Love Conscious Relationship podcast

#Society #Relationship #Religion #Podcasting Education #Self-Improvement #jessicamyersadams

31:08

AI isn't about replacement – it's about enhancement. Austin and Jannese travel to Tampa, Florida to meet Alexa Kritis Mancuso , founder of Alexa Kritis Events , who reveals how she masterfully blends artificial intelligence with the personal connection essential to event planning. Discover how Alexa shares how she leverages AI platforms to handle routine tasks as well as showing clients how she can bring their creative visions to life. Like QuickBooks, there’s a perfect combination of AI-driven processes and human expertise that can help free up your time to make more money and focus on the things that matter. Whether you're AI-curious or AI-cautious, Alexa explains how to harness this technology to boost your bottom line while creating deeper connections with your customers. Learn more about how QuickBooks can help you grow your business: QuickBooks.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

Love Conscious Relationship explicit

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Welcome! I’m Jessica, a couples therapist and relationship coach with over 10 years of experience helping couples navigate relationship challenges. In this podcast, we focus on building stronger, more loving connections by tackling common issues like communication struggles, trust problems, loneliness, and the need for appreciation, intimacy, and connection. We dive deep into the world of love consciousness and its link to spirituality, exploring practical ways to connect with your higher power through meditation and self-help techniques. Each episode sheds light on barriers to love consciousness—such as past trauma and internal struggles—that make forgiveness and love challenging. My goal is to encourage you to become a relationship visionary, someone who sees their relationship as a higher purpose and strives to ensure both partners feel valued and connected. I discuss overcoming challenges and creating a relationship where both partners are respected and understood. Join me on this transformative journey to better relationships. Let’s work together to cultivate love and connection in your life. Subscribe now and start your path to a more conscious and loving relationship.

44 episodes

Love Conscious Relationship explicit

updated 12 days ago

Series home•Feed

44 episodes

#Society #Relationship #Religion #Podcasting Education #Self-Improvement #jessicamyersadams

All episodes

1
Episode 44: Are You Sabotaging Vulnerability in Your Relationship? How to Increase Emotional Connection and Intimacy 32:31

12 days ago32:31

32:31

Are you feeling disconnected in your relationship? Do conversations with your partner feel surface-level, lacking emotional depth, affection, or real understanding? When emotional intimacy fades, relationships start to feel lonely and frustrating. If you’re longing for deeper conversations, more connection, and the feeling of truly being seen and heard, this episode is for you. In today’s episode of Love, Connection, and Relationships (LCR) , we’re tackling how to stop sabotaging vulnerability and create deeper emotional intimacy with your partner. Whether your relationship feels distant, your partner avoids deep conversations, or you struggle to express your own emotions, you’ll learn how to open up and create a safe space for connection. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Why Your Relationship Feels Emotionally Distant – The common mistakes that block vulnerability and keep partners from opening up. ✅ Signs You’re Not as Vulnerable as You Think – Are you sharing emotions or just talking? Understanding the difference between surface-level sharing and true emotional exposure. ✅ The ‘Bullseye’ of Vulnerability – A simple framework to move beyond surface conversations and get to the heart of what you really want to express. ✅ How to Make It Safe for Your Partner to Listen – Why taking responsibility for your emotions encourages deeper connection. ✅ What to Do If Your Partner Won’t Open Up – The impact of past hurt and resentment, and how to create a shift in the relationship. ✅ How to Encourage Your Partner to Share – Key strategies to invite vulnerability and create a space where both of you feel emotionally safe. ✅ The 3-Step Reset to Improve Communication & Connection: The 3-Acknowledgment Rule – Express appreciation three times per week to shift the dynamic. Reduce Negative Interactions by 50% – Cut down tension and miscommunication to create emotional safety. The ‘Pause & Pivot’ Method – How to respond when your partner shuts down without pushing them away. If you’re tired of feeling unheard and disconnected, this episode will give you practical steps to rebuild emotional intimacy and create the relationship you truly want. 🔗 Resources Mentioned: 👉 How to Reconnect After a Fight 👉 7-Day Relationship Reboot 📲 Follow me for more relationship insights: Instagram: @jessicarelationshipvisionary Facebook: @emergentrelationshipcenter…

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Episode 43: Tired of Being Ignored, Dismissed, or Met with Grumbles? The Instant Relationship Fix 20:21

19 days ago20:21

20:21

Does your partner grumble, dismiss you, or seem unsupportive when you try to connect? It’s frustrating—like you’re stuck in the same recycled fights, hoping for change but getting nowhere. It can feel exhausting, like you're talking to a wall, and over time, that disconnect can lead to resentment and an even wider gap between you. In this episode, I’m diving into the common ways we try (and fail) to get our partner to be more responsive. Many of these efforts—whether it’s pushing harder, shutting down ourselves, or trying to reason with logic—actually backfire, making things worse instead of better. When these strategies don’t work, it’s easy to feel hopeless, but the truth is, there are two key ways you can influence real change in your relationship. I’ll break down what those two approaches are, why they work when other tactics don’t, and—most importantly—what to do when your efforts fail so you can find peace and stop the cycle of frustration. If you listen until the end, I’ll also walk you through an action plan you can use right away to start seeing immediate change. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why the way you’re trying to get your partner to respond might be backfiring The two key ways you can actually influence change in your relationship What to do when your partner dismisses, ignores, or shuts you down How to avoid the resentment cycle when your efforts don’t work A step-by-step action plan for creating immediate change If you’re tired of feeling ignored, dismissed, or unheard, this episode is for you. 🔗 Resources Mentioned: 👉 How to Reconnect After a Fight 👉 7-Day Relationship Reboot 📲 Follow me for more relationship insights: Instagram: @jessicarelationshipvisionary Facebook: @emergentrelationshipcenter…

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Episode 42: Tired of Being Ignored, Dismissed, or Met with Grumbles? The Instant Relationship Fix 26:41

26 days ago26:41

26:41

Does your partner grumble, dismiss you, or seem unsupportive when you try to connect? It’s frustrating—like you’re stuck in the same recycled fights, hoping for change but getting nowhere. It can feel exhausting, like you're talking to a wall, and over time, that disconnect can lead to resentment and an even wider gap between you. In this episode, I’m diving into the common ways we try (and fail) to get our partner to be more responsive. Many of these efforts—whether it’s pushing harder, shutting down ourselves, or trying to reason with logic—actually backfire, making things worse instead of better. When these strategies don’t work, it’s easy to feel hopeless, but the truth is, there are two key ways you can influence real change in your relationship. I’ll break down what those two approaches are, why they work when other tactics don’t, and—most importantly—what to do when your efforts fail so you can find peace and stop the cycle of frustration. If you listen until the end, I’ll also walk you through an action plan you can use right away to start seeing immediate change. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why the way you’re trying to get your partner to respond might be backfiringThe two key ways you can actually influence change in your relationship What to do when your partner dismisses, ignores, or shuts you down How to avoid the resentment cycle when your efforts don’t work A step-by-step action plan for creating immediate change If you’re tired of feeling ignored, dismissed, or unheard, this episode is for you. 🔗 Resources Mentioned: 👉 How to Reconnect After a Fight 👉 7-Day Relationship Reboot 📲 Follow me for more relationship insights: Instagram: @jessicarelationshipvisionary Facebook: @emergentrelationshipcenter…

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Episode 41: What If Your Partner Isn’t Trying? Part 2: Why Romance Fades & How to Get It Back 33:23

5 weeks ago33:23

33:23

You plan the dates, initiate conversations, and try to keep the connection alive… but your partner seems comfortable. Maybe too comfortable. It can feel frustrating—like the effort is one-sided. But what if their lack of effort isn’t what you think? In this episode, we’re breaking down what’s really going on when romance fades, why your partner might not even realize something is missing, and—most importantly—what you can do about it. This isn’t about begging for attention or waiting for them to change. It’s about shifting the energy in ways that naturally bring back curiosity, attraction, and connection. We’ll explore: The surprising biological reason why love starts out intense but eventually cools down—and why this doesn’t mean the relationship is doomed. How your brain, without you realizing it, can make your partner feel less exciting over time. Why waiting for your partner to suddenly “wake up” and put in effort isn’t the solution—and what works instead. The hidden factor that kills passion faster than anything else (it’s not what you think). A key shift that can make you feel more desired, connected, and excited in your relationship—even if your partner isn’t doing anything differently. Ten strategies that disrupt the patterns that kill attraction and make romance feel effortless again. This episode will challenge the way you think about long-term relationships and give you clear, science-backed steps to break free from the rut. If you’ve been feeling unseen, unheard, or like you’re carrying the emotional weight of the relationship, you don’t want to miss this one. 🔹 Resources & Links: 🔹 Reboot Your Relationship – Get the step-by-step framework to rebuild connection in just 7 days. 🔹 Reconnection After a Fight – Learn how to move forward and repair after conflict. The War of Art by Steven Pressfield is a powerful guide designed to help individuals break through creative barriers and overcome resistance. It offers insights, strategies, and motivation to push past self-doubt and procrastination, allowing artists, writers, and creatives to fully tap into their potential and accomplish their goals. 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Share it with a friend who needs to hear this! And don’t forget to leave a review—it helps more people find the show.…

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Episode 40 : What to Do When It Feels Like Your Partner Isn’t Putting in Effort 23:23

6 weeks ago23:23

23:23

Ever feel like you and your partner are more like roommates than a couple? The connection feels off, the effort is minimal, and you’re stuck waiting for them to notice. But here’s the thing—if you’re waiting, so are they. And that waiting game? It’s keeping both of you disconnected. In this episode, we’re talking about: ✔️ Why romance naturally fades (and how to bring it back) ✔️ The real reason it feels like your partner isn’t trying ✔️ What to do if it feels one-sided – You might be thinking: Why should I be the one trying? What if I turn toward them, and they don’t appreciate it? ✔️ The one thing that 86% of happy couples do to reignite the spark ✔️ How tiny moments of connection (bids) make or break a relationship ✔️ Simple shifts you can make today to start feeling closer again 💡 The good news? You don’t have to wait for your partner to fix this. You have more power than you think—starting with understanding what actually rebuilds connection. 🎧 Tune in now to learn what really moves the needle in your relationship! Resources Mentioned: 🔹 Reboot Your Relationship – Get the step-by-step framework to rebuild connection in just 7 days. 🔹 Reconnection After a Fight – Learn how to move forward and repair after conflict. 🔹 Episode: Becoming a Relationship Visionary – Shift your mindset and lead the change in your relationship. 🔥 Loved this episode? Share it with a friend who needs it, and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update!…

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Episode 39: The Special Occasion Trap: Expectations That Hurt Your Relationship 18:14

7 weeks ago18:14

18:14

This is for you if you’ve ever thought or faced: ❌ “It’s Valentine’s Day—shouldn’t they have planned something?” ❌ “They should know what I like by now!” ❌ “But we read the Love Languages book… so why isn’t it working?” If you’ve ever felt disappointed on a special occasion because your partner should have known what you wanted, you’re not alone. But what if those expectations are actually working against your relationship? In this episode, we’re breaking down: ✅ Knowing how your relationship has changed is key ✅ Why expecting your partner to read your mind leads to frustration ✅ The shift to a mature view of expectations in relationships ✅ How shifting from getting to giving transforms connection ✅ Why curiosity about your partner’s perspective matters more than assumptions With Valentine’s Day and other big moments around the corner, now is the time to rethink how we show up for each other—without resentment, pressure, or unmet expectations. Listen now and start making small shifts that lead to real connection. 🎧 Want to go deeper? Check out my Relationship Reboot program to start transforming your relationship today! Connect with Me: 📩 email jessica@emergentrelationshipcenter.com 📱 Follow me on Instagram for daily relationship tips…

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Episode 38: Should You Start Couples Therapy? 3 Biggest Mistakes to Avoid 24:04

8 weeks ago24:04

24:04

💡 Is couples therapy the right step for your relationship? What if your relationship feels off, but you’re not sure where to start? Should you go to therapy when your partner doesn’t want to? Will it actually help, or just turn into a weekly complaint session? The Mistakes That Can Hold You Back Most couples go into therapy hoping for change but leave feeling frustrated. Why? Because not all therapy is the same. Before you start, you need to know: What happens if your therapist isn’t actually trained in couples therapy? (Hint: 80% aren’t!) Why a lack of a structured roadmap will keep you stuck in the same cycles. The mindset shift that will make or break your therapy experience. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 🔥 The truth about couples therapy training—and why most therapists aren’t equipped to handle relationship dynamics. 🔥 How to avoid “venting sessions” and find a therapist who actually creates change. 🔥 The leadership problem in therapy—why you need more than just a mediator. 🔥 The #1 shift that will help you get results—even if your partner is resistant to therapy. 💡 Mindset Shift: Therapy isn’t about fixing your partner—it’s about becoming the kind of partner who creates a better relationship. When you shift your focus, your relationship starts to shift, too. Resources Mentioned in the Show: 🔗 How to Reconnect After a Fight – A step-by-step guide to repairing conflict. 💡 7-Day Relationship Reboot – The fast-track way to transform your relationship in one week. Connect with Me: 📩 email jessica@emergentrelationshipcenter.com 📱 Follow me on Instagram for daily relationship tips…

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Episode 37: Is Your Relationship Over? How to Know When the Damage Is Too Much 17:48

9 weeks ago17:48

17:48

How do you know when it’s time to walk away from your relationship? When there is no emotional connection? When you have Communication breakdowns? What if there is no physical intimacy? Lost trust? Or what if you have interest in someone else? The Signs You Can’t Ignore These are big red flags, but do they always mean it’s over? Not necessarily. In today’s episode, I’m tackling: What it really means when there’s no emotional connection—and whether you can rebuild it. Communication breakdowns—are they a sign of the end, or can they be fixed? Should you end a relationship if there’s no physical intimacy? What a lack of closeness really means. What to do when there’s no trust—can it ever be restored, or is it time to move on? Should you break up if you have interest in someone else? What this could mean for your current relationship. The two key questions to ask yourself to know if it’s time to leave—or if there’s still something worth saving. Resources mentioned in the show: 🔗 Why Change is Hard (Ep. 30) Resources: 📖 Download the guide: How to Reconnect After a Fight – A quick-reference tool for re-engaging after an argument. 💡 Explore the 7-Day Relationship Reboot : Transform your relationship in just a week, with easy daily steps. Connect with me: 📲 Instagram: @jessicarelationshipvisionary 🎧 Listen now to get the clarity you need.…

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Episode 36 How to Repair Trust in Your Relationship 23:47

10 weeks ago23:47

23:47

Episode Summary: Trust issues can feel overwhelming, leaving you uncertain about how to move forward. Whether the breach involves withholding information, broken promises, or even betrayal, rebuilding trust starts with small, intentional steps. In today’s episode, we’re tackling trust-related problems in relationships, including how to begin repairing trust, how to be part of regaining it, and how to effectively share what you’re feeling with your partner. What You’ll Learn: How to start repairing trust in your relationship: Understand the importance of acknowledging the breach and taking the first steps toward reconciliation. How to actively be part of rebuilding trust: Discover what actions you can take to show commitment and reliability moving forward. How to reduce jealousy in a relationship: Learn how jealousy damages trust and what you can do to minimize its impact. How to express what you’re feeling effectively: Explore ways to communicate your emotions without escalating conflict or pushing your partner away. How to begin healing from betrayal: Practical steps to start processing the pain and create space for connection again. Key Takeaways: Trust can be rebuilt through consistent, honest actions over time. Repairing trust requires non-defensive communication. Reducing jealousy and suspicion starts with understanding your own triggers and practicing emotional regulation. Sharing your feelings in a clear, vulnerable way creates opportunities for connection instead of conflict. Healing is a process—what you can do each day lead to lasting change in the relationship. Why This Episode Matters: Trust issues don’t have to define your relationship. Whether you’ve been hurt or want to create a stronger foundation, this episode gives you practical, actionable steps to start rebuilding trust and creating a deeper connection with your partner. In this episode How to repair trust in a relationship Steps to rebuild trust after betrayal What to do when trust is broken Reducing jealousy in relationships How to regain trust in your partner Expressing feelings in a relationship How to heal from betrayal Trust-building in relationships If this episode gave you hope or ideas for moving forward, share it with a friend or partner who might need it. For more insights and tools to strengthen your relationship see these resources below Resources: Download the guide: How to Reconnect After a Fight – a quick-reference tool for re-engaging after an argument Explore the 7-Day Relationship Reboot – transform your relationship in just a week, with easy daily steps Socials: https://www.instagram.com/jessicarelationshipvisionary/…

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Episode 35: Why Don’t Our Partners Help Us? (And What You Can Do About It) 26:58

11 weeks ago26:58

26:58

Do you ever feel like you’re carrying the weight of everything in your relationship? Like your partner doesn’t step up, leaving you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or responsible for everything? If you’ve ever wondered how to get your partner to help more or why they don’t seem to notice what you need, this episode is for you. We’re unpacking the reasons behind this dynamic and exploring practical steps to create balance in your relationship. From recognizing patterns like overfunctioning to learning how to express your needs clearly, I give you actionable tools to shift the responsibility and feel more supported. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why you might feel like you’re doing everything in your relationship. How to stop feeling like you’re responsible for all the emotional and physical labor. The role of self-expression in getting your partner to step up without nagging or conflict. How overfunctioning might be preventing your partner from helping. Five steps to reset the dynamic and create a more balanced partnership. Resources Guide: How to Reconnect After a Fight Mini-Course: 7-Day Relationship Reboot 5 Steps to Get Your Partner to Help More Recognize Overfunctioning Overfunctioning happens when you take on too much—whether it’s tasks, emotions, or decisions—because you feel it’s easier than letting go. But this can unintentionally signal to your partner that their help isn’t needed, which keeps the dynamic stuck. Pause Before Taking Over Instead of jumping in to handle everything, pause and ask yourself: Do I really need to take this on, or can I let my partner handle it? Creating space allows your partner to step in. Communicate What You Need Partners often don’t help because they don’t know exactly what you want. Say things like, “I’m feeling overwhelmed and could use your help with [specific task],” rather than, “You never help.” Clear communication avoids blame and fosters collaboration. Let Go of Perfection If you expect your partner to do things exactly the way you would, you might unintentionally discourage them from helping. Focus on their effort rather than how perfectly they do something. Reinforce and Acknowledge Their Help When your partner steps up, let them know you appreciate it. Positive reinforcement builds their confidence and encourages them to contribute more consistently. Key Quotes from the Episode “Your partner can’t step up if you’re always stepping in.” “Clear communication is the bridge between feeling unsupported and creating a true partnership.” “When you let go of control, you create space for your partner to step in and help.” Listen Now If you’re tired of feeling like you’re doing everything in your relationship and want to know how to get your partner to step up, this episode is for you. We’ll help you identify the patterns that keep you stuck, share strategies for clear communication, and show you how to create the balanced partnership you deserve. Resources: Download the guide: How to Reconnect After a Fight – a quick-reference tool for re-engaging after an argument Explore the 7-Day Relationship Reboot – transform your relationship in just a week, with easy daily steps Socials: https://www.instagram.com/jessicarelationshipvisionary/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084765327582…

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Episode 34: Why Miscommunication Happens in Relationships (and How to Fix It) 33:21

12 weeks ago33:21

33:21

Do you feel like your partner never understands you ? Are arguments starting out of nowhere ? Or maybe your partner shuts down the moment you try to talk? Miscommunication can make even small conversations feel impossible. It’s like you’re speaking two different languages, and no matter how hard you try, the message gets lost in translation. But here’s the thing: communication problems aren’t always about what’s being said—it’s about what’s being heard and understood. In this episode, Jessica breaks down the 3 biggest reasons miscommunication happens in relationships and how you can learn to translate what you’re saying—and what your partner is trying to say—so you can truly connect. Jessica will guide you through: Assumptions & Mindreading – Why thinking “they should just know” leads to frustration and conflict. Nonverbal Interpretations – How we often misread tone, body language, or facial expressions and jump to conclusions. Lack of Clarity in Messages – The danger of vague complaints and hidden expectations that leave your partner guessing. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why can’t they understand me?” or “Why do we fight for no reason?” this episode will help you untangle the confusion and improve your communication. Learn simple tools to reduce miscommunication, understand your partner better, and start speaking the same language—literally and emotionally. Tune in now to transform the way you communicate in your relationship! Resources: Download the guide: How to Reconnect After a Fight – a quick-reference tool for re-engaging after an argument Explore the 7-Day Relationship Reboot – transform your relationship in just a week, with easy daily steps Socials: https://www.instagram.com/jessicarelationshipvisionary/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084765327582…

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Podcast 33: Why Isn’t My Partner Sharing? How to Get Your Partner to Open Up 18:34

13 weeks ago18:34

18:34

Ever asked your partner, “How was your day?” and got a flat “fine” in response? Or maybe you’ve tried, “How are you feeling?” and got a one-word answer like “good” or “okay” . If you’ve been there, you’re not alone. In this episode of Love Conscious Relationship Podcast , we’re diving into one of the most common relationship struggles: “Why isn’t my partner sharing with me?” and “How can I get my partner to open up?” Here’s what you’ll learn: The right questions to ask to spark meaningful conversations. The best way to create a safe space for your partner to share openly. How to build a foundation of goodwill so your partner feels comfortable opening up. Spoiler alert: If your partner isn’t sharing, it’s not because they don’t want to talk—it’s because something is getting in the way. And in this episode, we’ll break down exactly what that is and how you can change it. Whether you’re tired of surface-level answers or you want to strengthen your emotional connection, this episode will give you practical tools to make your relationship better—one conversation at a time. Hit play now and start unlocking deeper connection today! Resources: Download the guide: How to Reconnect After a Fight – a quick-reference tool for re-engaging after an argument Explore the 7-Day Relationship Reboot – transform your relationship in just a week, with easy daily steps Socials: https://www.instagram.com/jessicarelationshipvisionary/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084765327582…

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Episode 32 Differentiation Deep Dive: Why Defensiveness Happens and How to Stop It 34:32

14 weeks ago34:32

34:32

Episode 32 Differentiation Deep Dive: Why Defensiveness Happens and How to Stop It Do your conversations with your partner often turn into arguments, end in silence, or leave you feeling unheard? In this episode, we’re tackling one of the biggest barriers to healthy communication: defensiveness. You’ll learn why conversations so easily get stuck in cycles of blame and frustration, and I’ll share one simple line you can use to redirect your partner’s defensiveness—or even stop it before it starts. In this episode, you'll discover: Why defensiveness shows up in conversations and how to recognize it. The one simple line that can instantly shift your partner out of defensiveness. How to stay calm and connected, even when conversations feel tense. Practical tools to create better communication and deeper intimacy in your relationship. If you're tired of feeling like every discussion is a ticking time bomb, this episode is your roadmap to better communication, deeper connection, and more meaningful conversations in your relationship. 👉 Ready to transform your relationship in just 7 days? Check out my Relationship Reboot Program here .…

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Podcast Episode 31: Real Intimacy No One Talks About 40:34

15 weeks ago40:34

40:34

Real intimacy isn’t just about feeling close or being ‘on the same page.’ It happens when one partner opens up about what they truly want—something real, something vulnerable—and the other meets it with curiosity, not judgment. This kind of connection isn’t luck or magic—it’s a process. There’s a roadmap to reaching this level of connection, and today, I’m sharing it with you. Grab a notebook or plan to come back to this episode, because once you learn how this works, it changes everything. We Talk About: The Hidden Roadmap to Intimacy: Why real intimacy is about being vulnerable and being met with curiosity. How to create emotional safety in your relationship. Why Most Couples Feel Stuck: Are you or your partner passive or avoidant? Do you compete instead of collaborating? Do you feel like you never spend quality time together? Want to know how to create lasting relationship growth. The Stages of Relationships: The target to aim for in every relationship. Differentiation Stage: How to maintain individuality while staying connected. How to be truly understood by your partner. Relationship Challenges When Stages Go Off-Track: Symbiosis-Only Couples: Avoid conflict but lose individuality. Hostile-Dependent Couples: Fight but can’t separate. Conflict-Avoidant Couples: Bury issues until resentment builds. Diagnosing Your Relationship: 1. Reflecting on Your Early Relationship: Was your relationship fun and exciting in the beginning? Did you feel connected, compatible, and supported? Why This Matters: If yes, you likely had a strong honeymoon stage, which can motivate you now. If not, rebuilding may require deeper work. 2. Are You Stuck in a Cycle? Avoidant Dynamics – The “I’m Fine Alone” Couple: Does one of you act like you don’t need much from the other? Are decisions made solo to avoid feeling controlled? Does someone act more like they’re single than in a relationship? What’s Happening: Avoidant partners fear dependence and often distance themselves emotionally. Their past experiences might have taught them that needing others leads to rejection or hurt. Example: One partner resists their partner’s idea for a solo trip, responding: “You’ll get lost or something bad will happen—you’ll regret it.” It’s not about the trip—it’s about fear of being abandoned. Hostile-Dependent Dynamics – The “Can’t Live With or Without You” Couple: Do your arguments feel like competitions where only one person wins? Do you often blame or criticize each other? Are your fights intense and seem to come out of nowhere? What’s Happening: Hostile-dependent couples crave closeness but fear vulnerability. Their fights are often about deeper fears of rejection that surface during everyday struggles. Example: A partner might yell, “You never appreciate what I do around here!” after a fight about chores. It’s really about feeling invisible or unvalued. 3. Are You Blocking Emotional Growth? Ask Yourself: Do you struggle to let your partner want or think differently from you? Do you assume if they disagree, they don’t care? Do you say “we” instead of “I” to avoid conflict? Breaking the Cycle: Practical Steps Tolerate the Anxiety of Difference: Can you sit with the discomfort of your partner wanting or doing something you don’t like—without jumping to blame or control? Own Your Experience: Use “I” statements like: “I feel [specific emotion] when [specific situation]” instead of accusations. Be Curious, Not Critical: Ask yourself, “Why might they want this?” instead of assuming bad intentions. Challenge the Need for Control: Understand that your partner’s independence isn’t a threat—it can create a healthier, deeper connection. The Bottom Line: When you can listen without shutting down, losing control, or withdrawing, your relationship will become more intimate—even when you have major differences like parenting styles, politics, or how you spend your time. What I Suggest: Review the questions I’ve posed. Do some journaling and self-reflection. Consider the benefits of allowing space for differences. Don’t Miss This! Bookmark this episode and leave a comment—you’ll want to come back and review these steps again.…

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Podcast 30: Why Is It So Hard to Create Change in a Relationship? 37:47

16 weeks ago37:47