The Courage to Be Seen

In this compelling episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood is joined by Ayce Kyptyn to explore what it means to have the courage to be seen and live authentically. As Joanne unpacks the realities of societal expectations, Ayce shares his personal journey from a life restrained by conformity and religious doctrine to one of acceptance, embodied self-expression, and profound transformation. The duo discuss the powerful intersection of identity, somatic healing, and the necessity of creating safe, non-judgemental spaces for people to express their whole selves. Through honest reflection, they expose the pain experienced by repressing one’s true nature and highlight the liberation that comes from critical self-exploration and breaking through internalised shame.

Ayce Kyptyn is a somatic sexologist based in Boulder, Colorado, with a rich background as a professional theologian and youth pastor within the evangelical Christian church. Following a life-altering period that saw the loss of his career, home and family, Ayce underwent both personal upheaval and awakening. His work now centres on guiding individuals and couples through deep healing, using somatic and erotic blueprint methodologies to help others align with their innate desires and sense of self. Drawing from his own transition and embodied healing journey, Ayce offers unique insight into how reclaiming pleasure and authenticity can lead to meaningful change, both personally and within the wider framework of inclusion.

Together, Joanne and Ayce delve into the complexities of gender, sexuality, and societal conditioning, unpicking the pressures placed upon us to conform to archetypal paths and roles. Their conversation challenges listeners to interrogate whose rules they are living by and invites a reimagining of personal agency, pleasure, and belonging. The discussion also explores practical tools such as the Erotic Blueprint, and the significance of recognising and integrating repressed parts of ourselves—particularly for those navigating transformational journeys related to identity and intimacy.

A key takeaway from this episode is the transformative power of compassionate self-exploration and authentic expression. Listeners are encouraged to question the narratives that govern their lives, seek alignment between mind and body, and foster environments where true inclusion and liberation are possible—not just for themselves, but for every member of society.