Intimacy Lab

A note for clients and anyone who knows me personally: This episode contains explicit sexual content and detailed personal disclosure. If you aren't sure whether to listen, don't. If you can listen with curiosity and take good care of yourself along the way, please do. You're always welcome to bring whatever comes up into our next session.

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

Check out Michelle and Alex's episode on the Kink Curious podcast at StayKinkCurious.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

• The importance of open and honest communication in relationships
• The need to adjust expectations and labels in relationships to maintain a strong connection
• The impact of weight loss surgery on confidence and physical well-being
• The societal pressure and judgment around body count and the importance of self-acceptance Bariatric surgery can be a life-changing experience, but it is important to have proper follow-up care and support.
• Weight loss medication can be a helpful tool in the weight loss journey, providing a feeling of fullness and reducing food noise.
• Weight loss is not always within one's control, and it is important to have empathy and support for those on their weight loss journey.
• The journey to weight loss involves both physical and mental changes, and it is important to prioritize mental health and self-care.
• Understanding and accepting that weight loss is a lifelong journey can help in setting realistic expectations and maintaining long-term success. It is important to be mentally prepared for surgery and to have a good support system.
• Do what is best for you and don't shame yourself for considering weight loss surgery.
• Feeling comfortable and free in your body is a significant positive change.
• Having supportive and trusting friendships is invaluable.
• DIY projects can bring joy and a sense of accomplishment.
• Expressing love and appreciation for others strengthens relationships.
• Living together with close friends can be a fulfilling and complementary experience.

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

• Professional cuddling provides opportunities for deep connection and communication through touch.
• Building a supportive community is important for professional cuddlers, as it allows for networking and sharing experiences.
• COVID-19 has changed the landscape of professional cuddling, leading to shifts in practice and a greater variety of clients.
• Early memories of happiness can shape our understanding of joy and playfulness in adulthood.
• Healing and reconciliation in parent-child relationships can bring a sense of wholeness and closure. Effective communication and expressing one's needs is essential for personal growth and healing.
• Taking responsibility for one's emotional maturity and acknowledging past mistakes is important for building healthier relationships.
• Sexuality can be a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery.
• Trusting oneself, listening to one's body, and engaging in ongoing self-reflection and self-care are key to personal growth and well-being.

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 [email protected]

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

• Platonic intimacy is essential for rekindling sexual intimacy in relationships.
• Body image work and exploring non-genital zones can be incredibly erotic.
• It's important to communicate and ask for what you want in bed.
• Vocalization and affirmative consent can enhance sexual experiences.
• Being naked in public can help overcome body image issues.
• Touching and exploring different pleasure points can build anticipation and desire. Communication and making noise during sexual encounters can enhance pleasure and indicate enjoyment.
• Self-pleasure and self-care are important aspects of sexual well-being.
• There is a need for education and support for individuals with STIs, particularly in reducing the stigma surrounding herpes.
• The conference on sexual health and mental health provides a platform for discussing the impact of STIs on mental well-being and promoting education and awareness.
• Body positivity and acceptance are crucial in fostering healthy sexual relationships.

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 [email protected].

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://AASECT.org⁠

⁠

https://www.briangibney.org/⁠

⁠

https://www.surrogatepartnercollective.org/⁠

⁠https://embracespt.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

⁠https://softcockweek.com⁠

Sex Sells on FuseTV, Season 3 - Episode 5: ⁠https://amzn.to/3JA8Twt⁠