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