Intimacy Evolution

In this episode of Intimacy Evolution, Mark + Bri explore the profound impact of various retreats on personal and relational growth. They recount their experiences with men's, women's, and couples' retreats, emphasizing the emotional highs and lows, deep connections, and the benefits of stepping out of daily routines. The discussion highlights the importance of creating supportive environments for physical and emotional challenges, integrating practices like breath work and sound baths, and sharing personal stories to foster community. Additionally, the episode addresses balancing parenting with personal well-being, stressing the need for clear communication and involving children in activities to enhance family bonds. Overall, the Careys offer insights into the immersive, transformative power of retreats and the joy of connecting people through these experiences.

00:00 Welcome to Intimacy Evolution

00:30 Diving into Retreats: An Overview

01:38 The Men's Retreat Experience

03:03 Emotional Roller Coasters and Personal Growth

05:33 The Importance of Community and Connection

08:02 Facilitating Retreats: Challenges and Rewards

11:11 Expanding Capacity Through Challenges

16:39 The Feminine Archetype Experience

18:52 Transformative Power of Breath Work and Sound Baths

19:22 Connecting Through Shared Experiences

19:50 Embracing Archetypes and Embodiment

21:32 The Importance of Body and Energy Work

27:29 Overcoming Guilt and Prioritizing Self-Care

33:01 Deepening Connections Through Separate Experiences

35:00 Concluding Thoughts and Invitations

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Connect with Bri:
Instagram: @_brianna_carey_

Connect with Mark:
Instagram: @mark_carey_

Website: IntimacyEvolution.com

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In this episode, Bri converse's with Lindsay Lockett, exploring her journey through nervous system healing and trauma. Raised in a challenging environment within evangelical Christianity, Lindsay reveals how her background of emotional neglect and abuse shaped her life. Over time, she began questioning her deeply held beliefs, leading to a deconstruction of her faith. Her difficult journey through severe anxiety, PTSD, and ultimately healing involved therapy and an exploration of emotional patterns inherited from her mother. Lindsay shares tools for nervous system regulation, the importance of awareness, and improving relationships, like her marriage, by addressing abandonment triggers. Through her storytelling, she emphasizes mindfulness and the significance of understanding one's own emotional and physical sensations to foster healing and evolve beyond past traumas.

00:00 Introduction to Intimacy Evolution

00:24 Meet Lindsay Lockett

00:50 Lindsay's Background and Early Life

02:47 Marriage and Faith Deconstruction

04:23 Struggles and Therapy

06:26 The Turning Point

08:51 Healing and Self-Discovery

12:53 Motherhood and Emotional Neglect

17:27 Confronting the Past

28:04 Navigating a Complicated Relationship

28:33 Birthday Disappointments and Realizations

29:08 Self-Control and Emotional Growth

30:38 Anger, Sadness, and Acceptance

32:22 Writing a Healing Letter

36:03 Understanding and Neutrality

37:47 Impact on Marriage and Hypervigilance

47:20 Awareness and Nervous System Regulation

52:14 Final Thoughts and Resources


IG: iamlindseylockett

Episodes referenced in the show:
Holistic Trauma Healing Ep 103: A Year Without My Mother
Holistic Trauma Healing Ep 110: A Vulnerable Mother-Daughter Convo

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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 of Intimacy Evolution, we welcome Dr. Stephanie Sigler, a licensed professional counselor, clinical sexologist, and author. Dr. Sigler discusses her work in clinical sexology, particularly in the ethical non-monogamy community. She emphasizes the lack of training in sex therapy for counselors and how her community has been turned away due to misunderstandings about their lifestyle. 

Dr. Sigler shares the importance of communication, the need for customized relationship dynamics, and how couples should explore their 'why' before entering the lifestyle. She talks about the necessity of setting boundaries, rules, and agreements, and offers insights into how to handle conflicts and enhance intimacy. Additionally, Dr. Sigler shares where and how to access her book and further resources related to sex education and relationship health.

00:00 Welcome to Intimacy Evolution

00:04 Introducing Dr. Stephanie Sigler

00:41 Journey into Clinical Sexology

01:54 Challenges in Sex Therapy

04:57 Personal Experience in the Lifestyle

07:06 Educating and Supporting Couples

12:02 Exploring the Lifestyle Safely

14:50 Setting Boundaries and Agreements

17:49 Communication and Debriefing

22:55 Maintaining Safety and Health

23:27 Importance of Sexual Health and STI Testing

23:41 Introduction to Shameless Care

24:17 STI Testing Process and Benefits

26:13 Conventions and Workshops Overview

27:17 Types of Workshops and Classes

29:34 Navigating Relationships and Communication

35:09 Addressing Mismatched Libidos

38:42 Conflict Resolution Strategies

39:31 Final Thoughts and Resources

Connect with Dr. Stephanie:
WEB: evolveyourintimacy.com
10% off The Anti-Fight Journal; Fighting Fair in Relationships
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FB: https://www.facebook.com/evolveyourintimacy
IG: https://www.instagram.com/evolve_your_intimacy/
TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@drstephanie_cst_phd
X: https://x.com/Dr_StephanieEYI

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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

Get cozy with 10% off your Love Blanket!

Code: Intimacy10

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In this episode Mark and Bri dive into Hulu’s Secret Lives of Mormon Wives series, exploring the unexpected dynamics and relationship challenges faced by the show's cast. From the controversial “MomTok” swinging scandal to the pressures of religion, marriage, and young motherhood, Mark and Bri take a deep look at the emotional and psychological factors at play.

In this episode, we discuss:

• A quick recap of Secret Lives of Mormon Wives and the origins of the “MomTok” community
• The fallout from the infamous swinging scandal and its impact on relationships
• How marrying and having children at a young age challenges identity and intimacy
• Religion’s influence on relationship roles and expectations
• The clash between traditional and progressive roles for women in the Mormon community
• Key relationship dynamics we observe, including the role of control, shame, and personal development

Links and Resources:

• 60 Date Ideas Guide
• Join the Powerful Partnership Program here
• Follow us on Instagram for more relationship tips @intimacyevolution

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 dive into a deeply personal and enlightening conversation about parenting, mental health, and the power of community. We start with an unexpected connection made through our children that blossomed into a meaningful friendship, leading to a conversation on a critical article from the US Surgeon General about the mental health and well-being of parents. We explore the stress parents face today, discuss why this generation feels more pressure, and reflect on how societal changes, such as post-COVID isolation, are contributing factors.

We also break down the article’s proposed solutions—paid family leave, childcare improvements, and mental health investments—and offer our perspective on why they may fall short. Drawing from our own experiences and work as relationship and intimacy coaches, we discuss the importance of deep community connection and the role it plays in supporting mental health for both parents and children.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The challenges of making new friendships as adults and parents
• US Surgeon General’s advisory on parents’ mental health and why stress levels are higher today
• The lack of community and support for modern parents
• How societal and generational shifts have impacted the parenting experience
• Proposed solutions for parental stress and why they might be missing the mark
• The importance of investing in both mental and physical health
• The critical role of relationships in breaking cycles of divorce and disconnection for future generations

Takeaways:

1. Parenting today is filled with unique stressors, and the lack of community exacerbates mental health challenges.
2. Societal shifts and technology have made it harder for parents to feel supported, but by prioritizing connection and deep support systems, we can break negative cycles.
3. Solutions to these challenges go beyond paid leave or mental health investments—they require a fundamental shift in how we nurture communities and support parents through their journey.

Mentioned Resources:

• US Surgeon General’s Advisory on Parents’ Mental Health
• Our Powerful Partnership Program for couples looking to strengthen connection and intimacy

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

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 I'm thrilled to welcome Dr. Jessica Higgins, an expert in relationship dynamics and host of the Empowered Relationship Podcast. We dive into strategies for couples to deeply connect during conflicts, with Dr. Higgins sharing practical tips and personal experiences. We explore how to bring awareness to emotions in moments of conflict, what to reveal to our partners, and how to make requests instead of criticisms. With two graduate degrees in psychology and over 20 years of experience, Dr. Higgins offers profound insights. Plus, she shares a free download, 'Shifting Criticism for Connected Communication,' to help listeners enhance their connection. Tune in for valuable advice on communication and conflict resolution.

00:00 Introduction to Intimacy Evolution

00:29 Guest Introduction: Dr. Jessica Higgins

00:37 Deep Connection During Conflict

01:04 Personal Experiences and Insights

01:38 Dr. Jessica Higgins' Background

02:44 Exciting Conversation Kickoff

03:07 Fun Facts About Dr. Jessica Higgins

05:51 Journey into Relationship Work

10:05 Understanding Conflict Patterns

16:46 Navigating Conflict and Safety

34:04 Escalated Conflict and Resolution

39:46 Final Thoughts and Suggestions

42:32 Where to Find Dr. Jessica Higgins

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

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Code: Intimacy10

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SEPTEMBER 3RD! Mark you calendars now, we have some fun episodes coming your way. 

We're so excited to be back!

Mark & Bri

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 today's first solo episode, Brianna answers a common question they get from clients & listeners, which is: "what conversations should my husband/partner and I have prior to having a baby?"

Sure there's talks of picking out baby's name, what to put on the registry, birth plan, etc, but what about what comes AFTER having the baby? What does life look like? How will each partner navigate their new roles & keeping up with the demands of everyday life?

THESE are the conversations that are equally if not more important to have. By doing so each partner will feel more supported, it can help elevate a considerable amount of stress and it will actually help the couple to stay even more connected as they raise their new baby. 

In this episode: 

• The inevitable changes in relationship dynamics when expecting a child.
• Clarifying the unique role your partner plays during the early stages of parenthood.
• The significance of building a network of friends, family, and professionals.
• Prioritizing self-care routines for both partners.
• Setting realistic expectations for bonding moments.

If you found this episode helpful, please share it with friends and family who may be embarking on their own parenting journey. Have your own questions about relationships, intimacy or parenting?  DM us on Instagram and we'll share them in our stories or on a future episode!

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, Ava Pikul shares her transformative journey of traveling to India to gain more insight into her sexuality only to leave disappointed and with even more questions than answers. After returning home and feeling lost, she found herself being invited to go to work with a friend--that happened to be at a strip club. Curiosity led Ava to also working as a stripper until the environment no longer served her journey. She then transitioned to becoming an Authentic Tantra Practitioner and now helps men, women & couples heal and bridge the gap between spirituality & sexuality.

In this episode they discuss: 

• The misconceptions in spiritual communities and their approach to Tantra 
• How pleasure can be used to heal and release trauma.
• The Tibetan Five Elements & their integral part of lineage-based Tantra
• Health benefits behind semen retention

Connect with Ava:
Instagram: ava.pikul
Website: www.flamewithintantra.com

Resources mentioned:
Taoist Secrets of Love: Cultivating Male Sexual Energy
From Monster to Man
Master the Art of Semen Retention
Intro to Authentic Tantra Masterclass

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!

This week Brianna chats with business owner, podcast host & author, Scout Sobel on what it looks like to be an entrepreneur as one begins their journey into parenthood.

Scout Sobel is the founder of Scouts Agency; the leading agency in running podcast tours for women, helping them to get in front of new audiences, to build their business while becoming thought leaders in the process. She also co-hosts the Okay Sis Podcast with my sister, and is the author of the bestselling book the Emotional Entrepreneur,  which is the emotional guidebook to entrepreneurship.

Scout shares her journey with her mental health and how that impacted her journey to conceive naturally. Knowing that her mental health could be impacted, especially during the postpartum phase, she was diligent about having a game plan that would best support her. 

In this episode they discuss: 

• mentally preparing to conceive 
• how to nurture yourself through out pregnancy
• navigating postpartum with compassion for yourself
• what does grieving past selfs look like throughout pregnancy + postpartum
• what's the most important thing to remember when getting back to intimacy after having a baby

Connect with Scout:
Instagram: @scoutsobel
Podcast: Okay Sis
Website: ScoutsAgency.com

 Wanting to Want-- what's killing your sex drive & how to get it back!
Begins September 13th--click to learn more or to claim your spot!

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!