In this episode, we explore the world of cuddle therapy with Michelle Renee, a San Diego-based Human Connection Coach, Cuddlist, and Director of Training at Cuddlist.com. Together, we unpack what platonic touch looks like in a professional setting, why consent and boundaries are everything, and how this work offers more than comfort; it offers repatterning.From nervous system regulation to post-trauma reconnection, Michelle shares how this misunderstood modality helps people reclaim safe, consensual, body-led touch, and why that matters more than we might think. KEY LEARNINGS FROM THIS EPISODE:<ul><li>Cuddle therapy is a real, structured practice.It’s grounded in mutual consent, verbal agreements, and body-led pacing. It’s not woo, it’s attachment-aware and trauma-informed.</li><li>Touch supports nervous system regulation.Safe, platonic touch helps shift the body out of chronic fight, flight, or freeze. It sends powerful cues of co-regulation and relational safety.</li><li>Reclaiming touch is powerful.Many people have experienced touch as harmful, performative, or unsafe. Cuddle therapy offers a space to rewrite that story on your terms.</li><li>Touch can support safety after trauma.For survivors of assault, neglect, or emotional disconnection, touch can be a powerful way to gently rebuild trust in your body and in others, when offered with care, clarity, and consent.</li><li>You don’t have to be in crisis to benefit.You might just feel disconnected, over-functioning, or touch-starved. Cuddle work meets you there, no fixing, just presence.</li><li>Consent is an active practice.Cuddle sessions model real-time consent: asking, checking in, and honoring every no or pause. That alone can be deeply reparative.</li></ul><li><ul><li>Spaces like The Human Connection Lab offer low-stakes practice.They create real-world opportunities to practice boundary-setting, emotional presence, and connection in a safe, guided container.</li></ul>Bio: Human Connection Coach | Cuddle Therapist | Director of Training at Cuddlist | Host of The Intimacy LabMichelle Renee is a San Diego-based Human Connection Coach and Professional Cuddle Therapist who has dedicated her life to helping people feel safe, seen, and nurtured through consensual, platonic touch. With a deep understanding of trauma-informed care and nervous system safety, Michelle brings a unique and powerful presence to the world of intimacy, healing, and connection.As Co-Owner and Director of Training at <a href="https://cuddlist.com/">⁠Cuddlist.com⁠</a>, she not only provides one-on-one sessions but also trains and mentors aspiring practitioners across the globe, guiding them in how to hold consensual, attuned, and healing space for others. Her teaching combines compassion, science-backed principles, and a commitment to honoring each person’s boundaries and agency, especially survivors of sexual violence, for whom safe, trusted touch can be profoundly reparative. Connect with Michelle Renee:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://instagram.com/meetmichellerenee">⁠@meetmichellerenee⁠</a></li><li>BlueSky: <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/meetmichellerenee.bsky.social">⁠meetmichellerenee.bsky.social⁠</a></li><li>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/cuddlemichellerenee/">⁠facebook.com/cuddlemichellerenee⁠</a></li><li>LinkedIn: <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/meetmichellerenee">⁠linkedin.com/in/meetmichellerenee⁠</a></li><li>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@MeetMichelleRenee">⁠@MeetMichelleRenee⁠</a> Special Offer:Interested in becoming a certified Cuddlist? Get 10% off Cuddlist Certification Training using this referral link:  <a href="https://cuddlist.podia.com/cuddlist-certification/6dnxo?coupon=REFERRAL">⁠Cuddlist Training Discount⁠</a>Subscribe, rate, and leave a review for Everyday Intimacy on your favorite podcast app. Your support helps more people discover these honest, heart-led conversations.</li></ul></li>

Podurama

Home

Trending

Personal

Your Podcasts

New Episodes

My Files

Favourite Episodes

Tags (Folders)

Recently Played

Bookmarks

Followed Playlists

The Power of Platonic Touch: Inside the World of Cuddle Therapy

Everyday Intimacy with Angela Rivero

AI Chapters

AI Insights

Reviews