Empowered Relationship Podcast: Your Relationship Resource And Guide

Developing secure attachment skills in a relationship is crucial for creating a strong and lasting bond with your partner. In this fast-paced world, it can be easy to neglect your relationship and fail to prioritize the emotional safety that comes with a secure attachment. However, neglecting your relationship can have long-term consequences and negatively impact both you and your partner. In this episode, Dr. Jessica Higgins, EJ, and Tarah Kerwin discuss the skills needed to develop secure attachments in relationships. They provide actionable steps to help you strengthen your attachment style and create a more loving and fulfilling partnership. Whether you're single, dating, or in a long-term relationship, listen to this episode to discover how you can develop secure attachment skills in your relationships. EJ and Tarah Kerwin are the hosts of The Relationship Renovation Podcast. They are two licensed therapists, a married couple raising a blended family with four children, and owners of a couples counseling center in Tucson, AZ. They have created a couples counseling program that has supported thousands of couples in creating more secure, loving, and intimate relationships. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 6:31 The birth of the couples counseling center. 11:43 Creating emotional safety and support: Understanding secure attachment in couples therapy. 17:07 Recognizing negative core beliefs and learning from conflict. 23:33 Creating emotional safety in heterosexual relationships: Understanding triggers, developing compassion, and managing conflict. 27:56 Improving relationships through self-reflection and shared responsibility. 34:30 The importance of holding hope and creating a secure, loving, and more deeply intimate connection with one's partner. 39:15 Building safe and strong relationships through somatic work. Mentioned Relationship Renovation Counselling Centre Relationship Renovation at Home Program Wired for Dating: How Understanding Neurobiology and Attachment Style Can Help You Find Your Ideal Mate (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) ERP 291: How "Love Is Not Enough" – An Interview with Dr. Stan Tatkin Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication Connect with EJ & Tarah Kerwin Websites: relationshiprenovation.com Facebook: relationshiprenovationcounseling TikTok: tiktok.com/@relationshiprenovation YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCfb8I3evBi7aZcVnmvN_yPw Instagram: instagram.com/relationship_renovation 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.

Communication is the foundation of any healthy and fulfilling relationship, but expressing yourself in a way that fosters love and connection can be difficult, especially when conflicts arise. In this interview, Dr. Jessica Higgins and Laura Doyle, a relationship coach, discuss six essential skills for building intimacy and connection with your partner. From taking care of yourself to relinquishing control, showing respect, receiving graciously, embracing vulnerability, and using positive affirmations, Laura offers practical tools that can transform your relationship, even in seemingly hopeless situations. If you're looking to deepen your connection and create a more fulfilling relationship, listen to this episode to discover expert advice on how to express yourself in ways that inspire love and connection. New York Times bestselling author Laura Doyle was the perfect wife...until she actually got married. She is the founder of the international relationship coach training school Laura Doyle Connect, the star of Empowered Wives on Amazon Prime, the Creator of The Ridiculously Happy Wife program, the host of The Empowered Wife Podcast. She has helped over 15,000 women fix their relationships--even the hopeless ones-- without their husband's effort. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 6:19 Laura shares how her personal experience led her to develop a coaching model and framework that supports women in heterosexual relationships. 10:24 How a women's support group turned into a movement to end divorce. 19:49 Two "cheat phrases" that can help improve communication in a relationship. 25:43 The power of intimacy skills, receptivity, and manifesting desires. 41:09 Take charge of your own happiness: The power of self-care and positive cycles in relationships. 44:54 Building positive relationships through fundamental cues and intimacy skills: Insights from "The Empowered Wife" 51:36 Laura reveals the 6 intimacy skills that can improve your marriage, even in seemingly hopeless situations. Mentioned The Empowered Wife, Updated and Expanded Edition: Six Surprising Secrets for Attracting Your Husband's Time, Attention, and Affection (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) The Empowered Wife Podcast with Laura Doyle Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication Connect with Laura Doyle Websites: lauradoyle.org Facebook: facebook.com/lauradoyle.org Twitter: twitter.com/lauramdoyle YouTube: youtube.com/user/lauradoyleauthor LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lauramdoyle Podcast: lauradoyle.org/podcasts 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.

Is your relationship constantly fraught with emotional arguments? When things get tough, do you resort to emotional weapons like anger, blame, or shutting down? It's time to take a step back and examine the role these emotional weapons play in your relationship. In this episode, Dr. Shawn Haywood and Dr. Jessica Higgins discuss the ways in which people use emotional weapons to protect themselves, the negative impacts of using these weapons, and how to identify and disarm them. Dr. Haywood shares valuable insights and practical tips for gaining awareness of our emotional weapons, asking for what we need, and finding healthier ways to meet our needs in relationships. Through deep devotion and commitment to her evolving spiritual path, author, speaker, and life and relationship coach for 24 years, Shawn Haywood, Ph.D., continues to transform toward increasing unconditional love and joy for the whole of her life, while teaching her clients and team to do the same so that their lives, marriages, health, and businesses can thrive in unimaginable ways. If you're interested in improving your relationships and creating deeper connections with your partner, this interview is a must-listen. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 2:57 Dr. Shawn Haywood shares insights on laying down emotional weapons and achieving fight-free marriages and relationships. 8:48 Emotional weapons and surrender techniques for relationship success. 13:10 How to overcome disempowering effects caused by blaming oneself or others. 16:00 How to work with the body, mind, and spirit to resolve conflict. 22:08 How to break old habits and replace them with new ones. 27:27 Identifying and understanding emotional weapons: The importance of laying down emotional weapons and cultivating vulnerability in relationships. 40:30 A guide to disarming emotional weapons. Mentioned Living For Love: Set Yourself Free from the Daily Stress, Worry & Hurry that Wears You Down (Amazon affiliate link*) (book) Reroute Your Relationship (free guide link) Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication Connect with Dr. Shawn Haywood Websites: reimaginelove.com Facebook: facebook.com/shawn.ashley.haywood Instagram: instagram.com/drshawnhaywood LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drshawnhaywood 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 today's fast-paced world, we often hear about the importance of maintaining a healthy relationship, but how do we actually assess the health of our connection? In this episode, Dr. Réne Vázquez del Valle, a psychotherapist, and author of "Head Heart Crotch Connections: How Not to Fail in Search of Your Perfect" shares his simple yet profound formula for evaluating the head, heart, and sexual connection in our relationships and provides tips for identifying areas of weakness and working on them. Dr. Vázquez del Valle breaks down his technique and offers a free connection scale on his website, allowing individuals to assess their level of connection and identify areas that need improvement. Join us in this insightful conversation as we explore the importance of connection and how to maintain its health. Dr. René G. Vázquez del Valle, DSW, received his MSW at Columbia University and his Doctorate at the CUNY Graduate School. He was an Adjunct Professor at Long Island University; guest speaker at both the NYU School of Medicine, Dept. of Psychiatry and CUNY Law School. He retired from the NYS Office of Mental Health after 30 years of clinical practice. He currently resides in NYC and East Hampton, NY, and works as a private practice therapist. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 3:44 How to assess success or failure in a relationship and the different factors that contribute to it. 13:16 The importance of descriptive language and mutual connection in relationships. 17:26 The importance of different types of connections in a relationship. 23:40 Understanding your partner's needs: Enhancing connection in relationships through emotional, sexual, and intellectual fulfillment 28:52 Analyzing the fight-or-flight response to improve connection in relationships. 31:07 Understanding attachment style and types of connections. 33:25 Defense mechanisms and their impact on an individual's ability to connect with others 39:56 Understanding marianismo and the effects of shame on connection and wellbeing. 44:00 Dr. René Vázquez del Valle talks about his book and explains how the simple formula of assessing head, heart, and crotch connections can have profound effects on people's lives. Mentioned Head, Heart, Crotch Connections: How Not to Fail In Search of Your Perfect Union (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Connection Rating Scale Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication Connect with Dr. René Vázquez del Valle Websites: renev.authorchannel.co Facebook: facebook.com/reneleo2 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rené-vázquez-del-valle-dsw-lcsw-r-71484563 Instagram: instagram.com/rene_vdelv 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.

With the changing dynamics of society, the traditional definition of masculinity is being redefined, and there is a growing need for men to develop new skills and behaviors to thrive in today's world. In this episode, we will explore actionable steps that men can take to develop these traits, enhance their personal growth, and succeed in both their personal and professional lives. Join us as we dive into this fascinating topic and discover how you can develop modern, high-value, masculine traits. Kristal DeSantis is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with specializations in trauma, sex therapy, couples, and men's mental health issues. Creator of the STRONG Relationship Therapy Model of trauma-informed couples therapy. Certified clinical trauma professional with training in EMDR, complex PTSD, and relational trauma in first responders, LEOs, and veterans. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 5:32 Kristal Desantis' background and interest in working with men, emphasizing the importance of normalizing therapy and emotional intelligence as part of strength building. 9:06 Redefining masculinity: moving beyond traditional roles and finding new ways to be a "high value" man. 16:33 Relationship field guide for the modern man: emphasizing safety and self-awareness. 20:05 The four key components of building a healthy relationship 27:07 Importance of self-regulation and trust in building healthy relationships. 30:35 The importance of Strong model for healthy and thriving relationships. 37:15 The importance of nurturing connection in relationships and expanding the definition of pleasure beyond just sex and increasing and expanding examples of pleasure. 40:30 A personal story and insights on true generosity and self-care. Mentioned Strong: A Relationship Field Guide for the Modern Man (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication Connect with Kristal DeSantis Websites: strong.love Twitter: twitter.com/atxtherapist Instagram: instagram.com/atxtherapist LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kristal-desantis 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.

Relationships can be a beautiful source of joy and growth, but they can also be incredibly challenging. Every person enters into a relationship with their own experiences, beliefs, and patterns of behavior. These can either support or hinder the connection we are trying to build with our partner. To create a healthy and fulfilling relationship, it's crucial to recognize that we have work to do on ourselves. The question is -- what does "your work" within a relationship really mean? In this episode, we'll explore actionable steps you can take to cultivate a deeper understanding of yourself and your partner, and create a more harmonious and loving relationship. Madhur-Nain Webster is a licensed marriage and family therapist, specializing in the integration of eastern and western philosophies for mental health for individuals and couples. Her first book, The Stressless Brain (2018), makes a scientific argument for the positive influence meditation has on the psyche; she is currently working on her second book. In addition to releasing over 60 meditation singles, Madhur-Nain maintains international outreach by appearing on podcasts and holding meditation workshops. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 6:33 The importance of transparency and collaboration in couples therapy: Navigating individual and couples work and addressing behavioral change 11:46 Individual therapy: The importance of doing your own work to benefit your relationships. 17:15 A discussion on adjusting lenses and coping mechanisms towards relationship longevity. 22:26 The importance of self-reflection in relationships. 29:03 The Importance of Continuous Personal Growth and Therapy in Building Healthy Self-Esteem and Self-Worth. 34:29 Cultivating the wise self and soul self. Mentioned Soul-Self & the Emotional Facets of Your Personality (workshop) The Stressless Brain (book) Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication Connect with Madhur-Nain Webster Websites: madhurnain.com Facebook: facebook.com/madhurnainwebster Spotify: open.spotify.com/artist/5wvZFb0E0Ybc4oSdlDSn0h YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCOof1-ACJXP9SufPBHbQeQw Instagram: instagram.com/madhurnain 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 feeling stressed out and overwhelmed? Do you find yourself struggling to manage the demands of everyday life? If so, you're not alone. Stress is a common experience for many people, and it can have a significant impact on your health and well-being. But what if you could learn how to master your stress and reset your health? In this episode, we explore how to do just that with Dr. Doni Wilson, a leading expert in stress and health optimization. She shares insights from her book, "Master Your Stress, Reset Your Health," as well as practical tips and strategies for recovering from stress and building resilience. Dr. Doni Wilson is a Naturopathic Doctor, certified professional midwife, certified nutrition specialist, and bestselling author of Master Your Stress, Reset Your Health. Dr. Doni suffered from migraines, and in the process of solving them, she developed her Stress Recovery Protocol. Dr. Doni brings awareness to the impact of stress and trauma on our health and how it is possible to recover and become resilient to stress. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 6:50 Naturopathic doctor shares insights on root causes of health issues and the power of addressing stress. 12:08 Understanding cortisol and managing stress: Finding the right herbs for optimal cortisol levels. 17:18 The importance of cortisol: Understanding the benefits of regulating this powerful hormone. 23:00 Navigating the limitations of health insurance and investing in preventive care. 25:18 Identifying and understanding the five common stress types. 29:47 A case study of a couple's journey to optimum cortisol and adrenaline levels. 35:29 A guide to resetting your health. 40:21 The care approach and the role of relationships in stress recovery. Mentioned Master Your Stress, Reset Your Health: The Personalized Program to Calm Anxiety, Boost Energy, and Beat Burnout (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Dr. Doni's Stress Type Quiz Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication Connect with Dr. Doni Wilson Websites: doctordoni.com Facebook: facebook.com/drdoniwilson Twitter: twitter.com/glutenfreedoc YouTube: youtube.com/user/DoniWilsonND Instagram: instagram.com/drdoniwilson Pinterest: pinterest.com/DoctorDoni Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ho-humans-heal/id1509561919 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.

Human sexuality is a complex and fascinating topic that has intrigued people for centuries. Sexual desire, in particular, is an essential aspect of our sexuality, yet many people struggle to understand and increase it. In this episode, we delved into the intricacies of sexual desire, exploring the factors that can impact it and the techniques that can help boost it. From exploring the impact of stress and lifestyle factors to discussing the benefits of mindfulness and communication, we uncovered a wealth of insights that can help individuals enhance their sexual desire and improve their overall sexual experiences. Whether you're struggling with a low sex drive or simply looking to deepen your connection with your partner, the insights shared in this conversation offer valuable guidance for anyone seeking to understand and increase their sexual desire. Dr. Lori Brotto is a Professor in the UBC Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, a Registered Psychologist in Vancouver, Canada and the Executive Director of the Women's Health Research Institute of BC. Dr. Brotto holds a Canada Research Chair in Women's Sexual Health. Her book, Better Sex Through Mindfulness: How Women Can Cultivate Desire (2018) is a knowledge translation product aimed at sharing the science of sexual desire with a broad audience, and the accompanying Workbook will be published by Greystone in October 2022. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 7:16 From volunteering with rats to researching female sexual dysfunction: A journey of unexpected discoveries. 12:40 Causes and factors contributing to low desire in women. 18:44 A paradigm shift in cultivating desire for long-term relationships. 24:25 Understanding the impact of low desire on relationships and cultivating arousal. 26:55 Tips for reframing sexual experiences in a more positive light. 33:45 The importance of mindfulness in enhancing sexual response. Mentioned The Better Sex Through Mindfulness Workbook: A Guide to Cultivating Desire (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication Connect with Dr. Lori Brotto Websites: loribrotto.com | brottolab.com Twitter: twitter.com/DrLoriBrotto | twitter.com/ubcshr 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.

Do you find yourself constantly drawn to partners who are emotionally unavailable or abusive? If so, it's time to hit the reset button on your attachment system and break free from the cycle of toxic relationships. In this age of self-help and personal growth, there are countless resources available to help you navigate the complex world of relationships. One such resource is Mark Sholes' book, "Reset Your Romantic GPS: The Journey to Self-Discovery and Healthy Relationships." Through his extensive experience as a therapist and his own personal journey, Sholes offers practical guidance on how to rewire your attachment system and establish healthier patterns in your relationships. So if you're ready to take control of your love life and build fulfilling, sustainable relationships, tune in to this episode to learn more about how to reset your attachment system for a healthy relationship. Marc is a New York City psychotherapist with 35+ years of experience working with individuals and couples. He is a board member, faculty, and supervisor at the National Institute for Psychotherapies, a leading training institute for psychotherapists. He is also the author of the popular book Reset Your Romantic GPS: Why You Steer Toward the Wrong Partners and How to Change for the Better. Marc lives in Manhattan with his wife and three children. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 7:33 Attachment and its impact on relationships. 15:36 The impact of insecure attachment on a child's development and how it affects their adult life. 20:57 The benefits of taking risks and standing up for oneself, even if it may not result in a positive outcome. 23:40 Motivators for change and overcoming hindrances in developing healthy habits and relationships. 29:03 Overcoming fear and loneliness from childhood trauma. 32:07 Overcoming challenges to make healthy choices and improve mental health. 38:00 Understanding the avoidant style in relationships and navigating healthy patterns with "Reset Your Romantic GPS" Mentioned Reset Your Romantic GPS: Why You Steer Toward The Wrong Partners, And How To Change Direction For The Better ****(*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love Connect with Ana Marc Sholes Websites: arcsholeslcsw.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 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.

Being difficult in relationships is a topic that is often misunderstood and shunned as the term "difficult" is usually associated with negativity, but what if it could be a catalyst for growth and development in our relationships? In this episode, we'll challenge the common notion that smooth sailing is the ideal in relationships, and instead, explore how speaking up, having honest conversations, and being vulnerable can lead to deeper emotional intimacy and stronger relationships. Join us as we dive into the power of being "difficult" and how it can assist in the growth and development of our relationships. Tonya Lester is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, private psychotherapist, Psychology Today contributor and author. For over 16 years, Tonya has taught couples and individuals how to manage their minds and emotions, develop relationships that are mutually respectful and supportive and approach decision-making and communication with clarity and courage. She believes in starting where you are, experimenting with new ways of being and focusing all of your attention on what you can do now, as opposed to fixating on what is currently out of reach. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's In this episode 04:55 Understanding how unspoken resentment impacts long-term relationships. 8:35 What is good about being difficult? 14:13 How to navigate difficult conversations in relationships. 20:18 Tonya encourages co-creation and mindfulness in relationships. 25:34 Communicating effectively in relationships and overcoming gender roles and expectations. 28:57 Honesty, vulnerability, and setting boundaries in relationships. 34:13 Overcoming gendered paradigms in relationships through assertiveness. 39:46 Three key elements to navigating difficult conversations in relationships. 45:40 Finding the middle ground between shame and grandiosity. 51:27 Tonya's vision for society: Building a world of collaborators. Mentioned Are you the Good Kind of Difficult? (*quiz) Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love Connect with Tonya Lester Websites: tonyalester.com TikTok: tiktok.com/@tonyalesterlcsw Instagram: instagram.com/tonyalesterpsychotherapy 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.