

Empowered Relationship Podcast: Your Relationship Resource And Guide
Dr. Jessica Higgins
The Empowered Relationship Podcast helps you turn relationship challenges into opportunities and sets you up for relationship success, satisfaction, and intimacy.
This podcast is designed to inspire, motivate, and guide individuals and couples into more empowered, conscious, and evolved ways of loving.
This podcast is designed to inspire, motivate, and guide individuals and couples into more empowered, conscious, and evolved ways of loving.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 26, 2024 • 57min
ERP 417: Why Every Couple Needs A Couple Mission Statement — An Interview With Dr. Heather Browne
Many individuals and families encounter a common challenge: the struggle to harmonize their values, aspirations, and objectives. This issue is compounded by the inherent differences in perspectives, priorities, and communication styles within these relationships. When aspirations clash and priorities diverge, it often leads to misunderstandings that escalate into tensions and conflicts. Maintaining harmony becomes a daunting task without a clear understanding of each other's goals and values, leaving couples and families adrift in a sea of discord. In this episode, we delve into practical strategies for crafting a shared mission statement—a tool designed to align individuals and unite them in pursuit of common objectives. Through insightful discussions and actionable steps, listeners will discover how to identify core values, engage in constructive dialogue, and cultivate deeper understanding and connection with their partners and loved ones. Join us as we explore the power of intentional communication in fostering stronger, more harmonious relationships. Dr. Heather Browne, PsyD, LMFT, helps people recognize the power of communication, one of the most important skills we possess. However, often, we fail to consider our understanding, approach, and belief, and consequently, miss out on our potential. No two individuals perceive reality in the same way, despite our belief in shared understanding. Harnessing this revolutionary awareness has enabled her to transform communication within oneself and other types of relationships. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 04:45 Dr. Heather Browne's journey of healing and growth. 08:57 The significance of self-awareness and conscientiousness in personal growth, particularly in identifying areas of consistency and growth. 12:38 The transformative power of a mission statement. 20:28 The importance of understanding and accommodating differences in stress responses and soothing methods within a relationship. 23:57 Tailoring relationship goals to individual values. 29:12 Navigating irreconcilable differences in relationships through effective communication and collaboration. 40:19 Nurturing self-discovery and inner alignment. 51:54 The importance of crafting and regularly revisiting a mission statement for individuals, couples, and families as a tool for fostering connection and guiding communication. Mentioned How to Feel Less Lonely, Create Meaningful Connections and Love | Heather Browne | TEDxMountRubidoux (YouTube link) (video) Speaking with the Heart: Transforming Your Relationship and Communication with Compassion and Connection (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) ERP 355: The Importance of Creating a Shared Reality in Relationship — An Interview with Dr. Heather Browne ERP 372: How to Work Together in Relationship for a Strong, Secure Connection — An Interview with Dr. Stan Tatkin ERP 389: Understanding Our Stress Language as Well as Our Partner's Stress Language for Better Living & Loving — An Interview with Chantal Donnelly Connect with Dr. Heather Browne Websites: drheatherbrowne.com Facebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086978599835&mibextid=LQQJ4d YouTube: youtube.com/@dr.heatherbrowne Instagram: instagram.com/dr.heatherbrowne LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drheatherbrowne TikTok: tiktok.com/@heathermbrowne 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.

Mar 19, 2024 • 46min
ERP 416: What To Consider If You Are In a Relationship With An Emotionally Immature Person — Part Four
Delving into the challenges of emotional immaturity in relationships, the podcast discusses the toll on the emotionally mature partner, strained enjoyment, coping with lack of intimacy, struggle with confidence and conflict resolution, and practical steps for addressing emotional immaturity. It aims to foster awareness and encourage efforts in honing emotional and relational competencies.

Mar 12, 2024 • 53min
ERP 415: What LGBTQ Couples Can Teach Us About Relationship — An Interview with Laurel Roberts-Meese
Couples face a myriad of challenges, from communication breakdowns to navigating societal expectations. Navigating these challenges and fostering growth requires intentional effort and understanding. However, for LGBTQ couples, unique dynamics often come into play, from negotiating identity acceptance to addressing external biases. In this episode, we delve into the rich tapestry of LGBTQ relationships, exploring the strengths they offer and the challenges they face. Through insightful discussions on communication, identity affirmation, and seeking inclusive support, this episode provides actionable steps for all couples seeking to deepen their connection and thrive together. Join us as we explore what LGBTQ+ couples can teach us about nurturing healthy and thriving relationships. Laurel is a licensed therapist and the Clinical Director of Laurel Therapy Collective, an online therapy practice that provides customized therapy to driven professionals in California, Pennsylvania, and Florida. Her practice offers individual and couples therapy with an emphasis on trauma recovery and LGBT+ affirmative care. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 05:56 The importance of shared identity and experiences in therapy for better outcomes. 10:48 Navigating licensing complexities for teletherapy across California Pennsylvania and Florida. 16:07 Lessons from LGBTQ+ relationships for all couples. 22:16 The significance of breaking away from prescribed relationship models and embracing a growth mindset in partnerships. 27:50 The power of language in shaping relationships. 34:25 Navigating common challenges in couples therapy. 37:20 Navigating unique challenges in LGBT couples relationships. 45:24 Identifying key criteria when seeking a couples therapist. 48:21 Holistic telehealth therapy services for couples and individuals. Mentioned Same-Sex Couples (*The Gottman Institute) (research) Therapy Den Inclusive Therapists Dr. Sue Johnson The Gottman Institute Imago Relationship Therapy (*Very Well Mind) Connect with Laurel Roberts-Meese Websites: laureltherapy.net Facebook: facebook.com/laureltherapycollective YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCzmtQve6GOsJt2z9XZ02nZA Instagram: instagram.com/laureltherapycollective LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/laurel-therapy 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.

Mar 5, 2024 • 52min
ERP 414: How To Increase Emotional Safety For The Whole Family When The Couple Is In Distress — An Interview With Kathryn de Bruin & Dr. Lisa Palmer-Olsen
Navigating the challenging waters of divorce or betrayal within a relationship can be an incredibly tough journey. It's a time when seeking support becomes crucial, and for many, individual or couples therapy becomes a lifeline. However, the impact of a couple's distress extends far beyond the partners involved. They often overlook how their struggles reverberate throughout the entire family. In this episode, we dive into the critical importance of considering therapy for the entire family system. This episode offers strategies for gaining a deeper understanding of how family members at various developmental stages are affected, and how to create a safe space for open communication and emotional support within the family, prioritizing the children's development amidst distress. Kathryn de Bruin is a Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Emotional Focused Therapy Trainer and Supervisor, and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor. She has a full-time private practice in San Diego, CA where she works with children and families. Kathryn teaches Play Therapy at the University of California, San Diego, in the Play Therapy Program. She is a Director for the San Diego Center for EFT, and serves various EFT communities. Lisa Palmer-Olsen, Psy.D. is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in San Diego California. She is a Certified EFT Therapist, Trainer, and Supervisor, and is a Founder and one of the Directors of the Emotionally Focused Couples Training and Research Institute at Alliant International University. Lisa completed her dissertation research on how to train and teach Emotionally Focused Couples therapy to professionals. Dr. Sue Johnson, the founder of EFT and Dr. Scott Woolley were part of her dissertation committee. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 5:02 Lisa and Kathryn's journey into supporting couples and families. 10:00 The importance of considering the broader impact within the family system. 15:20 The growing trend of parents seeking comprehensive support. 19:40 Creating new pathways for family connection. 28:04 Creating space for dialogue within the family and seeking community resources to combat isolation. 46:43 Redefining conflict resolution in family law: The role of attachment-based mediation. 48:54 Valuable resources for individuals navigating family therapy and seeking emotional support. Mentioned Emotionally Focused Family Therapy: Restoring Connection and Promoting Resilience (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World (book) The Good Divorce (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Constance Ahrons, Ph.D. EFT Therapist Search ERP 175: How to Heal from an Affair – An Interview with Scott Woolley Connect with Kathryn de Bruin & Dr. Lisa Palmer-Olsen Websites: renovasandiego.com | kathryndebruin.com Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-family-express 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.

Feb 27, 2024 • 34min
ERP 413: How Does Emotional Immaturity Develop & The Difference Between Emotional Immaturity And Emotional Abuse? Part Three
Delving into emotional immaturity, the podcast explores childhood experiences, trauma, and caregiver dynamics. It discusses the impact of unhealthy upbringing on emotional stunting and the perpetuating cycle of abuse. The episode aims to equip listeners with insights to recognize, address, and overcome emotional immaturity, fostering personal growth and healthy connections.

Feb 20, 2024 • 49min
ERP 412: Why Divorce (Or Ending A Relationship) Should Always Be an Option — An Interview With Sharon Pope
Although divorce is legally permissible and widely acknowledged in modern society, it remains burdened with significant stigma. The mere mention of it evokes palpable discomfort, as it's often viewed as a failure in a culture that emphasizes perseverance in relationships at all costs, even in the face of significant challenges. In this episode, we challenge this narrative by exploring the necessity of maintaining divorce as an option in relationships. We delve into the profound importance of setting healthy boundaries and prioritizing individual well-being within the context of partnership. Join us as we unravel the complexities surrounding divorce, challenging listeners to consider its role in fostering healthier, more sustainable relationships. Sharon Pope is a certified Master Life Coach, and a seven-time best-selling author on love and relationships, including "Stay or Go: How to Find the Confidence & Clarity You Need to Either Fix the Struggles in Your Marriage or Move Forward without Regret," which has sold more than 300,000 copies worldwide, and host of the podcast, "The Loving Truth." Sharon's been a guest on many podcasts and is committed to helping women and men get the tools they need to improve, heal, or release their struggling marriages. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 05:52 Sharon challenges the notion that every marriage should be salvaged at all costs. 07:56 From personal heartbreak to professional passion: Sharon's journey to relationship coaching. 10:32 Sharon reflects on her personal evolution from blaming her ex-husband to embracing self-awareness and personal growth. 12:57 Moving beyond surface efforts. 17:20 The importance of regular relationship check-ins. 21:52 The stigma and significance of divorce within relationships. 28:39 Strategies for interrupting negative patterns in communication within relationships. 38:03 Setting boundaries and timeframes for relationship evaluation. 41:40 Embracing divorce as an option for setting healthy boundaries. Mentioned Stay or Go: How to Find the Confidence & Clarity You Need to Either Fix the Struggles in Your Marriage or Move Forward without Regret (book) When Marriage Needs an Answer: The Decision to Fix Your Struggling Marriage or Leave Without Regret (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Connect with Sharon Pope Websites: sharonpope.com Facebook: facebook.com/SharonPopeCoach YouTube: youtube.com/@sharonpopecoach Instagram: instagram.com/sharonpopecoach TikTok: tiktok.com/@sharonpopecoach LinkedIn: inkedin.com/in/sharon-pope-0705b28 Podcast: sharonpope.com/podcast 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.

Feb 13, 2024 • 36min
ERP 411: What Are The Signs Of Emotional Immaturity In Relationship? Part Two
Do you often feel like you're bearing the emotional burden in your relationship while your partner struggles to express their feelings and handle difficult conversations? If these dynamics sound familiar, you may be navigating the complexities of emotional immaturity in your relationship. Welcome back to the Empowered Relationship Podcast, where we continue our exploration of emotional immaturity and its impact on relationships. If you missed part one of this multi-series, I highly recommend giving it a listen, where we explored five key characteristics of emotional immaturity. In this episode, we're diving deeper into this topic by examining four additional characteristics. From struggles with healthy communication to difficulty engaging in hard conversations and conflicts, we'll unravel the intricacies of emotional immaturity and how it impacts intimate relationships. Join us as we uncover valuable insights to cultivate deeper connections and intimacy with your significant other. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 9:27 Dependency and validation: Key characteristics of emotional immaturity. 13:15 Challenges of emotional engagement and relational depth in emotionally immature relationships. 20:34 Unilateral decision-making and emotional detachment. 23:00 Avoidance, defensiveness, and blame-shifting. 28:10 Communication challenges and manipulative behaviors. Mentioned 11 Signs of Emotional Immaturity in Relationships & Ways to Deal Signs of Emotional Immaturity ERP 410: What Are the Signs of Emotional Immaturity in Relationship? 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.

Feb 6, 2024 • 35min
ERP 410: What Are The Signs Of Emotional Immaturity In Relationship?
Delving into emotional immaturity in relationships, the host discusses defining emotional immaturity, challenges in emotion regulation, impulsivity and reactivity, low frustration tolerance, rigidity in thinking, lack of self-awareness and empathy, and self-centric patterns. The episode aims to raise awareness and provide insights for navigating emotional immaturity in relationships.

Jan 30, 2024 • 1h 3min
ERP 409: How To Experience An Opening During A Difficult Conversation For More Progress & Connection — An Interview With Chad and Angela Imhoff
Navigating conflicts with a romantic partner can feel like an impossible challenge for many couples. Disagreements are a natural part of any long-term relationship as each individual brings a unique set of experiences, needs, and communication styles to the dynamic. Conflicts often escalate quickly as defensiveness and hurt feelings take over, resulting in distance rather than resolution. Without tools to reframe discussions, truly listen without judgment, and repair misunderstandings, the relationship itself can be damaged over time by an accumulation of unaddressed issues. In this episode, we offer valuable insights for effectively handling these challenges. Drawing on concepts from Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), we explore methods to deliberately slow down reactions and enhance self-awareness, uncovering the underlying dynamics at play. The principles of EFT guide individuals to navigate conflicts with empathy, fostering a genuine desire to fully understand their partner. Practical strategies are presented, providing a toolkit for fostering openings in challenging conversations. Dr. Chad Imhoff is an EFT Certified Therapist, EFT Supervisor, and the director of the Arkansas EFT Community. He serves as Clinical Director of the Joshua Center, where he is also a therapist. Angela received her Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and is a Certified Life and Relationship Coach. They have a passion for helping couples have relational transformation and are devoted to seeing healing and change happen among individuals, couples, and families. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 6:04 The transformative journey of Dr. Chad and Angela Imhoff in relationship therapy. 17:07 The influence of attachment theory in relationship dynamics. 21:26 How appraisal theory shapes relationship dynamics. 32:22 Understanding and honoring attachment styles. 35:31 Real-life examples showing how couples continue to navigate and understand the details of their relationships over time. 49:55 Navigating relationship triggers: Transforming conflict into understanding and growth. 56:56 Advanced strategies for navigating triggers and fostering connection. Mentioned Dr. Sue Johnson George Faller Dr. Ryan Rana Success in Vulnerability Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication Connect with Chad and Angela Imhoff Websites: therealimhoffs.com Facebook: facebook.com/RealImhoffs YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCfVV6z7ni2C8MrlEX4UrP5A Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/connecting-couples/id1518876330 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.

Jan 23, 2024 • 55min
ERP 408: How To Repattern A People Pleasing Tendency — An Interview With Dr. Dana McNeil
Many people struggle with establishing boundaries in their close relationships due to a tendency to people-please at the expense of their own needs. This challenge often stems from early relational dynamics in childhood, leading individuals to prioritize the needs and desires of those around them over their own well-being. Worrying about disappointing or upsetting others can make it difficult to assert one's boundaries, as well as to engage in topics of conversation where there is conflict or disagreement. In this episode, we explore the pervasive impact of people-pleasing behaviors on the relationship. Dr. Dana McNeil and Dr. Jessica Higgins offer actionable guidance for overcoming this challenge by addressing how to; recognize people-pleasing behaviors, understand the importance of boundaries, effectively communicate needs to partners, and negotiate differences in a way that fosters greater intimacy and understanding between partners. The discussion provides practical exercises and examples that can help listeners develop healthier relationship patterns centered around mutual care, respect, and fulfillment for both individuals. Dr. Dana McNeil is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and founder of The Relationship Place, a group practice located in her hometown, San Diego, California. Dr. Dana's practice specializes in relationship therapy and utilizes an evidence-based type of couples therapy known as the Gottman Method. Dr. Dana is a certified Gottman Method therapist and Doctor of Psychology. She also leads training at the Gottman Institute to help clinicians master the art of couples therapy. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 5:10 Dr. Dana McNeil's journey to therapeutic practice. 13:30 People-pleasing: Highlighting the challenges it poses in expressing needs and setting healthy boundaries. 20:25 Practical ways to identify and communicate personal needs, especially for individuals struggling with people-pleasing tendencies. 26:48 Building stronger relationships through open communication and honesty. 32:55 Setting boundaries, embracing vulnerability, and overcoming people-pleasing. 39:40 Embracing differences and talking through challenges. Mentioned D-Spot Conversations: Navigating Today's Complicated Relationships (download link) Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication Hendricks Institute The Gottman Institute ERP 269: How to Break Free from the Nice Guy Syndrome That Is Holding You Back – An Interview with Dr.Robert Glover ERP 323: One of the Most Important Relationship Skills – Being Relational — An Interview with Terry Real Connect with Dr. Dana McNeil Websites: danamcneil.com | sdrelationshipplace.com | dspotpodcast.com Facebook: facebook.com/DrDanaMcNeil | facebook.com/sdrelationshipplace YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCTiGMC8VeLRMFl8FN9MYFSg | youtube.com/@dspotpodcast/videos Instagram: instagram.com/drdanamcneil | instagram.com/sdrelationshipplace | instagram.com/dspotpodcast LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-dana-mcneil Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-d-spot/id1629708409 (Apple Podcast link) 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.


