Grandmotherly nurse and television sex therapist Sue Johanson (1930-2023) was born in Ontario, Canada and spent over 35 years candidly helping others with their intimate love lives and questions about sexuality.

“Nothing embarrasses me. Absolutely nothing,” she once said.

Coy about revealing her age, the septuagenarian started a Toronto birth control clinic in 1970 and traveled her country teaching students about s-e-x. U.S. audiences discovered Johanson in January 2002, when Sunday Night Sex Show aired on the Oxygen network. Her live phone-in program became an instant hit.

“Americans are a decade behind Canada when it comes to sex education and understanding their bodies,” she observed, attributing the gap to “snuggle power” (it’s colder in Canada!) and better information.

The recipient of the distinguished Order of Canada, Johanson was a straight-talking advocate for sexuality that is safe, responsible, and celebratory. She captivated millions with her blend of humor and honesty.

“Sex is... perfectly natural,” she explained. “It’s something that’s pleasurable. It’s enjoyable and it enhances a relationship. So why don’t we learn as much as we can about it and become comfortable with ourselves as sexual human beings—because we are all sexual?”

Indeed, we are.

Thankfully, Johanson planned to keep sharing her knowledge and helping others find fulfillment. “As long as I’m having fun, I’m not quitting.”

Thankfully, Johanson continued sharing her knowledge for decades, empowering us with clarity, compassion, and courage. Her long career was a beacon of honesty and joy, proving that talking about sex and intimacy, and laughing about it, is empowering... and profoundly human.