sex Friendships, #323

2026-02-09

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Are awkward "side hugs" the best we can do when it comes to opposite-sex friendships? Juli sits down with author Bronwyn Lea, who helps us rethink what it means to live as brothers and sisters in God's family. They talk about why we often confuse intimacy with sexuality, how Jesus modeled close, non-romantic relationships, and what healthy Christian community can look like (even in a sex-saturated world). Listen in to discover how moving beyond fear-based boundaries can lead to more connection and stronger, life-giving friendships in the body of...

Are awkward "side hugs" the best we can do when it comes to opposite-sex friendships?

Juli sits down with author Bronwyn Lea, who helps us rethink what it means to live as brothers and sisters in God's family. They talk about why we often confuse intimacy with sexuality, how Jesus modeled close, non-romantic relationships, and what healthy Christian community can look like (even in a sex-saturated world).

Listen in to discover how moving beyond fear-based boundaries can lead to more connection and stronger, life-giving friendships in the body of Christ.

Guest: Bronwyn Lea

Follow-up Resources:

Beyond Awkward Side Hugs: Living as Christian Brothers and Sisters in a Sex-Crazed World by Bronwyn Lea

What Defines an Intimate Relationship? by Dr. Juli Slattery (blog)

Q&A: What is the Purpose of My Sexuality as a Single? w/Dr. Juli Slattery

Q&A: How Can I Tell The Difference Between Sexual Desire And A Desire For Intimacy? w/Dr. Juli Slattery

Surrendered Sexuality: How Knowing Jesus Changes . . . Everything by Dr. Juli Slattery

Follow Bronwyn at @bronwyn_lea

Follow Authentic Intimacy at @authenticintimacy

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