Flex Your Feelings

James Penney
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James Penney is a qualified therapist and trainer. Flex Your Feelings shares inspiring interviews from wonderful people - who are committed to helping others in their own ways, and they share their insights, experience and wisdom with you - to inspire YOU to tap into your own potential and live a happier life. So, pull up a chair, settle in, and 'flex your feelings'. 

  1. Sep 22

    Getting Kinky: Exploring BDSM, Fetish and Desire | Shelby Devlin

    What if what turns you on is considered kinky, taboo or outside the norm? And what happens when we stop hiding our desires and start exploring them with curiosity, openness and free of shame? And what if the desires we’re taught to hide could actually tell us something important about ourselves? In this open, thought-provoking conversation, sex and intimacy coach and star of Channel 4 hit show, Virgin Island, Shelby Devlin talks about the world of kink, BDSM, sexuality and the desires that often sit outside what society considers “normal.” She brings a wealth of experience to a conversation that goes far beyond stereotypes, asking why certain desires become taboo—and what happens when we give ourselves permission to understand them rather than judge them. The conversation unpacks why kink and BDSM can become part of our “shadow selves”—the parts of our sexuality we may hide because of cultural expectations, shame or fear of judgement. Shelby explores how our environment, experiences and culture can influence what we find pleasurable, and why there may be far more diversity in human sexuality than we're comfortable talking about. But this episode goes deeper than simply understanding kink. Shelby explores the complex relationship between trauma, agency, power and pleasure, including how consensual kink can sometimes provide a space to explore control, surrender and experiences in a way that can feel empowering. She also makes an important distinction between fantasy and reality—and why understanding that difference matters. At the heart of the conversation is communication and consent. From negotiating boundaries in BDSM to navigating non-monogamy and talking openly about fantasies, Shelby explains why healthy sexual exploration isn't about getting everything right—it’s about being curious, communicating honestly and continually checking in with yourself and your partner. She challenges some of the biggest misconceptions around kink: that BDSM is always about pain, that particular fantasies must have a single psychological cause, or that having a kink means something is “wrong” with you. Instead, Shelby encourages a more curious approach to sexuality—one that embraces self-knowledge, pleasure and the enormous diversity of human desire. With Shelby's upcoming book The Pleasure Protocol ,(out December 2026) this episode asks a bigger question: What could change if we stopped asking whether our desires are normal—and started asking whether they are understood, consensual, healthy and right for us? In this episode you will: Explore why kink and BDSM are often pushed into the shadows of sexualityDiscover why almost anything can become a kink or fetishLearn the difference between fantasy and reality—and why it mattersUnderstand the foundations of consent, boundaries and negotiation in BDSM and kinkExplore the relationship between trauma, agency, control, surrender and pleasureUnderstand why BDSM isn't necessarily about painExplore how self-knowledge and masturbation can help us understand our own pleasureConsider how gender stereotypes can influence the way we experience and express desireLearn why curiosity can be a powerful way to reduce shame around sexualityExplore the role of kink-aware therapists, coaches and sex educatorsExplore how honest communication can strengthen sexual and romantic relationshipsConsider the challenges of talking openly about fantasies, kink and non-monogamyDiscover why owning your desires doesn't mean you have to act on every fantasy More from Shelby: Pre-order The Pleasure Protocol: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Pleasure-Protocol-Contemporary-Guide-BDSM-ebook/dp/B0GRSS4YN5 Website: shelbydevlin.com Instagram: @coachshelbydevlin YouTube: https://youtu.be/fDhEcOThiuM?si=LPLRz_IBBpc8Tna6 Keywords: BDSM, kink, sex education, trauma, communication, shadow selves, sexual health, relationships, fetish, societal taboos, sexuality, shame, consent, pleasure, therapy, education, non-monogamy, fantasies

  2. Sep 14

    Traumality: The Documentary | What We Get Wrong About Trauma — Explained | Ton Mazzone

    Have we been lied to? What if some of the things we call“trauma” are simply human responses we were never taught to understand—and what if our healthcare systems aren’t equipped to recognise them? What if healing isn’t about fixing what’s wrong with us, but creating a more trauma-informed way of understanding ourselves, our bodies, and each other? In this deeply personal and thought-provoking conversation, content creator and filmmaker, Ton Mazzone, shares the journey behind creating Traumality, an independent documentary exploring how trauma shapes individuals,relationships, and society—and why our understanding of mental health may need to evolve. The conversation begins with Ton’s own experience of social anxiety and gradually opens into a much bigger question: What happens when we stop seeing trauma purely as a diagnosis and start understanding it as part of the human experience? Ton explores the history and evolution of mental health treatment, the influence of the DSM, the limitations of existing systems, and the ways language can shape how we understand ourselves. He also reflects on the growing use—and sometimes overuse—of the word “trauma,” and why getting the terminology right matters. But Traumality is about more than challenging systems. It is also about looking inward. Ton shares what he learned through conversations with experts, the challenges of making a documentary independently, and the surprising lessons the process revealed about self awareness, self-trust, authenticity, and listening to your own body and inner voice. From navigating social anxiety to learning how to be more present in conversations, Ton reflects on the small, gradual changes that can create lasting personal growth—and why meaningful systemic change often begins with individual awareness Get Traumality here: ⁠https://traumality.com/⁠ More from Ton: Socials: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn: @tonmazzone X: @tonthecreator Keywords: trauma, mental health, documentary, healing, nervous system, therapy, DSM, trauma-informed care, self-trust, self-awareness, systemic change, social anxiety, personal growth

  3. Sep 3

    Why Do We Suffer? And How Do We Become Free? | Asha Nayaswami

    What is the deeper reason behind our happiness, suffering, relationships, and life circumstances? And how much of what happens to us is actually within our power to change? In this episode spiritual seeker, Asha Nayaswami takes us deep into the teachings of self-realization, karma, reincarnation, consciousness, and the subtle energy that shapes our experience of life. Drawing on more than five decades of spiritual practice and her years of close association with Swami Kriyananda, a direct disciple of Paramhansa Yogananda (author of Autobiography of a Yogi), Asha offers a perspective that is both deeply spiritual and surprisingly practical. Asha explains that karma is not simply as a system of reward and punishment, but as momentum — patterns of energy that continue until they are consciously transformed. Asha explains how consciousness and the energy body relate to karma, reincarnation, and the chakra system, and why changing our inner vibration can gradually change the way we experience the world around us. A central theme of the conversation is the importance of having a fixed spiritual reference point — a “pole star” — so that we aren't constantly defined by the changing circumstances, emotions, and opinions around us. Asha also shares why spiritual practice is something to cultivate before life becomes difficult, how a deeper relationship with the higher Self can build extraordinary inner strength, and how our own energy and magnetism influence the relationships and circumstances we attract. We discuss the evolution of human consciousness, planetary cycles, divine will, anxiety and emotional health, the role of the chakras, and the movement from identification with matter toward a deeper awareness of energy and consciousness. Perhaps most importantly, Asha brings these ideas back to everyday life. Spiritual growth doesn't require escaping the world. It can happen while riding a bicycle, washing dishes, meditating, navigating relationships, or simply becoming more aware of the vibration we're carrying from one moment to the next. This is a conversation about taking responsibility for our consciousness without blaming ourselves for our circumstances — and about discovering the freedom that comes when we begin to understand the deeper laws of life. In this episode you will: Learn why happiness and suffering may have deeper causes than we realizeExplore Karma as momentum, energy, and recurring patternsLearn how reincarnation fits into the soul's continuing journeyDiscover the relationship between consciousness and the energy bodyExplore Chakras and their connection to emotional and mental patternsUnderstand why having a spiritual “pole star” can transform the way we navigate lifeConsider how our vibration influences our experience and relationshipsLearn why spiritual practice is easier to build when life is going wellDevelop a deeper relationship with the higher SelfRecognise the role of magnetism and energy in relationshipsUnderstand how to distinguish authentic spiritual teachings from superficial onesExplore why lineage and connection to the original source matterDiscover Practical ways to cultivate greater self-awareness and inner strengthThink about the possibility of a broader evolution in human and collective consciousnessMore from Asha: YouTube: @ashanayaswami Facebook: @innerlifewithasha IG: @innerlifewith_asha Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6miA5FvNUmW1k75tZimgKh Websites: https://www.ashajoy.org/ https://www.ananda.org/ keywords self-realization, karma, consciousness, spiritual awakening, inner peace, divine law, energy body, reincarnation, spiritual growth, spirituality, energy, anxiety, chakras, higher self, meditation, divine mother, mental health

  4. Aug 12

    Understanding Autism: Why Lived Experience Matters | Karen Prouton

    What does it really mean to be neurodivergent — and how much of what we think we know about Autism and ADHD is shaped by stereotypes, societal expectations, and outdated ideas of what is “normal”? Counsellor and Autism Ambassador, Karen Prouton, BSc (Hons), BA (Hons), brings her extensive expertise of working with neurodivergent clients to this fascinating conversation about neurodivergence, autism, ADHD, and the many different ways human brains can work. She moves beyond labels and stereotypes to explore what neurodivergence actually looks like in real life. Karen unpacks how our understanding of autism has evolved,why individual experiences matter, and how masking can profoundly affect neurodivergent people. She explores the gap between diagnosis and meaningful post-diagnosis support, the challenges neurodivergent people can face in workplaces and education, and why reasonable adjustments and inclusive design aren't simply “special treatment” — they can be essential for creating environments where people can thrive. This episode may challenge you to question your assumptions, rethink the idea of “normal,” and listen more closely to lived experience. More from Karen: https://www.perspectivescounselling.co.uk/copy-of-counselling Resources: https://embrace-autism.com/ Keywords: neurodivergence, autism, ADHD, neurodiversity, accommodations, diagnosis, societal perceptions, mental health, lived experience, myths, trauma, empathy, support

  5. Jul 31

    When the World Divides, Love Unites: A Jewish–Muslim Love Story | Adam and Ali

    Can love survive when the world around you seems determined to pull people apart? What happens when your relationship is tested not just by everyday life, but by culture, religion, identity, and conflict on a global scale? Adam and Ali's relationship has become a powerful example of unity, resilience, and hope, share their heartfelt story. From meeting on Grindr to building a life together across different cultures, they share an honest conversation about coming out, family acceptance, marriage, and the realities of navigating identity during times of global conflict. They share how the events of 07th October 2023, and the ongoing conflict have affected them personally, why activism matters now more than ever, and how choosing compassion over division can create meaningful change. This episode is a moving reminder that love is stronger than fear, community can be life-changing, and hope is something we can all help create. Instagram: @husbands_ali_adam keywords: keywords LGBTQ+, multicultural love, activism, resilience, mental health, pride, intercultural relationships, hope, community support

  6. Jul 16

    I Had Everything… Except the Freedom to Be Me | Keegan Hirst

    What would you do if being your true self meant risking everything you'd spent your life building? And what becomes possible when you finally stop living for everyone else and start living authentically? Former professional rugby player Keegan Hirst opens up about the life-changing journey of coming out as gay while competing in one of the world's toughest sports. With honesty and vulnerability, Keegan shares the weight of living a double life, the fear of rejection, and the courage it took to embrace his authentic self. Together, we explore identity, mental health, and the transformative power of authenticity, revealing why being unapologetically yourself is the greatest act of empowerment. But this conversation goes far beyond Keegan's inspiring story. We dive into the importance of community, meaningful relationships, and the support systems that help us navigate change and overcome loneliness. From developing a growth mindset to taking imperfect action, Keegan shares practical wisdom on creating lasting personal transformation and why no one should face life's challenges alone. Whether you're searching for confidence, connection, or the courage to make a change, this conversation is a powerful reminder that growth is always possible—and it starts with taking the first step. @keeganhirst @gaymanscoaching https://gaymanscoaching.com/ Keywords: Rugby, coming out, LGBTQ+, empowerment, identity, mental health, advocacy, community, authenticity, personal growth, mental health, support, action, growth mindset, connection, change, relationships, coaching

  7. Jun 23

    Beyond Monogamy | I'm An Out and Proud Ethical Whore | Olivia Masterson

    What happens when we challenge everything we thought we knew about love, sex, commitment, and relationships? What if the foundations of a fulfilling relationship aren’t defined by tradition, but by trust, communication, honesty, and the freedom to create something that truly reflects who we are? Olivia Masterson, reality TV star from the hit Channel 4 show Open House: The Great Sex Experiment, takes us inside her personal journey into ethical non-monogamy, challenging the myths and misconceptions that often surround open relationships and alternative relationship styles. From exploring the difference between swinging, open relationships, and the wider ENM spectrum, to discussing how society’s views on love, commitment, and autonomy are evolving, Olivia shares an honest look at what it means to build relationships based on trust, communication, and authenticity. We dive deep into the realities of navigating jealousy, insecurity, and emotional growth, with Olivia offering practical advice for anyone curious about exploring ethical non-monogamy. Discover how self-awareness, honest conversations, community, and safer lifestyle spaces can help people create fulfilling connections on their own terms. Whether you’re experienced in the lifestyle or simply curious, this episode opens the door to a thoughtful conversation about love, freedom, and the future of relationships. Topics: ethical non-monogamy, swinging, jealousy management, relationship advice, lifestyle app, societal change, open relationships, self-awareness, communication, community More from Olivia: https://www.channel4.com/4viewers/take-part/open-house https://swinghub.com/ Instagram: @vista.wife Facebook: @MrsVistaWife TikTok: @vistawife

  8. Jun 9

    My Trans Identity | The Adult Sex Industry, Self-Discovery, and Living Authentically

    What does it take to truly become yourself in a world that constantly tries to define who we should be? How do we navigate the expectations placed on us, challenge the narratives we inherit, and find the courage to embrace our identity with honesty and self-acceptance? Ezra a.k.a. Trip Richards —life coach, PT and former Adult Entertainer, who has been living as authentic self for more than a decade—shares his remarkable journey of identity, transition, and self-discovery. Moving beyond headlines and political talking points, Ezra offers a powerful exploration of what it truly means to understand gender as a lived, deeply felt experience. Together, our conversation unpacks the complexities of biological sex, the challenges facing transgender people in today’s political climate, and the burden marginalised communities often carry in having to justify their existence. With insight, vulnerability, and compassion, Ezra invites listeners into a nuanced discussion that challenges assumptions and highlights the transformative power of empathy. The conversation then expands into unexpected and fascinating territory, exploring advocacy, personal reinvention, and Ezra’s experiences in the adult industry. From the role of sex work in affirming identity and fostering connection to the ways gender is performed and amplified in pornography, the discussion tackles subjects rarely examined with such depth and honesty. At its core, this episode is about integrating every part of who we are—past and present—and embracing growth as an ongoing process. Through reflections on introspection, embodiment, discomfort, and self-compassion, Ezra delivers a compelling message: meaningful change happens slowly, authenticity requires courage, and leading with compassion can transform not only how we see ourselves, but how we relate to the world around us. Website: https://embodiedhealingcoach.bigcartel.com/?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQPOTM2NjE5NzQzMzkyNDU5AAGn-eJQOkdphd9lzzZ4lksS4aehCVlJI_qjKRsCs-jsvjZELKFkiamk2jwiPYI_aem_zD9kKbuY8MbqmxneF-5rqA Instagram: @embodiedhealingcoaching Keywords: transgender, gender identity, personal journey, gender affirming care, societal norms, empathy, biological sex, LGBTQ+ issues, life coaching, mental health beliefs, politics, advocacy, activism, adult industry, sex work, identity, masculinity, femininity, ethical consumption reinvention, introspection, somatic work, change, compassion, trans identity, emotional regulation, personal growth, mental health, self-acceptance

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About

James Penney is a qualified therapist and trainer. Flex Your Feelings shares inspiring interviews from wonderful people - who are committed to helping others in their own ways, and they share their insights, experience and wisdom with you - to inspire YOU to tap into your own potential and live a happier life. So, pull up a chair, settle in, and 'flex your feelings'. 

Information

  • Creator
    James Penney
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    43
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © James Penney
  • Show Website
    Flex Your Feelings

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