I am a life coach and fierce advocate for women feeding their truest hungers. I'm also a curator of inspiration and this is where I share the wisdom I've gained, words that trigger deep reflection, and resources to help you live your most well-fed life. Feast onward.
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Bring a friend.
Posted May 9, 2013
I was feeling really low this week and wanting to share a little behind the scenes development here and what it might mean for you.
Ticket sales for The Well-Fed Woman Retreatshop tour have been, to put it bluntly, dismal.
I wallowed for a good while. Telling myself I failed at marketing. Telling myself I wasn’t offering anything people wanted to buy. Telling myself to cancel the tour, put on my pajamas and call it a day…or year.
I sat perplexed. Last year had gone so well. I don’t understand.
Rachel created a bridge for me from a nebulous, semi-conscious hunger that I have to a visceral knowing of it. She gave me wonderful tools for honoring and feeding it, but more importantly, a framework for identifying and honoring my hungers in an ongoing way. Parts of me that have felt ignored or just plan unseen are feeling loved and hopeful and meaningfully connected to me because of Rachel’s work, and for that I’m deeply grateful.
I was awakened by my experience at the Retreatshop. Rachel helped me discover hungers I didn’t know I had and that really was an eye opening experience. She has an amazing way of taking what you thought was your hunger and really boiling it down. With her calm demeanor and truly caring soul, the few hours that I spent at the Retreatshop will be something I’ll never forget. I am excited to take what I learned and feed all of my hungers.
Last year most of the cities were sold out or near capacity. The feedback from participants was great and the one thing they asked I changed was the length. They wanted more. So I made this year’s events full day instead of three over-packed hours.
You might wonder why do I do this? Why do I choose to spend hours traveling the country to teach at these intimate gatherings? Here’s why:
Because I’ve yet to meet more than a handful of women who aren’t, in someway, alienated from their hungers.
Because getting a day away from the hubbub of life is awesome.
Because getting to spend day receiving, instead of taking care of others is medicine we need.
Because living life guided from within brings out peace, clarity, forward motion, confidence, and grounding.
Because when a woman is in deep communion with her hungers she can then be fully available to life and begin to truly feast.
This isn’t just about food. I know the metaphor-rich language I use might suggest this, but the truth is that this is about the hunger, or rather starvation, for touch, for rest, for play, for connection, for being seen, and more.
These are the reasons I know the Retreatshop experience is so vital.
And It’s true that I’ve heard across the board from many in my field that sales have been everything from flat to much slower this year.
But it doesn’t feel helpful to say “It’s the economy.” I don’t believe the price is too high for what I know this experience offers.
Last year, for the three hour experience, tickets cost a simple $100.
This year I’m more seasoned, the teachings have been refined, and attendees get over six hours of very intimate and personal time.
All this said, sales, are perhaps suggesting that the financial threshold is too high for many.
After much reflection, here’s what I’ve decided to do and what feels right in my heart and for my business:
For every full-price registration, attendees are invited to bring a friend for free.
Of course, each pair can split the single-ticket price up however they want.
If you’ve been on the fence and feeling like the ticket price is out of reach, I hope the invitation to find a friend and split it helps.
If you’re already registered, just send me an email with with full name and email address of the friend you’ll be bringing.
The remaining tour cities and dates are:
San Francisco – May 18th
Chicago – June 1st
Toronto – June 8th
Los Angeles – June 22nd
Vancouver – July 14th
Seattle – July 20th
Arlington – October 12th
Alameda – November 2nd
As always, I’d love to meet you there.
Rachel
Rachel holds the space beautifully for her participants. She brought her wisdom and intuition, and years of actual experience, so we knew we were in safe hands. There’s so much kindness and grace to how she teaches. I feel calmer just being in her presence. She has a real gift.
I left the retreatshop in awe. What an experience to be in a relationship with my hungers. I’ll say it again: my hungers. It feels powerful to say that phrase because I had a chance to really connect with a group of amazing, brave, real women led by the graceful hunger-whisperer Rachel W. Cole herself. Rachel creates an experience that is pure magic and I am still quaking from the after effects.
*If the Retreatshop includes a paid lunch, guests of paid-attendees must pay for the lunch as well.
The Heart of it All
Posted February 18, 2013
That’s it really. It’s that simple.
It’s about the relationship we have with our hungers.
This is my work. This is my offer to you: deep communion with that which you naturally and deeply hunger for.
It doesn’t matter if you’ve mistrusted your hungers your entire life. I can help you befriend them today.
It doesn’t matter if you’ve made 99% of your hungers your BFF. I can help you to bring harmony to that remaining 1%.
I illuminate the relationship we have with our hungers so we can shift it to one that is even deeper and more connected.
From here, magic happens. Seriously. Life can taste so sweet.
I teach that how we relate to our hungers is the foundation from which a well-fed life is (or isn’t) built.
Do you wholeheartedly trust your desires? Do you fully embrace food? rest? touch? adventure? delight?
Are your career hungers and relationships hungers honored in your life?
Are you as well-fed a woman as you would like to be?
This is my life’s work. Let’s feast.
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Grab your ticket to a Well-Fed Woman Retreatshop before they are gone. I’m coming to London, Las Vegas, San Francisco, Austin, Chicago, Ottawa, Toronto, Los Angeles, Edmonton, Vancouver, Seattle, and Alameda.
These day-long gatherings restore and inspire all who attend.
It’s Going to be Brilliant!
Posted February 4, 2013
The first and last time I was in London was in the spring of 2002.
At the time, I was living in Rome, Italy while in a study abroad program and flew to London for a vacation with my mom who came over from the states to join me. We had the best time. I remember there was a very sparkly tiara exhibit at the Victoria & Albert museum, we sipped high tea, ate amazing food, and went to the theater (or should I say ‘theatre’).
My mom brought along a tupperware container of her Texas sheet cake (my favorite) which, after returning to our B&B each night after dinner, we’d savor while tucked into bed recounting the day’s adventures.
That trip was a little slice of heaven. A few months later I’d be back in the U.S. and begin, for the first time in my life, to develop anorexia.
Between then and now is an ocean of life.
Between then and now are miles and miles of wisdom gained.
Between then and now is a heart softened and woman who is deeply well-fed.
It’s exciting and somewhat cathartic to be returning to London on April 7th for the kickoff to The 2013 Retreatshop Tour.
I’m honored that two of my favorite colleagues, Susannah Conway and Tamarisk Saunders-Davies are hosting this gathering.
I’ve connected with so many lovely Brits (and other European ladies) online and I’m eager to meet and teach many of them person.
I’ll be traveling to 14 cities altogether this year on the tour and offering early bird pricing to all who sign up 60 days or more before each Retreatshop.
This Thursday, February 7th is the deadline to save $50 (or £31.74) on registration for the London Retreatshop.
We have room for about 15 attendees and many spots are already taken. If you’re considering attending I hope you’ll grab your ticket while there are still a few and while the price is reduced.
If you have friends in or near London I’d be grateful for you to spread the word that the Retreatshop experience is coming their way.
Other early bird deadlines that are around the corner:
San Francisco, CA – February 28th
Las Vegas, NV – March 4th
Austin, TX – March 11th
Petaluma, CA – March 19th
All the tour and sign-up information is over on HERE.
Looking forward to being deeply well-fed when I get to meet many of you in person later this year.
Love, Rachel
Listening Inwards
Posted September 10, 2012
Update on The Well-Fed Woman Guidebook
I didn’t read the Twilight trilogy. I’m not on Team Jacob or Team Edward. I did, however, see an interview with Stephanie Meyer, the author, where she said that she was only able to write the books because she wrote them for herself – as if no one would ever read them.
Truth.
I care deeply about my work in the world. I’m not able to sell snake oil. I’m not able to coach clients I don’t resonate with just for a paycheck. I’m not able to write just for hits or retweets.
I am truly only comfortable doing and sharing what feels good in my bones and deep in my gut. I am only comfortable doing what leaves me feeling joyous. I coach the clients that click. I write the words that are true. And I earn the money that comes from being and acting in integrity.
There are several reasons I’ve wanted to write a guidebook of my teachings on living life as as Well-Fed Woman. Most important of which is that not everyone can coach with me or make it to a retreatshop and I want to share this information with everyone. I want to offer my square for your patchwork quilt. My brick for your road.
But I want to do it right.
Recently, I thought I could set a deadline (the New Year) and push myself to get the guidebook out. I thought I could make a good, but quick buck if I released an excerpt in October. I thought I could bang this out.
And I could.
But I don’t want to.
I value you too much to give you anything less than my absolute best.
So, like Stephanie Meyer, I’m going to keep writing, but to create something awesome I am choosing to stay away from flashy, boldly promoted deadlines for now. I am choosing to write this as if no one is ever going to read it. I am choosing to do this my way so that it can be everything my heart knows the guidebook wants to be for you.
When it’s ready, you’ll be the first to know.
I am going to be releasing products and announcing events over the coming months and year and I want you to know that when I do it’s because my whole body says YES and because I know I’m giving you something worthy of your precious time and resources.
One-on-One Coaching Rates are Going Up
On October 1, 2012, for new clients, my 1:1 coaching rates are going up to $375/month from $300/month for two sessions (and lots o’ support in between).
Here’s why.
When I listen inward, I can feel that it’s time. Coaching with me delivers real value. My clients know this and I know this. My clients break through patterns they’ve had for 20 years. They make peace with (and love to) their hungers and they feast. They come to see themselves in a new, more loving, light and begin to live from this place. They discover and root into their unique values and what a well-fed life for them really looks like. They move forward and they find stillness, all at the same time. Coaching with me is tender, but oh-so-powerful!
Unlike a graphic designer or other high-hourly-rate and high-skill service, I can only coach for 4 hours a day. After that, I’m simply not offering my best services. Ideally, I only coach three clients a day for maximum presence, engagement, and deliverance of my heart. Subpar Rachel is not on the menu.
There are only so many days in a week. I only have so many slots. Most of the year, my client load is full to the brim and that tells me that I can afford to charge rates that reflect the demand on my time.
If you get in touch before 10/1/12, you’ll receive my old rate for the duration of 2012.
You + Me = Together
My event page is live in preparation for a year of wonderful opportunities for you and I to sit face to face – for us to gather and root into living Well-Fed. For now, be sure to let me know if you want me to come to you on the 2013 Retreatshop Tour and there are a few spots left in Hunger Stories my upcoming day-long writing retreat with Laurie Wagner! Be sure you’re on the list to find out first what’s happening!
What whisper of truth do you feel in your gut?
Where in your life are you ready to step into your full worth and value?
I’d love to know.
Scouting The 2013 Retreatshop Tour
Posted September 1, 2012
I went to 12 cities in 2012 on my inaugural Well-Fed Woman Retreatshop Tour.
If you missed the tour, here’s what went down:
I asked for volunteers in any U.S. city to host me. As my host, they were responsible for securing a location that could fit 20 women (give or take) and in exchange, they could attend for free. Then we, the host and I, spread the word far and wide. We gathered women who were hungry. Women who were curious. Women who were craving more. Women who wanted to connected to themselves and trust their hungers. I shared stories, powerful teachings, and lead the groups through three hours of heart and hunger-provoking inquiry.
It was epically awesome.
Attendees (and myself) were left inspired, nourished, connected, and, as they tell me, wanting more.
So, of course, I’m planning a 2013 tour.
And I’m changing it up a bit, thinking of adding a morning session for those who missed last year and want the foundation, then a longer afternoon session for both new attendees and alumnae to go deep. You dig it?
I’m also willing to travel outside the U.S. this time, if it’s clear there is enough interest to cover travel expenses and make it worth my while.
So far the cities I’m keen to bring the Retreatshop to are: Seattle, Vancouver (CA), Portland, Los Angeles, Santa Fe, DC, London, and of course the Bay Area. What do you think?
A few questions for you?
- Where do you think I should come teach? (Note: I need to have 20 women in every city in order to make the trip)
- Are you interested in hosting me?
- What are you most wanting to get out of a Retreatshop with me?
Please leave your answers in the comments below (or drop me a private note).
Love, Rachel
The Well-Fed Woman: Dana Velden
Posted April 17, 2012
Last week I shared with you an interview I did with The San Francisco Zen Center about the upcoming Well-Fed Woman retreat at Tassajara in June. My hope was to let the Zen Center community know a bit more about me and to let everyone know more about what they can expect at the retreat.
Now I want to let you know more about the amazing woman who I will be co-leading the retreat with me: Dana Velden or Ikushin Dana Velden as she’s known in zen circles (Ikushin means she is a zen priest). In last week’s interview I shared how I met Dana and how the retreat came to be:
…before becoming a coach I worked in the Bay Area sustainable food community. In the summer of 2008 I was awarded a fellowship to attend a food conference in the Napa Valley. As part of the conference a large group of us were shepherded on a bus to a nearby vineyard and on the ride I struck up a conversation with woman seated in front of me. Low and behold it was Ikushin Dana Velden who I knew as the author of the Weekend Meditation column on The Kitchn website. I had been enamored with Dana’s wise writing and was thrilled to meet her in person. We’ve been good friends ever since and when Dana, who has a long-standing relationship with SFZC and Tassajara, approached me about collaborating on a retreat together, the answer was a wholehearted YES!
It goes without saying that to teach the Well-Fed Woman teachings alongside me you must be a pretty well-fed woman. Dana’s participation in this series is both overdue and right on time.
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Dana, what are you truly hungry for?
Purpose, a more balanced life (both for me and for the planet) and a culture that is welcoming to diversity. Not just welcoming but excited by diversity, where all people can be celebrated and appreciated for whatever it is that they bring to the table. Also, this pretty corn-flower blue bike and the kind of life where I can ride it as much as possible. And maybe a backyard suitable for a few chickens. And a meyer lemon tree. And kissing. And breakfast. I always want breakfast.
What’s a craving that you previously denied that you now satisfy? How has that impacted you?
I lived for many years in Zen monasteries and training temples where the focus wasn’t really on personal adornment or an overtly feminine expression. I left my residency last year to step into the wider world. It’s been taking me a while to rediscover how to nourish and encourage my feminine spirit but last month I took a big step towards that when I splurged (really splurged!) on a bottle of perfume. It was worth every penny in that it reminds me to open up to a part of me that hasn’t had much attention these last several years. I think that this might be only the beginning as evidenced by my growing obsession for deep red lipstick. (The perfume is called Mythique by Parfums DelRae and it was inspired by Diane de Pointiers, the mistress of Henry II who is described to be a women of learning, compassion, glamour, and guile. Oh yeah.)
What are you a conduit for? What comes through with ease, meaning, and spark?
I am very focused on connection and deep friendships and the many people in my life. When I lived at Zen Center, we called it sangha which is the Buddhist name for the group of people you practice with, people who have a shared desire to wake up and engage with their lives in a more compassionate and wholesome way. I also really dig writing about food and the magic that happens in the kitchen.
Favorite bite in recent memory?
I recently wrote a post about the chickpeas stew with roasted egg at Boot & Shoe in Oakland and how it brought me back from the brink of despair. But I would add that the little picnic Rachel and I shared in early April with Il Facchino cheese on Firebrand bread was mighty wonderful, perhaps made more so by sharing it with each other!
Tassajara & The June 2012 Well-fed Woman Retreat
Posted April 11, 2012
I’ve got two interviews to share with you about the upcoming Well-Fed Woman retreat at Tassajara in early June. The first interview (below) is of me answering questions from the San Francisco Zen Center. It’s featured on the SFZC blog, but I thought I’d reprint it here in case you wanted answers to some of these Q’s as well.
The second interview, which I’ll share next week, is of Dana Velden, my retreat co-host, as part of my Well-Fed Woman series. She’s delicious, I hope you’ll check back then.
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Rachel, tell us a little bit about the work that you do?
The core of my work is helping women to live their lives so that they are deeply well-fed. Right now, for a woman to deny, numb, ignore, suppress, judge, or have shame about her true hungers – be they for food or something else – is normal…and I think that’s a crisis. The world we live in needs women to be well-fed so that they can be active, vibrant, connected participants in their lives and in the greater human community.
Primarily, I’m a life coach working one-on-one with women from this philosophy. I noticed last year that my own true hunger was to sit with women and share my teachings. So, at the beginning of this year I launched a 12-city national tour of half-day retreatshops (part retreat, part workshop) to do just that. This month I come to the close of this tour and I know that leading Retreats is part of the work I’m here to do this lifetime. I’m over-the-moon excited that this June, along with my dear friend Ikushin Dana Velden I’ll get to dive deeper with The Well-Fed Woman teachings at our retreat at Tassajara June 4th-7th.
And how did you come to choose Tassajara as the location for the first in-depth Well-Fed Woman retreat?
Well, there’s two parts to my answer.
I first visited Tassajara as a volunteer during the 2006 autumn work period and really felt transformed by the experience. The ride there on The Stage was like taking leaving the world I knew and descending into an entirely different one. The rhythm of life at Tassajara –– punctuated by the ringing of bells, fragrant with incense, and in the evening, aglow from the burning oil lamps –– was like no other place I had ever been. So many aspects of my life that had been routine before going to Tassajara, became beautiful rituals after my experience there. From the hot springs and Japanese-style bathhouse to the invocation before each meal, Tassajara helped me to see my life in a whole new way and since then it has always had a special place in my heart.
The second part of my answer is that before becoming a coach I worked in the Bay Area sustainable food community. In the summer of 2008 I was awarded a fellowship to attend a food conference in the Napa Valley. As part of the conference a large group of us were shepherded on a bus to a nearby vineyard and on the ride I struck up a conversation with woman seated in front of me. Low and behold it was Ikushin Dana Velden who I knew as the author of the Weekend Meditation column on The Kitchn website. I had been enamored with Dana’s wise writing and was thrilled to meet her in person. We’ve been good friends ever since and when Dana, who has a long-standing relationship with SFZC and Tassajara, approached me about collaborating on a retreat together, the answer was a wholehearted YES!
What can retreat attendees expect?
We’re going to spend our time together understanding and connecting to our true hungers (again, for food, touch, nature, rest, adventure, or any number of other hungers), learning to come into wholesome relationship with them, exploring the nature of what might have gotten in our way of feeding them in the past and how to live our lives as deeply well-fed women going forward. Let me tell you – a well-fed woman is unstoppable!
Also, one of my favorite parts of hosting this retreat at Tassajara is that attendees will get both a rich and thought-provoking retreat experience and a chance to have down time, hike, soak in the hot springs, read a book, take a nap, and do any of the other wonderful things that we all hope come with stepping away from our busy lives.
For more information or to sign up for The Well-Fed Woman retreat to be held at Tassajara June 4th-7th visit the event website.
Stay tuned for my Well-Fed Woman interview with Dana Velden which I’ll share next week!
A Well-Fed Woman Retreatshop: Pictures and Praise
Posted February 13, 2012
Awe.
As wonderful as it is to be in awe, it leaves me wordless so often.
And that’s where I am these days. Totally, utterly, in awe.
I’m in awe that my own sacred commitment to feeding my truest hungers has brought me to a point where a little idea to hit the road and teach what I know, to share what has changed my life, to offer what I see is needed — I’m in awe that this idea is alive.
I’m in awe of the 20,000 miles I’ll cover and the wildly courageous women who are gathering round. In awe that the teachings that have been in my heart are coming to life right before my eyes.
It’s humbling. It’s exhilarating. It’s asking a lot of me. It feels better than anything I’ve ever done.
I’m in awe of all the kind people who are welcoming me to their city as hosts and those who have lent their voices and platforms to spread the good word.
I’m totally in awe of Megan Mallone, who attended the Petaluma Retreatshop and reconnected to her hunger to write, which had been, in her words “shoved behind the stove.” Now, she’s just a few hundred dollars away from raising the money she needs to for childcare so she can write her thrilling novel. Will you help her?
I’m in awe of the opportunity to bring these teachings to the 3-day Well-Fed Woman retreat at Tassajara in June. This has been a dream of mine and given my past experiences there, I’ve no doubt it will be profound for all who attend.
Maybe these words sound clear to you. But I feel tongue-tied today and most days as of late. People ask me how the tour is going and I’m lost for words.
“It’s part crazy, part genius” I say sometimes.
“Ask me in May.” I mutter.
I am tongue-tied.
That is until I get in front of a group of women attending a Retreatshop. Then. It’s on.
It’s magic. And the words just come.
And for now, until I find a way to tell you about what it’s like at a Well-Fed Woman Retreatshop, I thought I’d let a few photos (taken by Not Merely Living) and bits of praise speak for me about the experience.
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I left the retreatshop in awe. What an experience to be in a relationship with my hungers. I’ll say it again: my hungers. It feels powerful to say that phrase because I had a chance to really connect with a group of amazing, brave, real women led by the graceful hunger-whisperer Rachel W. Cole herself. Rachel creates an experience that is pure magic and I am still quaking from the after effects. Shila Soni
Rachel has so much strength and wisdom and so generously brings this to her Retreatshop. So many of us have no idea what we’re truly hungry for and she helps us to tap this well easily and with grace and tenderness. The world needs more of this kind of work! It’s what we are hungry for! Tiffany Moore
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If you are fortunate enough to be able to attend one of Rachel’s Retreatshops, don’t miss the opportunity! I found Rachel to have an ocean’s worth of hard-won experience on how to live a fully nourishing life in all types of our experiences. And, she exhibits the courage to walk the talk of that wisdom by her presence.
Getting in touch with your unique inner wisdom of what you are truly hungry for can help steer you beyond confusion and indecision and into peace and confidence. What amazing compassion and insight can be found in sharing with a group of women ready to honor their true hungers! Bonnie Perry
I was awakened by my experience at the Retreatshop. Rachel helped me discover hungers I didn’t know I had and that really was an eye opening experience. She has an amazing way of taking what you thought was your hunger and really boiling it down. With her calm demeanor and truly caring soul, the few hours that I spent at the Retreatshop will be something I’ll never forget. I am excited to take what I learned and feed all of my hungers. Elena Arosteguy
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Rachel rocked my world! I went in thinking “I already know all this stuff.” But she just dropped one awesome a-ha bomb after another. Her tender and honest insights are still fresh in my mind and it’s safe to say I’m a Rachel Cole lifer! Jamie Dougherty
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Rachel has so many gifts she readily shared with group: she’s warm and welcoming and fantastically wise; she creates such a safe space in her retreatshops and gives us the space to really delve into the question “What are you TRULY hungry for?” And it’s not just that Rachel asks this question, in the Retreatshop you will learn tools to discovers your answer and a path to becoming a Well-Fed Woman! Tarah Evans
The Retreatshop was a long overdue gift to myself. I ate up every last crumb, and left both satiated and wanting more. Rachel wove story with teaching in a loving and seamless container that enabled us to turn inward, and to work more deeply with our hungers. I loved the invitation to be in relationship with my hunger right now, whether or not I know how exactly to feed it. I left with a profound sense of self-trust that continues to deepen this new relationship I am in. Amy Kessel
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This was both scary and wonderful. A life changing experience. Rachel has an incredible presence that creates a wonderful healing environment. Her wisdom and vulnerability awakened the wisdom and vulnerability in myself! Erin Lee
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Rachel Cole is an artist. In her Retreatshops, she creates a warm, safe, and inspiring space to explore your real hungers and share your authentic self. Her touch is expert, loving, and so keyed into just what is happening in that moment that little insights bloom into real revelations. Kim Ribeiro
Rachel’s Retreatshop was truly a gift (and not just because I was given this afternoon as a Christmas present!). She guided our group to impressively deep insights in a such a short period of time – it was such a valuable experience. Genie Gratto
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Rachel’s Retreatshop was just what I needed! She is a skilled facilitator who hit just the right balance of meaningful content, time to share, and inner exploration. Her presence, coupled with the opportunity to be with a fantastic group of women, made for a magical and memorable afternoon. Adee Swanson, MA, Certified Spirit Coach
Rachel helps you to tap into something that you’ve carried inside you, to face it, and to move towards it in loving and earnest way. Meredith Rene
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Rachel’s retreatshop was a sanctuary for my soul. A short but powerful time to be renewed and inspired. She is a wise woman who asks the questions your heart wants to answer. Rabbi Karen Chai Levy
If you want to attend one of the upcoming Retreatshops, get your tickets!
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A big big thank you to Meredith of Not Merely Living for taking and sharing all of these beautiful photographs.
The Well-Fed Woman Mini-Retreatshop Tour
Posted November 22, 2011
What are you TRULY hungry for? Do you know?
Perhaps you are hungry to express your creativity? Maybe you are hungry for the courage to follow a calling? Or to turn down the volume on your inner critic? Or to know you are enough? Maybe you’re simply hungry for carbs or, more generally, to feel at peace with food? Perhaps your hunger is for a job that pays you what you’re worth? Or it may well be for intimacy the satisfies your body, mind, and spirit?
Join me for this inspiring and transformative, intimate 3-hour Mini-Retreatshop to explore how you, as women, can feed your truest hungers and in turn live your fullest life.
At a Rachel Cole event you enter a space infused with intention, community and handcrafted style. The smallest details are given scrupulous attention so guests can ease into full participation. Rachel has the vision and organization to plan impeccable, original and inspiring events.
– Sadie Chanlett-Avery, Active Body Still Mind
Rachel is a matchmaker: she brings people together and creates a space for community, idea sharing, openness and camaraderie. Because of her diligence and creativity she never fails to host events that will leave you feeling full – full of inspiration, self awareness, new friends and maybe even a delicious treat. Her events are the perfect place to bring a friend or just bring yourself. I assure you that you will leave happy and wanting to come back for seconds.
– Rachel Hannon, Yoga Instructor, Natural Chef, and Financial Analyst
Who are the retreatshops for?
Women who want to say yes to themselves instead of no.
Women who sense that they have more greatness to birth.
Women who desire to know and trust their own hungers.
Women who want to trust their desires.
Women who crave the courage to step more deeply into their lives.
Women who want to explore their relationship to themselves.
Women who know the power of women sitting with other women.
Rachel has an important message to share, but it’s not in neon lights or wrapped with a big bow or glitzed up by an L.A. advertising agency. She delivers it in the most humble and loving manner and it touches your soul. You feel like she’s your best friend from middle school with whom you’re finally catching up after losing touch, because she shares some poignant stories and compelling personal testimony and makes it feel safe for you to be vulnerable, too. She’s real. She wants to share what she has learned so you can heal and grow and identify and feed your own hungers and become the person you’re meant to be. It’s truly a blessing to be offered this opportunity, and I feel very blessed right now.
- Carrie Sullivan, Mise En Place Consulting
Rachel’s retreatshop was a sanctuary for my soul. A short but powerful time to be renewed and inspired. She is a wise woman who asks the questions your heart wants to answer.
- Rabbi Karen Chai Levy
You’ll meet all types of women — young and old, dread-locked and bow-tied, at war and at peace with food, religious and agnostic. There is no one type of woman for whom this experience is designed. If you want to know and feed your truest hungers, at and away from the table, The Retreatshop is for you. Each session will bring together just 15 or fewer women.
For me, the word hunger has several meanings. In general, however, food hungers are simply doorways into the disconnection so many women have with their deeper hungers in life – in their careers, relationships, creativity, self-care, and spirituality.
We will explore food-related hungers, and how understanding them can help us understand the broader hungers we each experience. You’ll gain important insights into your personal hungers from The Retreatshop whether you are at war or at peace with food.
Rachel’s Retreatshop was just what I needed! She is a skilled facilitator who hit just the right balance of meaningful content, time to share, and inner exploration. Her presence, coupled with the opportunity to be with a fantastic group of women, made for a magical and memorable afternoon. Thanks Rachel!
– Adee Swanson, MA, Certified Spirit Coach
Rachel Cole is an artist. In her Retreatshops, she creates a warm, safe, and inspiring space to explore your real hungers and share your authentic self. Her touch is expert, loving, and so keyed into just what is happening in that moment that little insights bloom into real revelations.
- Kim Ribeiro
Tell me more. . .
I will share the inspiring story of my journey from starvation to being deliciously well-fed (at and away from the table); from living in isolated shame to living in authentic connection with others; from living at war with myself to living in peace; from living disconnected from my hungers to having a deep relationship with and reverence for them.
I will guide you in exploring your true hungers, how you relate to yourself, how you connect (or disconnect) from that which feeds you, and how you grant or withhold permission to feast on your life.
Through powerful storytelling, guided meditation, reflective writing exercises, and intimate, honest, and enlightening conversation, the Retreatshop will leave you with an open heart and nourished spirit.
You’ll take away:
- real-life tools, practices, and guidelines for being well-fed
- a deeper connection to yourself and reverence for your hungers
- grounding into the road map that is your hunger
- real connections to other incredible women committed to being well-fed
- a signed copy of The Porridge Manifesto ($15 value)
This gathering of women will be as delicious as any meal. Come feast on your life!
I am always struck by Rachel’s wisdom and perspective, by how she is able to cut through clutter and make clear something I haven’t been able to see properly. Our conversations leave me with insights that resonate weeks and months later. There is no judgement, no bad feelings, just the comfort that someone else knows my hopes and goals and wants to help me get where I’m going.
–Tara Austen Weaver, Writer
Rachel Cole is a kind, passionate human being full of wisdom beyond her years. When working with people, she has a special talent for listening, cutting through the clutter, and zeroing in on the absolute essence of what’s most important about your unique situation. And she won’t be afraid to lovingly and gently help you figure out what you need to do about it.
–Vanessa Barrington, Writer and Culinary Guide
CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT PHOTOS AND WORDS OF PRAISE FROM THE BERKELEY RETREATSHOP!!!
Who are you?
I’m a certified life coach, retreat hostess, instigator of ease, and hunger-satisfier. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, I’ve spent years steeped in the vibrant Bay Area food community while earning my MA in Holistic Health Education. I’m on a mission to guide women towards understanding and feeding their truest hungers. I have nearly 10 years of experience planning and hosting meaningful events on a range of topics and for groups both big and small. Through all my varied endeavors, I strive to be an inspiration for each of us to feast on our lives.
There is something really empowering about witnessing someone unravel their truth and their story to how they got to that truth. You can feel it reverberating in your body at its core – and the shifting begins to happen. The shift towards being present with yourself and your truest desires. It’s this re-learning process of being true to ourselves, being loving and kind to ourselves, and reconnecting with our intuitive selves all which marinates into self-magic. I thank Rachel Cole for masterfully crafting a safe forum for us powerful women, to come and explore a greater understanding of our true hungers and to leave deepened with the trust for our inner wisdoms.
–Sanaz Ebriani, Nutrition Coach
Rachel is a remarkably insightful person, like she has an X-ray into your deep thoughts. But really, it’s because she’s a good listener. She’s intuitive. And she’s done THE WORK, so she usually has a very good idea where you head and heart are. And best of all, she’s a passionate visionary, and calls it like she sees it. She wants everyone to shine, and get out of their own ways, so listen to her wise words.
–Marcia Gagliardi, the tablehopper
What does it cost to attend one of The Retreatshops?
The 3-hour Retreatshop costs $100 per person.
Retreatshop attendees may also schedule a one-on-one 90-minute consultation with me for an additional $150 (regularly $250). Note: this session must be booked within 90 days of the event.
Have any questions about the Retreatshops? Email me at rachel@rachelwcole.com
When and where is the closest Retreatshop to my home?
Austin, TX
January 14th
1-4 pm
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Petaluma, CA
January 28th
1-4 pm
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Berkeley, CA
February 11th
1-4 pm
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Fort Collins, CO
February 19th
12:30-3:30 pm
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New York, NY
February 25th
10 am-1 pm
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Providence, RI
February 26th
2-5 pm
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Northampton, MA
CANCELLED
Alexandria, VA
March 3rd
1-4 pm
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San Francisco, CA
March 24th
1-4pm
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Portland, OR
CANCELLED
Seattle, WA
April 7th
10 am – 1 pm
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Chicago, IL
April 14th
12-3 pm
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Minneapolis, MN
April 15th
1-4 pm
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Los Angeles, CA
April 21st
1-4 pm
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Tales from Mighty Summit
Posted September 22, 2011
Paris the Westie + Me taken by the fantastic Katie Spence
I’d heard about Mighty Summit, a luxurious weekend gathering of bloggers, hosted by Maggie Mason and Laura Mayes, last year when my friends Andrea Scher and Tara Austen Weaver attended. It sounded pretty fabulous – awesome women, delicious food + drink, and lots of fun schwag (You know your life is good when you have to look up how to spell schwag). On August 30th I sent this email to Andrea and Tara:
“I want to go to the Mighty Summit. I don’t know if this the school nerd wanting to sit at the popular girl’s lunch table or what, but I want to go. I don’t know if you two have any input (do they ask previous attendees to nominate? etc), but if you do….please know I’d love love love to go. Probably too late for this year…but perhaps in the future. Okay – just putting my hungers out there. 
”
Then, on Septemeber 1st, I received this email:
“Hi Rachel, I’m Maggie Mason, I don’t think we’ve met. Andrea Scher said you would be a good person to invite to the Mighty Summit, so I thought I’d ask how your schedule looks for September 16-19th. If you’re free, let me know and I’ll send you all the details. Best, Maggie”
Yep. It was that simple. Lest you think it’s all about who you know I want to reiterate that it didn’t matter who I knew if I had never asked and expressed my hunger. Ask for what you want.
Here’s a roundup of some of the ingredients that made this weekend amazing:
: Sharing a ride, a room, lots of laughs, and some great heart-to-hearts with Willo O’brien (aka Willotoons).
: The Boon Hotel + Spa in quaint Guerneville, California where we stayed. Boon, named after this adorable dog, is a modern retreat nestled at the foot of a redwood forest. It has a clean white color palette splashed with vibrant orange here and there. There are LOTS of reasons I’d happily stay there again, not the least of which is that it’s dog-friendly.
: Friday night they had a taco truck come to the hotel and pull up nearly pool-side. Delicious.
: Saturday morning we shared our electronic gadget faux pas – mine was this instagram pic. Perhaps not the most polite photo I ever took.
: Oh yes, the schwag. A gorgeous epiphanie camera bag. The letter C for Cole from Typekit (everyone got an object with their intial). A cute and comfy pair of Tieks in my size. Tattly tattoos. Gretchen’s Happiness Project book (btw, Gretchen is incredibly lovely in person!). A sweet fiestyelle necklace. A beautiful lemonade handmade necklace. A free pass to Superhero Photo.
: Everyone received a 30 minute massage….heaven.
: We visited and tasted at Moshin, Arista, and Hop Kiln wineries. I came home with more than a few bottles.
: On Friday we drank wine from Taken Wine Company – totally delicious.
: Saturday and Sunday our lunches were catered by the delicious Big Bottom Market (also owned by the Boon folks).
: We roasted smores at night around a fire pit and drank Baileys. Sarah ate her first smore ever!
: We had plenty of time to do absolutely nothing. There’s a reason I came back totally recharged.
: I learned how to high-five accurately (I admit that in my incorridnation I sometime miss the other person’s hand). The trick is to keep your eye on their elbow and then the follow through. Who knew?)
Life Lists!
So believe it or not we weren’t just gathered together to be pampered and get tipsy. We each came with our life list – 100 things we want to do before we die. A packet of everyone’s lists was in our welcome folders and I went to bed each night reading through them – so fun! On Sunday we ate lunch atop a beautiful hill (we’re told at night it’s make-out central) at Thomas George vineyards (yes, after a tasting of their wines) where each of us stood up and shared 5 things from our lists that we wanted to accomplish in the coming year. We were asked to listen for anything anyone shared that we might be able to help with.There were some crazy/amazing/funny items on other people’s lists such as “Have sex every single day for an entire year” and “Teach a girl to love her ass” just to name a few.
Here’s my list – it’s not quite 100 items but I think of something new nearly every day, so it’s a start:
: Get funding and find a film making partner for my documentary film.
: Visit Esalen, Kripalu, and Omega AND lead a retreat at at least two of these.
: Work with a kick-ass business strategist and get assistance writing a business plan.
: Figure out how to best preserve/display my parent’s letters from the Peace Corp
: Get trained in transformational speaking with Gail Larsen
: Own a Welsh terrier who I will name Wendell ‘Le Beouff’ Cood.
: Really learn how to use my SLR camera.
: Visit my sister in Berlin.
: Own a Vitamix (Confession: I ordered one this weekend)
: Have my own office/studio and/or a co-working space for creatives in the East Bay.
: Learn to be comfortable painting (know what to use, basic techniques, be less afraid). I plan to take Get Your Paint On in the new year.
: Go away for a few days with my partner (baker/pastry chef works 7 days a week – zero time off in the past 6 months).
: Share The Choose Love Project with the world. (COMING SOON!!!!)
: Get back into regularly practicing Iyengar yoga
: Travel to Japan.
: Learn how to garden (build raised beds, work with Oakland climate, pest control, etc.).
: Get a beautiful tattoo (I have it narrowed down to three options, need artist and help selecting).
: Assist at a Geneen Roth retreat/have coffee with Geneen Roth.
: Travel Alaska by water taxi.
: Take more overnight train trips.
: Get bodywork every month.
: Host a retreat for my girlfriends.
: Publish my Animal Body children’s book.
: Take photos of women with gapped teeth.
: Attend TED.
: Have a boudoir photo shoot.
: Own a home that has a library.
: Own a home that has amazing natural light.
: Own an eco-friendly mattress.
: Make a large donation to the Berkeley YMCA.
: Pay back my angel investor.
: Attend a Be Present Retreat.
: Own a Swan Island blanket.
: Commission Nick Askew to make a film for me.
: Have lunch with Ruth Reichl, in her kitchen.
: Take a cross-country tour to visit all my non-local girlfriends (Portland, Seattle, Vancouver, Missoula, Boston, Austin, etc.)
: Do an apartment swap. (Mine is pretty fab – just say’)
: Continue to be successfully and joyfully self-employed (hallelujah).
: Learn to make killer margaritas.
: Have a fig tree.
: Take more walks.
: Buy a bottle of Kai perfume.
: Get rid of 90% of my cookbooks.
: Play/make kick-the-can ice cream.
: Iceland.
: Make peace with a decision to have or not have children. (Yes, I’m considering this ecourse)
: Own La Perla lingerie (or the equivalent brand for girls with big tatas).
: Have my everyday dishes be Heath.
: Have annual canning, preserving, and pickling traditions.
: Have a solid plan for a secure retirement.
: Have a separate couple’ life list just for my partner and me.
: Play bingo with the Sisterhood of Perpetual Indulgence.
: Master making tamales like my grandmother used to.
: Have a feature article in a magazine about my life.
: Finish, along with my sister, my family’s cookbook.
A big thank you to Maggie, Laura, and the other amazing ladies who made this summit so mighty!
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