In this engaging conversation, Michelle Renee and Nathan Young explore the profound impact of storytelling and narrative leadership on personal and professional growth. They delve into the complexities of self-branding, the importance of vulnerability, and the emotional challenges faced in relationships and entrepreneurship. Through their shared experiences, they highlight the significance of support systems, effective communication, and creating safe spaces for deeper exploration and healing. The discussion also touches on generational patterns and the journey of reprogramming responses to relationships, ultimately emphasizing the power of connection and understanding in navigating life's challenges. In this conversation, Nathan and Michelle explore the complexities of self-compassion, emotional needs in relationships, and the evolution of love. They discuss the importance of consent in emotional exchanges, the challenges of maintaining attraction, and the dynamics of open relationships. The dialogue delves into the impact of past experiences on present relationships and the struggle for emotional vulnerability. They also reflect on the societal expectations surrounding sex and intimacy, emphasizing the need for deeper connections beyond physical encounters.

Nathan Young is the owner and founder of StoryCulture Consulting. For over twelve years, he’s been helping leaders, teams, and organizations harness the power of storytelling to connect, inspire, and lead the narrative.

Nathan can be found on instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/nathancodyyoung/ and his website is https://storycultureconsulting.com/

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 have your own Intimacy Lab experience, book your one-on-one with Michelle and get the experience of the podcast, but privately. Go to https://intimacylabpodcast.com for more information.

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 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

• Healing is not a destination but a journey of reconnection.
• Somatic experiencing helps us understand our body's signals.
• Emotions need to be felt and processed, not suppressed.
• Grief is a natural part of healing and self-discovery.
• Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
• Boundaries are essential for healthy relationships.
• Celebrating small wins can foster self-acceptance.
• Recognizing glimmers of joy is crucial for emotional health.
• Curiosity about our desires can enhance intimacy.
• Generosity in relationships requires clear boundaries.

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 emphasizes following her excitement in projects.
• She reflects on the feedback received from her last episode.
• Navigating insecurities about being 'too much' is a common theme.
• Authenticity in conversations about intimacy is crucial.
• Michelle shares her experiences at a cuddle retreat.
• She discusses the balance between openness and sensitivity.
• The importance of cleaning up any conversational messes is highlighted.
• Michelle believes in the power of touch in healing.
• She encourages listeners to embrace their own journeys.
• Future episodes will explore various topics in intimacy.

• 
  

  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