Creating, Maintaining, and Rebuilding Long-Term Intimacy with Bella Krutik

Bella Krutik, a relationship nervous system and feminine embodiment coach, shares how she helps successful women and men rebuild trust, intimacy, and long-term connection. She reflects on her formative years as a rule-following, approval-seeking “good girl,” shaped by a first-generation Australian/Latvian immigrant family culture of playing small and staying safe.

Bella describes marrying at 20, divorcing four years later, then repeating similar patterns in a second marriage (people-pleasing, self-abandonment, blame, weak boundaries). Years after separating and divorcing her second husband (the father of her son), they reconciled and rebuilt a deeply honest, connected partnership after both did substantial work: she trained as a feminine embodiment coach; he stopped drinking, attended therapy and men’s circles.

They discuss how unrealistic cultural narratives about “perfect love” reduce self-responsibility and make normal human flaws look like red flags. Bella explains embodiment as shifting from living “neck up” into the body—tracking felt sensations, releasing “frozen tension,” and learning to respond rather than react in conflict. The episode also covers signs of “flatmate” relationships (logistics-only talk, screens, intimacy dropping), redefining sex as broader intimacy, practical reconnection via intentional touch and deeper conversations, gratitude as a practiced muscle, and how high-achievers must soften and drop control at home. Bella outlines how she helps clients discern whether to stay or leave without “should,” and how she protects herself by holding sessions in a “container” and using embodiment practices afterward.

00:00 Meet Bella Krutik

01:08 Formative Years

03:24 Immigrant Family Culture: Playing Small, Staying Safe

05:11 Embodiment & Learning Through Mistakes

07:04 Early Relationships: Unaware Patterns & a First Marriage at 20

09:49 Second Marriage, Same Patterns: The Myth of the ‘Ideal Partner’

12:43 Reconciliation After Divorce: Inner Work, Boundaries & Vulnerability

15:54 Society’s ‘Perfect Love’ Script

19:15 What Feminine Embodiment Means in Practice (From Head to Body)

25:29 Holding Pain to Access Pleasure

31:08 From Lovers to Flatmates

35:41 Redefining Sex: From Performance to Intimacy

37:24 Rebuilding Connection: Touch, Presence, and Turning Off Distractions

39:45 The Gratitude Practice: Training Your Brain to See the Good

43:42 Imperfect Love: Slipping, Repairing, and Embracing Messy Emotions

45:12 High Achievers at Home

50:28 Stay or Go? Untangling ‘Should’ and Taking Responsibility

55:03 Protecting the Helper: Holding a ‘Container’ for Clients’ Trauma

57:50 What’s Next: Career Vision, Partnership Without Remarriage, and a Possible Book

01:05:41 Final Reflections & Farewell

https://bellakcoaching.com/

https://www.instagram.com/bellakcoaching/

https://www.facebook.com/isabel.krutik

Lauren Venables on Safety, Somatics, and Dropping the Guard to Create Deeper Intimacy

Lauren Venables, a Sydney-based feminine embodiment and intimacy coach who supports high-achieving women in feeling safe enough to drop their guard and receive intimacy, pleasure, and devotion through somatic practices, nervous system work, trauma-informed coaching, grief, and relational healing. Lauren shares how she was shy, perfectionistic, and afraid to be seen as a teen despite being a dancer, and how bullying and a lack of safety in relationships shaped her early intimacy and self-expression.

She describes a major turning point after a nine-year relationship that lacked passion and polarity, followed by years of mindset work before discovering body-based nervous system practices.

She emphasizes creating safety in the body to support boundaries, communication, consent, and deeper intimacy, and outlines a practical approach for discussing desires with a partner: get clear on what you want, regulate through breath and somatic awareness, then speak from vulnerability without blame. The conversation explores redefining sex as intimacy and pleasure rather than penetration and performance. They address shame in the body, releasing emotion through somatic validation and feeling sensations, and the importance of self-pleasure for understanding desire and communicating preferences.

The host and Lauren discuss how BDSM/kink communities often model clearer communication and boundaries, and they examine how mainstream porn and sexualized media can distort expectations and harm self-worth. Lauren reinforces that it’s never too late to reconnect with libido, especially by restoring safety amid burnout, hormones, or menopause.

She also describes practitioner self-care, energetic boundaries, mentors, nature grounding, and her future aims to follow her “aliveness,” and continue living what she teaches through ongoing learning.

00:00 Meet Lauren Venables: Embodiment, Intimacy & Nervous System Safety

00:51 From Shy Teen to Confident Coach

03:15 Dancer in Her Head: Perfectionism, Bullying & Fear of Being Seen

04:43 Why High-Achieving Women Keep Their Guard Up in Love

07:06 Safety, Discernment & Finding Your Yes/No in the Body

08:24 When Success Masks Coercion: The Hidden Side of “Having It Together”

11:03 Lauren’s Turning Point

13:31 Learning to Ask for What You Need: Masculine Safety & Being Held

16:02 How to Talk About Desire Without Shame: Somatic Prep + Vulnerable Language

20:06 Redefining Sex as Intimacy: Beyond Penetration, Toward Connection

23:11 Feminism, Polarity & the Craving to Be Led (Without Losing Power)

26:13 Boundaries Without Walls: Discernment, Nervous System Clarity & Shame Release

30:38 Meeting Shame with Validation: Somatic Tools to Let It Dissolve

33:08 Why We Rush Self-Pleasure (and What We Miss)

34:12 Know Your Desire: Self-Exploration & Communicating Needs

35:46 What Kink Communities Get Right: Consent, Boundaries & Debriefs

37:58 Learning to Love Yourself Through Body Work

39:09 Porn, Media & Sexual Scripts: The Impact on Self-Worth

42:59 1:1 vs Group Work: Safety, Shame, and Going Deeper

44:48 “You’re Never Too Old”: Reclaiming Libido by Creating Safety

49:13 The Body Keeps the Score: Integrating Mind + Somatic Healing

51:04 Holding Space Without Burnout: Practitioner Self-Care & Boundaries

53:40 Grounding in Nature + Looking Ahead (Practice, Love, and Closing)

https://www.laurenvenables.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenvenables1/

Navigating Modern Therapy and Relationships with Briana Bass

In this episode, Briana Bass, a licensed professional counselor associate and board-certified clinical psychologist, shares insights from her unique background, combining high-level corporate experience and work in addiction centers.

She discusses the transformative power of modern, evidence-based therapy in addressing the challenges of today's high-pressure world. Briana reflects on her formative years and explains how modern therapy differs from traditional approaches by focusing on real-world issues such as chronic stress, gender roles, political climate, and technology.

She also touches on the loneliness epidemic, the impact of dating apps, and the importance of authenticity and communication in building deep, meaningful relationships.

00:00 Introduction to Briana Bass

00:45 Briana's Formative Years

02:35 Modern Therapy Explained

04:57 Challenges of Modern Life

07:33 The Impact of Technology on Relationships

16:41 Loneliness in a Connected World

17:30 Deepening Emotional Intimacy

22:25 Navigating Life Transitions

24:10 Navigating Life's Changes Together

25:02 The Power of Communication

25:41 Rebuilding Connection

26:04 Emotional Regulation and Vulnerability

27:34 Practical Tips for Reconnecting

30:23 The Impact of Modern Dating

38:47 Challenges of High-Pressure Environments

40:33 Balancing Personal and Professional Life

43:01 Maintaining Mental and Emotional Health

45:18 Final Thoughts and Reflections

https://brianabass.org/

Rebuilding Self-Trust with Brylye Collins: Navigating Love, Life, and Leadership

In this episode, Brylye Collins, a relationship coach, talent leader, and founder of Building with Bry, shares her journey from a corporate HR and talent acquisition background to empowering singles in finding intentional relationships. Drawing on over 20 years of experience, Brylye discusses the importance of self-trust and clarity in dating, her transition from traditional corporate roles to relationship coaching, and the unique challenges high-achieving professionals face in their personal lives.

Brylye also talks about the value of embracing one's individuality outside of societal labels, the drawbacks of relying on dating apps, and the importance of practicing self-care and intentional living. Additionally, she introduces her upcoming workbook and single empowerment retreats aimed at helping individuals reconnect with themselves before pursuing relationships. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of modern dating, the importance of realistic expectations, and fostering genuine connections.

00:00 Introduction to Brylye Collins

01:27 Career Journey and Transition

03:18 Founding Rose Talent Consulting

04:52 Building with Bry: Personal Empowerment

05:40 Reconnecting with Yourself

09:45 Challenges in Modern Dating

17:19 Matchmaking Insights and Practices

21:37 Client Expectations and Realities

24:51 Evaluating Client Readiness

26:30 The Lessons in Meeting People

27:09 Navigating Post-Divorce Relationships

28:23 The Impact of Modern Communication on Relationships

31:22 The Importance of Thriving Solo

33:26 Embracing Solitude and Self-Discovery

35:02 Handling Intimacy After Long-Term Relationships

36:59 Empowerment Retreats and Workbooks

43:01 Balancing Personal Wellbeing

45:57 Finding the Right Relationship

50:25 Final Thoughts on Relationships and Self-Growth

https://www.buildingwithbry.com/

http://instagram.com/buildingwithbry.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brylyecollins/

https://www.tiktok.com/@bryduffy?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

Embracing Pleasure and Power: A Deep Dive with Dr. Jordin Wiggins

In this insightful episode, Dr. Jordin Wiggins, a naturopathic doctor, author, and pleasure and intimacy coach, shares her revolutionary approach to women's sexual health and wellness. As the CEO of the Pleasure Collective and host of the Amazing Pleasure Principles podcast, Dr. Wiggins combines her 13 years of holistic medical experience with personal insights as a sexual abuse survivor to help high-achieving women reclaim their pleasure. She discusses her journey, the impact of hormone health on sexual desire, and the systemic issues in women's healthcare. Dr. Wiggins also emphasizes the importance of pleasure in all aspects of life and offers practical advice for women to receive and enjoy more from their lives. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the deep connections between pleasure, health, and overall well-being.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jordin Wiggins

01:20 Formative Years and Early Influences

03:24 Hormone and Sexual Health Journey

05:23 The Pink Canary and Rediscovering Pleasure

07:01 Challenges in Women's Health and Hormone Therapy

09:35 Super Traits and Their Impact on Relationships

21:39 Expanding the Definition of Pleasure

26:35 Medical System Gaps and Women's Health

35:05 Receiving in Life and Relationships

39:13 The Value of Support and Compensation

39:56 Embracing Sensation and Tantra

40:34 Emotional Shifts and Relationship Dynamics

41:58 Navigating Perimenopause and Hormone Therapy

44:09 Pleasure-Centered Relationships

46:35 Challenges of Long-Term Relationships

49:07 Self-Discovery and Authenticity

51:35 Protecting Mental Wellbeing

54:26 Healing from Abuse and Rebuilding

01:01:17 Recognizing Coercive Control

01:04:12 Starting the Journey to Deeper Intimacy

01:07:35 Future Plans and Final Thoughts

https://form.typeform.com/to/p9OQD3F5?typeform-source=www.upwork.com

https://www.thepleasurecollective.com/

https://www.facebook.com/jordin.wiggins

https://www.youtube.com/@thepleasurecollective

https://www.instagram.com/drjordinwiggins/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drwigginsnd/

https://www.tiktok.com/@drjordinwiggins

Reclaiming Intimacy: Xanet Pailet's Journey from Sexless Marriage to Passionate Coach

In this episode, Xanet Pailet, a nationally recognized sex and intimacy coach, shares her transformative journey from a 26-year sexless marriage and a successful career as a healthcare executive to becoming a somatic sexologist and author. Pailet discusses her immersive healing retreats, her approach to trauma-informed body-based sexuality, and the importance of emotional and physical intimacy. She offers practical insights into how couples can reconnect and rekindle their passion, emphasizing the roles of empathy, safe communication, and somatic experiences. As she gears up for the release of her new book, 'The Sex and Intimacy Repair Kit,' Pailet provides valuable advice for those seeking to improve their intimate lives.

00:00 Introduction to Xanet Pailet

01:04 Personal Journey and Formative Years

02:00 Challenges in a Sexless Marriage

05:41 Awakening and Self-Discovery

09:37 Transition to a New Career

13:05 The Importance of Pleasure and Intimacy

15:12 Modern Challenges to Intimacy

24:32 Tools for Improving Intimacy

27:46 Expectations vs. Reality of Couples Retreats

28:57 Tools for Emotional Safety and Empathy

30:19 Physical Aspects of Intimacy

31:18 Navigating Empty Nest Syndrome

35:19 The Importance of Somatic Experiencing

43:20 Future Plans and New Projects

48:35 Self-Care and Professional Boundaries

51:19 Taking Action to Reclaim Intimacy

https://howtoimprovemylovellife.com/

https://www.passionateintimacyretreats.com/

https://www.instagram.com/xanetpop/

https://www.youtube.com/@thepowerofpleasure8132/featured

https://www.facebook.com/xanetpailet

https://www.linkedin.com/in/xanet-pailet-2b464671/

Exploring the Complexities of Sexuality with Gigi Engle

In this episode, we dive deep into sexuality, intimacy, and diverse relationships with Gigi Engle, a renowned sex and relationship psychotherapist. Starting with Gigi's formative years and journey in sex education, the discussion spans various topics including the pitfalls of traditional sex education, the impact of pornography on young minds, and the importance of pleasure-based sex education.

Gigi shares insights on the dynamics in kinky and polyamorous relationships, the significance of open communication, and how societal norms shape our views on intimacy. They also discuss Gigi's forthcoming book 'Kink Curious,' shedding light on its contents and its aim to guide beginners and seasoned kinksters alike. The conversation further touches on the intersectionality of gender, sexuality, and disabilities in sex therapy, and ponders the future of sexual wellness in the age of AI and virtual connections.

00:00 Introduction to Gigi Engle

01:04 Formative Years and Early Career

03:55 Sex Education and Societal Norms

05:45 Impact of Pornography on Sexuality

12:00 Redefining Sex and Pleasure

16:26 Communication and Consent in Relationships

25:46 Exploring Kink and BDSM

29:07 Insights from Writing 'Kink Curious'

30:20 Introduction to the Book

30:35 Book Structure and Content

31:58 Exploring Unique Kinks

33:01 Non-Monogamy and Polyamory

36:39 Jealousy and Relationship Dynamics

41:26 Therapist's Personal Journey

49:44 AI in Sexual Wellness

53:22 Future Trends and Final Though

https://www.missgigiengle.com/

https://www.missgigiengle.com/portfolio/books

Exploring Power, Art, and Intimacy: A Deep Dive with Mistress Malisandre

Mistress Malisandre, an artist, author, and power dynamic educator, discusses how her work with the House of Embers explores the transformation of power through art and immersive experiences.

She shares her journey into power dynamics, beginning with observing power in her formative years and eventually becoming a professional dominatrix. Malisandre elaborates on the misconceptions surrounding BDSM and how she integrates elements of power dynamics into the lives of vanilla couples, emphasizing the importance of communication and consent.

She also reflects on the vulnerability involved in her role, the ritualistic aspects of her practice, and her efforts to mentor others in the community. Additionally, Malisandre talks about her ongoing projects, including writing a book, and her mission to change conversations around power dynamics and therapy. The conversation touches on themes of intentional living, self-acceptance, and the necessity of maintaining boundaries.

00:00 Introduction to Mistress Malisandre

00:42 Early Life and Power Dynamics

03:21 Exploring Power in Relationships

04:50 Journey into BDSM

08:47 Misconceptions About BDSM

13:13 Communication in Relationships

18:24 Professional Domination and Personal Growth

31:15 Art and Ritual in Domination

41:17 Empathy and Holding Space

42:05 Freedom Through Control

42:52 Understanding Power Dynamics

44:07 The Process of Release

48:09 Setting Boundaries in Domination

53:35 Maintaining Personal Wellbeing

58:54 Balancing Vulnerability and Strength

01:08:32 Future Aspirations and Projects

https://www.instagram.com/malisandres_place/

https://substack.com/@malisandre

https://www.mistressmalisandre.com/