Intimacy Evolution

In this episode, Mark + Bri explore six different types of intimacy—physical, emotional, experiential, spiritual, intellectual, and sexual—and how they interconnect. 

The episode delves into common obstacles couples face, particularly regarding sexual intimacy, and emphasizes the importance of open communication and identifying each partner's preferred entry points into the intimacy cycle.

00:00 Introduction to Intimacy Evolution
00:28 Understanding the Intimacy Cycle
00:57 Types of Intimacy
02:39 Challenges in Sexual Intimacy
04:35 Communicating About Sex
06:23 Practical Tips for Connection
11:54 Addressing Resistance and Desires
17:35 Conclusion and Upcoming Retreat

Sacred Union Couples Retreat--July 17th -20th!

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Feeling more like roommates than partners lately?
Take our free Wheel of Intimacy Quiz to uncover which of the 6 kinds of intimacy your relationship is missing, the real reason it went quiet, and one small thing to try tonight. Take the quiz!

Connect with Bri:
Instagram: @_brianna_carey_

Connect with Mark:
Instagram: @mark_carey_

Website: IntimacyEvolution.com

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Code: Intimacy10

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In this episode, Bri and Mark get real about a sneaky pattern that shows up in long-term relationships—the assumption trap. After 16 years together, they’ve learned that deeply “knowing” your partner can sometimes lead to miscommunication, disconnection, and silencing the other person’s experience.

Whether it’s reading each other’s facial expressions or energy shifts and assuming you know what’s going on, this habit can actually shut down intimacy. In this conversation, they explore how making room for curiosity instead of conclusions can rebuild connection—especially during busy seasons like parenting young kids.

This is a must-listen for couples who’ve been together for a while and want to avoid falling into autopilot.

💛 Connect with Us:

Have a relationship or intimacy question you'd love answered on the podcast?
Send us a message on Instagram

Send us Fan Mail

Feeling more like roommates than partners lately?
Take our free Wheel of Intimacy Quiz to uncover which of the 6 kinds of intimacy your relationship is missing, the real reason it went quiet, and one small thing to try tonight. Take the quiz!

Connect with Bri:
Instagram: @_brianna_carey_

Connect with Mark:
Instagram: @mark_carey_

Website: IntimacyEvolution.com

Get cozy with 10% off your Love Blanket!

Code: Intimacy10

Newsletter: Click here to enjoy weekly newsletter with juicy tips we can't share on social media. Plus be the first to know when we launch new events & programs!

In this solo episode, I share my experiences and insights on managing solo parenting while Mark was away for five days. 

I discuss the challenges and reflections I had during this period, emphasizing the importance of connecting with your partner before they leave, setting yourself up for success, having support systems in place, and planning fun activities for the kids. 

I also highlight the significance of maintaining low expectations, not burdening your partner with issues they can't fix while away, allowing space for integration upon their return, and intentional reconnection. I offer seven practical tips for surviving when your partner is out of town, making this episode a valuable resource for anyone in a similar situation.

Want to create deeper connection, stronger communication and enjoy more intimacy with your partner--while raising your tiny humans?

Join Powerful Partnership--a curated program with busy parents in mind. 

Check it out here

Send us Fan Mail

Feeling more like roommates than partners lately?
Take our free Wheel of Intimacy Quiz to uncover which of the 6 kinds of intimacy your relationship is missing, the real reason it went quiet, and one small thing to try tonight. Take the quiz!

Connect with Bri:
Instagram: @_brianna_carey_

Connect with Mark:
Instagram: @mark_carey_

Website: IntimacyEvolution.com

Get cozy with 10% off your Love Blanket!

Code: Intimacy10

Newsletter: Click here to enjoy weekly newsletter with juicy tips we can't share on social media. Plus be the first to know when we launch new events & programs!

Want to learn how to have stronger communication, deeper connection and enjoy more intimacy?  Check out our Powerful Partnership Program!

In this episode, we explore the impact of child-centered relationships and the unintended consequences they bring to families. We dive into the rise of travel sports and its ramifications on family dynamics, drawing insights from real-life observations and client experiences. 

We also discuss how prioritizing children's activities can lead to stress, financial burdens, and even relationship strain among parents. We offer practical advice on creating balanced family relationships that ensure both parents and children thrive. Join us as we delve into why it’s crucial to consider everyone's needs in the family, providing a healthier approach to raising kids and maintaining strong, connected relationships.

00:00 Introduction to Intimacy Evolution
00:27 Technical Difficulties and Podcast Re-Recording
00:59 Impact of Travel Sports on Families
01:37 Defining Child-Centered Relationships
01:57 Challenges of Competitive Sports
06:14 Developmental Concerns in Youth Sports
08:07 Balancing Family and Activities
09:37 Creating Meaningful Family Memories
18:25 Collaborative Family Activities
22:11 Conclusion and Program Promotion

Send us Fan Mail

Feeling more like roommates than partners lately?
Take our free Wheel of Intimacy Quiz to uncover which of the 6 kinds of intimacy your relationship is missing, the real reason it went quiet, and one small thing to try tonight. Take the quiz!

Connect with Bri:
Instagram: @_brianna_carey_

Connect with Mark:
Instagram: @mark_carey_

Website: IntimacyEvolution.com

Get cozy with 10% off your Love Blanket!

Code: Intimacy10

Newsletter: Click here to enjoy weekly newsletter with juicy tips we can't share on social media. Plus be the first to know when we launch new events & programs!

In this episode, we chose to record a real-time conflict between us to provide an authentic look at how we navigate and resolve disputes. We detail the morning events leading up to our tension, our individual perspectives during the conflict, and illustrate the significance of understanding each partner's feelings and needs. We emphasize the importance of effective communication, sharing personal stories and strategies, and the value of repairing connections. By the end of the conversation, we reflect on how far we’ve come and how our methods can help others in managing relationship conflicts.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Setup

00:51 Background and Initial Tensions

01:22 Expressing Emotions and Conflict

02:41 Navigating Relationship Dynamics

05:57 Reflecting on Past Relationship Patterns

08:04 Live Conflict and Resolution

10:07 Morning Routine and Miscommunications

11:03 Homeschooling and Family Boundaries

14:04 Different Perspectives and Expectations

19:01 Household Chores and Underlying Stories

24:03 Unpacking the Household Dynamics

24:47 Personal Struggles and Responsibilities

25:08 Communication Breakdown

25:30 Conflict and Perspective Sharing

26:40 Energetic Tensions in the Bathroom

28:24 Defensiveness and Misunderstandings

30:53 Navigating Conflict and Repair

35:42 Resentment and Unmet Needs

38:53 Finding Balance and Self-Care

43:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Want to learn how to have stronger communication and navigate conflict more effectively? Check out our Powerful Partnership Program!

Send us Fan Mail

Feeling more like roommates than partners lately?
Take our free Wheel of Intimacy Quiz to uncover which of the 6 kinds of intimacy your relationship is missing, the real reason it went quiet, and one small thing to try tonight. Take the quiz!

Connect with Bri:
Instagram: @_brianna_carey_

Connect with Mark:
Instagram: @mark_carey_

Website: IntimacyEvolution.com

Get cozy with 10% off your Love Blanket!

Code: Intimacy10

Newsletter: Click here to enjoy weekly newsletter with juicy tips we can't share on social media. Plus be the first to know when we launch new events & programs!

In this episode, we reflect on our adventurous family cruise that was filled with unexpected challenges, including severe weather, flight cancellations, and illness. 

We discuss how we navigated these obstacles, while celebrating the strength of our relationship and the skills we've built over the years. From travel chaos to bonding and intimate moments, we examine the dynamics of our partnership and share insights on maintaining connection under stress. Join us as we recount the highs and lows of our journey and celebrate our resilience as a couple.

00:00 Introduction to Intimacy Evolution
00:30 Today's Episode Overview
02:18 The Cruise Adventure Begins
04:06 Wrestling Tournament and Weather Woes
07:35 Airport Chaos and Flight Delays
14:28 The Decision to Drive Through the Storm
18:25 Finally Boarding the Plane
19:25 Arriving in Galveston and Boarding the Cruise
24:07 First Day at Sea and Exploring the Ship
25:31 Exploring Honduras and Costa Maya
27:26 A Strange Encounter at the ATM
31:14 Swimming with Dolphins in Cozumel
33:43 Sickness Strikes the Family
41:24 Reflections on the Cruise Experience
43:51 Navigating Relationship Dynamics
50:17 Celebrating Relationship Success

• Want to build a solid foundation of communication, connection and intimacy you can rely on for years to come? Join us in Powerful Partnership, starting January 27th! Click the link or DM Bri on IG with any questions you have!

Send us Fan Mail

Feeling more like roommates than partners lately?
Take our free Wheel of Intimacy Quiz to uncover which of the 6 kinds of intimacy your relationship is missing, the real reason it went quiet, and one small thing to try tonight. Take the quiz!

Connect with Bri:
Instagram: @_brianna_carey_

Connect with Mark:
Instagram: @mark_carey_

Website: IntimacyEvolution.com

Get cozy with 10% off your Love Blanket!

Code: Intimacy10

Newsletter: Click here to enjoy weekly newsletter with juicy tips we can't share on social media. Plus be the first to know when we launch new events & programs!

In this episode of Intimacy Evolution, we reflect on the highs and lows of 2024; from moving twice within 11 months, creating community in a new city, navigating challenges and the most challenging year of our 18 years together, we share it all!

We also talk about the importance of setting intentions and goals for the coming year, and how words like 'connection' and 'expansion' shaped our 2024. 

Looking ahead, we share our plans for 2025 including homeschooling, minimalism, and upcoming retreats. 

Tag us on social media or email us if this episode resonated with you, and let us know what goals/intentions you're setting for 2025!

Powerful Partnership Program begins January 20th--learn more here

Send us Fan Mail

Feeling more like roommates than partners lately?
Take our free Wheel of Intimacy Quiz to uncover which of the 6 kinds of intimacy your relationship is missing, the real reason it went quiet, and one small thing to try tonight. Take the quiz!

Connect with Bri:
Instagram: @_brianna_carey_

Connect with Mark:
Instagram: @mark_carey_

Website: IntimacyEvolution.com

Get cozy with 10% off your Love Blanket!

Code: Intimacy10

Newsletter: Click here to enjoy weekly newsletter with juicy tips we can't share on social media. Plus be the first to know when we launch new events & programs!

Exploring Tantra and Sacred Sexuality with Leola Watkins

In this episode of Intimacy Evolution, I have an enriching conversation with Leola Watkins, a pleasure priestess, Tantra teacher, and bestselling author. Leola shares her journey into Tantra and shamanic sexuality, highlighting how these practices helped her heal from past traumas and foster deeper self-awareness. We explore the broad modalities of Tantra, including its applications in solo and partnered contexts. Leola explains the four types of sex—reproductive, recreational, restorative, and transformational—and their roles in fostering a fulfilling intimate life. We also discuss practical steps for incorporating Tantra into relationships, initiate conversations about exploring new intimate practices, and promote a presence-focused, curiosity-driven approach to sex. Tune in for insights on how Tantra can transform personal and relational intimacy.

00:00 Introduction to Intimacy Evolution
00:24 Welcoming Leola Watkins
00:54 Leola's Journey into Tantra
04:45 Healing Through Tantra
11:46 Exploring Different Types of Intimacy
24:32 Practical Applications and Workshops
27:44 Empowering Your Intimate Life
37:07 Resources and Closing Remarks

Connect with Leola:
TalkTantratoMe.com
Instagram: @talktantratome
Sacred Sex Ed book

Send us Fan Mail

Feeling more like roommates than partners lately?
Take our free Wheel of Intimacy Quiz to uncover which of the 6 kinds of intimacy your relationship is missing, the real reason it went quiet, and one small thing to try tonight. Take the quiz!

Connect with Bri:
Instagram: @_brianna_carey_

Connect with Mark:
Instagram: @mark_carey_

Website: IntimacyEvolution.com

Get cozy with 10% off your Love Blanket!

Code: Intimacy10

Newsletter: Click here to enjoy weekly newsletter with juicy tips we can't share on social media. Plus be the first to know when we launch new events & programs!

In this episode, I have an engaging conversation with Abigail Gazda, a clarity coach and CEO of Hearts Unleashed. We discuss the evolution of relationships, emotional intelligence, and the personal growth journey. Abigail shares her experiences living the van life, her coaching career, and the importance of understanding emotional intelligence. We also delve into the dynamics of relationships, communication, projection, and parenting, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and integration. This episode is filled with insights on how to navigate personal development while maintaining meaningful connections.

00:00 Introduction to Intimacy Evolution
00:26 Excitement for the First In-Person Interview
00:53 Meet Abigail Gazda: Clarity Coach and Van Life Enthusiast
03:28 Diving into Emotional Intelligence
12:28 Understanding and Communicating Needs
16:39 Navigating Relationships and Personal Growth
25:27 Navigating Family Dynamics
26:15 Expectations and Resentment
27:01 Sobriety and Personal Choices
27:50 Embracing Individual Interests
29:53 Isolation and Community
34:27 Integrating Awareness into Life
38:05 Supporting Partners and Children
44:47 Trusting the Journey
47:22 Conclusion and Resources

Past Episode with Abigail: A Journey to Self-Love
Connect with Abigail:
AbigailGazda.com
HeartsUnleashed.com
Youtube
Instagram: @instagail

Send us Fan Mail

Feeling more like roommates than partners lately?
Take our free Wheel of Intimacy Quiz to uncover which of the 6 kinds of intimacy your relationship is missing, the real reason it went quiet, and one small thing to try tonight. Take the quiz!

Connect with Bri:
Instagram: @_brianna_carey_

Connect with Mark:
Instagram: @mark_carey_

Website: IntimacyEvolution.com

Get cozy with 10% off your Love Blanket!

Code: Intimacy10

Newsletter: Click here to enjoy weekly newsletter with juicy tips we can't share on social media. Plus be the first to know when we launch new events & programs!

Exploring Vulnerability and Intimacy with Rina Trevi

In this episode, Bri delves into a conversation with Rina Trevi, a vulnerability and intimacy guide, to discuss her work in Shibari and Tantra. Rina shares her journey from a corporate career in post-Soviet Russia to becoming a professional dominatrix in the U.S., and eventually integrating spiritual practices and holistic approaches into her BDSM work. She now offers Shibari journeys and tantric bodywork that provide safe spaces for self-exploration, emotional release, and connecting deeply with one's body. They explore the importance of aftercare, creating unconditional intimacy, and fostering trust and vulnerability in relationships.

00:00 Welcome to Intimacy Evolution
00:23 Introducing Rina Trevi: A Journey into Shibari and Tantra
01:13 From Corporate Burnout to Professional Dominatrix
01:57 Integrating Tantra and Spirituality into BDSM
08:06 Transitioning from Dominatrix to Vulnerability Guide
09:08 Exploring Shibari: A Safe Space for Self-Discovery
13:34 The Emotional Depth of Shibari and Tantra
27:12 The Importance of Aftercare
30:06 Tips for Building Intimacy in Relationships
33:28 Connecting with Rina Trevi


Connect with Rina:
VulnerabilityCoaching.com
IG: Rina_Trevi

Send us Fan Mail

Feeling more like roommates than partners lately?
Take our free Wheel of Intimacy Quiz to uncover which of the 6 kinds of intimacy your relationship is missing, the real reason it went quiet, and one small thing to try tonight. Take the quiz!

Connect with Bri:
Instagram: @_brianna_carey_

Connect with Mark:
Instagram: @mark_carey_

Website: IntimacyEvolution.com

Get cozy with 10% off your Love Blanket!

Code: Intimacy10

Newsletter: Click here to enjoy weekly newsletter with juicy tips we can't share on social media. Plus be the first to know when we launch new events & programs!