What if the intimacy you’re craving isn’t about better techniques, but about showing up more fully in your body?
What might become possible if you could transform the way you relate to yourself and others beyond cultural conditioning?
In this wide-ranging conversation, I sit down with embodiment coach Rob Kancler and intimacy facilitator Rachel Rickards to explore the profound intersection of sexuality, embodiment, and authentic connection.
Together we navigate the rich terrain of what it means to be fully present in our bodies and relationships. Rob shares his journey beyond technique-driven approaches to sexuality toward the innate intelligence that emerges through presence and wonder. Rachel illuminates her concept of “Full-Spectrum Intimacy” that embraces physical connection while encompassing emotional, spiritual, and relational dimensions.
Our conversation delves into challenging territory, from the impact of pornography on embodied sexuality to the revolutionary practice of Belly2Belly—a deceptively simple breathing meditation that creates profound connection. We discuss how our cultural conditioning shapes our capacity for intimacy, the unique challenges faced by men and women in opening to vulnerability, and how transformative practices can help us reclaim our authentic sexual expression. We tackle the broader implications of cultural and systemic dynamics on intimacy and relationships, emphasizing the need for new, integrated approaches that honor both sexual desire and spiritual depth.
Both Rob and Rachel offer wisdom on how we might release our habitual patterns to create more fulfilling relationships, not by acquiring more techniques but by shedding the very limitations that prevent us from experiencing the depth of connection we truly desire.
Note: As you might imagine given the subject matter, this discussion is “PG-13.” Choose your listening / viewing environment accordingly.
Upcoming Events:
The Intimacy Retreat — Want to experience the somatic and relational dynamics we talk about here, for yourself? Join Rob and Rachel for a week-long immersion at Heartwood Retreat Center just north of Atlanta, GA from March 10-16, 2024. Open to partnered folks and singles alike, this retreat offers a powerful container to explore embodiment and expand your capacity for intimacy. Find out more and register here.
Asheville Gathering — Stay tuned for our upcoming evening event in Asheville, NC on March 17, 2024 (St. Patrick’s Day!) exploring love, sex, and intimacy. Email mike [at] mikemorrell [dot] org to be notified when registration opens.
About My Guests:
From her early days as a spirited hostess in a bustling Mexican restaurant to becoming a celebrated facilitator and mentor, Rachel Rickards‘ life story is a testament to the power of transformation and authenticity. Born with a natural ability to connect with others, Rachel’s initial career in the hospitality industry was just the beginning of a lifelong pursuit int he art of bringing people together in meaningful ways.
Rachel is an international leader in the fields of personal transformation, intimacy, and group facilitation who began her career in event management before pursuing studies in human sexuality and therapy. After a transformative period of personal growth in Bali, she co-founded Embodied Intimacy, traveling globally for nearly a decade to foster communities centered on openness and deep connection, eventually co-pioneering practices like Belly2Belly. Today, Rachel mentors soul-led entrepreneurs and facilitators through her innovative approach called The Field, which integrates embodiment, resonance, and relational attunement to create transformative group experiences. Discover Rachel’s full suite of offerings at RachelRickards.com.
Rob Kancler combines somatic wisdom, practical application, and spiritual insight to help men access their authentic sexual power. After years of seeking answers through techniques – tantra, kink, energy work, and many different spiritual and somatic practices – he discovered something deeper: the body’s innate sexual intelligence, how to live from this essence (and how to help unlock it in others).
Rob blends precision with warmth and humor, creating space for deep exploration that feels natural and grounded. His background spans somatic therapies, consciousness work, and decades studying the intersection of sexuality, spirituality, and personal growth. His main offering is called Bedroom Genius and the invite-only sexual mastery program he runs in called Men Of Substance.
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