
Focus on the Family Strengthening Marriage Podcast Talking at the Heart Level
Nov 13, 2025
Dr. Bob Paul, a marriage expert and co-author of Empowered to Love, joins Tara Lalonde, a marriage educator, to dive into the concept of 'Heart Talk'. They explore how this emotionally focused communication can deepen connection in relationships. Tara shares practical listening techniques, while Dr. Bob introduces the I SEE YOU acronym for effective understanding. They discuss creating a safe space for conversations, and how couples can naturally incorporate these tools to enhance their emotional connection and resolve conflicts.
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Heart Talk Centers On Being Understood
- Heart Talk is like active listening but centers on letting the speaker’s feelings touch your heart.
- Reflect back tentatively and confirm until the speaker feels truly understood.
Gold Moments When A Spouse Opens Up
- Tara shares Vince seldom shares from the heart and those moments feel like gold when they happen.
- She stops and listens fully, letting his words matter even if she disagrees.
Practice On Positive Topics First
- Use simple rules and practice with positive topics to build skill before tackling tough issues.
- Follow the I SEE YOU steps: identify feelings, care, touch the heart, and seek to understand.

