Ignite Intimacy

After 121 episodes and 3 years since launching and producing the Ignite Intimacy Podcast I have chosen to pause the podcast indefinitely. It’s a choice I’ve been avoiding until I realized, it’s ok. Release FOMO, let it go, discover what else is ready for my love and attention.    This has been quite a journey with thousands of listeners tuning in week after week and tens of thousands of downloads from all over the world!! I jumped for joy to see listeners from Saudi Arabia, Kenya, New Zealand and Brazil!! Wow!! And, to run into people I’ve known through the years who tell me they’ve been tuning in, that they’re getting something from the content we’ve created and shared, that they’re trying new things with their lovers and partners and that their intimacy IS being ignited!    And, to the people who courageously reached out to disclose their Herpes status for the first time to ME. I honor and SALUTE you!! And, I’ve been deeply touched by your courage.    This is all more than I could have bargained for.    It has truly been my honor to share this journey with all of you.    What’s so cool about this podcast is that it will live on through the 121 episodes we’ve created, so you can continue tuning in, sharing with your friends and discovering intimacy for yourself through these episodes.    Aside from everything I shared on this episode one of the most POTENT realizations that I had is that I AM THE ONE! And I am the SOURCE of my life. I have choice, I have power, I have consciousness and a tool kit filled to the brim with everything I need to continue creating a life and legacy that will uplift and empower through time.    And, so are you, so do you!!    Thank you for showing up, tuning in, sharing, caring, reaching out, trying new things, exploring the edges of your vulnerability and eroticism. I SEE YOU! I HONOR YOU! And I am deeply grateful for you!!!   KEEP GOING!!   I would have not been able to keep Ignite Intimacy going if it weren’t for the support of my team: Lindsay Leclair, who published every episode, David my editor @davidstudio on Fiverr and Amy Greensky who designed the logo. I am deeply grateful for you all!!   Keep listening, stay connected @LauraAiisha @IgniteIntimacy and until we meet again, stay blessed and keep shining!! xox   About Laura Aiisha   I have always been fascinated by the world of relational experiences. Wondering what makes two people come together, break apart, stay single, attract many suitors and long term relationships, or none at all, what makes some venture into the world of polyamory, while others were born into a culture and society where polygamy is common and if not a choice, something they learn to live with.    I had been meditating on these topics for quite some time now when in January 2016 an energy larger than me began pulling me forward to explore all of these topics (and more) in an interactive and audio based conversation I could share with the public. Now we're wrapping up this juicy goodness and moving on to wherever the spirit moves me!   Connect LauraAiisha.com  Listen to Ignite Intimacy on iTunes Spotify YouTube Music - LauraAiisha.Bandcamp.com or @LauraAiisha on Spotify + iTunes Instagram + Facebook: @LauraAiisha @IgniteIntimacy      About Stephanie Carlin:     Stephanie Carlin is an energy expert, artist, and creator of empires. She is on a mission to support women in living an intuitive life. In 2012, Stephanie founded Free Spirits Music. She has supported over 1200 songwriters in shedding self-doubt and discovering their voice. Today, she coaches women who are ready to fall in love with their businesses and their lives. She believes true transformation begins with healing your ancestral line and upgrading your frequency. Her new album "Reclamation: A Collection Of Mantras" is streaming now. Work with her at freespiritsmusic.com/unstoppable   Connect   stephaniecarlin.com freespiritsmusic.com Instagram: instagram.com/stephaniecarlinmusic Facebook: facebook.com/stephaniecarlinmusic Email: info@freespiritsmusic.com Stream on Spotify: http://bit.ly/stephaniecarlinmusic Stream on Apple Music: http://bit.ly/stephaniecarlinitunes  

  The path to long term romantic partnerships has been something that’s baffled me through the years.    I’m fascinated hearing stories of how two people come together and ultimately choose each other.    Join coaches, entrepreneurs and speakers, Dorota Stanczyk and Esmond Baring and I as we discover the sometimes awkward and unclear path to romance, intimacy and long term partnership through vulnerability and curiosity on Episode 120 of Ignite Intimacy!!   About Dorota and Esmond:  Dorota Stanczyk is a visual artist, creative director, documentary filmmaker, speaker and writer. Her passion is to combine fine arts with personal growth. In 2019 Dorota co-founded NYOUDE with the intention to inspire individuals, and couples, to realise that true self-expression, with the willingness to be vulnerable, open and courageous are the keys to a deepening of the connection, the love, and the trust in our relationships. Dorota offers intuitive coaching sessions that focus on unblocking our power to create exactly the reality we choose.  Connect with Dorota: Website - http://www.dorotastanczyk.com Website - NYOUDE - http://www.nyoude.ventures Instagram: travelarty Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/dorota.art/ Email - connect@nyoude.venture   Esmond Baring     Esmond is a transformational coach and writer, specializing in bringing greater emotional awareness to men. He supports men, to better learn to feel, articulate, and language, the felt experience of their emotional universes. The results are that men are better able to communicate how they feel to those that they love, to better understand themselves, and to be more understood. Esmond's work invites men to explore, feel, and realize that their vulnerability can be their greatest strength, and ultimately set them free.    Connect with Esmond: Website - http://www.esmondbaring.com Website - NYOUDE - http://www.nyoude.ventures Instagram: esmondbaring Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/esmondcoaching/ Email - connect@nyoude.venture     * Listen through the end of this episode where Noelle, Scribe of personalized erotica, love stories, and poems will be sharing another one of her pieces with us. For more from Noelle, visit her website at  Museoferotica.carrd.co or connect with her via email at museoferotica@yahoo.com *

Wowzas!!! This episode is AWESOME! Terry Real is a fantastic, brilliant and super special human being. His energy and light are so enjoyable, present and powerful.    This conversation is so organic, flowing, fun.. And, I hope this energy transfers to you as you listen.    Terry is sharing some SERIOUS knowledge and wisdom from his 25 years working with families and married couples. We also have a deep conversation about men, toxic masculinity and the patriarchy, dating and communication. He is dishing the goods and I HIGHLY recommend you tune in!   Join us for Episode 119 of Ignite Intimacy!!   About Terry:   Terry Real is a nationally recognized family therapist, author, and teacher. He is particularly known for his groundbreaking work on men and male psychology as well as his work on gender and couples; he has been in private practice for over twenty-five years. Terry has appeared often as the relationship expert for Good Morning America and ABC News. *Special Announcement*  Terry has recently reopened his therapy video training series called Relational Life Training for a limited time. Learn practical information for better understanding relationships!  SIGN UP here   Connect:   Website   Resources:   Relational Life Training - Learn practical information for better understanding relationships. Sounds true - Fierce Intimacy Opted piece on Gillette commercial  Gillette commercial Scene on Radio - MEN   * Listen through the end of this episode where Noelle, Scribe of personalized erotica, love stories, and poems will be sharing another one of her pieces with us. For more from Noelle, visit her website at  Museoferotica.carrd.co or connect with her via email at museoferotica@yahoo.com *

Erica Force is on a mission to create more sexual freedom and empowerment for the world.    I’m sure glad she exists!    Her Instagram feed (see link below her bio) is filled with short and sweet messages of self love, empowerment and sexual freedom.  Join Erica and I as we have an in-depth conversation about cuckolding, sexual freedom, empowered sexuality and birth control on Episode 118 of Ignite Intimacy!! About Erica Erica Force is a woman who believes in the power of knowing & loving yourself. Studying under Dr. Melissa Jones of Sexology Institute in Texas, Erica quickly jumped into getting certified with Sex Coach U under Dr. Patti Britton & Dr. Susan Kaye founder of Institute For Mind Body Therapy.  Erica’s sexuality has evolved in numerous directions over the years, as she’s found a passion for female/male bisexuality in heterosexual relationships and alternative relationship lifestyles such as polyamory, BDSM, and Kink. Connect: Instagram - @sexuallectual  Website

Miki Agrawal is someone I’ve had my eyes on for a while. She is a bold, brilliant and powerful woman.  And she’s a twin!! She and her sistar, Radha, launched the innovative period underwear brand ‘Thinx’ turning a multi billion dollar industry on its head.  I’ve been both intrigued and inspired by her journey and I’m super excited that we synced up for this conversation today.  Join Mom, Disrupt-Her author, social entrepreneur and all around Goddess Powerhouse, Miki Agrawal and I as we go in on innovating from products to your love life, disrupting mega industries with new concepts and movements, keeping your butt clean, embracing our vulnerability, twins, motherhood and creating a foundation from which long-term romantic relationships can and grow and thrive on Episode 117 of Ignite Intimacy!   About Miki   Miki Agrawal is a serial social entrepreneur. Recently named Fast Company’s Most Creative People in 2018, she is the founder of the acclaimed farm-to-table, alternative pizza concept called WILD, co-founded THINX, a high-tech, period-proof underwear brand, co-founded Icon, a high-tech pee-proof underwear brand that helps women manage light bladder leakage and most recently founded TUSHY, a company that is revolutionizing the American toilet category with a modern, affordable, designer bidet attachment that both upgrades human health & hygiene as well as the environment from wasteful toilet paper consumption.  She and her team are also helping fight the global sanitation crisis by bringing clean latrines to underserved communities in India through their partnership with Samagra. Harper Collins published her first book entitled "DO COOL SH*T" on entrepreneurship and lifestyle design and Hay House is publishing her second book “Disrupt-Her” out in bookstores NOW!  Connect WebsiteTUSHYDisruptHer@mikiagrawal @hellotushy 

I was in my favorite mezcaleria in San Miguel de Allende recently when my friend said, ‘You need to meet my friend, Lauren. She wrote a book about Sex and love and your podcast is about sex and love. You two should do something together!’  And, the rest is herstory ;) Lauren and I hit it off immediately. When she told me she wrote a book about the lovers she had soon after arriving in this gorgeous central Mexican town after breaking up with her former partner of 10+ years I was hooked. I had to learn more about this gorgeous, bold and brilliant woman and her stories of sex and love here in San Miguel! Join author, lover and soul adventurer, Lauren Leonardi and I as we share about the journey of love, letting go, waking up to the loss of desires unfulfilled, the path to self love and choosing our sexual liberation in the face of it all on Episode 116 of Ignite Intimacy!! About Lauren Lauren Leonardi is a native New Yorker and writer, living between central Mexico and south Florida.  After years of corporate ladder-climbing, Lauren turned away from that world to pursue a life in the arts, and indeed to make her own life her medium. She’s earned her bread and butter as a freelance writer for the better part of the last decade while moonlighting as a taxi driver, shop girl, waitress, consultant; and as a caretaker for animals, children, and the elderly.  She suffered for years from debilitating depression, addiction, and unresolved trauma, and ultimately found peace through spiritual practice, deep authentic connection, alive partnership, and lots of lots of great sex.  Lauren is shopping her book, Just Say Me, which chronicles exactly one year to the day after the end of a long term relationship. Each chapter is devoted to one lover in that first year. The book is about the devastating grief of leaving someone you still love, and the powerful medicine sex can be in the healing of a broken heart.  Connect: Instagram: @fairtradetravelista

I learned about Lora Haddock after attending the CES trade show in Las Vegas this past January. Lora is part of a movement of brilliant, bold and creative women launching business in the Sex Tech and sex toy space with a focus on woman’s pleasure, gender equity and entrepreneurship.    When I heard that Lora’s company ‘Laura DiCarlo’ was awarded a CES Robotics Innovation Award which was then rescinded because the product was deemed immoral, obscene, indecent and/or profane, plus she was not allowed to exhibit on the floor during CES I knew we had to dive into this on Ignite Intimacy. The product itself supports people with Vaginas to have blended orgasms. Nothing obscene about that from my viewpoint!    So please join entrepreneur, trailblazer and innovator, Lora Haddock and I as we explore the world of sex tech, female entrepreneurs, gender equity, blended orgasms and pleasure on Episode 115 of Ignite Intimacy!!!   About Laura     Lora Haddock has over a decade of experience in healthcare, and after an honorable discharge from the US Navy she enrolled in a pre-med program. As a self-described “anatomy geek”, Lora became fascinated with the psychological, physiological, and anatomical aspects of the female orgasm. She left med school to design functional product specifications determined to produce the perfect orgasm, drawing on years of research and anatomical data she had gathered from hundreds of women. She founded Lora DiCarlo in 2017 and began her journey towards launching new physiologically appropriate women’s health and wellness products.   Connect with Lora: Website Instagram Twitter   **Listen through the end of this episode where Noelle, Scribe of personalized erotica, love stories, and poems will be sharing another one of her pieces with us. For more from Noelle, visit her website at  Museoferotica.carrd.co or connect with her via email at museoferotica@yahoo.com **

I was introduced to Dakota Chanel through Damiana Rahshelle after a serendipitous meeting in Los Angeles. Dakota is deeply connected to the sacred waters of our planet and those of our inner bodies.  Dakota has been on a journey of healing sexual wounding, spending time in celibacy, and now embracing a deeply sensual partnership with herself and her life partner as she journey’s into full self and erotic expression.  Join Water Priestess, Mystic and Writer, Dakota Chanel and I as we dive deep into the oceans of our inner waters, the sacredness of water and human fluids, the flow of our sexuality and consciousness and our connection to all that ebbs and flows on Episode 114 of Ignite Intimacy! About Dakota Dakota Chanel is an Ordained Water Priestess, Mystic, and Writer. She knows in every cell of her being that we are the children of the most beautiful love story in the universe. She guides woman into their own gnosis through 1:1 mentorship journeys, group programs & retreats. Dakota lives heaven on earth, barefoot in dresses, being a mermaid, and celebrating the magic of life with her beloved on the island of Maui. Connect with Dakota Website Instagram Facebook   Resources: The hidden message of water by Dr. Masaru Emoto     *Listen through the end of this episode where Noelle, Scribe of personalized erotica, love stories, and poems will be sharing another one of her pieces with us. For more from Noelle, visit her website at  Museoferotica.carrd.co or connect with her via email at museoferotica@yahoo.com *

I’ll always remember when I was broken to the core, at the very beginning of a long healing journey to mend a shattered heart and soul, and my twin sis and I got into a massive fight outside of her little home in Haiku, Maui. She said, ‘You have to love yourself, Laura!’    I had no idea what she meant. I couldn’t even place it… there was nothing to compare it to or balance it off of. I had no idea what she was talking about.    Self Love.   13 years ago I began the journey. One foot in front of the other.   And, although this episode is not about the specifics of what brought me to my knees and thus home to myself, it is about a self care practice that I’ve generated over the last few years that was completely foreign to me and has supported me on a daily basis to get connected to gratitude, my body and the magic within each day.   So join me, your hostess with the mostess, Ms. Laura Aiisha, as I share my morning self care routine, which alleviates anxiety, grounds me in my body, generates gratitude and elevates my energy and cells for an activated juicy day… everyday on Episode 113 of Ignite Intimacy!   About Me:     In 2006, after a career on the business side of music, television and film, I began supporting small businesses internationally with new business development consulting. My twin sistar, Sarah Haykel and I, were featured speakers for TedxBuffaloWomen in 2013, and in 2014/15 I released 7 original songs that I’ve been performing nationwide. During the Summer of 2016 I launched the ‘Ignite Intimacy’ podcast, which focuses on intimacy, romantic relationships and sexuality. And, in 2017 I co-founded a project called 'Inclusive Conversations' bringing women of color and white women together to discuss the issues that separate us. I’m a Mom to a 21-year young daughter, West African dancer, cookie baker, music lover and world traveler currently nomading between the US and Mexico while working remotely!   Contact:   Email Website Facebook Instagram

Craig Cullinane has been on a powerful journey of healing shame in his own life while also providing access to that healing for students of the New Body Electric School. This episode flowed so beautifully and is filled with discovery, connection and bravery.  Craig and I offer a simple yet powerful exercise for each of us to tap into our own pleasure and our own self care at the end of the episode. So tune in and take it all in for a journey into healing body shame, erotic shame, the power of prioritizing pleasure, self love practices and worthiness on Episode 112 of Ignite Intimacy! About Craig   Craig Cullinane is a Faculty member and the Managing Director of the New Body Electric School, the mission of which is to offer expertly guided educational experiences grounded in the erotic and its integration with the sacred, to foster transformative personal and communal healing. Craig is a social justice and diversity educator, having received his Master's degree in Intercultural Management from the SIT Graduate Institute.   Connect:   The New Body Electric School     **Listen through the end of this episode where Noelle, Scribe of personalized erotica, love stories, and poems will be sharing another one of her pieces with us. For more from Noelle, visit her website at Museoferotica.carrd.co or connect with her via email at museoferotica@yahoo.com**

Corinne Loperfido is one of a kind in every sense. I remember first meeting her in a loft building in downtown Los Angeles where she was living at the time. When I walked into her place it was like the most beautiful explosion of creative expression, color, sound, sensuality, bold imagery, pussy power jewelry just enveloped me and drew me in. I HAD to know this wild and wonderful woman!   We’ve stayed in touch and now two years later have connected worlds between New Orleans (where Corinne is living out of her van at the moment), and Los Angeles (where I was visiting), to record a conversation for y’all!   Join Corinne and I as we go in on a conversation that dips in and out of embodying bold, clear and powerful communication in our relationships, toxic masculinity, freedom of self expression and movement, courage, creating a zero waste lifestyle, recreating our societal funk, choice, personal power and more on Episode 111 of Ignite Intimacy!   About Corinne:     Corinne is a true Renaissance woman, currently living nomadically and travelling the US in her van, who has always been driven to break boundaries and transcend social norms. Whether she’s making wearable art or producing an event, she lives to give people an eye-opening experience of new possibilities. She created Pussy Power House in 2017 to host events and interactive art installations with and for other women. It is an ever expanding community of educators, healers, artists, and activists who have joined forces to promote self-love and personal expression by facilitating mindful events, workshop, and group art projects focused on women's empowerment.   Connect: Websites: www.corinneloperfido.com + www.pussypowerhouse.org Instagram @corinneloperfido + @pvssypowerhouse   **Listen through the end of this episode where Noelle, Scribe of personalized erotica, love stories, and poems will be sharing another one of her pieces with us. For more from Noelle, visit her website at  Museoferotica.carrd.co or connect with her via email at museoferotica@yahoo.com **  

I recently met Estrella Jaramillo at a conference for health and technology companies and was immediately taken by her energy and presence.    Estrella has been focusing for the last several years on building and creating tools and services to support women to deal with the anxiety and stress related to their bodies, sexuality and gender equity. Because we’ve been focusing on sexual health in March and will shift our focus to how we view, treat and take care of our bodies in April, this is a perfect bridge between both conversations.    Please join us for a powerful conversation where Estrella and I discuss women’s sexual health, the pelvic floor, anxiety, body image and tackling taboos on Episode 110 of Ignite Intimacy! About Estrella Estrella Jaramillo is the Cofounder of B-wom, a digital health solution for women. She is a passionate women's health advocate who aims to eradicate the anxiety women suffer when it comes to their bodies and their intimate issues. Estrella conducts women's health workshops and awareness sessions at private corporations, as well as for international institutions like the World Bank.  Connect with Estrella Website Social: @estrellajrios  Resources   Pelvic floor, Intimate and sexual health - http://b-wom.com Sexual health, Reproductive health: https://www.cyclesandsex.com Sexed and emotional health support https://talktabu.com   Sex Therapists: http://www.shulamelamed.com http://drhollyrichmond.com

Lauren Weiniger is a powerful lady who knows a thing or two about entrepreneurship, investing, startups and technology.  The idea for Lauren’s latest company is out to disrupt the STI screening space giving anyone access to testing and sharing their results with chosen partners, empowering us to get tested and disclose! Join Entrepreneuer, advisor and tech enthusiast, Lauren Weiniger and I as we continue our ‘Making Disclosure Sexy’ conversation from SXSW about sexual health, the power of technology to get tested and share your results with partners and how to practice safer sex in the digital age on Episode 109 of Ignite Intimacy!!   About Lauren     Lauren Weiniger is the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of SAFE, a personal sexual healthcare company that has created the easiest way to get tested for STIs and verify the health status of potential partners. The SAFE App lets people import their STI results from almost doctor, clinic, or lab for free, and show their verified status privately on their phone. More than an App, SAFE is a Movement: A coalition of influential supporters on a mission to disrupt the spread of STDs in our lifetime.   Connect: Website Facebook Instagram: @thesafeapp   *NEW* Listen through the end of this episode where Noelle, Scribe of personalized erotica, love stories, and poems will be sharing another one of her pieces with us. For more from Noelle, visit her website at  Museoferotica.carrd.co or connect with her via email at museoferotica@yahoo.com

Wow Ignite Intimacy Community!!! What an honor and amazing experience it was to record this episode LIVE from the SXSW stage in Austin TX this weekend!! Tune in for an open, transparent, empowering conversation about sexual health, STD testing, receding a positive STI diagnosis and how to take care of yourself, how and when to disclose your STI status and dispelling the myths and stigmas around STI screening and Herpes on Episode 108 of Ignite Intimacy! And, THANK YOU for tuning in week after week. We love you and wouldn’t be here without your love and support!!  Please subscribe on iTunes and leave us a rating and review so that more people can know about this podcast!   About Our Guests:   Courtney Brame:   Courtney is a podcast host who has coordinated a space of understanding for other humans living with and/or affected by sexually transmitted infections. He hopes that sharing his experiences can help others find a new, positive perspective and flourish despite their diagnoses. Connect: Instagram: @HOnMyChest Tumblr: @HOnMyChest Reddit: @HOnMyChest Facebook Page: Something Positive for Positive People Twitter: @HOnMychest Podcast Site   Ashley Manta:   Ashley Manta has become a sought-after authority on mindfully combining sex and cannabis as part of her CannaSexual® brand. As a professional sex educator and coach, she helps people navigate these topics to make sure they are interacting, loving, and feeling their best in and out of the bedroom.  Connect: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram: @cannasexual   Lauren Weiniger:     Lauren is the founder of The Safe App, the app that keeps you and your sexual health in check.   Connect: Website Facebook Instagram: @thesafeapp

I had the pleasure of seeing Doug Braun-Harvey speak at Esther Perel’s event in NYC last November. His energy, authenticity and approach to sexual health lit something up inside of me.    Because of our upcoming podcast recording at SXSW focusing on Making Disclosure Sexy I knew I wanted to feature this brilliant, loving and powerful man for all of you to experience.   Join us as we have a dynamic conversation about addiction, sexuality, the power of learning and facilitating sexual health conversations, consent and pleasure on Episode 107 of Ignite Intimacy!!   About Doug     Doug Braun-Harvey is a sexual health author, trainer, and psychotherapist who bridges sexual and mental health and facilitates organizational change. He co-founded The Harvey Institute, an international education, training, consulting and supervision service for Improving health care through integration of sexual health.  A Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Sex Therapy Supervisor and Certified Sex Therapist, Doug has been providing individual and group therapy in his San Diego private practice since 1987.   Connect:   Website   Resources   'Treating Out of Control Sexual Behavior: Rethinking Sex Addiction' written with co-author Michael Vigorito     Sexual Health in Recovery: Professional Counselor’s Manual   Sexual Health in Drug and Alcohol Treatment: Group Facilitator’s Manual    *NEW* Listen through the end of this episode where Noelle, Scribe of personalized erotica, love stories, and poems will be sharing another one of her pieces with us. For more from Noelle, visit her website at  Museoferotica.carrd.co or connect with her via email at museoferotica@yahoo.com   *SXSW LIVE RECORDING* Are you attending SXSW in Austin?! Then join us for our LIVE Ignite Intimacy podcast happening at SXSW in Austin, TX on March 9, 2019 from 9:30-10:30AM. For more information, check out our page on the SXSW website here, and if you're in town for the conference we'd love to have you favorite the podcast and attend!

Paul Browde is a brilliant, beautiful and loving human being. I had the pleasure of witnessing Paul demonstrate a connection practice he uses with his couple clients at Esther Perel’s event in NYC last November. Paul blew me away with his energy, authenticity, generosity and grace. This man has a way with getting straight to your heart in his every way of being. We sat next to each other during the first part of the day and, getting to know each other a bit, I knew I sharing Paul and his work on Ignite Intimacy would be powerful. Join doctor, psychiatrist, storyteller and relationship therapist, Paul Browde and I as we do a deep dive into romantic relationships, listening, being with others, non judgement, connection, developing intimacy, the power of a simple apology and dreaming together on Episode 106 of Ignite Intimacy! *NEW* Listen through the end of this episode where Noelle, Scribe of personalized erotica, love stories, and poems will be sharing another one of her pieces with us. For more from Noelle, visit her website at  Museoferotica.carrd.co or connect with her via email at museoferotica@yahoo.com   *SXSW LIVE RECORDING* Are you attending SXSW in Austin?! Then join us for our LIVE Ignite Intimacy podcast happening at SXSW in Austin, TX on March 9, 2019 from 9:30-10:30AM. For more information, check out our page on the SXSW website here, and if you're in town for the conference we'd love to have you favorite the podcast and attend!   About Paul     Paul Browde is a medical doctor, and psychiatrist in private practice in New York City, where he works using narrative approaches to treat individuals and couples, and as an Encounter Centered Trainer, guiding couples in the art of communicating beyond the survival dance. Connect:   Website TED talk https://kripalu.org/presenters-programs/presenters/paul-browde https://narativ.com/ https://www.narrativemedicine.org/team_members/paul-browde/      

Damiana Rahshelle and I met as I was standing outside of Christina Weber's (Episode 65) annual fundraising event Feminine Weapon. I was immediately taken by her gorgeous energy, open heart and the love pouring out of her. We discussed self-love, the power of releasing, turning on our sensual energy and magnetism and I said ohhhh YES!!! We MUST have you on the podcast during the month of February when we’re discussing V-Day, self love and all of this juicy goodness! During this episode you will experience two deep meditations that we encourage you to create the time and space to dive into, with your journal available to write out anything that comes to you. It was so deeply healing for me to sit through these meditations with Damiana! Enjoy my conversation with Damiana Rahshelle as we go on a journey into the soul, into the heart and into the depths of the love, pleasure and joy that is available to us as we choose to begin each day creating and connecting to our magic within on Episode 105 of Ignite Intimacy!! Make sure you stay tuned for the end of this episode Noelle, Scribe of personalized erotica, love stories, and poems will be sharing another one of her pieces with us. For more from Noelle, visit her website at  Museoferotica.carrd.co or connect with her via email at museoferotica@yahoo.com   About Damiana   Damiana is an Intuitive Holistic Healer helping guide people to heal on all levels ~ Mind, Body & Spirit. She specializes in Love, Relationship & Empowerment Coaching and is a Ritual Prayerformance Artist & Sound Healer with a focus on Wombyn's EmpowHerment & awakening the Divine Feminine within the Masculine. She shares her offerings through 1 on 1 Coaching, immersive experience Workshops & Retreats, Transformational Speaking, Oracular Readings, Content Creation & giving her Musical Medicine to the World. Connect: Instagram Facebook Website Yelp Page ~~~   And finally, remember our LIVE Ignite Intimacy podcast happening at SXSW in Austin, TX on March 9, 2019 from 9:30-10:30AM. For more information, check out our page on the SXSW website here, and if you're in town for the conference we'd love to have you favorite the podcast and attend!

Sara Yardeni has been traveling the globe exploring and experiencing ancient spiritual traditions. Mediation has become a gateway for her to deeper self love and acceptance, rewriting subconscious codes in order to attract more of what she desires and the power of self love. When she spoke with me about a meditation she does for her clients a light bulb went off! It was a no brainer, we agreed it could be super powerful for her to walk me through this meditation live on the line as I identify, clear and rewrite subconscious codes around dating, love and romance so that you, too, could join us in this meditation.  Join healer and spiritual pioneer, Sara Yardeni and I for a unique episode of Ignite Intimacy where she leads me through a meditation to identify, clear and rewrite subconscious codes around dating, love and romance along with a deep dive into relational contracts and self love on Episode 104 of Ignite Intimacy!  About Sara: Sara specializes in creating empowering experiences for people by integrating ancient wisdoms and healing modalities from around the world. Beginning her professional career 28 years ago helping to spread the wisdom of Kabbalah at a time when it had little exposure in the modern world, Sara was instrumental in sharing this wisdom with thousands globally.  An essential part of Sara’s work is finding positive, points of connection between spiritual people and practices in order to manifest her vision of elevating human consciousness. Sara is focused on sharing this internal pathway to one’s soul purpose, believing it is this state that ultimately brings love, joy, harmony, balance and abundance for all. Connect: Website Instagram: @sara.yardeni   Stay tuned at the end of this episode for a short erotic story by the amazing Noelle, Scribe of personalized erotica, love stories, and poems. For more from Noelle, visit her website at  Museoferotica.carrd.co or connect with her via email at museoferotica@yahoo.com

I’ve had a mixed relationship to Valentine’s Day through the years. When I was younger I remember the cards and classroom parties, and also the anxiety of whether the boy I liked would give me a card or show some sort of interest towards me on this special day of love. As I grew up and became an adult I realized that for many years Valentine’s Day carried with it feelings of sadness, disappointment, anger and frustration. Being mostly single in my adult life I haven’t had many boyfriends on Valentine’s Day, and the few times I had a boyfriend during the month of love they weren’t into the Hallmark holiday aspect of Valentine’s day.  Through the last few years my relationship has shifted towards Valentine’s Day. Instead of focusing on what I don’t have, my journey into self love has me enjoying the fun around this day of love instead of feeling bad about it. A few weeks ago I was inspired to bring together a group of folks for the first Ignite Intimacy roundtable to explore each of our relationships to V-Day and how to navigate this sometimes tender or agonizing day of love.  With a reminder to love ourselves first and to keep it real wherever we’re at with V-Day, Join me with Megan ‘Z’ Zimring, Oren Harris and Dr. Cat Meyer as we explore, discuss and unpack the many faces, experiences, attitudes towards, recreation of and keeping it real about Valentine’s Day on Episode 103 of Ignite Intimacy! About our Guests Megan 'Z' Zimring     After seven years as a Marketing Executive in the world of professional sports, Megan decided to shift gears and commit to her passion for activating the highest states of human potential through Evolutionary Astrology and Soul Empowerment Coaching. Megan utilizes a variety of techniques in her work including sound therapy with Tibetan singing bowls, Reiki energy healing, mindfulness training, Spiritual Psychology, eastern medicine, and metaphysical principles in order to maximize client experience.   Connect with Z: Insta: @MeganZimring Website Facebook   Oren Harris     Oren Harris is a transformation coach and pioneer on the leading edge of consciousness. He helps leaders, entrepreneurs and creatives to live their highest potential and have a profound impact on the world. His primary mission in life is creating Heaven on Earth,  a place where people wake up to their true selves and live a limitless life of contribution and fulfillment.   Connect with Oren: Instagram:@orenharris Facebook:@theflowcoach Website   Dr Cat Meyer     Dr. Cat Meyer is a licensed sex and relationship therapist, yoga instructor, and reiki practitioner dedicated to evolving the relationship we have surrounding sexuality and our bodies. She is host to the popular podcast Eat.Play.Sex on iTunes, in which she brings you expert guests talking on how to ignite your love life both mentally, physically, and relationally.   Connect with Dr Cat: SexLoveYoga.com CatMeyer.com Instagram: SexLoveYoga Facebook: @SexLoveYogawithDrCat YouTube: SexLoveYoga Twitter: @drcatrawrs GoddessCelebration.org

I met Stephanie Zuber at an Esther Perel event in NYC in November. The focus was the Masculinity Paradox, and the day was filled with powerful conversations about men, masculinity, sexuality, romance and more.    Intrigued by the work Stephanie is doing supporting couples and individuals in Ithaca, NY with sex, body and relational matters, and my own recent experience feeling a lack of sexual desire for a partner, it was a no brainer. We had to have a conversation about something many people experience in dating and relating - mismatched desire and sexless relationships.    Join Stephanie and I for a conversation that will support, inspire and encourage you to create more intimacy and rekindle your desire on Episode 102 of Ignite Intimacy!    About Stephanie   Stephanie is a licensed mental health counselor and sex therapist who hopes for a world that’s engaged in more self love and less erotophobia. Stephanie sees individuals, couples, those in multi-partnered relationships, and facilitates a sex & body matters group for women. Committed to helping everyone live their most authentic sexual life, Stephanie presents often in her community and at conferences on topics related to infidelity, sexual desire, how to maintain that erotic spark in long term relationships and exploring monogamy & polyamory.    Connect   Website Instagram: @sextherapywithstephanie

  Dr. Anna Yusim is a powerhouse. She’s brilliant, intuitive, insightful and passionate. Having traveled and worked all over the world, Anna was a lot like me in that we both had a habit of attracting emotionally unavailable men. When we met at Esther Perel’s event in NYC last November we knew a conversation was in order to unpack this hot topic that many of us can relate too.  Join Dr. Anna and I as we dive into why we attract emotionally unavailable people, receiving vs. chasing, the imperfection of being human and how to attract what we actually desire on Episode 101 of Ignite Intimacy! About Dr. Anna Dr. Anna Yusim is an internationally renowned, award-winning psychiatrist with a private practice in New York City where she has helped over 1000 patients from all over the world live happier, more meaningful lives. She is also a best-selling author of the book Fulfilled, a filmmaker, and a highly sought after speaker.  Connect: Website Instagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn:    Pinterest  

  Episode 100 baby!! YES!! A special guest for our special Episode, Megan Bruneau is just the type of lady I love. A brilliant, powerful, beautiful and loving woman with a no BS attitude who's running her own coaching and speaking business here in NYC. Megan has taken all of her life experience, challenges and trauma and channeled that energy into supporting others to develop new relationships to their trauma and mental health issues to create a new life inside and out.    Join Megan and I as we have a transparent conversation about dating in NYC, perfectionism, attachment, attracting unavailable partners, craving love, fearing intimacy and self compassion on Episode 100 of Ignite Intimacy!  About Megan Quoted by Deepak Chopra as the “Millennials’ therapist,” Megan’s no-bullshit, relatable voice has garnered over 30m views and landed appearances on The T.D. Jakes Show, Good Morning America and New York 1 Morning News. She is Huffington Post – homepage regular, MindBodyGreen, and Forbes favorite. Megan has a master of arts in counselling psychology and a bachelor of arts in psychology and social work. By sharing her personal experiences alongside her professional expertise, Megan seeks to change the way people relate to their inner and outer worlds.  Connect: Website Failure Factor Podcast YouTube channel Thrillist  Thought Catalog Gaia Entrepreneur Verily  Quartz

I first discovered Dr. Sara Nasserzadeh at an Esther Perel event in NYC. She was one of the featured experts at Esther’s event focused on the Masculinity Paradox. At first sight I was taken by this powerful, confident, brilliant woman so fluidly talking about sex, the body, orgasm and relating in front of a packed house.    I knew we had to feature her and her insights, work and energy on Ignite Intimacy!!   Join powerhouse PhD Dr. Sara Nasserzadeh and I as we have a bright and playful conversation about pleasure, dating in the digital age, the power of language, orgasm, cultural differences in sex, dating and sexuality, your unpolished gut and more on Episode 99 of Ignite Intimacy!!   About Dr. Sara Nasserzadeh, PhD     Dr. Sara Nasserzadeh, PhD is a Social Psychologist and a thought leader in the fields of Cultural Fluency, Diversity & Inclusion and, Sexual Health & Relationships. An award winner, speaker, television host, and advisor, among many other things, Dr. Nasserzadeh is based in Palo Alto, California and travels widely.   Connect   Blog Twitter: @DR_Sara_  FB: Dr.SaraNasserzadeh   Instagram: Dr.SaraNasserzadeh Resources:   Esther Perel website

Anita Teresa began exploring sex and education in the medical space after realizing that healthcare professionals were missing core pieces of sex education in their day to day work. After running a very successful and in demand Sex and Medicine Summit Anita pivoted her work to focus on sex dynamics in the workplace. With the #MeToo movement creating a platform for victims to step forward, be heard and supported with their experiences of sexual assault at work, Anita continues her work developing shame free environments where victims and perpetrators can share their experiences, get educated and empowered in their healing process. Join Sexuality Educator and Coach Anita Teresa and I as we explore sexuality in the workplace, sexual harassment, sexual health, communication, self expression and shame in Episode 98 of Ignite Intimacy! About Anita Anita Teresa is an Integrative Sexuality Educator and Coach with a private practice based in NYC.  She Founded the Sex & Medicine Summit in 2015 and does on-going programming around the topics of embodiment, healthy sexuality,  and the future of male/female leadership.   Connect: Website Facebook: Anita Teresa + Sex and Medicine Summit LinkedIn

Robert Kandell (previously featured on EP 72 of Ignite Intimacy) has been on a journey from the corporate world to entrepreneurship having built an international 8-figure business based on relationships, intimacy and sex before launching a coaching practice and now authoring his revolutionary new book, unHIDDEN - A Book for Men and Those Who Are Confused By Them.I’m thrilled to have Robert on for a follow-up conversation to jam on a topic that is very near and dear to my heart, MEN! Masculinity! What is it, why men are confusing, what’s going on for men internally, patriarchy, external influences and the harmony and connection that is possible when we all take responsibility for ourselves, our relationships and our choices. Join Robert and I for a powerful conversation about Men, Masculinity and sorting through it all on Episode 97 of Ignite Intimacy!  About Robert

Janet Lieberman is a woman after my own heart! After earning a Mechanical Engineering degree from MIT and working with various companies in the consumer product space she began to wonder why the same level of care and design didn’t go into sex toys.   Through the grapevine she heard about Alexandra Fine (Co-Founder of Dame Productions - Episode 93) who was also launching a sex toy company and it was business partner love at first sight. From their first meeting they chose to combine efforts and energy to launch Dame.   Join Mechanical Engineer and Co-Founder of Dame Products, Janet Lieberman and I as we talk about sex toys, product design, female orgasm, dispelling myths about sex toys and pleasure and orgasm shaming on Episode 96 of Ignite Intimacy!   RECEIVE $15 OFF YOUR ORDER AT DAME PRODUCTS WITH THE DISCOUNT CODE 'IGNITE'   About Janet     Engineer and a graduate of MIT, Janet designed 3D printers until she discovered that vibrators weren’t being developed, manufactured, or marketed the way a quality consumer good should be. A firm believer that you must be the change you want to see in the world, Lieberman co-founded Dame Products to try to catalyze that shift.   Connect:   Website Twitter - @dame_janet IG/FB/Twitter - @dameproducts

After spending almost two decades in long-term relationships, Matthew Ayriss is on a journey home to himself.  A year into his marriage he realized something wasn’t quite right. And, the career he excelled in producing music videos for artists like Beyonce and Jay Z was feeding the machine he had intended to hold a mirror to, by bringing more consciousness to it.  With an affair and then a divorce, Matthew realized it was time to align with his roots and discover who he had become as a grown man. Join soul adventurer, coach, magician and producer Matthew Ayriss and I for a powerful, honest conversation as we dive deep into mommy love, nipples, nudity, the over sexualization of the human body, desire, romantic partnership and radical communication on Episode 95 of Ignite Intimacy! About Matthew After a decade in Hollywood producing music videos for artists like Beyoncé, Jay-Z and Katy Perry; and commercials for clients like Apple, Facebook and Toyota, Matthew Ayriss set his intention on creating only consciousness raising content. As a personal development coach, energy healer and body worker, Matthew works one-on-one with individuals and couples helping people navigate new relationships, sacred sexuality and conscious relating, incorporating energy healing with personal development to uncover and navigate belief systems, traumas and blockages - helping individuals tap into their fullest potential for their higher purpose. Connect:   The Art of Choosing Love MatthewAyriss.com @TheHealingMatt

Effy Blue is a worldwide adventurer and relationship explorer. After 10 years globetrotting she ended up in NYC where she was embraced by the Sex Positive community and introduced to the world of open relationships and polyamory.   Here experience has been unique to say the least. From all of the things she’s learned on her journey the last several years, Effy transformed a corporate career into a relationship coaching practice supporting mostly couples in the process of exploring non-monogamy and opening up their relationships.   Join relationship expert and and coach Effy Blue and I as we dive deep into non-monogamous relationship styles, communication, powerful agreements, opening up and how to consciously create your own unique romantic relationship by design on Episode 94 of Ignite Intimacy!! About Effy Effy Blue is a relationship expert specializing in non-monogamy and other alternative structures. Her coaching philosophy, Relationship by Design, abandons the one-size-fits-all relationship structure that is heavily prescribed by our society. Besides coaching, Effy builds a growing community of Curious Foxes, leads panels and workshops, and speaks at relationship and sexuality conferences around the country.   Connect Websites Effy Blue Curious Foxes Play Party Etiquette   Social Media facebook.com/coacheffyblue facebook.com/wearecuriousfoxes Twitter and IG: @coacheffyblue IG @playpartyetiquette

Entrepreneur and Co-founder of Dame Productions, Alexandra Fine has always been comfortable with her sexuality. As a curiously adventurous girl, she recounts a story about her First grade teachers reaction when she shared about an adventure she went on as a young girl with her Aunt to a drag show in Manhattan. In this episode Alex tells us about her courage to explore and engage sexually at a young age, her desire to share openly about her experiences and STI status to developing sex toy-esque innovations at home and inviting her girl friends over to test them out for her!   Join entrepreneur, CEO and Co-founder of Dame Products, Alexandra Fine and I as we explore the power of being bold, courageous and true with our sexuality, sensuality, desires, status and relationships in Episode 93 of Ignite Intimacy. About Alexandra CEO of Dame Products, Alex Fine translates the nuances of our sexualities into human-friendly toys for sex. A lifelong student of sexual health, Fine earned her Masters in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in sex therapy from Columbia University. She first began developing her own vibrators at home and asking friends to give her feedback.  In founding Dame Products, Fine intends to start necessary conversations, to listen rather than assume, and to create products that enhance intimacy.   Connect Website Social Media - @dameproducts   As a special gift to Ignite Intimacy listeners, we are offering $15 off your order at Dame Products! Use the code IGNITE at checkout and enjoy!

Lauren Bille is a powerful, gentle, fiery, dynamic, beautiful and true soul. She is on a mission to transform the current societal, racial and gender based paradigms here on planet earth and I am sooo grateful she’s stepped up to the plate. Lauren and I have distinct similarities in our life experiences and some of the ways we’ve approached dating, relating and our sexuality in the past. Sitting with her was like looking in the mirror at times! This is a powerful and deep conversation that will take you on the journey of a woman who broke out of the addiction and depression of her teen years to having a powerful voice as a grown woman in areas and arenas that impact all of us. Join entrepreneur and founder of Cycles + Sex, Lauren Bille and I as we explore the realms of self worth, being chosen vs. choosing, personal power, freedom, #metoo, responsibility, consent and so much more on Episode 92 of Ignite Intimacy! About Lauren: Passionate about racial, gender and economic equity, building meaningful communities and shifting cultural paradigms, Lauren co-founded CYCLES + SEX - the destination for all things reproductive health and sex. They intersect education, tools, experts and community to support and celebrate the body. She is also former Partner at The Big Quiet (a massive meditation movement) which grew from 23 people to over 20,000.   Connect: Website Instagram (work) Instagram (personal) Facebook

Nikki Faye left her corporate job 3 years ago and took a leap of faith to gain more freedom and adventure in her life. 3 years and 30 countries later, Nikki Faye and I connect from Nairobi, Kenya to Brooklyn, NY to dive into what it’s like to date around the world as a global nomad!   Join global nomad, Nikki Faye The Wanderer and I as we discuss the ins and outs of leaving your corporate job, nomading around the world and the dating scene from Italy to Kenya, Colombia and beyond on Episode 91 of Ignite Intimacy!   About Nikki     Nikki Faye is a lover of travel, blogger, entrepreneur, public speaker and travel influencer. From a young age, she jumped at every opportunity to travel, meet people, and learn from the lives of others all around the world, and in turn, she would like to inspire and educate the people along her path to travel and experience this amazing planet to the fullest.   Connect   Instagram: NikkiFayeTheWanderer FB: NFTheWanderer Twitter: NFTheWanderer    

Coach Yari is a ball of delicious, creative energy. Her presence literally makes me feel ignited and energized!! Yari takes us on a journey through her life where a focus on creating the perfect exterior eventually led Yari to clean up the mental, emotional and physical weight she was carrying with her through life in order to create radiance from within.  Would you like to experience more beauty, ease, flow and self expression inside and out?! Then join Coach Yari and I as we explore living life unleashed, the power of authenticity, redefining weight, and being free to express your sensual sexual self on Episode 90 of Ignite Intimacy!! About Yari Yarixa Ferrao, A.K.A, Coach Yari (Ya-di) is a world-renowned inspirational and transformative health and fitness personality who has been featured on multiple TV and Media outlets. Yari’s mission and purpose is to be a soul-igniter, passion provoker and a catalyst of courageous creativity and personal freedom! Through SoulBody Method and Unleash, she curates elevating, liberating and expansive experiences for others. Connect The Soulbody Method Unleash Facebook Instagram - @coachyari, @unleashmovement

Meika Hollender had an itch to launch a business. When her Father came to her with the idea of starting an all natural condom company it peaked her interest.    The company, Sustain, now has a variety of all natural, organic and ethically made products in the sexual health and period space so that women can rest assured they are only putting the very best in their vaginas and on their bodies!   Join Meika and I as we dive deep into a powerful conversation on sexual health, organic and sustainable sex and period products, sexual pleasure, activism and paying it forward on Episode 89 of Ignite Intimacy!  About Meika Meika Hollender is the Co-Founder and CEO at Sustain Natural, a leading brand of all natural, vagina-friendly products. She is also the creator of GetOnTop, a national campaign aimed at getting women to take control of their sexual health. Meika has been listed on Forbes 30 under 30, Fast Company's Most Creative People and Inc. 30 under 30, and her second book Get On Top was released in March 2018. Through their 10%4 initiative, Sustain donates 10% of their pretax profits to women who currently lack access to basic needs like sex ed, family planning, STD testing, and breast exams. Connect Website Instagram - @sustain Facebook

This is NOT your ordinary dating conversation!! Get ready for some FIYAH and POWERS through this conversation!! You’ll have this one on repeat…  Miriam Moufide and I have been friends for over 15 years. And, we’ve been through it all together. Miriam is one of the most brilliant, powerful, loving and loyal humans I know. She is a stand for humanity, women, peace and justice. She also has insight into men, relationships and dating that makes her one of my go-to sources for advice, a swift kick in the booty and a reset on my worth, how I set myself up in romantic interactions and relationships and what’s possible for me to actually create what I desire to experience in this space. Join Miriam and I for a POWERFUL and INSIGHTFUL conversation about dating, knowing and valuing your worth in romantic relationships, making it fun, keeping it sexy and the power of a 30-day breakup rule on Episode 88 of Ignite Intimacy! About Miriam Miriam Moufide, aka The Gangstress is a singer, songwriter and social activist based in Montreal, Canada. Born in Wales to a Moroccan father and British mother, she was raised in Morocco. Miriam's love for music and anthropology has led her to visit and live in 30 different countries, and to eventually put her experiences to music. Drawing on her education in theatre, music and workshop facilitation she worked with the Rainbow Caravan for Peace, performing in street theatre and giving workshops on bioregionalism, permaculture, ecovillage design, nutrition and spiritual gatherings.  Connect facebook  Instagramtwitter snapchat: @EmpireI

Ariel White is a brilliant, powerful and creative woman who founded My Little Yoni, a cute, lovable and huggable Vagina inspired doll reminding women (and others) to connect with the unique, creative and expressive power of the Vagina!    When we met, Ariel was surrounded by her ‘My Little Yoni’ dolls at a Wild Vessel event in Los Angeles. She was pointed, fierce, loving and insightful and I immediately felt a connection with her.    Tune in as Ariel and I dive deep into the new archetype of the Post Patriarchal Woman, Self Lovership, Relational Fluidity, Masculine + Feminine and Sexual Sovereignty on Episode 87 of Ignite Intimacy!   About Ariel   Artist, teacher, producer & director of cause-based media, Ariel White is a respected expert and speaker in the realms of sexuality and personal development. As the founder of the progressive pleasure-based sex edutainment company, My Little Yoni, Ariel has presented at the same seminars as industry giants like Esther Perel, Gay & Katie Hendricks, and Dan Savage.   Connect   Website Instagram: @mylittleyoni, @arielwhitexo    

Jason Rosario is a man on a mission to create safe spaces for men of color, and a framework for what healthy masculinity looks like. After a successful career in finance Jason launched The Lives of Men (TLoM) to highlight and empower men of color, their interests, experiences and lifestyles. Join Jason and I as we explore the world of powerfully vulnerable men, masculinity, safe spaces, the over sexualization of black men and more on Episode 86 of Ignite Intimacy!! About Jason Jason Rosario is a social entrepreneur, content curator and founder of The Lives of Men (TLoM), an integrated media and lifestyle brand that chronicles stories and the diverse interests of men of color. Jason’s work sits at the intersection of masculinity, identity, and self-actualization. Through this organization, Jason aims to inspire, activate and nurture the development of well-rounded men. Connect: Website Facebook - @thelivesofmen Instagram - @thelivesofmen & @kingkhepri Twitter - @thelivesofmen

Linda Kay Klein has spent the last 12 years connecting with and sharing stories of trauma around sex, sexuality, and shame with other girls and women who’ve experienced similar things stemming from the Purity Culture of the Evangelical Church.  Through these interviews Linda realized she was not alone in experiencing physical and psychological breakdowns in her adult life that stemmed from the childhood trauma she experienced growing up.  Join Linda Kay Klein and I as we dive deep into a powerful conversation about Purity Culture in the Evangelical Church, sexual shame, sex ed, healing trauma, the power of sharing and reclaiming our sexuality on Episode 85 of Ignite Intimacy! About Linda The founder of Break Free Together, Linda earned a Masters degree from New York University focused on American evangelical Christian gender and sexuality messaging for girls, and has spent over a decade working at the cross section of faith, gender, and social change.   Connect:  Website Speaking   Resources: PURE: Inside the Evangelical Movement that Shamed a Generation of Young Women and How I Broke Free (Simon & Schuster)   TEDx talk

Carmelia Ray has been supporting people like you and me with dating advice since the early 90’s. This woman knows her stuff!!   Now a Matchmaker extraordinaire, Carmelia shares decades worth of insights, tips and tools with us to navigate the world of online dating, love, romance and partnership.   Join us as we explore the world of matchmaking, online dating, finding and attracting love and busting myths about love, romance and partnership on Episode 84 of Ignite Intimacy!    About Carmelia:       Carmelia Ray is a tv personality and an internationally acclaimed matchmaker for high achieving men and the quality women they’re searching for. With decades of experience and a tireless enthusiasm for online dating and matchmaking, Carmelia has established herself as the go-to attraction expert when elite singles are ready to find, attract, and connect with Mr. or Ms. Right.   Connect:   Website Blog Facebook Instagram Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest

Andrew Barrett has been on a soul journey and exploration through meditation for many years. This journey led him to Los Angeles where he’s launched a series called Dating + Meditating focusing on a variety of different topics that I’d venture to say interest most of us. Tune in for this deep, heart opening, real conversation where Andrew and I dive into big questions like, ‘Am I ready for love?,’ gender roles in love and relating, safety and opening up on Episode 83 of Ignite Intimacy! About Andrew: Andrew Barrett is a trained meditation teacher based in LA. He hosts a weekly event called Dating & Meditating, a group meditation followed by a discussion on a relationship topic. Subjects have ranged from What is a relationship, money, sex, jealousy and falling in love.   Connect: www.BarrettMeditation.com  https://www.facebook.com/andrew.barrett.1238 https://www.instagram.com/barrettmeditation

Dr. Cat Meyer is a powerful, sensual and magnetic woman. She knows how to pull you in with the silky, deep tone of her voice and the playfulness and authenticity that comes through every syllable.  Join Dr. Cat and I as we explore topics like embodiment, jealousy, attachment, and playfulness that are at the foundation of the romantic and sexual experiences that we have, that shape us, shame us, and how to breakthrough the old and step powerfully into the new on Episode 82 of Ignite Intimacy! About Dr Cat:     Dr. Cat Meyer is a licensed sex and relationship therapist, yoga instructor, and reiki practitioner dedicated to evolving the relationship we have surrounding sexuality and our bodies. She is host to the popular podcast Eat.Play.Sex on iTunes, in which she brings you expert guests talking on how to ignite your love life both mentally, physically, and relationally.   Connect with Dr Cat: SexLoveYoga.com CatMeyer.com Instagram: SexLoveYoga Facebook: @SexLoveYogawithDrCat YouTube: SexLoveYoga Twitter: @drcatrawrs GoddessCelebration.org     ****   Ignite Intimacy has a chance to do a LIVE PODCAST from the 2019 SXSW Conference!    With your support we can bring the conversation around ‘Making Disclosure Sexy - Living with Herpes’ to the stage at this incredible 17 day conference.  CLICK HERE NOW TO VOTE - http://panelpicker.sxsw.com/vote/83269, register for an account and cast your vote for the Ignite Intimacy podcast to participate as one of the 2019 Conference events!   This is a vitally important topic and I'm soooo excited to further connect with and educate people about sex, intimacy, STI's, communication, and full self expression in and out of the bedroom. THANK YOU!!  

Courtney Brame was diagnosed with Herpes over 7 years ago. Instead of letting it get him down he chose to create a platform for people living with positive STI results to share their stories as a way to support and empower themselves and others. Join Courtney and I as we have an open flowing conversation about STI’s, testing, the stigma around Herpes, disclosure and how and how to have and maintain a thriving sex life after a positive diagnosis on Episode 81 of Ignite Intimacy! About Courtney: Courtney Brame is a podcast host who has coordinated a space of understanding for other humans living with and/or affected by sexually transmitted infections. He hopes that sharing his experiences can help others find a new, positive perspective and flourish despite their diagnoses.  Instagram: @HOnMyChest Tumblr: @HOnMyChest Reddit: @HOnMyChest Facebook Page: Something Positive for Positive People Twitter: @HOnMychest Podcast STL Magazine Article St. Louis Post Dispath Article    Resources:   ProjectAccept.org   Reddit HOpportunity

I love cuddling!! It’s one of my favorite things to do with people I dig.. ya dig?! So you are definitely going to want to listen to this episode with professional cuddler Christina Hepburn and I as we dive deep into the world of professional cuddling. Christina and I discuss our touch-starved culture, seeking sex to fill the void and how to keep it tight and right, safe and sound as we venture into our desires, fulfilling our pleasure and receiving that good good loving on 2 year anniversary Episode #80 of Ignite Intimacy! About Christina: Christina Hepburn is a professional cuddler and intentional touch expert. Cuddling is a platonic, physical touch therapy that allows her to work with clients around intimacy and comfort in their bodies. She is also creator and cohost of T&A Talk Sex, a podcast on BlogTalkRadio for 3 years, gabbing about taboo topics around sexuality, relationships, and intimacy in an effort to normalize it. She firmly believes a developed sexuality can center us as humans. Christina is based in Los Angeles and travels to meet her clients.  Connect: @chrihepburn Christina's Cuddle Practice Article by Christina:  A Case for Intentional Touch from a Professional Cuddler   MTV featured - with Spencer and Heidi Pratt   T&A Talk Sex Podcast   And, on iTunes and all other podcast apps @tatalksex 

Marga Berlinski was searching for a way to feel connected to her own pleasure, vulnerability and desire. After a chance meeting with a woman from the OneTaste community Marga went on an exploration to stretch beyond the edges of her own comfort to discover pleasure on her terms.   Join Marga and I as we have a conversation between the US and The Netherlands about pleasure as access to creating what we desire, exploring new frontiers, getting vulnerable and the difference between orgasm and climax on Episode 79 of Ignite Intimacy!    About Marga:     Marga Berlinski works with women (and men) who desire more connection, intimacy and satisfying sex in their lives. This touches on area's of self-esteem, body image and feeling confident to speak up and get your needs met.  A trainer and coach since 2010, Marga practices a variety of modalities combined with the OneTaste philosophy and the practices of OM. After experiencing the power of this practice she is committed to make it available in the Netherlands, where she is the first person certified as the first OneTaste life coach in the country.   Connect: Website Facebook Meetup 

Megwyn White is a brilliant, creative, powerful woman. She experienced sexual abuse as a child, and as a result discovered a deep connection to creative expression, her voice, movement and acting to channel trauma.    On her soul's adventure through creative expression, ancient cultures, the discovery of body as technology and the healing arts, Megwyn founded Haptic Body.   Join Megwyn and I as we dive into the ethers of our physical and spiritual bodies, how to utilize the gift of creative expression to channel and heal trauma, orgasmic dolphins and more on Episode 78 of Ignite Intimacy!   About Megwyn:     Founder of EmbodyVoice Megwyn White has spent over 20 years researching and exploring the dynamics of human emotions as they are mapped inside the body’s tissue. Her “Haptic Body” technique includes powerful self-care tools which work with the technology of touch to help awaken, and naturally clear the constellation of emotions that are often locked inside the body's tissue as fear, shame, and trauma.  Megwyn often partners with other sexual educators, and has been featured in publications such as Cosmo, and Sentient Magazine.   Connect with Megwyn: Website   Resources: Empathic Civilization by Jeremy Rifkin

I met Olivia Richman in a 7 month leadership training program that we’re both in at the moment her in NYC. This woman is a powerhouse. She is so bright, full of light and brings power, strength, confidence and humor to her YouTube channel GlamourPuss, M.D. to share Sex Ed with teens and adults.  Olivia decided to launch GlamourPuss, M.D. when she realized how little factual information was available to her younger cousins about sex, their bodies, and issues for younger girls like how to put in a tampon.  I highly recommend this episode for teens and adults! It is fun, insightful and witty. Enjoy Episode 77 with GlamourPuss, M.D. Olivia Richman!! About Olivia: Olivia Richman is a 3rd year medical student at American University of Antigua College of Medicine. Olivia started a YouTube channel in August 2017, GlamourPuss, M.D., in which she is educating adolescents on mind, body and sexual health. She releases videos once a week on Saturday mornings and in the future, Olivia will be creating videos about empowered relationships, healthy eating, exercise and inside a teen's life.  YouTube  Website Resources: "What does the External Female Genitalia Look Like?” - GlamourPuss, M.D. Rashida Jones Documentary on Porn  Something Positive for People Who Are Positive - Podcast

Suki Sohn is an author and coach who went from a corporate career in finance, and two intense heartbreaks to emotional healing, full self expression and a life filled with love, family, connection and beauty. Join us as we have a real deal conversation about the power of heartbreak to crack us open to what is really at the heart of the matter, healing emotionally, embracing our differences, dancing in life and the power of role play on Episode 76 of Ignite Intimacy!  About Suki: Suki is a feminine leadership and relationship coach, author, and intuitive healer.  Her passion is to empower women to embrace their divine femininity to create a new paradigm for feminine leadership. She has journeyed through a personal transformation to health through holistic mind-body-spirit approaches, and now focuses on assisting her clients reclaim and cultivate divine feminine aspects of fluidity, heart-centredness, and intuition.   Connect with Suki:   Website   Resources: Happily Ever After by Suki Sohn    Alpha Bitch to Enchantress - Awaken Your Feminine Superpowers by Suki Sohn  The way of the superior man by David Deida  Esther Perel’s podcast episode

Sheri Winston is a Goddess Powerhouse. Her journey as a midwife led her to develop and teach some of the most powerful and groundbreaking work on the exploration of the female anatomy and female sexual pleasure.  This conversation is a deep dive into the power of setting boundaries. Sheri shares with us her process for discovering what your boundaries are and how to stick to them when your in the midst of erotic encounters and your brain is like mush. Sheri also shares in depth about the female anatomy and the many layers and levels to our own potentials for pleasure. Episode 75 of Ignite Intimacy is powerful and juicy... you’re going to love it!!    About Sheri:     Wholistic Sexuality teacher, author, and founder of the Intimate Arts Center, Sheri Winston offers pleasure-centered sex-ed for grown-ups with a wide variety of practical and transformational intimate arts education. She delights in inspiring people to have a lot more pleasure, fun and fulfillment!   Website   Resources:   Sheri's Intimate Arts Center   Women’s Anatomy of Arousal: Secret Maps to Buried Pleasure   Succulent SexCraft: Your Hands-On Guide to Erotic Play and Practice   Spiritual Midwifery by Ina May Gaskin  

Giving a heads up that this is a more intense conversation on sexual trauma and the decolonization of bodies. If you’ve recently experienced or are working through past trauma you may want to check with your support system (therapist, doctor, coach, mentor) before listening to this episode. Rachel Halder, a sacred sexuality specialist and empowerment coach, is a survivor of sexual trauma who has studied religion and the intersection of sexuality and spirituality. Join us for a powerful conversation on sexual trauma, sexuality + spirituality, the decolonization of bodies, racism and healing on Episode 74 of Ignite Intimacy!  About Rachel: Rachel (many of who refer to as Rae) is a sacred sexuality specialist and empowerment coach helping spiritual seekers remove shame and blocks from their sexuality, reigniting passion and pleasure in a deep, holistic and integrated way. With an M.A. in Religion, she extensively researched sexual and spiritual healing through neuroscience, trauma recovery and embodied interspirituality, focusing on holistic healing for those marginalized or spiritually traumatized by the Christian Church through LGBTQ+ identification and/or sexual suppression or abuse. Rachel is also a graduate of the Tantric Institute of Integrated Sexuality, with a specialization in the jade egg. Connect with Rae: Website  Free Ebook "Sacred, Sexy & Whole: Undressing Purity Culture, Redressing Redemption" Instagram: @thesacredandthesexy Facebook Free Facebook group community - Sacred Sexuality Sisterhood    Resources: Sexual Assault Hotline - (877) 995-5247 Mosaic Mind, Empowering the Tormented Selves of Child Abuse Survivors  Peter Levine, Ph.D., developer of Somatic Experiencing The Wheel of Consent - Betty Martin Dr. Joy DeGruy Leary: Post Traumatic Slave Disorder  Scene on Radio ’Seeing White’ podcast series

Kongit Farrell is a Goddess Powerhouse, no two ways about it (just take a look at her bio!!) She's been taking a stand to empower her clients and community to form and sustain healthy, empowered relationships with ourselves and each other.    On this episode Kongit and I go deep into clarifying the type of relationships we want, doing the work we need to do in order to attract and sustain those relationships and fine tuning our ‘Guy-Q’ so that we are clear about and courageous enough to say yes to what works and no to what doesn’t. If you’re interested in the world of dating, relationship and ‘Guy-Q,’ allowing others (and ourselves) to be where we are in our relating while being powerful to either embrace or walk away from a situation that doesn’t serve us, then this episode is for you! There are some juicy tips so tune in for my conversation with Kongit Farrell on Ignite Intimacy! About Kongit Kongit Farrell is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, her therapeutic approach rooted in CBT, Narrative and Solution-Focused methodologies. She is an EMDR therapist and is completing advanced course work in Sex Therapy at The Buehler Institute of Orange County. Kongit is the Founder of the Inspired Journey Counseling Center in Downtown Los Angeles. and  has been featured in The Los Angeles Times, The Los Angeles Sentinel, University of Southern California’s magazine “The Daily Trojan” and Pepperdine University’s Magazine “Colleague”.   Links:  Website  Instagram + Twitter: @KongitFarrell  Facebook Email   Resources: Sex, Time, and Power: How Women's Sexuality Shaped Human Evolution - by Leonard Shlain  

Robert Kandell is a powerful stand for Men having a transformation in the world of relationships, romance, truth telling, sex and love.  This is important and essential work because, from my estimation, men are largely demonized, emasculated and kept out of the conversation.  Join us for an energizing, empowering and thought provoking episode focused on pleasure, permission, truth telling, infidelity, forgiveness and relationship styles on Episode 72 of Ignite Intimacy! About Robert An expert in interpersonal communication and relationships, Robert Kandell has helped thousands of students find a more balanced, energized life with better relationships, more sex and more happiness. He is the host of the highly successes podcast, Tuff Love. To learn more about Robert and his revolutionary work, visit www.RobertKandell.com   Links: Facebook TwitterInstagram YouTubeLinkedIn   Resources: Fierce Honesty - How To Boldly Transform Your Relationships + Your Life - Article by Robert Kandell   No More Mister Nice Guy - Dr. Robert A. Glover    End of Men - Hanna Rosen The War Against Boys - Christina Hoff Sommers

Brianna Rader is an entrepreneur, sex tech innovator and founder of the Juicebox APP whose sex education organization at the University of Tennessee was shut down by state legislature for being too risqué.    Join us as we have an engaging conversation about new APP Juicebox (giving you access to sex and relationship therapists on the go), sex advice, toys + lube, communication before, during and after (of course) and the future of sex on Episode 72 of Ignite Intimacy!!   About Brianna     Brianna Rader is a sex education advocate well-known for starting a comprehensive sex education organization at the University of Tennessee that led to her being condemned by the state legislature. She received a Masters in Global Health from UCSF and then created Juicebox, an iOS app that pairs you with professional sex and relationship coaches from a network of certified and vetted experts.   App link   Website link    Instagram   Promo code for Juicebox Ignite Intimacy listeners enter the IGNITE code will get 60% off your first week of Juicebox!     References   Uber Lube Sliquid Eva vibrator Cliteracy by Sophia Wallace