The Importance of Intimacy Coordinating with Aimy Tien & Dr. Nikki Blacksmith

In this episode of REEL WISDOM WITH NK, host NK welcomes intimacy coordinator and multidisciplinary artist Aimy Tien alongside organizational psychologist Dr. Nikki Blacksmith to unpack the transformative role of intimacy coordination in film and television.

Together, Aimy and Dr. Blacksmith highlights why intimacy coordinating is not just about safety, it’s about creating peaceful, supportive spaces where actors and directors can explore stories with clarity and consent. They dive into the emotional labor of the role, from regulating on-set dynamics to giving cast and crew the confidence to speak up, especially when uncomfortable moments arise.

This conversation explores how intimacy coordinators collaborate with directors to honor creative vision while protecting the well-being of performers, and how training teams together builds bonds of trust that elevate the entire production. Aimy and Dr. Blacksmith also share practical advice on self-advocacy: knowing your non-negotiables, practicing until safety becomes instinct, and remembering that no one in this industry is ever truly alone.

Whether you’re an actor, director, or creative professional, this episode sheds light on the growing importance of intimacy coordination and its power to foster creativity, collaboration, and care on every set.

Credits:

NK Gutiérrez - Host & Producer
Katelyn Henslin - Head Producer & Director
Emily Seddon - Co-Producer
Henri' Byrd - Hair and Makeup Artist & Coordinator
Alyssa Neyland - Production Designer
Kelsey Denvir - Costume Designer
Estefania Mena - Writer and Committee Member
Netta Harper - Artwork Hair Artist
Faith Hart - Social Media Manager

Cory Coken - Audio Mixer & Executive Producer
Bryen Hensley - Technical Director
Ashton Johnson - Video Editor & Graphics
Jake Hensley - Audio Mixer
Kimberly Knudsen - Production Manager
Devin Delaney - Composer
Jamie Vanadia - Re-Recording Mixer

Production Facility - Noisefloor LTD
Post Production Provided by - Noisefloor LTD