Meet Treena Orchard, the sex-positive author of ‘Sticky, Sexy, Sad’, a dating apps memoir
I’m a sex-positive feminist over 50 who believes in the magic of reading and writing to change the world and deepen the connection we have with ourselves. As a university professor in the School of Health Studies at Western University in London, Ontario (aka the “other London”), I inspire my students and colleagues to think critically, creatively, and courageously. Life’s short, take the path less travelled once in a while!
I’m in the midst of
- Releasing my first memoir into the universe: Sticky, Sexy, Sad: Swipe Culture & the Darker Side of Dating Apps.
This scary and exhilarating moment represents a turning point in my career and my life as a woman laying myself — and more than a few men — bare. Writing has been a central piece in my transformative sobriety journey since 2012, and it’s something I’m deeply grateful for.
- Adjusting to singledom
A two-year relationship I was in has recently ended, which made me feel a bit embarrassed, especially as a sexuality researcher and writer. Um, aren’t you an expert? Sure, I’m an expert but I’m also a complex, vulnerable human trying to balance how much I give with what I deserve to receive. Intimacy is always a dance.
- Preparing for my first writer’s retreat in Greece this summer, led by the best-selling author and columnist Cheryl Strayed, and several other writers.
I’m nervous AF but also deeply committed to doing this special thing for myself. There’s a new book project in the works!
The best thing about my current age, 51
Being 51 is awesome because I’m prioritizing myself and because women 50+ are claiming cultural space in a big way. That’s no small feat in a society that tells us to be small and silent, and to put others first. I’m growing into who I am with humour, vulnerability, and a bit of grace; I love that, too.
The best thing I’ve done for myself in midlife
Staying sober and putting in the hard healing work personally and professionally. Life is a tough, beautiful ride and I want to be grounded and alive to all the stardust that it offers. To quote Fleetwood Mac: “Rock on Gold Dust woman.”
My midlife must-have
Downtime to read and chill with my cats, gardening, and being the best version of myself with the amazing community of people I call friends, family, and colleagues. Another must have is to continue to bet on myself and take chances driven by my intuition and desires. We have but one tour around the sun, let’s make it count.
My Grown-Ass Lady heroes
Shirley Jackson, Sylvia Plath, Billie Holiday, Frida Kahlo, Ruth Bader Ginsberg, Joni Mitchell, Viola Davis, and Greta Gerwig
What’s next
Book launch and tour, baby!
Follow me here
Personal website: https://treenaorchard.com/
Instagram @treenaorchard
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