In this episode of the Intimacy Lab, Michelle Renee speaks with Angela Rivero, a somatic practitioner and sex and relationship coach. They explore the concepts of somatic experiencing, the healing process, and the importance of emotional intelligence in relationships. Angela shares insights on trauma, grief, and the significance of reconnecting with oneself. The conversation also touches on boundaries, the power of asking for help, and the journey of self-discovery in navigating intimacy and desire.
Takeaways
Angela Rivero is a Somatic Experiencing practitioner and sex & relationship coach based in Escondido, CA. She specializes in female intimacy and anatomy education, guiding clients to understand body signals, complete stress cycles, and build capacity for safety, pleasure, and connection. Angela supports complex trauma healing, boundaries, and changing desire through practical, compassionate tools. She works with clients online and in person, hosts the Everyday Intimacy with Angela Rivera podcast, and her website is https://somashift.org.
Michelle Renee (she/her) is a therapeutic intimacy specialist, trained as both a Cuddle Therapist and Surrogate Partner, and the co-owner & Director of Training at Cuddlist.com. She practices a trauma-informed, consent-based approach that helps folks of all genders rebuild trust with touch, set clear boundaries, and access authentic pleasure ... at their own pace. She serves clients nationwide and partners with therapists to integrate somatic, consent-based healing. Michelle's websites are https://meetmichellerenee.com and https://humanconnectioncoach.com and she can be found on social media at https://instagram.com/meetmichellerenee.
If you’d like to ask a question for Michelle to answer on an episode, https://www.meetmichellerenee.com/podcast
To grab your own set of We’re Not Really Strangers https://amzn.to/47XJjvm
Become a Cuddlist Certified Touch Practitioner and save 10%: https://cuddlist.podia.com/cuddlist-certification/6dnxo?coupon=REFERRAL
In this episode of the Intimacy Lab, Michelle Renee discusses her journey as a therapeutic intimacy specialist and cuddle therapist. She reflects on her recent experiences, including feelings of insecurity about sharing personal stories and the balance between openness and sensitivity in conversations about intimacy and sex. Michelle emphasizes the importance of authenticity, self-reflection, and the need for healing through touch in relationships. She encourages listeners to embrace their own journeys and to seek connections that resonate with them.
Takeaways
Michelle Renee (she/her) is a San Diego-based Human Connection Coach and Cuddle Therapist. Michelle's websites are https://meetmichellerenee.com and https://humanconnectioncoach.com and she can be found on social media at https://instagram.com/meetmichellerenee.
If you’d like to ask a question for Michelle to answer on an episode, https://www.meetmichellerenee.com/podcast
To grab your own set of We’re Not Really Strangers https://amzn.to/47XJjvm
Become a Cuddlist Certified Touch Practitioner and save 10%: https://cuddlist.podia.com/cuddlist-certification/6dnxo?coupon=REFERRAL
In this episode, Michelle and Coach Alex Ray debrief their recent intimate experiment, exploring themes of vulnerability, friendship, and sexual orientation. They discuss the emotional highs and lows of their experience, the importance of communication in navigating intimacy, and the complexities of arousal and connection. Through laughter and tears, they reflect on the significance of their bond and the lessons learned about themselves and each other. In this conversation, Michelle and Coach Alex explore the complexities of asexuality, communication in intimate relationships, and the importance of understanding individual preferences in sexual experiences. They discuss the significance of pleasure beyond orgasms, the challenges of arousal and desire, and the need for comprehensive sexual education. The dialogue emphasizes the diversity of bodies and the importance of vulnerability and communication in fostering deeper connections.
Alex Ray (he/she/they) is an internationally certified sex and relationship coach with eight years of experience. Whether guiding singles toward their dream partner, bringing couples closer together, or supporting an amicable separation, Alex specializes in helping people speak up for their needs and desires with confidence.
Passionate about sex education and open conversations, Alex is launching Kink Curious, a new podcast premiering in May, where they explore the why behind what turns people on. They’re also building an employee-owned sex education company to bring shame-free learning to more people.
Connect with Alex online @heyalexgay on Instagram and TikTok or coachalexray.com
Michelle Renee (she/her) is a San Diego-based Human Connection Coach and Cuddle Therapist. Michelle's websites are https://meetmichellerenee.com and https://humanconnectioncoach.com and she can be found on social media at https://instagram.com/meetmichellerenee.
If you’d like to ask a question for Michelle to answer on an episode, https://www.meetmichellerenee.com/podcast
In this engaging conversation, Michelle Renee and Coach Alex Ray explore themes of confidence, self-esteem, and the intricacies of sexual identity and kink. They share their origin story, discuss working with social anxiety in social settings, and delve into the importance of communication in intimate relationships. The dialogue also touches on asexuality, the concept of pegging, and the significance of education in understanding kink. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the value of curiosity and openness in sexual exploration, redefining what success looks like in intimate experiences. In this engaging conversation, Michelle and Alex explore themes of intimacy, authenticity, and vulnerability in relationships. They discuss navigating social spaces, creating safe environments for self-expression, and the importance of honest communication in attraction. The dialogue delves into the complexities of sexual experiences, the significance of presence, and the role of compliments in fostering connection. They also touch on body positivity, the difference between performance and genuine intimacy, and the idea that pleasure can exist beyond traditional notions of orgasm. Throughout, they emphasize the value of curiosity, consent, and mutual exploration in building meaningful relationships.
Alex Ray (he/she/they) is an internationally certified sex and relationship coach with eight years of experience. Whether guiding singles toward their dream partner, bringing couples closer together, or supporting an amicable separation, Alex specializes in helping people speak up for their needs and desires with confidence.
Passionate about sex education and open conversations, Alex is launching Kink Curious, a new podcast premiering in April, where they explore the why behind what turns people on. They’re also building an employee-owned sex education company to bring shame-free learning to more people.
Connect with Alex online @heyalexgay on Instagram and TikTok or coachalexray.com
Michelle Renee (she/her) is a San Diego-based Human Connection Coach and Cuddle Therapist. Michelle's websites are https://meetmichellerenee.com and https://humanconnectioncoach.com and she can be found on social media at https://instagram.com/meetmichellerenee.
If you’d like to ask a question for Michelle to answer on an episode, https://www.meetmichellerenee.com/podcast
To grab your own set of We’re Not Really Strangers https://amzn.to/47XJjvm
Become a Cuddlist Certified Touch Practitioner and save 10%: https://cuddlist.podia.com/cuddlist-certification/6dnxo?coupon=REFERRAL
In this episode of the Intimacy Lab podcast, Michelle Renee welcomes Dr. Holly Wood to discuss various themes surrounding intimacy, therapy, and personal growth. They reflect on the importance of vulnerability in therapy and the intersection of sex and trauma. The conversation also touches on personal experiences with tattoos, parenting reflections, and the significance of apologies in relationships. Additionally, they explore the launch of Dr. Holly's YouTube channel, The Hollywood Sexologist, and the impact of GLP-1 medications on sexual desire.Dr Holly Wood, MS., PhD, LMFT, CST is a sex therapist based in San Clemente, California. You can learn more at https://www.thehollywoodsexologist.com/ and on social media at https://www.instagram.com/thehollywoodsexologist/Michelle Renee (she/her) is a San Diego-based Human Connection Coach and Cuddle Therapist. Michelle's websites arehttps://meetmichellerenee.com andhttps://humanconnectioncoach.com and she can be found on social media athttps://instagram.com/meetmichellerenee.If you’d like to ask a question for Michelle to answer on an episode, https://www.meetmichellerenee.com/podcastJoin us for the Aftershow at IntimacyLabPodcast.comTo grab your own set of We’re Not Really Strangers https://amzn.to/47XJjvmBecome a Cuddlist Certified Touch Practitioner and save 10%: https://cuddlist.podia.com/cuddlist-certification/6dnxo?coupon=REFERRAL
In this episode of the Intimacy Lab, Michelle Renee and Carrie engage in a deep conversation about personal experiences, professional insights, and the complexities of relationships. They explore themes of legacy, the importance of education in non-monogamy, the impact of attachment theory, and the surprising realizations that come with personal growth. The discussion also touches on health journeys and the unexpected outcomes that can arise from significant life changes. In this engaging conversation, Michelle and Carrie explore various themes surrounding attraction, intimacy, and personal experiences.
Carrie Ancel (they/she) is a mental health counselor and sex therapist in the Seattle, Washington area. Find Carrie at https://www.branchingoutwellbeing.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/nonmonogamyacademy/
Michelle Renee (she/her) is a San Diego-based Human Connection Coach and Cuddle Therapist. Michelle's websites are https://meetmichellerenee.com and https://humanconnectioncoach.com and she can be found on social media at https://instagram.com/meetmichellerenee.
If you’d like to ask a question, for Michelle to answer on an episode, https://www.meetmichellerenee.com/podcast
Links from today's show:
What Fresh Hell Is This?: Perimenopause, Menopause, Other Indignities, and You by Heather Corinna: https://amzn.to/3BKQ5KM
Polysecure and Polywise both by Jessica Fern: https://amzn.to/4fx1dsy
Wheel of Consent: https://schoolofconsent.org
To grab your own set of We’re Not Really Strangers https://amzn.to/47XJjvm
In this engaging conversation, Michelle Renee and Darren Cyrus explore the intricate world of intimacy, touch work, and sexual healing. They discuss the nuances of navigating boundaries in touch therapy, the importance of consent, and the differences between sexual healing touch and sexological bodywork. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, they highlight the significance of comfort, vulnerability, and the shared experiences of touching different bodies. The dialogue also touches on the role of pausing and listening in intimate connections, as well as the social aspects of sharing food and experiences. Ultimately, they reflect on life transitions and the realization of one's own limitations. They discuss body image, vulnerability, and the journey of self-acceptance, particularly in the context of nudity and intimacy. The conversation also explores the supportive community of intimacy professionals and the exploration of sexuality within relationships, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and self-discovery. In this conversation, Michelle and Darren delve into the complexities of trust, relationship dynamics, and the spectrum of sexual attraction. They explore the nuances of monogamy and polyamory, discussing how open communication and consent shape their relationships. The discussion also touches on the role of kink and BDSM in personal healing and the importance of curiosity in exploring one's sexuality. Ultimately, they emphasize the significance of integrating these experiences into their professional lives, fostering a deeper understanding of intimacy and connection.
Darren Cyrus (he/him) is a Licensed Massage Therapist, Certified Sexological Bodyworker, and owner of Bear Soul Wellness in Old Town Manassas, Virginia. Learn more at https://BearSoulWellness.com. He can be found on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bearsoulwellness and https://www.instagram.com/the_darren_experience
Michelle Renee (she/her) is a San Diego-based Human Connection Coach and Cuddle Therapist. Michelle's websites are https://meetmichellerenee.com and https://humanconnectioncoach.com and she can be found on social media at https://instagram.com/meetmichellerenee.
If you’d like to ask a question, for Michelle to answer on an episode, https://www.meetmichellerenee.com/podcast
Links from today's show:
A video of the walk down to Black’s Beach in San Diego: https://youtu.be/vXrKvKG41hM?si=jNPTMJwVJnVGZnUX
Spending Time Naked With Strangers Can Improve Body Image by Justin J. Lehmiller Ph.D.: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-myths-of-sex/202102/spending-time-naked-with-strangers-can-improve-body-image
To grab your own set of We’re Not Really Strangers https://amzn.to/47XJjvm
In this engaging conversation, Michelle Renee and Michael Guichet explore themes of vulnerability, connection, and the complexities of personal and professional boundaries. They discuss the use of card games as tools for deeper conversations, the challenges of surrogate partner therapy, and the importance of self-care and support systems. The dialogue also touches on the struggles of adulting, the need for help in logistics, and the reflections on social energy and introversion. In this engaging conversation, Michael Guichet and Michelle Renee explore the dynamics of relationships, the importance of asking for help, and the intersection of personal and professional identities. They discuss the challenges of being an introvert married to an extrovert, the role of mentorship in personal growth, and the complexities of emotional processing in intimate settings. The conversation also delves into social interactions, boundaries in therapeutic relationships, and the significance of understanding one's internal critic.
Michael Guichet, LMFT, is a sex therapist in Santa Cruz and Monterey, California. You can find him at https://michaelguichetsextherapy.com/
Michelle Renee (she/her) is a San Diego-based Human Connection Coach and Cuddle Therapist. Michelle's websites are https://meetmichellerenee.com and https://humanconnectioncoach.com and she can be found on social media at https://instagram.com/meetmichellerenee.
If you’d like to ask a question, for Michelle to answer on an episode, https://www.meetmichellerenee.com/podcast.
*Note, I'm cutting back on the amount of resources I share as it takes a lot of time to pull them and I'm finding myself not putting out new episodes due to the time requirement. My compromise to myself is to put in less time. Thanks for understanding that is a hard area to cut as someone who prides herself as a "resource maven". I trust you can google and find what you need.
To grab your own set of We’re Not Really Strangers https://amzn.to/47XJjvm
In this episode of the Intimacy Lab, Michelle Renee and Nat delve into the complexities of intimacy, coercion, and personal growth within relationships. They explore the impact of social media on sexual awareness, the nuances of desire and arousal, and the importance of communication and consent. Through personal anecdotes and shared experiences, they highlight the journey towards understanding one's own sexual autonomy and the challenges faced in navigating intimate relationships. In this conversation, Michelle and Nat delve into the complexities of emotional abuse, healing, and the journey towards self-worth and empowerment. They discuss the importance of consent and communication in relationships, the challenges of navigating difficult conversations, and the significance of personal growth and finding one's calling. Through their experiences, they highlight the need for self-awareness and the courage to prioritize one's own needs and boundaries.
Nat started on Tiktok and has turned her life experience into a platform with the start of the hashtag #maritalcoercion. Her IG profile reads, "Writer, lover, mother, awakening to higher love after abuse and talking about it way too much." I love that about Nat! She is drawing attention to a hot topic that needs more conversation! You can learn more at https://alwaysmending.com.
Michelle Renee (she/her) is a San Diego-based Platonic Intimacy Guide and Surrogate Partner. Michelle's websites are https://meetmichellerenee.com and https://humanconnectioncoach.com and she can be found on social media at https://instagram.com/meetmichellerenee.
If you’d like to ask a question for Michelle to answer on an episode: https://www.meetmichellerenee.com/episode
Links from today's show:
https://mendingme.substack.com
The Cost of Duty Sex: https://youtu.be/7pWGTzhtS24?si=HXjzXHsq8uXS_VHw
Rebecca's inner child moment on Ted Lasso: https://youtu.be/-Zo4NWUxhf0?si=2GrI3UhOmVu5HpBu
To grab your own set of We’re Not Really Strangers https://amzn.to/47XJjvm
A transcript is available at https://meetmichellerenee.com/episode/15
In this conversation, Michelle Renee and Leela Sinha discuss the concepts of intensives and expansives. They explore how intensives are passionate, risk-tolerant, and make unexpected connections, while expansives are steady, reliable, and prefer predictable environments. They also discuss the importance of understanding and appreciating both types of personalities. Overall, the conversation highlights the value of self-awareness and finding balance between intensity and steadiness.
Leela Sinha is a coach and author. Leela created The Intensive Institute and wrote the book You're Not Too Much. You can find Leela and the book at https://IntensiveInstitute.com.
Michelle Renee (she/her) is a San Diego-based Platonic Intimacy Guide and Surrogate Partner. Michelle's websites are https://meetmichellerenee.com and https://humanconnectioncoach.com and she can be found on social media at https://instagram.com/meetmichellerenee.
If you’d like to ask a question, for Michelle to answer on an episode, https://www.meetmichellerenee.com/podcast
Links from today's show:
*Note, I'm cutting back on the amount of resources I share as it takes a lot of time to pull them and I'm finding myself not putting out new episodes due to the time requirement. My compromise to myself is to put in less time. Thanks for understanding that is a hard area to cut as someone who prides herself as a "resource maven". I trust you can google and find what you need.
To grab your own set of We’re Not Really Strangers https://amzn.to/47XJjvm
You're Not Too Much by Leela Sinha https://amzn.to/3YsPm9T
In this conversation, Michelle Renee and her Michigan wife discuss their friendship and the changes they have experienced. They talk about their history, including how they met and their journey through polyamory. They also discuss the importance of communication and adjusting expectations in relationships. The conversation then shifts to their personal journeys with weight loss and body image, as well as the societal pressure around body count. They share their experiences with weight loss surgery and the impact it has had on their confidence and physical well-being. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of self-acceptance and finding joy in personal growth.
Takeaways
Michelle Renee (she/her) is a San Diego-based Platonic Intimacy Guide and Surrogate Partner. Michelle's website is https://meetmichellerenee.com and can be found on social media at @meetmichellerenee.
If you’d like to ask a question, for Michelle to answer on an episode, click here.
To grab your own set of We’re Not Really Strangers, click here.
The video version of this episode is available on Spotify and on Youtube.
Links from today's episode:
Friendship edition of We’re Not Really Strangers: https://amzn.to/3ywpy1E
Kids editions of We’re Not Really Strangers: https://amzn.to/4avj4O0
Shrill on Hulu or https://amzn.to/4dNJ0qN
First time rock climbing video: https://youtu.be/YPa4af-DMgQ?si=EA-kChLkPA5x3z10
In this conversation, Michelle Renee and Janie Michael discuss their experiences as professional cuddlers and the importance of community in their work. They also play a card game called We're Not Really Strangers, which prompts them to share personal stories and memories. Janie shares her journey as a cuddler in different locations, including Oregon, Seattle, and Germany. Michelle reflects on the changes in her practice and the impact of COVID-19. They both discuss their earliest memories of happiness and the healing process in their relationships with their parents. In this conversation, Michelle and Janie discuss their personal experiences with healing and growth, particularly in relation to their relationships with their parents. They explore the importance of communication, vulnerability, and taking responsibility for one's emotional maturity. They also touch on the power of sexuality and the role it can play in healing and self-discovery. The conversation highlights the need to trust oneself, listen to one's body, and engage in ongoing self-reflection and self-care.
Takeaways
Janie Michael is a facilitator for personal transformation and a restorative touch and connection provider. She supports people in transforming emotional baggage and undesirable patterns into sensual aliveness, connection, joy, and empowerment. Additionally, she offers coaching for making intimacy, sex, and relating conscious, fulfilling, and evolutionary. She can be found at: https://intimacycoachjanie.com or email at janie@intimacycoachjanie.com
Michelle Renee (she/her) is a San Diego-based Intimacy Guide and Surrogate Partner. Michelle's website is https://meetmichellerenee.com and can be found on social media at @meetmichellerenee.
If you’d like to ask a question, for Michelle to answer on an episode, click here.
To grab your own set of We’re Not Really Strangers, click here.
In this conversation, Michelle Renee and Nikita Fernandes discuss their connection in the therapy world and their passion for sexual healing. They explore the importance of platonic intimacy, body image work, and the power of touch. They also share their go-to outfits for a booty call and the things they love to receive but have a hard time asking for. The conversation ends with a discussion about the hottest things someone has said in bed. In this conversation, Michelle and Nikita discuss various topics related to sexuality and sexual health. They talk about the importance of communication and making noise during sexual encounters, as well as the significance of self-pleasure and self-care. They also touch on the stigma surrounding herpes and the need for education and support for individuals with STIs. Nikita shares her upcoming projects, including becoming a licensed therapist and speaking at a conference on sexual health and mental health. Michelle discusses Soft Cock Week and her upcoming TV appearance. They emphasize the importance of body positivity and acceptance in sexual relationships.
Takeaways
Nikita Fernandes (she/her) a Mental Health Therapist-LP and Sex Therapist based in New York City. She can be found at https://healingwithnikita.com or email at nikita@texgibson.com.
Michelle Renee (she/her) is a San Diego-based Intimacy Guide and Surrogate Partner. Michelle's website is https://meetmichellerenee.com and can be found on social media at @meetmichellerenee.
If you’d like to ask a question, for Michelle to answer on an episode, click here.
To grab your own set of We’re Not Really Strangers, click here.
Links from today's episode:
https://www.surrogatepartnercollective.org/
https://humanconnectioncoach.com/resources
Asexuality episode: https://www.meetmichellerenee.com/episode/7
Spoon Theory: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spoon_theory
We’re Not Really Strangers XXX Adult Edition: https://amzn.to/44e7XXY
Naked with Strangers Article: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-myths-sex/202102/spending-time-naked-strangers-can-improve-body-image
Something Positive for Positive People: https://www.spfpp.org/
Something Positive for Positive People Safe Sex Expo: https://www.spfpp.org/offerings/p/safe-sex-expo
STI Risk Chart: https://www.sfcityclinic.org/patient-education-resources/std-risk-chart
Sex Sells on FuseTV, Season 3 - Episode 5: https://amzn.to/3JA8Twt
Summary
In this teaser episode, Michelle Renee provides an update on the restructuring of the podcast for Season 2. She shares her personal healing journey and compares it to peeling layers of an onion. Michelle discusses the cycle of woundedness to healing and the continuous process of self-development. She gives a preview of the upcoming episodes for Season 2 and emphasizes the importance of taking time to ensure the podcast brings her joy. Michelle encourages listeners to engage by submitting questions or comments.
Takeaways
To send a comment or ask a question, go to IntimacyLabPodcast.com
Follow Michelle on social media @MeetMichelleRenee
The video version of this podcast is available on Spotify and Youtube
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Season Update
01:53 The Healing Journey
03:03 The Process of Healing
03:21 The Cycle of Woundedness to Healing
04:20 Embracing Self-Development
04:57 Season Two Preview
06:24 Restructuring the Podcast
06:54 Engaging with Listeners
In this conversation, Michelle Renee and David Khalili, MA, LMFT, discuss various topics related to connection, communication, and personal growth. They explore the importance of asking for help and setting boundaries, as well as the impact of goal-focused sex on relationships. They also discuss the role of journaling in emotional processing and the benefits of expanding the definition of sex. The conversation highlights the need for healthy endings and the value of working triadically to provide comprehensive support. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, communication, and building strong connections. In this conversation, David Khalili discusses his favorite parts of the book on Complex PTSD: From Surviving to Thriving by Pete Walker. He highlights the concepts of reparenting and the inner critic. The discussion then moves on to understanding the inner critic and outer critic and the toxic relationship between the two. David emphasizes the importance of playing a different game in life and finding alternative ways of succeeding. The conversation also explores the topics of verbal ventilation, permission for tears, and the significance of grief and mourning. The impact of nurturing and the broad scope of complex PTSD are discussed. Finally, David shares information about Rouse Relational Wellness and the therapy services they offer.
David Khalili (he/him) is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, a board-certified sexologist, and the founder of Rouse Relational Wellness in San Fransisco. He can be found on social media at @rousetherapy and at https://www.rousetherapy.com
Michelle Renee (she/her) is a San Diego-based Intimacy Guide and Surrogate Partner. Michelle's website is https://meetmichellerenee.com and can be found on social media at @meetmichellerenee.
If you’d like to ask a question, for Michelle to answer on an episode, click here.
To grab your own set of We’re Not Really Strangers, click here.
Other Links from this episode:
David Khalili on Get Nake with Dr Kate
Reid's Formula for Difficult Conversations
Reid on Bawdy Storytelling telling a Betty Dodson story
Takeaways
Asking for help and setting boundaries are essential for personal growth and healthy relationships.
Goal-focused sex can lead to desperation and a lack of connection with partners.
Journaling can be a powerful tool for emotional processing and self-reflection.
Expanding the definition of sex can lead to more fulfilling and diverse sexual experiences.
Healthy endings and working triadically can provide comprehensive support and promote personal growth. Reparenting and addressing the inner critic are important aspects of healing from Complex PTSD.
Judging others and oneself is often a result of the toxic relationship between the inner critic and outer critic.
Playing a different game in life and finding alternative ways of succeeding can help break free from constant self-criticism.
Verbal ventilation and permission for tears are essential for emotional release and healing.
Grief and mourning are necessary processes that should be acknowledged and supported.
Complex PTSD can result from a lack of nurturing and emotional support.
Taking breaks and engaging in comedy can be a helpful form of auto-regulation.
The power of Golden Girls and other forms of comedy in improving mood and well-being.
Rouse Relational Wellness offers a variety of therapy services focused on couples and sex therapy.
In this conversation, Michelle Renee and Grace Heer discuss the power of vulnerability and deep connection. They share personal experiences and insights on the importance of being authentic and open in relationships. They also explore the use of cards to deepen connections and create meaningful conversations. The conversation highlights the impact of vulnerability at events and the power of asking yourself what you need. They also discuss advice for mental health and self-care, as well as the process of figuring out what you want in life and listening to your body when making decisions. In this conversation, Michelle and Grace discuss the importance of exploring personal desires, taking care of mental health, recognizing the need for rest, listening to your body's signals, the importance of boredom and rest, balancing work and self-care, processing childhood experiences, and finding joy and self-care.
Grace Heer is a professional cuddler, cuddle event facilitator, life coach, and end-of-life doula in Orange, CA. You can learn more about her at GracefulCuddles.com or on Facebook and Instagram at Grace Heer, Coaching and Cuddling. Links are on her website.
Michelle Renee (she/her) is a San Diego-based Intimacy Guide and Surrogate Partner. Michelle's website is https://meetmichellerenee.com and can be found on social media at @meetmichellerenee.
Takeaways
If you’d like to ask a question, for Michelle to answer on an episode, click here.
To grab your own set of We’re Not Really Strangers, click here.
Links of note from today's episode:
Kassandra Brown's Radical Listening
Terry Real's book Us: Getting Past You and Me to Build a More Loving Relationship
In this episode, Michelle and Adelina discuss the concept of earning vulnerability and the importance of feeling safe and supported in order to open up. They also explore the different levels of vulnerability and how trust is built over time. The conversation shifts to building friendships with colleagues in the sex-positive community and the unique connections that can be formed. They share personal stories of meeting influential figures in the field, such as Lucy Fielding and Dan Savage, and the impact these encounters had on their lives. In this part of the conversation, Michelle and Adelina discuss Michelle's experience with Dan Savage, the fear of rejection, the unpublished episode, self-reflection and validation, and the mystery behind it. They also talk about embracing their inner dork, the success of Soft Cock Week, the podcast journey, favorite takeaways from interviews, quotable moments, the challenges of recording, the Soft Cock Week events, the glitch and the help, the underlying message of Soft Cock Week, the beauty of free-form conversations, and the Intimacy Lab experiment.
Takeaways
Adelina Adler is a sex coach and sex educator based in Wilmington, NC. You can find Adelina on Instagram at @askaddyadler. She is the host of Sexplorations! with Adelina Adler on Spotify.
Michelle Renee (she/her) is a San Diego-based Intimacy Guide and Surrogate Partner. Michelle's website is https://meetmichellerenee.com and can be found on social media at @meetmichellerenee.
Have questions you'd like answered by Michelle or her guests? Leave them at IntimacyLabPodcast.com.
Notes from today's show:
Interview with Paul on Queer Relationships, Queer Joy
Joli Hamilton, polyamory coach
How Cuddlist changed my life, podcast episode 3
Episode 4 where I answer the love question with Vanessa
The Intimacy Professionals - more can be found here
Lucie Fielding's Trans Sex
Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski
Esther Perel's Mating in Captivity
Get Naked with Dr Kate Episode with David Khalili
David Khalili's books: Mental Health Workbook for Men and Sex Worriers
In this episode, Michelle Renee is joined by Aubri Lancaster, an asexuality and aromanticism educator. They discuss the concepts of asexuality and aromanticism, providing a comprehensive understanding of these orientations. Michelle shares her personal journey and how she discovered her own asexuality. They also explore the connection between aphantasia and asexuality. The conversation highlights the importance of differentiating between sexual attraction and desire. In this conversation, Aubri Lancaster and Michelle Renee discuss personal desire and attraction, exploring intimacy beyond sex, different pathways to asexuality, navigating sexual attraction and desire, expanding the definition of intimacy, challenges in sex education and advocacy, the importance of language and understanding, and decentering sex in relationships. The conversation explores the topic of solo sex within committed relationships and the importance of communication and negotiation in maintaining a healthy sexual dynamic. It challenges the societal expectation that sex should only occur within a partnership and highlights the need for individuals to prioritize their own sexual satisfaction. The conversation emphasizes the significance of open dialogue and mutual understanding in navigating differences in sexual preferences. Overall, it encourages a shift towards more inclusive and personalized relationship agreements.
Aubri Lancaster is an AASECT certified sexuality educator with a focus on asexuality and aromantisism. She can be found at AceSexEducation.com or @acesexeducation on social media.
Check out Aubri's upcoming webinar "Am I Ace Enough?"
Michelle Renee (she/her) is a San Diego-based Intimacy Guide and Surrogate Partner. Michelle's website is https://meetmichellerenee.com and can be found on social media at @meetmichellerenee.
Takeaways
If you’d like to ask a question for Michelle to answer on an upcoming episode, click here.
To grab your own set of We’re Not Really Strangers, click here.
Links from today's episode:
In this episode, Michelle Renee interviews the Embrace Surrogate Partner Therapy Resource Group team about their mission to spread education and support for surrogate partner therapy. They discuss the upcoming training program called Hidden Treasures Touch Interventions from the Surrogate Partner Toolkit, which aims to provide professionals in the field with a comprehensive understanding of the therapy. The team emphasizes the importance of experiential learning and embodiment in this work and highlights the need for a standardized training program. They also discuss future offerings and the ongoing development of the field.
Takeaways
Meet the Embrace SPT team (full bios are available here):
Lou Hanson - Washington, DC
Brian Gibney - Charlottesville, VA
Jeannie Miller - Washington, DC
Michelle Renee - San Diego, CA
For more information about Embrace and their upcoming class, please go to EmbraceSPT.org and they can be found on social media @EmbraceSPT.
Meet the host: Michelle Renee (she/her) is a San Diego-based Intimacy Guide and Surrogate Partner. Michelle's website is MeetMichelleRenee.com and can be found on social media at @meetmichellerenee.
Have questions you'd like answered by Michelle or her guests? Leave them at IntimacyLabPodcast.com.
In this episode, Michelle Renee and Vanessa Cushing discuss their experience working together in the triadic model of therapy, specifically surrogate partner therapy. They explore the meaning of saying 'I love you' and the nuances of expressing love authentically. They also discuss the importance of digging deeper in therapy and using conversation cards to spark meaningful conversations. They highlight the evolution of surrogate partner therapy and its impact on clients' lives. The episode concludes with a discussion on the experience of feeling loved in therapy. This conversation explores the goal and benefits of surrogate partner therapy, the importance of therapist involvement, and the challenges and rewards of working in a triadic model. It emphasizes the value of community and the role of supervision in supporting the therapist and client. The conversation also highlights the need for clear boundaries and the impact of personal experiences on the therapeutic relationship. It concludes with a discussion on the satisfaction and positive outcomes of surrogate partner therapy, as well as the importance of expanding the definition of this approach. In this final part of the conversation, Michelle and Vanessa express their appreciation for each other and their friendship. They discuss the possibility of working together again in the future and express their excitement about meeting in person. They conclude the conversation with a warm exchange of gratitude and well wishes.
Takeaways
Vanessa Cushing (she/her) is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Miami, licensed in both Florida and Virginia. Her specialty is in sexual trauma. You can find out more about Vanessa at https://www.cushingcounseling.com and follow her at https://instagram.com/cushingcounseling.
Michelle Renee (she/her) is a San Diego-based Intimacy Guide and Surrogate Partner. Michelle's website is https://meetmichellerenee.com and can be found on social media at @meetmichellerenee.
Notes from this episode:
Andrew's Heartman's Class Collaborating with Surrogate Partners in Triadic Model through SurrogatePartnerCollective.org
Somatic Sexuality Professionals
Complex PTSD: From Surviving to Thriving by Pete Walker
B68vtB4SG0Ar0i2Z4tIl