Empowered Relationship Podcast: Your Relationship Resource And Guide

About this Episode Is achieving a secure attachment really the ultimate marker of relationship success or could this mindset be doing more harm than good? In the quest for intimacy and connection, many of us fall into the trap of labeling ourselves and our partners, clinging to the idea that “secure” is the only way to be. But what happens when relationships don’t fit neatly into these categories, or when past experiences have shaped us in ways that make security seem out of reach? The pressure to be “securely attached” can sometimes backfire, leading to shame, blame, and a sense of hopelessness. In this episode, you’ll discover why secure attachment doesn’t have to be the ultimate destination, and why striving for secure functioning—those daily choices and mindful practices that build safety and trust—can be a far more compassionate and realistic goal. Drawing on insights from trauma work, attachment research, and couples therapy, this conversation unpacks the pitfalls of categorizing relationships as “good” or “bad,” explores the nuances of healing within partnership, and offers actionable ways to build resilience, understanding, and growth—no matter where you are on the attachment spectrum. Hanna Basel is a seasoned couples therapist and certified sex therapist. With expertise in attachment, trauma, and emotionally focused therapy (EFT), she helps people untangle their most complicated relationship patterns. As a former addictions counselor, Hanna brings both clinical expertise and lived experience to her work. She has been featured on CNN, Kare 11, MSN, and numerous podcasts where she talked about her ultimate and simple goal: to help people build relationships that help us heal and thrive. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. Episode Highlights  04:23 Hannah’s path to couples therapy: From personal struggles to professional passion. 12:25 Understanding secure attachment and relationship dynamics. 15:26 Embracing relationship growth as a lifelong practice. 19:03 Debunking the myth that you must heal yourself before getting into a relationship. 22:00 Balancing guidance and judgment. 25:37 Neuroplasticity: How relationships shape and reshape attachment. 27:59 Understanding trauma’s role in relationship dynamics. 33:38 Compassion with boundaries. 34:59 Balancing love and constructive criticism. 39:07 Pacing, timing, and emotional safety in relationship repair. 42:10 Understanding pain and betrayal. 46:36 Slowing down for better attunement. 47:57 Breaking the cycle. Mentioned Attached: The New Science of Adult Attachment and How It Can Help You Find--and Keep--Love (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication Connect with Hanna Basel Websites: hzbtherapy.com Facebook: facebook.com/watch/TherapywithhannaB Instagram: instagram.com/therapywithhannab Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like it to be discussed, please contact us by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

About this Episode Many couples find themselves caught in unproductive loops of reactivity, defensiveness, and miscommunication, often rooted in old patterns and unhealed wounds. If you’ve ever felt stuck repeating the same arguments, or struggled to respond with empathy instead of reacting on autopilot, you’re not alone. Conflict doesn’t have to drive you and your partner apart. In fact, the way you handle disagreements might be the very thing that brings you closer together or pushes you further away. In this episode, you’ll discover practical strategies for staying close through conflict by learning to respond rather than react. You’ll hear about how early family dynamics shape our adult responses, why curiosity can be a game-changer, and why true empathy starts with self-compassion. Through insightful metaphors like comparing relationships to yoga practice or learning to slow down a speeding car—you’ll find tools to recognize when you’re becoming triggered, regulate your emotions, and open space for meaningful, connected conversations. Whether your relationship is feeling the strain of busy daily life or you simply want to deepen your ability to navigate challenges together, this episode offers actionable guidance for building lasting intimacy through the most difficult moments. Alyssa Scarano, LPC, NCC, is the Founder and Clinical Director of The Collective Therapy & Wellness. Known for her empathetic and compassionate approach, Alyssa views her work as a profound privilege—an opportunity to be invited into the most intimate and vulnerable parts of her clients’ lives. Specializing in relationships, she is dedicated to helping individuals heal from childhood trauma, break generational patterns, and cultivate meaningful, authentic connections with others by first supporting them in fostering self-compassion. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. Episode Highlights  07:24 How family of origin shapes our conflict responses. 10:51 Understanding childhood defense mechanisms’ lasting impact in relationships. 11:52 Adaptive responses and personal growth. 15:25 Mindful resilience through yoga. 19:35 Impact of stress and daily life on relationship dynamics. 24:06 Mapping family history and trigger awareness in couples work. 28:51 Healing challenges and emotional triggers. 32:40 Relationship dynamics and challenges. 38:55 Managing emotions and setting boundaries when one partner does more emotional work. 41:43 Slowing down reactivity: practical tools for emotional awareness. 46:16 Concrete steps for repair and connection after conflict. Mentioned Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication Connect with Alyssa Scarano Websites: collective-therapy.com Facebook: facebook.com/collective.therapy.wellness Instagram: instagram.com/live.collective.wellness Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like it to be discussed, please contact us by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

About this Episode Are you stuck in a cycle of blame and resentment, wondering why forgiveness feels so elusive even though everyone says it’s the key to inner peace? Many of us hear that forgiving others will set us free, but when we try to let go of anger or seek justice for betrayals and hurts, practical steps are hard to find and genuine relief can feel out of reach. What if forgiveness isn’t just about pardoning or forgetting, but something deeper—something that could pave the way to real healing and even deeper intimacy? In this episode, listeners are invited to re-examine forgiveness from a fresh, practical, and spiritual perspective. Instead of relying on vague promises or traditional definitions, the conversation delves into tangible steps for breaking out of the blame loop, nurturing the parts of ourselves most in need, and using unconditional love as a powerful tool for restoration. Whether you're dealing with everyday resentments in a long-term partnership or coping with a profound betrayal, you'll walk away with actionable insights and a renewed sense of personal empowerment to move from conflict to true connection. After studying psychology and alternative spirituality for most of her life, an unlikely turn of events pointed Dara McKinley toward the forgiveness path. Examined through the lens of her previous knowledge, she discovered that forgiveness is actually much bigger than one’s ability to pardon as well as a healing modality. Feeling called to help those deterred by mainstream forgiveness definitions, today Dara guides people beyond popular forgiveness understandings and into a practical spiritual process that restores peace. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. Episode Highlights  07:02 How mainstream forgiveness definitions can fall short. 11:28 Vindictive energy, justice, and the personal cost of resentment. 14:40 Dara’s turning point: Discovering a practical forgiveness path. 17:12 Redefining forgiveness beyond pardoning and mainstream expectations. 20:13 Spiritual versus relational love: Navigating conditional and unconditional experiences. 24:09 Three sources of love. 27:19 A journey of self-responsibility and tender attention to the inner wound. 31:13 Practical steps for applying unconditional love to inner healing. 33:51 The negative narrative loop and how forgiveness restores personal power. 36:00 Forgiveness as an alchemical process and shifting perspectives in relationships. 39:59 A case study on resentment and forgiveness in long-term partnerships. 44:50 Boundaries, agreements, and the transformational effects of love. Mentioned The Space Between: The Point of Connection (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication Connect with Dara McKinley Websites: howtoforgive.com | daramckinley.com Facebook: facebook.com/DaraMckinley108 Instagram: instagram.com/daramckinley/?hl=en Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like it to be discussed, please contact us by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

About this Episode Words have power. They can heal, but they can also harm when we wield them without fully understanding their meaning. In today’s world, the language of therapy is everywhere, filtering from clinicians’ offices into viral social media posts, heated arguments, and everyday conversations. But with this widespread use comes a hidden problem. When words like “narcissist,” “gaslighting,” or “toxic” are misused or weaponized in our relationships, they not only muddy honest communication—they erode trust, block growth, and can even do real damage to our connections with others. In this episode, listeners are invited to take a nuanced look at how “therapy speak” has crept into our relationship vocabulary and why this isn’t always a good thing. Through real-world examples and professional insight, you’ll learn where the line lies between helpful self-expression and language that shuts down vulnerability, repair, and intimacy. By unpacking the ways therapeutic labels can become conversational weapons, this discussion offers practical guidance to help you communicate more consciously, challenge your own assumptions, and foster deeper, more authentic connection—with yourself and with the people you care about most. Isabelle Morley, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist and an EFT-certified couples therapist (emotionally focused therapy). She is the author of They’re Not Gaslighting You, and a contributing author to Psychology Today in her blog Love Them or Leave Them. In philanthropic work, Dr. Morley is a founding board member of The Unscripted Cast Advocacy Network (UCAN) Foundation. She has a private practice providing couples therapy and coaching in the Boston area. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. Episode Highlights  06:37 How social media fuels therapy speak and misuse of clinical terms. 09:08 The comfort of labels and the human drive for clear answers. 10:54 How diagnosing others and misuse of DSM terms can create unnecessary confusion, reinforce stereotypes, and affect our relationships and mental health conversations. 18:53 Differentiating between abusive and unskilled behavior in relationships. 37:17 Signals that invite self-reflection. 42:00 Approaching sensitive topics with partners and setting boundaries. 46:42 What trauma bonding truly is, and why understanding its meaning matters. 49:02 How the widespread and casual use of therapy speak can dilute and distort the original meaning of these terms. 51:43 Preserving the integrity of clinical terms and the power of conscientious communication. Mentioned They're Not Gaslighting You: Ditch the Therapy Speak and Stop Hunting for Red Flags in Every Relationship (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) The Pocket Guide to the Polyvagal Theory: The Transformative Power of Feeling Safe (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) ERP 410: What Are The Signs Of Emotional Immaturity In Relationship? ERP 411: What Are The Signs Of Emotional Immaturity In Relationship? Part Two ERP 413: How Does Emotional Immaturity Develop & The Difference Between Emotional Immaturity And Emotional Abuse? Part Three ERP 416: What To Consider If You Are In a Relationship With An Emotionally Immature Person — Part Four ERP 418: How To Build More Emotional Maturity In Relationship — Part Five ERP 261: How To Strengthen Your Relationship From A Polyvagal Perspective – An Interview with Dr. Stephen Porges Connect with Dr. Isabelle Morley Websites: drisabellemorley.com Instagram: instagram.com/drisabellemorley LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/isabelle-morley-psyd-579a4746 Podcast: romcomrescue.com Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like it to be discussed, please contact us by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

About this Episode Money isn’t just about numbers—it’s woven into the fabric of our emotions, relationships, and even sense of self-worth. Have you ever noticed how anxiety, stress, or even shame can surface when dealing with finances, both individually and in your most intimate partnerships? If conversations about money leave you feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. The underlying emotional stories and even traumas we carry about money can impact not only our bank accounts but also our ability to connect and thrive in relationships. In this episode, you are invited to explore how our money stories are shaped by past experiences, emotional patterns, and even generational beliefs. The conversation opens the door to understanding money wounds, the somatic signals tied to financial stress, and ways to bring curiosity rather than judgment to our financial behaviors. Through practical exercises and compassionate dialogue, this episode provides actionable strategies to help you unravel your relationship with money, build greater awareness, and start healing both individually and with your partner. Whether you’re looking to reduce conflict, foster transparency, or simply feel more empowered and secure with your finances, this episode offers valuable insight for taking those first transformative steps. Shannah Game is a financial expert, Certified Trauma of Money Specialist, and host of Everyone’s Talkin’ Money, a top money podcast with over 26 million downloads. With 20+ years of experience, she helps people transform their relationship with money to build wealth unapologetically. Her book, Unraveling Your Relationship with Money, explores money trauma and financial empowerment. Shannah’s work is bold, relatable, and designed to help you take control of your money and life. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. Episode Highlights  06:59 How to begin exploring the emotional side of money. 12:33 The ‘relationship with money’ concept and its lifelong impact. 17:11 The power of ‘enough’ and the impact of social messaging on money perceptions. 21:10 Happiness, wealth, and the moving goalpost. 24:12 Why it’s not just about the math: The importance of money conversations. 26:46 Hidden money scripts and the real source of couples’ money arguments. 28:17 Attachment styles, money personalities, and navigating differences in relationships. 33:04 Processing personal money histories and the value of self-awareness. 36:05 Generational money trauma and the inheritance of financial fears. 39:01 Identifying money wounds and taking steps towards financial healing. 43:39 Envisioning your ‘money hero story’ and shifting into possibility. 45:00 Building healthy money dynamics in relationships: communication, curiosity, and practical tools. Mentioned Unraveling Your Relationship with Money (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Connect with Shannah Game Websites: everyonestalkinmoney.com YouTube: youtube.com/@shannahgame Instagram: instagram.com/shannahgame TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shannahgame Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyones-talkin-money/id957163760 Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like it to be discussed, please contact us by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

About this Episode Is sex in long-term relationships destined to fade into routine, become awkward, unsatisfying, or quietly avoided? Many couples find themselves sidestepping desire, making silent assumptions, or repeating the same old script while craving deeper connection and renewed excitement. The outcome is often sexual boredom, miscommunication, and a growing emotional distance that affects the entire relationship. What if the key to lasting passion isn't just about technique? What if it lives in courageous, ongoing conversations about consent, desire, and our evolving needs? In this episode, listeners are invited into a candid and creative exploration of sexual communication. Consent is reframed as more than a one-time agreement; it becomes a fluid and continuous dialogue that keeps intimacy alive. You'll discover how to make these conversations feel natural and exciting instead of awkward, how to face vulnerability and disappointment with compassion, and how to sustain erotic curiosity over time. Whether you're looking for fresh insight or practical tools to reignite intimacy, this episode offers both inspiration and guidance to help you co-create a relationship that grows with you. Danielle Harel, Ph.D and Celeste Hirschman, M.A. are thought leaders in the intimate realm. As the founders of the Somatica® Institute of sex and relationship coaching, they have created experiential and relational teaching methods to revolutionize sex coaching and help people transform their sex lives and relationships forever. They are the authors of 3 books and the lead sexologists on a soon-to-be-released UK-based reality TV show. They will enliven and enlighten audiences with talks about everything in the realms of intimacy, sexuality and relationship as well as the power of vulnerable leadership in teaching, business, and in building community. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. Episode Highlights  06:06 How curiosity, culture, and compatibility shape sexual expression. 10:00 Why a beginner’s mindset matters in long-term sexual relationships. 13:55 Consent beyond “yes” or “no”: Making communication part of attraction. 17:45 Creating safe spaces for sexual self-discovery. 20:23 Building safety when sharing desires. 25:25 Challenging assumptions and resentment in intimacy. 31:16 Discovering turn-ons: Moving past stereotypes to emotional and psychological arousal. 34:48 The power of curiosity, flirting, and non-judgment. 39:47 How to expand erotic menus and blueprints. 41:01 Finding the win-win: Bridging and turn-taking in sexual negotiation. 46:20 Learning to sit with disappointment—acceptance and the reality of relationships. Mentioned Somatica Coach Certification (Somatica Institute link) Somatica® Sex & Relationship Coach Certification (Somatica Institute link) Relationship Reboot (Somatica Institute link) (online class) Making Love Real (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Coming Together (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Confidence (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) My Secret Garden (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) ERP 211: How To Get Rid of Shame to Increase Pleasure In The Bedroom – an Interview with Ian Ferguson ERP 473: How to Experience More Embodied Pleasure Sexually – An Interview with Susan Taylor Special offer for listeners: Use Empowered30 (gives $30 off Relationship Reboot) Connect with Danielle Harel, Ph.D and Celeste Hirschman, M.A Websites: celesteanddanielle.com | somaticainstitute.com Facebook: facebook.com/somaticainstitute | facebook.com/celesteanddanielle YouTube: youtube.com/@SomaticaInstitute Instagram: instagram.com/somatica_institute TikTok: tiktok.com/@somatica.institute Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like it to be discussed, please contact us by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

About this Episode Ever feel like you and your partner are speaking different languages when it comes to what truly matters? Maybe that seemingly minor argument about weekend plans or household chores is actually a sign of deeper, hidden misalignments. In many relationships, conflicts arise not just because of surface-level disagreements, but also because we haven’t taken the time—or found the right language—to name and share our genuine priorities. In this episode, you’ll discover practical tools and insightful strategies to help couples identify, understand, and communicate their individual and shared priorities. By exploring the difference between values and priorities, introducing a simple method to measure alignment, and breaking down actionable steps for regular check-ins, this conversation is packed with guidance for strengthening your partnership. Whether you’re seeking more harmony in daily life or aiming for lasting intimacy, this episode provides a roadmap for aligning on what matters most, together. Nick Brancato is a seasoned personal development coach and educator with over 25 years of experience helping individuals and couples connect, communicate, and thrive. With a master’s degree in education and a background as a Microsoft systems engineer, Nick blends practical tools with data-driven frameworks to guide clients through life’s challenges, including career shifts, financial pressures, and personal growth. Nick’s holistic process incorporates meditation, guided visualization, and hypnotherapy, emphasizing both emotional insight and actionable steps. By fostering deeper connections and mental clarity, Nick empowers couples to transform tension into trust and misalignment into mutual success, creating lasting, meaningful change in their relationships. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. Episode Highlights  03:09 Nick Brancato’s journey to relationship coaching and the origins of "Prioritize Us". 06:50 The power of priority alignment and differentiating priorities from values. 10:35 Navigating conflict by understanding differences and looking beyond surface issues. 13:52 Practical tools for identifying, ranking, and comparing priorities in relationships. 17:14 How to use the Total Difference Score (TDS) and the ten core life priorities. 21:01 The importance of individual assessment before sharing priorities with your partner. 27:45 Shifting priorities together and supporting each other’s growth and change. 35:57 Fostering positive daily connection through small, medium, and large relationship check-ins. 39:01 Overcoming overwhelm with decision-making, clarity, and relationship scorekeeping. 43:08 The Swiss Cheese principle. 47:47 Key takeaways and available resources for couples. Mentioned Prioritize Us (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) ERP 243: How To Skillfully Engage In A Conversation To Overcome Conflict In Relationships – An Interview With Kenneth Cloke Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love Connect with Nick Brancato Websites: nickbrancato.com Instagram: instagram.com/personaldevcoach Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like it to be discussed, please contact us by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

About this Episode What would happen to your family or loved ones if life threw an unexpected curveball tomorrow? Would they feel protected, supported, and prepared, or left to navigate a stressful maze of financial questions and paperwork on their own? In a world where change is the only constant, financial preparedness is an act of love that too often gets pushed aside for another day. But when the unimaginable happens, being unprepared isn’t just stressful—it can have lasting effects on your sense of security, your relationships, and your peace of mind. In this episode, you’ll discover how to take control and approach financial planning as a tool for caring for yourself and those you love. With honest stories from personal experience, practical checklists, and expert strategies for navigating life’s transitions like widowhood, blended families, and sudden loss, you’ll learn why clarity is the best gift you can give to your family. This episode offers actionable steps for organizing vital documents, starting tough conversations, and building the kind of foundation that keeps everyone cared for—no matter what the future holds. Donna Jean Kendrick is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ practitioner and founder of Sephton Financial. After losing her first husband suddenly in 2013, Donna navigated widowhood with three young children, inspiring her to support families in transition through financial planning. She is the host of the Wisdom and Wealth Podcast and author of A Guide to Widowhood, and A Guide for Blended Families. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. Episode Highlights  05:40 Navigating blended family dynamics and the process of adjustment. 13:25 How being financially organized eased the pain of loss. 14:38 The gift of clarity: Preparing financial documents for loved ones. 18:16 Facing the emotional side of financial planning in relationships. 21:57 Practical tips for document organization. 26:22 How to overcome overwhelm and take stock of your finances. 29:06 Building a financial foundation: Net worth, liabilities, and spending plans. 33:50 Finding your system: Partner roles and routines in managing finances. 36:00 Best practices for couples discussing and organizing their finances. 39:21 Joint vs. separate accounts: Customizing financial approaches for couples. 40:35 Planning for retirement and avoiding resentment. 46:07 Financial conversations for new couples and the value of prenuptial agreements. Mentioned A Guide for Blended Families (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) A Guide to Widowhood Workbook (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Don’t Leave Your Loved Ones Without Answers (webinar link) Annual Credit Report Evolve in Love (program) Connect with Donna Jean Kendrick Websites: donnajeankendrick.com Facebook: facebook.com/DonnaJeanKendrick YouTube: youtube.com/@donnajeankendrick Instagram: instagram.com/donnajeankendrick TikTok: tiktok.com/@donnajeankendrick Podcast: open.spotify.com/show/27h7hxaS2YRb2JJz6R4K9I Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like it to be discussed, please contact us by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

About this Episode When love turns toxic, it can be almost impossible to see clearly through the confusion, self-doubt, and emotional chaos that follow. If you've ever found yourself trapped in a cycle of hope, heartbreak, and uncertainty within a relationship, you’re not alone—and there’s a reason why breaking free can feel so overwhelming. The hidden dynamics of pathological partnerships and trauma bonds often keep people stuck, questioning their worth, and struggling to understand why things never seem to get better. In this episode, listeners are offered insight and validation as the conversation unpacks the complex nature of trauma bonds and toxic relationships. You’ll discover how these destructive patterns form, what psychological traits might make someone more susceptible, and why distinguishing between harmful behaviors and truly pathological intentions is so important. With practical guidance and real-life examples, this episode shines a compassionate light on the path toward healing, empowerment, and, for those who need it most, a way out. Affectionately known as Dr. Nae, Dr. Nadine Macaluso is a therapist specializing in trauma healing and personal transformation. Her life inspired the character Naomi Belfort in The Wolf of Wall Street. After overcoming personal challenges, she earned a Master's degree in counseling and a Ph.D. in Somatic Psychotherapy. Dr. Macaluso helps individuals recover from trauma bonds, C-PTSD, and shame. She is also the author of Run Like Hell: A Therapist's Guide to Recognizing, Escaping, and Healing From Trauma Bonds. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. Episode Highlights  06:28 Dr. Nadine Macaluso’s personal journey and the roots of her work on trauma bonds. 09:49 Defining trauma bonds and the role of intermittent reinforcement in toxic relationships. 13:35 Intent, power imbalance, and the pathological partner in trauma bonds. 16:11 Pathological intent vs. reactive behaviors and repair. 19:20 Understanding Cluster B personality disorders and their impact on relationships. 21:23 Empowering the victim over diagnosing the pathological partner. 24:11 Who is most susceptible to trauma bonds? 28:16 Questioning labels: Codependency, attachment, and rethinking victim narratives. 32:34 Attachment styles, developmental trauma, and their role in toxic relationships. 34:31 Cultural myths about love, media influence, and the hope that keeps people stuck. 37:20 Reducing shame, cognitive dissonance, and reconnecting with self. 42:47 The process of leaving: Safety, planning, and overcoming guilt. 44:30 Post-traumatic growth: Finding strength, hope, and empowerment after leaving a toxic relationship. Mentioned Run Like Hell (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Women Who Love Psychopaths (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Big 5 Personality Quiz  Essentia’s website (*Affiliate link) Stratami™ Organic Mattress (This is the mattress we purchased) (*Affiliate link) Classic REM5 Active Mattress – (The mattress we wish we could have gotten for the cooling feature) (*Affiliate link) Evolve in Love (program) Evolve in Love – Next level – Book Your Discovery Call Connect with Dr. Nadine Macaluso Websites: drnae.com Facebook: facebook.com/drnaelmft X: x.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2Ftherealdrnadine YouTube: youtube.com/c/TheRealDrNadine Instagram: instagram.com/therealdrnadine LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/therealdrnadine TikTok: tiktok.com/@drnaelmft Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like it to be discussed, please contact us by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

About this Episode Are you truly alive in your relationships, or just going through the motions? In a world overflowing with distractions, many of us drift into autopilot—checking boxes, chasing benchmarks, and hoping real connection will fall into place. But without genuine presence and intention, lasting intimacy becomes elusive, leaving us depleted, disconnected, and wondering why meaningful fulfillment always seems out of reach. In this episode, discover how the science of connection can transform the way you approach your closest bonds. Through a blend of psychological insight and practical wisdom, you’ll learn why authentic connection is at the heart of emotional well-being, how to bring mindfulness and curiosity into your daily interactions, and why appreciating yourself and those around you isn’t just nice but vital. Tune in for actionable strategies to break free from autopilot, nurture deeper intimacy, and truly feel alive while you’re living. Adam Dorsay is a licensed psychologist and host of the notable podcast SuperPsyched. He recently released his book Super Psyched: Unleash the Power of the 4 Types of Connection and Live the Life You Love. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. Episode Highlights  08:43 The essential role of connection: Defining disconnection in mental health. 11:58 Cultural distractors and the brain’s bias against authentic connection. 15:10 Making mindful choices: Savoring life’s simple moments. 17:31 Beginner’s mind in relationships: Staying curious with long-term partners. 22:18 Experiencing awe: microdosing wonder and expanding consciousness. 25:03 The power of appreciation: How gratitude fuels authentic connection. 27:21 Authenticity, integrity, and the impact on genuine presence. 33:12 The four circles of relating to self and others. 35:47 Aligning choices with your values. 37:39 Simple ways to reconnect with others. 41:26 Reclaiming joy and presence in everyday life. Mentioned SuperPsyched: Dr. Dorsay’s Award-Winning Podcast Super Psyched (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Super Psyched (book page) Emotions: The Data Men Miss | Adam Dorsay | TEDxSantaClaraUniversity (YouTube link) (video) Friendships in Adulthood: 5 Things to Know | Adam Dorsay | TEDxSanLuisObispo (YouTube link) (video) How to Fall in Love with Questions (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Evolve in Love – Next level – Book Your Discovery Call Evolve in Love (program) Essentia’s website (*Affiliate link) Stratami™ Organic Mattress (This is the mattress we purchased) (*Affiliate link) Classic REM5 Active Mattress – (The mattress we wish we could have gotten for the cooling feature) (*Affiliate link) Connect with Dr. Adam Dorsay Websites: dradamdorsay.com Instagram: instagram.com/dradamdorsay Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like it to be discussed, please contact us by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.