Many men deeply want friendship, closeness, emotional support, and physical affection — but have never been given the tools, language, or social permission to build those connections outside of romantic or sexual contexts.
This workshop explores the "masculine intimacy gap": why so many men struggle to form emotionally intimate relationships, what cultural pressures keep men isolated, and how communities can create healthier models of connection.
We’ll begin with a short facilitated discussion about masculinity, vulnerability, loneliness, and emotional risk-taking. From there, participants will collaboratively brainstorm what healthy masculine intimacy could look like in practice and what barriers keep us from building it.
The majority of the session will be hands-on, experiential practice. Participants will rotate through optional guided exercises focused on developing non-sexual intimacy skills, including:
- finding friendship and connection,
- giving and receiving emotional support,
- expressing admiration and affection,
- active listening and emotional presence,
- consensual non-sexual touch and cuddling,
- celebrating (“gushing about”) meaningful parts of life,
- additional practices generated by the group.
The workshop closes with reflection, integration, and opportunities for participants to continue building supportive friendships after the event.
This session is designed to be low-pressure, consent-centered, trauma-aware, and welcoming to people with a wide range of comfort levels and experience.
Masc participants and voices will be centered in this space. Non-masc attendees are also welcome, and invited to listen, learn, and engage with perspectives that may challenge dominant assumptions.
Looking for your people? Midwest Love Fest Relating Sessions are dynamic, identity-centered gatherings where attendees can connect with others who share similar lived experiences while navigating non-monogamy. These facilitated sessions create space for meaningful connections and honest discussions about the unique triumphs and challenges of relating differently within that community. Attendees will build kinship, exchange resources, share perspectives, and find a stronger sense of belonging.