Empowered Relationship Podcast: Your Relationship Resource And Guide

Grief is a deeply personal and often challenging emotional journey, one that can take on countless forms and manifest in diverse ways. When couples endure such heart-wrenching moments, they often discover that they grieve differently, which can strain their relationships. This can create a profound and sometimes bewildering disconnect in the relationship, leading to feelings of isolation, frustration, and confusion. In this enlightening conversation, we delve into the complexities of grieving differently as a couple and explore valuable insights to help couples maintain and enhance their connections during these trying times. By recognizing the individuality of each person's grief, fostering open and honest communication, and seeking external support when necessary, couples can discover meaningful ways to journey through their mourning together, strengthening their emotional bonds in the process. Kelly Cervantes is an award-winning writer, speaker, and advocate best known for her blog Inchstones. She is the immediate past board chair for the nonprofit CURE Epilepsy and also hosts their biweekly podcast, Seizing Life. Kelly currently resides in Maplewood, NJ, with her husband, Miguel Cervantes currently starring in Hamilton on Broadway, their children, and two dogs, Tabasco and Sriracha. Her book Normal Broken: The Grief Companion For When It's Time to Heal But You're Not Sure You Want To. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 5:28 Kelly Cervantes' grief journey and its impact on relationships. 17:17 The importance of open communication and managing expectations. 21:12 The evolving nature of grief in relationships: Communication, acceptance, and moments of connection. 27:59 Navigating connection and intimacy amidst grief: The impact of a pandemic and prior experiences. 39:29 The significance of seeking and accepting support during the grieving process. 45:28 Creating shared meaning in grief: Finding moments of connection and support. Mentioned Normal Broken: The Grief Companion for When It's Time to Heal but You're Not Sure You Want To (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Grief Refuge (download link) (app) Center for Loss & Life Transition Connect with Kelly Cervantes Websites: kellycervantes.com Facebook: facebook.com/kellygc411 Twitter: twitter.com/KellyGC411 Instagram: instagram.com/kellygc411 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kelly-cervantes-6b3a7ba Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/seizing-life/id1450310889 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 me to discuss, please contact me 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.

Are you tired of sifting through an endless sea of relationship advice, much of which seems more unhelpful than beneficial? We're often bombarded with well-intentioned but sometimes misguided advice. You've likely heard phrases like "never go to bed angry" or "love will conquer all," but do these sayings truly hold the key to a thriving, enduring partnership? In this episode, we'll explore the common cliches and one-size-fits-all solutions that sound good in theory but often fall short in practice. Discover the art of de-escalating conflicts, the power of emotional vocabulary, and how to recognize unhelpful advice that may be holding you back from deeper intimacy. If you're seeking to transform your understanding of relationships, this episode will empower you to question the common myths and embrace a more profound, lasting connection. Zach Brittle is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), a Certified Gottman Therapist (CGT), and a Certified Relational Life Therapist (RLT). He serves as the founder and co-host of Marriage Therapy Radio and has authored the best-selling relationship guide "The Relationship Alphabet" and the Marriage Therapy Journal. His marriage to Rebecca has been a source of happiness for 24 out of 26 years, with the 8th and 18th years proving to be rather challenging. They live in Seattle with their two adulting daughters. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 4:55 A peek into Zach's journey: His work, podcast, and personal life. 9:21 Zack's unique approach to therapy. 14:23 Debunking the myth: "Marriage is a marathon, not a sprint" 19:20 The influence of language on behavior and choices within relationships. 26:33 Deconstructing defensiveness and criticism: An approach to authentic communication. 29:45 Challenging unhelpful relationship advice. 33:43 The importance of de-escalation and repair in conflict. 40:47 Connect with Zach Brittle and marriage therapy radio. Mentioned Marriage Therapy Radio (*Apple Podcast link) Marriage Therapy Journal (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) The Relationship Alphabet: A Practical Guide to Better Connection for Couples (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) ERP 344: How Our Language Can Steer & Shape Our Relationships — An Interview with Dr. Georgi Gardiner ERP 058: Beyond the Wedding. What Is Marriage Really Like? Connect with Zach Brittle Websites: zachbrittle.com Facebook: facebook.com/marriagetherapyradio TikTok: tiktok.com/@marriagetherapyradio Instagram: instagram.com/marriagetherapyradio/?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 me to discuss, please contact me 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.

In recent years, the rise of the celebrated "mommy wine" culture has given rise to a pressing issue that provides a deceptively innocent escape for mothers. Yet beneath the surface, many mothers find themselves entangled in a web of excessive alcohol consumption that negatively affects their lives and relationships. In this episode, Celeste Yvonne and Dr. Jessica Higgins delve into the challenging dynamics faced by couples when one partner decides to embrace sobriety while the other continues to drink. We explore the isolation and emotional strain often experienced by those navigating this complex terrain. The discussion offers actionable steps and resources to help couples communicate effectively, set boundaries, and ultimately find a path to understanding and connection amid the complexities of one partner's journey toward sobriety. Sober mom advocate, Celeste Yvonne, is a writer and certified recovery coach (IAPRC) with over 20 years of experience as a communications professional in corporate America. Over five years sober and a founding host of the Sober Mom Squad, Celeste advocates for mothers who struggle with addiction and mental health. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 3:20 Celeste Yvonne's journey from corporate professional to sobriety advocate. 8:08 Understanding the emotional impact of substance use in motherhood. 15:48 Honest conversations and support in navigating alcoholism and recovery. 20:54 The power of community in sobriety: Overcoming loneliness and isolation. 25:23 Strategies for addressing problematic drinking within relationships. 32:16 Creating empathetic conversations and finding support in challenging relationships. 48:27 Support for moms: Breaking free from the mommy wine culture. Mentioned It's Not About the Wine: The Loaded Truth Behind Mommy Wine Culture (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Connect with Celeste Yvonne Websites: celesteyvonne.substack.com | sobermomsquad.com Facebook: facebook.com/sobermomsquad Instagram: instagram.com/theultimatemomchallenge | instagram.com/sobermomsquad 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 me to discuss, please contact me 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.

Are you finding it difficult to communicate your emotional needs in your relationship, leaving you and your partner feeling like you're speaking different emotional languages? Sad to say, you are not alone in this struggle. Many individuals face the challenge of effectively expressing their emotional desires to their loved ones. In this enlightening conversation, we delve into this very issue and explore actionable steps to improve your communication and connection. From recognizing emotional triggers to embracing self-soothing techniques, you'll discover how to build an environment of safety and openness in your relationship. Join us as we unravel the secrets to clearer communication and a deeper emotional connection. Dr. Laura Louis, author of "Marital Peace," is a Licensed Psychologist with a Ph.D. from Howard University's APA-accredited Counseling Psychology Program. With over 10 years of experience in the field, she specializes in multicultural and couples counseling. Her expertise includes increasing intimacy, rebuilding trust post-infidelity, and enhancing communication skills. Dr. Louis also addresses various clinical issues, offers career counseling, and aids in acculturation for immigrants. Her background spans diverse settings, from psychiatric hospitals to elementary schools, where she focuses on improving sleep and stress management for individuals and organizations. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 4:17 Introducing Dr. Laura Louis: A multifaceted expert in relationship counseling. 7:05 The foundation of expressing emotional needs. 15:02 Various factors that can unconsciously interfere with our ability to Express emotional needs. 22:13 A step-by-step approach to expressing emotional needs. 29:35 Navigating emotional risks in communication. 39:08 Practical aspects of recognizing emotional triggers and self-soothing techniques. Mentioned Marital Peace (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication Connect with Dr. Laura Louis Websites: atlantacoupletherapy.com Facebook: facebook.com/AtlantaCoupleTherapy | facebook.com/groups/BlackMarriageMattersOfficial (*group) YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCh2I0xywV8TuKM9xs4yqh2g Instagram: instagram.com/dr.lauralouis 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 me to discuss, please contact me 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.

Power struggle is a phase in a relationship where couples face heightened awareness of their differences, needs, and unmet expectations. It represents a shift from the initial romantic honeymoon stage to a stage where partners become more aware of each other's flaws and unresolved issues. This stage is marked by emotional turbulence and communication breakdowns as couples navigate the complexities of their evolving connection. However, it's also seen as an opportunity for growth and transformation if approached with conscious effort and relationship skills. In this episode, we explore dynamic strategies and practical tools to help couples overcome challenges in their relationship and foster a more peaceful, loving connection. Discover how to determine which stage your relationship is in, prioritize emotional safety, communicate with empathy, and deepen your mutual understanding. Join us as we discuss practical steps to strengthen your relationship and establish a robust foundation for lasting love and harmony. Shan is an Imago Couples Therapist and Relationship Expert. She helps professional couples on the brink of divorce finally find peace in their relationship and put their wedding rings back on. She's authored the book "From Power Struggle to Peaceful Couple". Shan's on a mission to stop couples settling for unhappy relationships that drain their energy because she believes great relationships are the foundation for a great life. Shan works globally from England. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 3:52 Shan's journey: From romantic dreams to relationship expertise. 14:08 Understanding and navigating the power struggle in relationships. 22:08 Embracing conflict as nature's savage gifts in the power struggle. 26:36 Emotional safety and communication in a relationship. 34:47 The imago dialogue: A structured path to safe and effective communication in relationships. 38:02 Using dialogue to improve communication in relationships. 45:13 Improving communication in relationships through empathy and respect. Mentioned Getting the Love You Want: A Guide for Couples, 20th Anniversary Edition (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Imago Relationship Therapy Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love ERP 138: The Most Critical Ingredient for Relationship Success With Dr. Harville Hendrix & Dr. Helen Lakelly Hunt ERP 303: How to Create Safe Conversations — An Interview with Drs. Harville Hendrix & Helen Lakelly Hunt Connect with Shan Merchant Websites: shanmerchant.com Facebook: facebook.com/shannon.merchant.3 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/shan-merchant-couples-therapist-dating-relationships 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 me to discuss, please contact me 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.

Award-winning author and thought leader, Adele Spraggon, discusses techniques for reducing reactive patterns in relationships. She shares success stories of healing couples on the brink of divorce and emphasizes the importance of hardware rewiring. Learn how to build trust, suspend automatic reactivity, and decrease patterns for healthier and more empowered connections.

Dominant and submissive roles within relationships have always carried an air of mystique and intrigue. Yet, more often than not, these roles are shrouded in misunderstanding, creating confusion and misconceptions that can leave couples navigating uncharted waters. In the intricate dance of intimacy, it's easy to fall prey to preconceived notions, equating dominance with control or submission with passivity. In this episode, we delve into these intricate roles, unraveling the complexities and unveiling the truths that lie beneath the surface. By addressing common misconceptions and offering actionable insights, we hope to illuminate the path for couples seeking to understand and embrace these roles in their relationships. Through a deeper comprehension of the interplay between dominance and submission, couples can cultivate a more authentic, harmonious, and fulfilling connection with one another. Join us as we embark on a journey to demystify these roles and pave the way for healthier, more profound relationships. Chris M. Lyon is a relationship expert and coach certified in applied neuroscience and brain health. She is the author of "Leading and Supportive Love: The Truth About Dominant and Submissive Relationships". She developed L/s (Leading/supportive) Types that define common behavioral patterns exhibited by many couples. Lyon has coached thousands through crisis, trauma, and leadership for over two decades. She's been featured in various media and teaches online courses at coachlyon.com. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 5:32 Exploring Chris Lyons motivation behind the interest in dominant and submissive relationship dynamics. 7:58 Misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding dominant and submissive relationships. 14:51 The consequences of mismatched roles in daily interactions within dominant and submissive relationships. 18:39 Understanding relationship orientation on a spectrum. 24:10 Exploring attraction and cultural messages in relationship roles. 30:32 Trust, leadership, and the role of vetting in dominant-submissive relationships. 36:48 Navigating dominance: From skill development to cultural influences. 42:03 The interplay between dominance and submission in kink and relationships. 44:34 Addressing the issue of mismatched relationships. 50:26 Embracing authenticity in dominant and submissive relationships. Mentioned Leading and Supportive Love: The Truth About Dominant and Submissive Relationships (*Amazon Affiliate link) (audiobook) Leading and Supportive Love: The Truth About Dominant and Submissive Relationships (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) D/s Relationship Masterclass Collection Increase Relationship Skills (survey) Connect with Chris M. Lyon Websites: coachlyon.com | linktr.ee/ChrisMLyon Facebook: facebook.com/CoachLyon YouTube: youtube.com/@TheChrisSea Instagram: instagram.com/Chris_sea1 TikTok: tiktok.com/@chris.sea 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 me to discuss, please contact me 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.

Emotional immaturity can be a subtle yet profoundly impactful issue within relationships, often remaining hidden beneath the surface until it begins to erode the connection between partners. In this episode, we will delve into the nuanced aspects of emotional immaturity and abuse within relationships. Drawing from expert insights, we will explore the telltale signs and behavioral patterns that may indicate emotional immaturity, shedding light on the damage it can inflict on both individuals and partnerships. By gaining a deeper understanding of these dynamics, we empower ourselves and others to navigate relationships with greater emotional intelligence, fostering environments of trust, respect, and genuine connection. Join us as we embark on this journey to uncover the tools and knowledge necessary to recognize and address emotional immaturity and abuse in our relationships. Dr. David Hawkins is a clinical psychologist, director of the Marriage Recovery Center, and a best-selling author of over thirty books. Dr. Hawkins has helped bring healing to thousands of marriages and individuals since he began his work in 1976. He is passionate about working with couples in crisis and helps them discover a new way of doing things to have a healthy and thriving relationship. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 9:36 Dr. David Hawkins: Pioneering the path to healing relationships. 19:16 The complex dynamics of emotional abuse in relationships. 29:06 Unpacking the lack of emotional connection: The role of avoidant tendencies. 36:03 Emotional abuse vs. Narcissism: Understanding the critical differences. 43:32 Dr. David Hawkins' insights into the readiness for change among individuals in relationships with emotionally abusive partners. 45:32 Navigating the complexities of emotional abuse: Seeking help and resources. Mentioned When Loving Him Is Hurting You: Hope and Help for Women Dealing With Narcissism and Emotional Abuse (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) When Pleasing Others Is Hurting You: Finding God's Patterns for Healthy Relationships (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Increase Relationship Skills (Google Form) (Survey) Connect with Dr. David Hawkins Website: marriagerecoverycenter.com Facebook: facebook.com/marriagerecoverycenter YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCKrmBnvqdvugfYpLS6r1AzA Instagram: instagram.com/marriagerecoverycenter Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mad-in-love/id1618828831 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 me to discuss, please contact me 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.

The podcast explores stress languages in relationships and how they impact our connections. Chantal Donnelly, a relationship stress expert, shares insights on understanding stress patterns and adaptive strategies. The importance of recognizing and responding to each other's stress language is discussed, along with strategies for effective communication and conflict resolution.

Are you feeling stuck in your relationship, grappling with resentment, or sensing that you and your partner have unwittingly transformed into mere roommates? If so, you're not alone. Maintaining a fulfilling, long-lasting relationship can be challenging in a world where the dynamics of love and partnership are constantly evolving. Relationship advice often comes from all directions and it's easy to find ourselves lost in a sea of conflicting guidance. In this insightful conversation, Monica Tanner and Dr. Jessica Higgins delve into practical strategies to address these challenges head-on. The conversation reveals that successful relationships require intentional effort, a commitment to understanding, and the courage to engage in constructive conflict. From cultivating curiosity and practicing vulnerability to navigating differences with grace, they offer actionable steps to reignite the spark in your relationship and avoid falling into the dreaded roommate syndrome. Monica Tanner, Relationship Coach and host of the Secrets of Happily Ever After podcast, transforms marriages with simple communication, connection, conflict resolution, and commitment strategies. Her mission is to lower the divorce rate and improve marital satisfaction. Through her engaging podcast, vibrant social media community, and practical programs, Monica's expert guidance has impacted thousands of couples, by helping them ditch resentment and roommate syndrome and get back to living their happily-ever-after love story. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 5:46 Monica's quest to understanding genuine relationships. 8:38 The challenges of maintaining passion and longevity in modern relationships. 17:18 Nurturing healthy relationship dynamics through boundary setting. 23:16 Navigating emotional withdrawal: The impact of negative interaction patterns. 28:11 Recognizing and addressing hidden resentment. 41:24 Cultivating respectful disagreements and nurturing healthy communication. 48:19 The role of curiosity, interest, and creative problem-solving in deepening intimacy and passion in relationships. Mentioned The Space Between: The Point of Connection (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Free Intimacy Quiz Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication Connect with Monica Tanner Websites: monicatanner.com Facebook: facebook.com/monica.tanner2 Instagram: instagram.com/monitanner1 Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/secrets-of-happily-ever-after/id1345544810 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 me to discuss, please contact me 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.