Since You Asked with Lori Gottlieb and Gretchen Rubin How to Manage a Dramatic Family Member? Plus: Separating Twice & Staying Together With Mandy Patinkin & Kathryn Grody
Nov 4, 2025
Mandy Patinkin, an acclaimed actor known for his roles in 'Homeland' and 'The Princess Bride,' and his partner Kathryn Grody, an actress and writer, share wisdom on navigating family drama. They offer practical advice for handling emotional outbursts at gatherings and emphasize the importance of setting boundaries. Reflecting on their two separations, they discuss how those experiences led to personal growth and acceptance of each other's flaws. Their humorous and heartfelt anecdotes provide insights into building a resilient relationship.
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Interrupt The Cycle With Private Boundaries
- Take the host aside and offer empathy but set boundaries: suggest discussing feelings later in private.
- If it repeats, enlist close family to steer the person toward therapy or private help.
Listen First, Redirect Second
- Be kind and listen the first time, then offer concrete suggestions like therapy if asked for help.
- If someone repeatedly derails celebrations, shift from listening to redirecting them to appropriate support.
Create A Private Space Option
- Tell guests it's not the right time and propose an alternate time or private space to talk.
- Assign a relative to quietly escort them to a back room to regroup if needed.