The Human Intimacy Podcast

Humanintimacy
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Intimacy is a fundamental human experience that goes far beyond romantic relationships. Join us as we dive into the deep and multifaceted layers of human connection, exploring everything from friendship and family bonds to self-love and vulnerability. Through thought-provoking conversations with experts, personal stories, and practical advice, we’ll uncover the secrets to nurturing meaningful relationships in a fast-paced digital world. From exploring trust and fostering emotional intimacy to navigating conflicts and rediscovering oneself, we’re here to discover the essence of what it means to truly connect with others and ourselves. Whether you’re seeking to improve your relationships, gain insights into human behaviors, or simply crave a meaningful conversation that enriches your understanding of human connection, you won’t want to miss a single episode of The Human Intimacy Podcast.

  1. 4D AGO

    How Do You Know You’re Making Progress After Betrayal? Understanding Safety, Awareness, and Real Change (Episode #115)

    How Do You Know You’re Making Progress After Betrayal? Understanding Safety, Awareness, and Real Change In this episode of The Human Intimacy Podcast, Dr. Kevin Skinner and MaryAnn explore one of the most common—and emotionally loaded—questions couples ask after betrayal: *“How do we know if we’re actually making progress?”* Healing doesn’t follow a straight line. Many couples feel stuck in a painful cycle of “two steps forward, three steps back,” leaving them wondering if anything is truly changing. Dr. Skinner and MaryAnn break down what real progress looks like—not through checklists or surface behaviors, but through a deeper, more meaningful shift: **perceived relational safety**. They discuss how the body plays a central role in detecting safety through what is often called a “gut feeling,” drawing on concepts like neuroception from Stephen Porges. Listeners will learn why healing requires more than logical reassurance—and why the nervous system must begin to *feel* safe before true connection can return. Through a powerful role-play, they demonstrate the difference between reactive, defensive conversations and regulated, productive ones. This real-life example highlights how self-awareness, emotional regulation, and vulnerability can transform conflict into connection. They also address: Why some betrayed partners struggle to trust even when their partner is “doing everything right” The impact of shock versus gradual awareness in discovery How deception can distort one’s internal sense of safety Why stabilization must come before meaningful repair How consistency—not perfection—builds trust over time Ultimately, progress is not measured by the absence of conflict, but by how couples navigate it. When both partners develop awareness of their internal experiences and learn to communicate those experiences safely, healing becomes not only possible—but measurable. If you’ve ever questioned whether your relationship is moving forward, this episode offers clarity, validation, and a roadmap for what real progress actually looks like. Key Resources & Mentions The Intimacy Repair Method (IRM)   A structured approach to healing after betrayal, focusing on safety, stabilization, and rebuilding connection. Perceived Relational Safety Scale (PRSS)   A practical assessment tool to help individuals and couples measure how safe they feel in the relationship and track progress over time. Polyvagal Theory & Neuroception – Polyvagal Theory   Developed by Stephen Porges, this framework explains how the nervous system detects safety or threat and influences connection and emotional regulation. HumanIntimacy.com   Access courses, assessments, and resources to support healing and relationship repair. 12-Week Intimacy Repair Course   A guided program with role-plays, assessments, and step-by-step instruction to help couples rebuild trust and connection. --- Key Takeaway Progress isn’t about doing everything perfectly—it’s about creating consistent, safe, and honest interactions where both partners can begin to feel, not just think, that change is happening.

    36 min

  2. APR 15

    Introducing the Intimacy Repair Method: A New Path to Healing, Connection, and Lasting Change (Episode #114)

    Introducing the Intimacy Repair Method: A New Path to Healing, Connection, and Lasting Change What if the reason your relationship feels stuck isn’t a lack of effort—but a lack of a clear model for connection? In this episode of the Human Intimacy Podcast, Dr. Kevin Skinner (LMFT-S) and MaryAnne Michaelis, LCSW introduce the Intimacy Repair Method (IRM)—a comprehensive, research-informed framework designed to help individuals and couples rebuild trust, improve communication, and create deeper emotional connection. Drawing from decades of clinical experience and integrating leading models like Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Polyvagal Theory, Dr. Skinner explains why most people were never taught how to build healthy relationships—and how that gap continues to impact us today. You’ll learn: Why most people rate their relationship models growing up below a 5 out of 10 The foundational role of safety in all meaningful connection How generational patterns shape communication, conflict, and intimacy The phases of the Intimacy Repair Method, including assessment, stabilization, and relational repair Why understanding your nervous system responses is key to transforming conflict How personalized assessments can guide real, measurable change in your relationship Whether you’ve experienced betrayal, feel disconnected, or simply want a stronger relationship, this episode offers a clear roadmap forward. Resources Mentioned Core Resources Human Intimacy Website (Course + Registration): https://www.humanintimacy.com Upcoming Course: Intimacy Repair Method – 12-Week Live Webinar Experience Start Date: May 7, 2026 Includes: Personalized relationship assessments Weekly live Q&A sessions Role-play practice scenarios Ongoing access to recordings and materials Key Concepts & Models Referenced Intimacy Repair Method (IRM) – A structured pathway for relational healing and growth Perceived Relational Safety – Feeling emotionally safe, open, and secure in your relationship Polyvagal Theory – Understanding how your nervous system drives connection, conflict, and safety Gottman Method – Research-based insights on communication and conflict patterns Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) – Attachment-based approach to strengthening emotional bonds Zeigarnik Effect – How unresolved issues keep relationships stuck Differentiation – Developing a strong sense of self while staying connected in relationships Assessments Mentioned Self-Assessment (Individual Awareness) “Test Your Relationship” Assessment Provides up to 90 pages of personalized feedback Identifies strengths, breakdowns, and actionable next steps Key Takeaway Most people aren’t failing in relationships because they don’t care—they’re struggling because they were never shown how to succeed. The Intimacy Repair Method offers a clear, structured way to learn what works—and finally create the connection you’ve been looking for.

    35 min

  3. APR 8

    Hope After Betrayal: Is Healing Your Relationship Still Possible? (Episode #113)

    Hope After Betrayal: Is Healing Your Relationship Still Possible? After betrayal, many couples quietly wonder: Is there any real hope for us? In this powerful episode, Dr. Kevin Skinner and MaryAnn Michaelis explore what hope actually looks like in the aftermath of sexual betrayal—and why so many people struggle to find it. Drawing from decades of clinical experience, they discuss the reality behind discouraging statistics, the isolation many betrayed partners feel, and why healing often requires more than just good intentions. They introduce a critical shift: hope is not built through words alone, but through new patterns, emotional regulation, and learning how to stay present in the hardest moments. You’ll also hear: Why many couples stay stuck in repeating emotional “loops” How shame and defensiveness block true repair The danger of trying to heal in isolation—or relying on the wrong sources What actually creates change: principles, skills, and consistent application Why healing is possible—even if the relationship doesn’t survive Whether you’re fighting for your relationship or trying to rebuild your life after it, this episode offers a grounded, honest message: 👉 Hope is real—but it’s built through learning, practice, and connection.

    32 min

  4. APR 1

    The Courage to Heal: Facing Pain, Shame, and Change Together (Episode #112)

    The Courage to Heal: Facing Pain, Shame, and Change Together Episode Summary In this episode of the Human Intimacy Podcast, Dr. Kevin Skinner and Marianne Michaelis explore the many forms of courage required in the healing process—both individually and as a couple. Courage is not just about staying in a relationship after betrayal. It’s about facing pain, telling the truth, asking for help, and being willing to see yourself clearly. It’s the courage to slow down when emotions are overwhelming, to remain present in difficult conversations, and to confront shame rather than avoid it. Dr. Skinner and Marianne highlight how healing is not just emotional—it is deeply biological. When individuals feel shame or fear, their nervous system becomes activated, making it difficult to stay grounded and connected. True courage, then, is learning how to regulate those internal responses so that meaningful repair can happen. Through powerful metaphors—including riding through dark tunnels, wearing the wrong “lens,” and learning to ride a backwards bike—they illustrate how healing requires patience, intentionality, and repeated effort. Change often feels unnatural at first, but with practice, new patterns can emerge. Ultimately, this episode invites listeners to reflect on one essential question: Where do I need courage right now? Healing is not about perfection—it’s about continuing forward, even when the path is unclear.   Key Takeaways Healing from betrayal requires multiple forms of courage—not just endurance, but self-awareness and vulnerability Shame is both emotional and physiological; regulation must come before meaningful connection Slowing down is sometimes more courageous than pushing forward Change feels unnatural at first—like using your non-dominant hand or riding a backwards bike Progress happens through repetition, curiosity, and compassionate self-reflection Each person’s pace is different—comparison can disrupt healing Resources & References Human Intimacy Resources Human Intimacy Website (Courses & Conference Access): https://www.humanintimacy.com 2026 Human Intimacy Conference (Recordings Available): Available under “Courses” after creating a free account Contact for Questions: info@humanintimacy.com Concepts & Influences Mentioned Intimacy Repair Method (IRM) – Dr. Kevin Skinner Polyvagal Theory – Dr. Stephen Porges Shame & Vulnerability Research – Brené Brown Interpersonal Neurobiology – Dr. Dan Siegel EMDR & Trauma Processing Models Suggested Viewing The Backwards Brain Bicycle (Learning & Change): A powerful illustration of how difficult it is to rewire learned patterns Reflection Questions for Listeners Where in my life do I need courage right now? What am I avoiding because it feels uncomfortable or overwhelming? When I feel triggered or flooded, how do I typically respond? What would it look like to slow down instead of react? Where have I already demonstrated courage in my healing journey?

    27 min

  5. MAR 25

    Understanding Your Pain: How Childhood Experiences Shape Your Life and Relationships (Episode #111)

    Understanding Your Pain: How Childhood Experiences Shape Your Life and Relationships Episode Summary In this deeply honest and meaningful conversation, Dr. Kevin Skinner and MaryAnn Michaels explore one of the most important—and often avoided—topics in healing: personal pain. Whether that pain feels overwhelming and present, or buried and difficult to access, it plays a powerful role in shaping how we think, feel, and connect with others. In this episode, we examine how early life experiences—especially Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)—can influence emotional health, physical well-being, and relationship patterns later in life. Dr. Skinner shares both clinical insights and personal experiences to illustrate how unresolved pain can remain stored in the body for years, quietly influencing behavior and perception. Together, we discuss why some experiences are difficult to recall, how trauma impacts the brain and nervous system, and why having a safe, supportive environment is essential for healing. This episode also offers hope. Through the concept of Benevolent Childhood Experiences (BCEs), we explore how even one positive, supportive relationship can shift outcomes and foster resilience. Healing is possible—and it often begins with awareness, compassion, and a willingness to gently explore your story. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure why certain patterns keep repeating, this episode is an invitation to better understand yourself—and to take the next step toward healing. 🔗 Resources Mentioned Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Assessment A 10-item framework for understanding early life adversity and its long-term impact. Benevolent Childhood Experiences (BCEs) A complementary framework highlighting the protective power of positive early relationships. The Deepest Well by Nadine Burke Harris Explores how childhood adversity impacts lifelong health and how healing is possible. The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk A foundational resource on how trauma is stored in the body and approaches to healing. Trauma-Informed Modalities Mentioned EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Somatic-based approaches to trauma recovery Continue the Conversation If this topic resonates with you, we invite you to explore more through the Human Intimacy community: Watch sessions from our recent conference: Human Intimacy Conference (Past Event Highlights & Resources) Learn more about courses, assessments, and tools for healing and connection: HumanIntimacy.com 💬 Closing Invitation Your story matters. And while it may feel difficult to look at the past, understanding your experiences can become one of the most powerful steps toward freedom, healing, and deeper connection. If you feel overwhelmed, we encourage you to seek support from a qualified professional. You don’t have to do this work alone.

    32 min

  6. MAR 18

    Grieving the Unseen Loss: Understanding Grief After Betrayal (Episode #110)

    Grieving the Unseen Loss: Understanding Grief After Betrayal Summary In this episode of the Human Intimacy Podcast, Dr. Kevin Skinner and MaryAnn Michaelis reflect on the powerful insights emerging from the 2026 Human Intimacy Conference, with a particular focus on grief following sexual betrayal. While much of the field has emphasized trauma and post-traumatic stress, this conversation highlights a critical gap: the profound and often unaddressed grief experienced by both betrayed and betraying partners. Drawing from early data on the Grief After Betrayal Impact Scale, MaryAnn shares a striking finding—the most significant loss reported is not just the relationship, but the loss of self, including identity, trust in oneself, and a coherent sense of reality. The discussion explores how betrayal creates a “collapsed self,” alters one’s perception of a partner, and leads to ongoing grief that can persist for decades. The episode introduces emerging frameworks for understanding betrayal-related grief, including stages of emotional shock, internal conflict, withdrawal, rage, and eventual reclamation. Dr. Skinner and Marianne emphasize that grief is not a single event but a long-term process, often unfolding over years as individuals grieve not only what happened, but what could have been. A key theme is the importance of giving grief a voice in safe relationships. Healing is accelerated when individuals are witnessed, validated, and supported—whether by a partner, therapist, or trusted connection. Without this, grief often becomes prolonged and isolating. The conversation also raises important clinical and societal implications, including the need for better training, expanded research, and more effective support systems—particularly in faith communities, where many individuals report feeling misunderstood or unsupported. Ultimately, this episode reframes betrayal recovery by integrating grief as a central component of healing, calling for a more compassionate, relational, and research-informed approach to addressing the deep emotional losses that accompany betrayal. Click here to take the Grief After Betrayal Impact Scale References (Note: These are foundational and aligned with concepts discussed in the episode—ideal for podcast notes and future academic integration.) Jennifer J. Freyd (1996). Betrayal Trauma: The Logic of Forgetting Childhood Abuse. Harvard University Press. Judith Herman (1992). Trauma and Recovery. Basic Books. Susan Anderson (2010). The Journey from Abandonment to Healing. Berkley Books. Elisabeth Kübler-Ross & Kessler, D. (2005). On Grief and Grieving. Scribner. William Worden (2009). Grief Counseling and Grief Therapy. Springer Publishing. Bessel van der Kolk (2014). The Body Keeps the Score. Viking. Stephen W. Porges (2011). The Polyvagal Theory. Norton. John Bowlby (1980). Attachment and Loss: Vol. 3 – Loss. Basic Books. Pauline Boss (1999). Ambiguous Loss. Harvard University Press. Kenneth J. Doka (1989). Disenfranchised Grief. Lexington Books.

    30 min

  7. MAR 11

    When Recovery Means Different Things to Each Partner (Episode #109)

    When Recovery Means Different Things to Each Partner Summary: One of the most difficult aspects of healing after betrayal is that both partners may believe they are working toward recovery, yet they may have very different ideas about what healing actually looks like. In this episode of the Human Intimacy Podcast, Dr. Kevin Skinner is joined by MaryAnn Michaels and Geoff Steurer to explore why couples often struggle to align their expectations during the recovery process. While both partners may want the relationship to improve, the impact of betrayal trauma, personal histories, and emotional needs can create very different timelines and definitions of what recovery means. The conversation explores the early stages of recovery, when many couples are simply trying to stabilize after the shock of discovery. Dr. Skinner, MaryAnn, and Geoff discuss why healing is rarely a straight path and how grief, emotional processing, and honest conversations play an essential role in rebuilding trust. They also explore a common challenge in recovery: when one partner feels they are doing everything they can to repair the relationship, yet the other partner still does not feel safe or connected. Rather than focusing on checklists or expectations, the discussion emphasizes the importance of curiosity, deep listening, and emotional presence. Another important topic addressed is the difference in timing when couples begin considering physical or sexual reconnection. Geoff shares insights from his work with couples and introduces the concept of “Not Yet,” highlighting the importance of patience, safety, and open dialogue when partners are not emotionally ready at the same time. Ultimately, healing after betrayal requires more than stopping harmful behaviors. It involves rebuilding emotional safety, learning to communicate vulnerably, and continually checking in with each other as the relationship evolves. As the conversation highlights, recovery is not a single event but an ongoing process of deeper understanding, connection, and growth. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Geoff Steurer – From Crisis to Connection Podcast Geoff Steurer – Courageous Together Couples Program Dr. Kevin Skinner – Treating Sexual Addiction: A Compassionate Approach to Recovery Dr. Sue Johnson – Love Sense John Gottman – Love Maps Brené Brown – Research and teachings on vulnerability, safety, and self-trust Human Intimacy Conference Geoff Steurer will be presenting at the 2nd Annual Human Intimacy Conference, held March 13–14, 2026, where he will speak on the topic “Not Yet,” focusing on how couples can thoughtfully and safely navigate sexual reconnection after betrayal. To learn more or register for the conference, visit: bit.ly/humanintimacy Use the Coupon Code: 30off New Sponsorship If you or someone you love is looking for a place to begin the healing journey, you can learn more at BeginAgainInstitute.com. We’re grateful to Begin Again Institute for supporting the Human Intimacy Podcast.

    37 min

  8. MAR 4

    Empathy Overload: Why Feeling Too Much Can Hurt Your Relationship (And How Compassion Heals It) (Episode #108)

    Empathy Overload: Why Feeling Too Much Can Hurt Your Relationship (And How Compassion Heals It) 📝 Episode Summary In this powerful episode of the Human Intimacy Podcast, Dr. Kevin Skinner and MaryAnn explore a surprising truth: empathy—while essential—can sometimes be the very thing that keeps couples stuck. Drawing on research from Stephen Porges and insights from polyvagal theory, Dr. Skinner explains how empathy activates the autonomic nervous system—often triggering fight, flight, or freeze responses. When empathy becomes overwhelming, it can lead to shutdown, defensiveness, or emotional withdrawal—what we call empathy overload. Many partners interpret this reaction as, “You don’t care.” But what if the real issue isn’t a lack of empathy… but an overwhelmed nervous system? In this episode, you’ll learn: The critical difference between empathy and compassion Why empathy can activate fight-or-flight responses How unresolved personal experiences intensify emotional overload Why some partners look away or shut down during intense conversations How compassion allows you to stay present without losing yourself A live role-play demonstrating healthy regulation in conflict Practical ways to build emotional capacity and expand your “window of tolerance” (inspired by Daniel Siegel) How this framework applies specifically to betrayal recovery Dr. Skinner also previews a groundbreaking autonomic-based assessment he will introduce at the upcoming Human Intimacy Conference, designed to help couples identify their fight, flight, and freeze patterns during emotionally charged moments. If you’ve ever said—or heard—“My partner has no empathy,” this episode may completely shift your perspective. 🔑 Key Takeaways Empathy is instinctive and automatic—but it can overwhelm the nervous system. Compassion requires regulation—it allows you to be with someone without being consumed. Emotional regulation is a learned skill. Many relational conflicts stem from misinterpreting autonomic responses. Healing requires both partners to strengthen emotional capacity—not just emotional intensity. 📚 Resources Mentioned Research & Frameworks Stephen Porges – Polyvagal Theory Daniel Siegel – Window of Tolerance Brené Brown – Empathy vs. Sympathy animation Literary Reference To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view… until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.” Human Intimacy Resources 🎥 Watch on YouTube: youtube.com/@human-intimacy 🌐 HumanIntimacy.com 🧠 Intimacy Repair Method (IRM) Assessment – Coming Soon 🎤 Human Intimacy Conference 💬 Reflection Questions for Listeners When my partner is emotional, what happens in my body? Do I tend to fight, flee, or freeze during intense conversations? Am I confusing empathy overload with lack of caring? What would compassion look like in my relationship this week? If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who may be struggling in their relationship—and join us next week as we continue exploring the science and skills behind deeper human connection. — Human Intimacy Podcast with Dr. Kevin Skinner & MaryAnn

    28 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.6
out of 5
18 Ratings

About

Intimacy is a fundamental human experience that goes far beyond romantic relationships. Join us as we dive into the deep and multifaceted layers of human connection, exploring everything from friendship and family bonds to self-love and vulnerability. Through thought-provoking conversations with experts, personal stories, and practical advice, we’ll uncover the secrets to nurturing meaningful relationships in a fast-paced digital world. From exploring trust and fostering emotional intimacy to navigating conflicts and rediscovering oneself, we’re here to discover the essence of what it means to truly connect with others and ourselves. Whether you’re seeking to improve your relationships, gain insights into human behaviors, or simply crave a meaningful conversation that enriches your understanding of human connection, you won’t want to miss a single episode of The Human Intimacy Podcast.

Information

  • Creator
    Humanintimacy
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Human Intimacy Podcast

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