Ep.11 As Naked as Possible: Ilan Stephani: Embracing Destruction, Embodiment and the Fire of walking a Spiritual Path

Today, I am honored to introduce you to Camilla Steen Larsen, a truth-teller, bridge-builder, and the brilliant creator of Embodied Permission. Camilla is a woman, foodie, and lover who passionately reminds others of their inherent worth. With 35 years of experience teaching movement in stillness and sound, she brings a unique perspective to her work as a mentor, embodiment coach, facilitator, writer, and motivational speaker.   Her belief that every single one of us is unique and necessary is the foundation of everything she offers. During the pandemic, Camilla birthed *Embodied Permission*, a transformational approach designed to help people open, allow, and receive life fully through their bodies. This work emerged from her own breaking open—where she deconstructed 20 years of teachings, infused them with what was missing, and created what she herself needed.   Her practice invites others to cross the threshold into the lives they were meant to live. In this episode, Camilla shares her journey of holding spaces for presence, mindful living, and embodied leadership. From owning a dance studio in Copenhagen for 11 years to leading retreats, facilitator trainings, and performance workshops internationally, Camilla has a wealth of wisdom to share.   Her work is deeply rooted in the power of community and the belief that by leaning into one another, we can grow, heal, and learn together. Our conversation dives into Camilla’s personal transformation during COVID, her passion for movement as a spiritual practice, and her insights into the challenges of leading while navigating personal struggles. We explore the importance of clarity, homecoming, and teaching from a place of raw truth.   Camilla’s heart-centered approach to facilitating highlights the beauty of embracing life’s messiness and finding belonging in vulnerability. So, take a deep breath, open yourself to this beautiful conversation, and join us as we explore the depths of embodied permission with the extraordinary Camilla Steen Larsen.   Subscribe to my mailing list: https://rachelrickards.myflodesk.com/subscribe Connect with Camilla Steen Larsen  https://www.instagram.com/camilla.steen.larsen Connect with Rachel  *REGISTER FOR THE FIELD ONLINE FACILITATOR TRAINING* (Trauma Informed and Certified) With Catherine Hale, Starting February 2025!! https://www.the-field.com/online  Join our community: The Field Facilitation Collective ໑ In Presence We Trust https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222579331960644 Rachel Rickards  https://rachelrickards.com  The Field Facilitator Training  www.the-field.com Facebook Rachel Rickards www.facebook.com/rachrickards  The Field Facilitator Training  https://www.facebook.com/TheFieldFacilitator  

Aaron is one of the world’s leading Men’s Embodiment Coaches, a Tantric Practitioner, and the best-selling author of The Embodied Man. With a master’s degree in spiritual psychology and decades of experience learning from transformational leaders in the fields of sexuality and psychology, Aaron has developed a unique, trauma-informed approach to his work. He’s facilitated over a hundred retreats across 40+ countries and worked with thousands of individuals, from high-level CEOs to professional athletes and creatives.   In this episode, we explore the many facets of Aaron’s journey—from navigating ships as a licensed captain to navigating human souls as a transformational leader. We dive into his teachings on embodied leadership, integrity as a facilitator, and the vital role of slowing down for integration. Aaron’s approach is deeply grounded in merging movement, psychology, spirituality, and sexuality to create meaningful change.   We also touch on the power of attunement, navigating projections in group spaces, and the unique challenges of leading work that involves sacred sexuality. This conversation is full of wisdom, vulnerability, and insights into what it means to hold transformational spaces with authenticity and care.   So, take a deep breath, settle in, and join us for a rich and meaningful conversation with the amazing Aaron Kleinerman.   Subscribe to my mailing list: https://rachelrickards.myflodesk.com/subscribe   Connect with Aaron www.AaronKleinerman.com   Connect with Rachel  *REGISTER FOR THE FIELD ONLINE FACILITATOR TRAINING* (Trauma Informed and Certified) With Catherine Hale, Starting February 2025!!  https://www.the-field.com/online   Join our community: The Field Facilitation Collective ໑ In Presence We Trust https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222579331960644   Rachel Rickards  https://rachelrickards.com    The Field Facilitator Training www.the-field.com   Facebook Rachel Rickards www.facebook.com/rachrickards    The Field Facilitator Training https://www.facebook.com/TheFieldFacilitator

Miroslav Bardovic is a TEDx speaker, facilitator, and founder of the Enlivened Speaking Institute, where he empowers speakers to deliver messages with embodied presence and engagement. With over 10 years of experience teaching diverse topics—from public speaking to meditation—he has worked with 5,000+ people globally and completed a thesis on embodied teaching with Monash University. Miroslav inspires thought leaders and educators to move beyond traditional methods, embracing deeper, conscious communication through mind, body, and spirit—what he calls The Power of Presence. n this conversation, Rachel Rickards and Miroslav Bardovic dive into the art of public speaking and the profound impact of presence and authenticity in communication. They explore the transition from facilitation to speaking, emphasizing the differences in holding attention and engaging audiences effectively. Miroslav shares his personal journey of confronting fear, transforming it into a tool for growth, and the concept of meta-fear as a pathway to deeper connection. Together, Rachel and Miroslav reflect on the transformative experiences of parenthood, the generational shifts it inspires, and how these shape one's sense of purpose and passion. Miroslav offers insights into the evolution of love through family, the importance of embodied speaking, and the mutual relationship between speaker and audience. Through this dialogue, he underscores the power of vulnerability, the pursuit of truth, and the essential role of presence in personal and professional growth.   Subscribe to my mailing list:  https://rachelrickards.myflodesk.com/subscribe   Connect with Miroslav: https://miroslavbardovic.com   Connect with Rachel:   *REGISTER FOR THE FIELD ONLINE FACILITATOR TRAINING* (Trauma Informed and Certified) With Catherine Hale, Starting February 2025!! https://www.the-field.com/online    Join our community: The Field Facilitation Collective ໑ In Presence We Trust https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222579331960644   Rachel Rickards https://rachelrickards.com   The Field Facilitator Training  www.the-field.com   Facebook Rachel Rickards  www.facebook.com/rachrickards    The Field Facilitator Training  https://www.facebook.com/TheFieldFacilitator

DJ Alma ∞ Omega, also known as Maegan Melissa Gorbett, is an embodied artist, DJ, and holistic coach who has spent over two decades weaving together the worlds of dance, music, embodiment, and community. Driven by a dedication to collective and individual healing, Alma integrates her roles as an Open Floor Embodied-Dance Teacher, Ritualist, Grief Tender, and Mid-wife for the Soul to create transformative spaces that foster joy, connection, and purpose. In this conversation, Rachel Rickards and Maegan dive into Maegan's journey as a facilitator and artist, exploring the powerful role of music, dance, and ritual in her life. They discuss the pivotal moments that led Maegan to use music as a channel for healing and how her multicultural influences have shaped her vision of collective empowerment. Maegan shares her insights on the importance of creating spaces for emotional release, collective grief, and authenticity, emphasizing her passion for fostering environments where individuals can reconnect with their humanity, divinity, and the greater web of life. Together, Rachel and Alma reflect on the significance of embodiment practices in today’s world, the role of rage and grief as catalysts for personal and collective transformation, and the importance of vulnerability in the journey of self-discovery. Through this dialogue, Maegan underscores music as a profound tool for healing and growth, emphasizing her mission to create spaces where authentic expression, sacred activism, and community support can flourish.   Subscribe to my mailing list:  https://rachelrickards.myflodesk.com/subscribe   Connect with Maegan https://alma-omega.world   Connect with Rachel  *REGISTER FOR THE FIELD ONLINE FACILITATOR TRAINING* (Trauma Informed and Certified) With Catherine Hale, Starting February 2025!! https://www.the-field.com/online Join our community: The Field Facilitation Collective ໑ In Presence We Trust https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222579331960644 Rachel Rickards  https://rachelrickards.com The Field Facilitator Training www.the-field.com Facebook Rachel Rickards www.facebook.com/rachrickards  The Field Facilitator Training https://www.facebook.com/TheFieldFacilitator

Damien Bohler is a pragmatic visionary, synthesist, and deep diver committed to the future of humanity through the lens of relationship. Known for his ability to translate complex concepts into accessible, embodied practices, Damien explores diverse aspects of human connection, from Authentic Relating and Attachment Theory to Sexuality, boundaries, nervous system regulation, and much more. As the founder and head facilitator at Evolve Relating, his mission is to weave these elements into a dynamic, practical framework that supports us in truly thriving in life and love. In this conversation, Rachel Rickards and Damien explore the profound changes that parenthood brings, particularly as Damien navigates his experience as a new father. They discuss the transformation that comes with parenting, the deepening of intimacy, and the magic of witnessing his son Kairos’s growth. Damien shares his career evolution, from studying environmental science to becoming a facilitator focused on authentic relating and circling practices. They delve into his facilitation journey, highlighting the power of relational skills and interpersonal dynamics in creating meaningful connections. As they continue, Damien reflects on pivotal experiences shaping his understanding of intimacy and attachment. He discusses the challenges technology poses to human connection, the concept of organismic consciousness, and the role of awareness in fostering interconnectedness. The conversation concludes with practical insights for cultivating relational growth, authenticity, and the skills needed for the evolution of relationships in our lives.   Subscribe to my mailing list: https://rachelrickards.myflodesk.com/subscribe   Connect with Damien https://www.evolverelating.com   Connect with Rachel  *REGISTER FOR THE FIELD ONLINE FACILITATOR TRAINING* (Trauma Informed and Certified) With Catherine Hale, Starting February 2025!! https://www.the-field.com/online   Website  Join our community: The Field Facilitation Collective ໑ In Presence We Trust https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222579331960644   Rachel Rickards  https://rachelrickards.com   The Field Facilitator Training www.the-field.com   Facebook   Rachel Rickards www.facebook.com/rachrickards    The Field Facilitator Training https://www.facebook.com/TheFieldFacilitator

Clara Gomez is an international facilitator of transformative processes for personal growth and soul emergence, supporting thousands on the path to wholeness, empowered intimacy, and soul-centered living since 2014. Clara is part of the teaching faculty at the International School of Temple Arts (ISTA) and Highden Temple Mystery School. In this conversation we hear Clara’s journey of discovering her inner masculine and creating The Man Within program.  She shares how balancing her strong feminine energy with an equally strong masculine counterpart led to personal transformation and a deeper understanding of herself. Clara’s facilitation has been profoundly enhanced by this inner work, allowing her to hold space with greater attunement and confidence.  We dive into the role of being facilitators guiding others through personal transformations and how following your heart and soul whispers is essential on the facilitation path.    Subscribe to my mailing list:  https://rachelrickards.myflodesk.com/subscribe   Connect with Clara https://www.claragomezsantos.com   Connect with Rachel    *REGISTER FOR THE FIELD ONLINE FACILITATOR TRAINING* (Trauma Informed and Certified) With Catherine Hale, Starting February 2025!! https://www.the-field.com/online   Website  Join our community: The Field Facilitation Collective ໑ In Presence We Trust https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222579331960644   Rachel Rickards  https://rachelrickards.com    The Field Facilitator Training  www.the-field.com   Facebook Rachel Rickards www.facebook.com/rachrickards    The Field Facilitator Training https://www.facebook.com/TheFieldFacilitator

Ben is the founder of Ultreia Beyond, an international collective of teachers, healers, and artists creating transformative experiences for communities and workplaces. Based in Los Angeles, he is a certified Yoga Alliance facilitator, singer-songwriter, and event producer. Ben's approach blends movement, music, voice, breath-work, meditation, Yoga, and Buddhism, honed through years of study and practice. He leads events nationwide with The Caravan and serves as a lead facilitator for the Human Library Organization globally.   In this conversation we hear Ben Caron, a facilitator and musician, shares his journey into multi-modal facilitation, emphasizing the transformative power of music. He discusses his work with Braver Angels, using music to unite people and foster new narratives. Ben highlights the role of heart-centeredness in creating meaningful experiences, showcasing songs like 'Heart Lead the Way' and 'Love Is On The Rise' aimed at inspiring hope and love. Known for inclusive workshops on yoga, meditation, and mindfulness, Ben initiated the Reunited States of America project to facilitate constructive dialogue among individuals with diverse political views.   He stresses personal transformation through respectful engagement and staying connected to the heart, while valuing the dignity of each person's spiritual journey in his community-building efforts.   Subscribe to my mailing list: https://rachelrickards.myflodesk.com/subscribe   Connect with Ben https://linktr.ee/bencaroncreates   Connect with Rachel  *REGISTER FOR THE FIELD ONLINE FACILITATOR TRAINING* (Trauma Informed and Certified) With Catherine Hale, Starting February 2025!! https://www.the-field.com/online   Website  Join our community: The Field Facilitation Collective ໑ In Presence We Trust https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222579331960644   Rachel Rickards  https://rachelrickards.com    The Field Facilitator Training www.the-field.com   Facebook Rachel Rickards www.facebook.com/rachrickards    The Field Facilitator Training https://www.facebook.com/TheFieldFacilitator

Arielle Brown is an intimacy teacher, group facilitator, and ceremonial artist dedicated to integrated authentic expression and embodied leadership. Through 1:1 client work, online group programs, and in-person retreats, she guides individuals in transforming chronic shame, guilt, and self-abandonment into profound self-honoring and self-love. Arielle's living curriculum meets the evolving demands for progressive approaches to love, sexuality, leadership, and community. Her teachings emphasize power-WITH models of relating, grounded in reconnecting with our innocence, wholeness, and sacred connection. In this conversation we discuss the importance of group facilitation for connection and individuality.  She views group facilitation as a reflection of our relationship with the greater community and culture, emphasizing the need for cohesion, attunement, and clear agreements to foster safety and freedom. Arielle sees it as a way to address the global intimacy disorder and cultural crisis of meaning. She highlights the significance of holding space with impeccability, integrity, and humility as a facilitator. We discuss integrating sexuality in personal and group spaces, touching on desire, embodiment, shame, and gender power dynamics. Arielle shares her experience with her women's mastermind, which helps women connect with their erotic energy. We discuss the need for sexual healing and liberation in mainstream culture and the impact of shame on our relationship with sexuality. The conversation concludes with an invitation for listeners to slow down, honor their feelings, and explore their desires.   Subscribe to my mailing list: https://rachelrickards.myflodesk.com/subscribe   Connect with Arielle www.ariellebrown.com Connect with Rachel  *REGISTER FOR THE FIELD ONLINE FACILITATOR TRAINING* (Trauma Informed and Certified) With Catherine Hale, Starting February 2025!!  https://www.the-field.com/online Join our community: The Field Facilitation Collective ໑ In Presence We Trust https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222579331960644 Rachel Rickards  https://rachelrickards.com The Field Facilitator Training www.the-field.com Facebook Rachel Rickards www.facebook.com/rachrickards  The Field Facilitator Training https://www.facebook.com/TheFieldFacilitator

Shawn Roop is a seasoned Tantra facilitator and founder of Tantra Quest, offering over 20 years of experience in bringing ancient Tantric wisdom into modern life. Through classes, events, products, and personal counseling, Shawn simplifies Tantra, making it accessible for anyone seeking to deepen their relationships, enhance communication, and unlock personal potential.  As the author of *Pathways to Love: 28 Days to Self-Love*, Shawn helps individuals discover their soul’s purpose through Tantra, integrating all aspects of life to promote personal psychology, spiritual growth, and profound sexual bliss. His practical techniques heal emotional wounds, enhance physical pleasure, and promote a balanced, ecstatic life. Whether guiding through life's challenges or fostering deeper connections, Shawn's simple techniques heal emotional wounds and enhance physical pleasure, promoting a balanced and ecstatic life. In this conversation we hear Shawn share his journey from the military to becoming a Tantra facilitator, explaining how Tantra is a path to a well-lived life, grounded in trust, communication, and self-discovery. He redefines sex in the context of Tantra, focusing on liberation and expansion. We dive into the lessons he’s learned from mistakes as a facilitator, the power of body wisdom, and the importance of creativity and resourcefulness in navigating life’s challenges. Shawn emphasizes the difference between goals and intentions, and how Tantra is less about fixing and achieving, and more about depth, connection, and self-exploration.   Subscribe to my mailing list: https://rachelrickards.myflodesk.com/subscribe Connect with Shawn https://www.tantraquest.com/ Connect with Rachel  *REGISTER FOR THE FIELD ONLINE FACILITATOR TRAINING* (Trauma Informed and Certified) With Catherine Hale, Starting February 2025!! https://www.the-field.com/online Website  Join our community: The Field Facilitation Collective ໑ In Presence We Trust https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222579331960644 Rachel Rickards  https://rachelrickards.com The Field Facilitator Training www.the-field.com Facebook Rachel Rickards www.facebook.com/rachrickards  The Field Facilitator Training https://www.facebook.com/TheFieldFacilitator

Ilan Stephani is a renowned group facilitator, best-selling author, and researcher known for her authentic approach to personal growth, embodiment, and the transformative power of community. Based in Berlin, Ilan's unique journey began in sex work, where she developed a deep passion for un-learning cultural conditioning and reclaiming natural, orgasmic aliveness. Her work focuses on shifting collective paradigms and creating sacred spaces where individuals can explore their deepest truths. With a blend of curiosity, humor, and a commitment to ongoing research in sexuality, spirituality, and trauma healing, Ilan emphasizes the importance of fostering environments that invite authenticity, vulnerability, and human connection.   In this conversation, Ilan and I delve into the profound challenges and rewards of group facilitation. We explore how energetic dynamics play out in group settings, the necessity of embracing destruction as part of the spiritual journey, and the urgency of authentic connection in today’s world. Ilan shares insights on the interplay between mind and body, how going "all in" fuels transformation, and the sacred fire that ignites when we fully engage with life. Through this dialogue, you'll discover the transformative power of embodiment, community, and the spiritual path to deeper consciousness. As well as hearing about our collaboration: SACRED FIRE: Awakening Primal Power - a 4 day immersion happening at the end of November just outside of Berlin.   Subscribe to my mailing list: https://rachelrickards.myflodesk.com/subscribe   Connect with Ilan www.ilanstephani.com Join our event in November  https://www.facebook.com/events/862902998777208   Connect with Rachel  *JOIN THE WAITLIST FOR MY ONLINE FIELD FACILITATOR TRAINING* (Trauma Informed and Certified) Starting February 2025!!  https://www.the-field.com/online   Website  Join our community: The Field Facilitation Collective ໑ In Presence We Trust https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222579331960644 Rachel Rickards  https://rachelrickards.com  The Field Facilitator Training  www.the-field.com Facebook Rachel Rickards www.facebook.com/rachrickards  The Field Facilitator Training  https://www.facebook.com/TheFieldFacilitator