

Relationship Renovation: Marriage Advice, Intimacy & Couples Communication
EJ and Tarah Kerwin
Stronger relationships start here. The Relationship Renovation Podcast, hosted by licensed therapists and partners Tarah & E.J. Kerwin, gives couples the tools to improve communication, rebuild trust, and create lasting intimacy.Tarah and EJ share practical strategies, real-life stories, and therapist-guided insights to help you break negative cycles and deepen your connection.Each week you’ll learn how to:Practice couples therapy skills at homeStop fighting and start communicatingRebuild trust after conflict or distanceStrengthen both emotional and physical intimacyHear real couples share struggles and breakthroughsWith over 20,000 monthly downloads, Relationship Renovation is trusted worldwide by couples who want advice that is expert, relatable, and actionable.Whether you’re dating, married, or somewhere in between, this podcast is your roadmap to transform conflict into connection.Subscribe today—and start building the relationship you’ve been hoping for.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 4, 2023 • 24min
132 - Embracing Conflict as a Catalyst for Growth and Understanding in Relationships
Are you tired of tip-toeing around difficult conversations with your partner?Is the fear of potential conflicts keeping you from addressing sensitive topics?Welcome to a transformative episode of Relationship Renovation, where we unlock the secrets to enhancing your bond through open communication.Join us as we embark on an eye-opening journey into the heart of successful relationships. EJ and Tarah share their personal experiences of avoiding vital issues in their own relationship. Together, we'll explore how understanding each other's perspectives is the key to unlocking new levels of intimacy and connection.Discover the surprising impact of habituation and how assuming we know everything about our partner can hinder growth and exploration within the relationship. Uncover the truth about suppressing issues and learn why confronting them head-on is the gateway to growth and harmony.Get ready to embrace conflicts as opportunities for personal development, where we'll show you how these challenges can actually strengthen the foundation of your love. We'll unveil the power of forging agreements that foster unity and ignite the flames of passion.To learn more about our online program that helps couples improve their relationship and embark on a journey of self-discovery and intimacy building, click this link ------------> Purchase Relationship Renovation at Home Online Course.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Jul 28, 2023 • 22min
131 - The Power of Open Communication: Navigating Conflict, Sex, and Romance in Relationships
How have your perspectives on asking for emotional support and expressing your needs changed over the years?How do you navigate conflicts in your relationship? Are you able to express your feelings and needs openly?How do you approach conversations about sex drive differences in your relationship? Are you able to have open and honest discussions about your needs and desires?In this episode, EJ and Tarah dive deep into the power of open communication, focusing on shifting perspectives and understanding expectations within relationships. Get ready to be inspired and learn how expressing your needs can strengthen your connection with your partner. Discover how to navigate differences in sex drive, overcome shame, and embark on a journey of self-discovery together. This episode offers valuable insights and practical strategies to create emotional safety, address difficult topics, and rekindle the romance in your relationship. Looking to renovate your relationship? Look no further! Check out Relationship Renovation at Home, a comprehensive program designed to help couples navigate important conversations and transform their relationship. With exercises, videos, lessons, and prompts, this program offers practical tools and insights to create lasting change. Begin your own transformational journey by visiting relationshiprenovation.com and exploring the online programs tab, where you'll find a free sample to get started. Join EJ and Tarah as they unpack the dynamics of relationships, from understanding your past to shaping your future. Discover the power of communication, emotional safety, and embracing differences to build a stronger, more fulfilling partnership. Don't miss out on this eye-opening episode of Relationship Renovation!To learn more about our online program that helps couples improve their relationship and embark on a journey of self-discovery and intimacy building, click this link ------------> Purchase Relationship Renovation at Home Online Course.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Jul 21, 2023 • 22min
130 - Breaking Down Expectations: Avoiding Resentment and Anger in Relationships
In this enlightening episode of "Relationship Renovation," join hosts Tarah and E.J. Kerwin as they explore the profound impact of time and intentionality on relationships. From navigating expectations to healing after infidelity, the hosts provide thought-provoking answers to four crucial relationship questions:Can time truly heal all relationship wounds, even in cases of infidelity?Is it possible to solve all problems with the right amount of time and intentionality?Should we expect our partners to instinctively know our needs without communicating them?How does attachment theory influence our relationship expectations?The hosts stress the significance of active communication, seeking help during difficult times, and harnessing the power of time and intention to address both big challenges and minor issues. Don't miss their introduction of the "Relationship Renovation at Home" course, designed to foster meaningful conversations and enhance relationships.Gain valuable insights into fostering healthier connections, discussing crucial topics, and finding resolutions. Uncover the impact of unmet childhood needs and learn effective ways to express your needs clearly. This engaging and informative episode promises to deepen your understanding of communication's potency and the significance of investing in your relationships. Tune in now!To learn more about our online program that helps couples improve their relationship and embark on a journey of self-discovery and intimacy building, click this link ------------> Purchase Relationship Renovation at Home Online Course.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Jul 14, 2023 • 48min
129 - Finding Peace and Joy: Lew and Ginny's Path to Relationship Renovation Amidst Struggles
Welcome to Relationship Renovation, the podcast that takes you on a transformative journey. In this exciting episode, our hosts EJ and Tarah introduce you to the powerful concept of Relationship Renovation and the vital role of establishing a new narrative. Our groundbreaking program aims for long-lasting changes in relationships, going beyond quick fixes. Join us as we uncover the boundless possibilities that emerge when dedication and time are invested. Get ready to be inspired!In this captivating installment, we are privileged to feature a remarkable couple, Lew and Ginny, who graciously open up about their counseling experience at our renowned center. They bravely delve into their own emotional tendencies and reveal the profound connection that emerges when both partners embrace their struggles. Their authentic journey serves as a testament to the potential for breakthroughs, even in the darkest moments. Surprisingly, within just six months, Lew and Ginny have experienced a remarkable transformation in their connection and personal growth. Tune in as they recount their pivotal moment in therapy, offering invaluable insights into the inner workings of the brain and the crucial need to break free from repetitive patterns. They also highlight the significance of distinguishing between issues that require fixing and normal conversations, providing practical advice that listeners can implement in their own relationships. Don't miss this enlightening episode packed with wisdom and actionable tips for relationship success.To learn more about our online program that helps couples improve their relationship and embark on a journey of self-discovery and intimacy building, click this link ------------> Purchase Relationship Renovation at Home Online Course.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Jul 7, 2023 • 30min
128 - The Struggle to Find Joy: Supporting a Depressed Partner
How can I effectively support my partner who is experiencing depression during life transitions?What are some practical strategies for offering language and check-ins to provide support?How can I differentiate between my partner and their depression, and why is this important?Join hosts EJ and Tarah on an insightful episode of Relationship Renovation as they tackle the topic of supporting a depressed partner. They stress the importance of awareness during life transitions, offering language and check-ins as a means of support. They share their personal experience with depression, discussing challenges at work, the need for a support system within relationships, and the significance of seeking individual support. Throughout the episode, they address the impact of shame on mental health, encourage partners to differentiate between the person and the depression, and emphasize the importance of patience, love, and care. Discover valuable insights on navigating the complexities of maintaining a healthy relationship during challenging times.To learn more about our online program that helps couples improve their relationship and embark on a journey of self-discovery and intimacy building, click this link ------------> Purchase Relationship Renovation at Home Online Course.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Jun 30, 2023 • 48min
127 - Vulnerable Strength: Erin and Michael's Journey Through Illness and Emotional Resilience
How can recognizing dysfunctional patterns in a relationship lead to positive change?What are some common communication barriers that hinder open and productive conversations between partners?How can experiencing serious health issues impact a relationship and the way couples support each other?What strategies can couples employ to navigate challenging circumstances and come out stronger on the other side?In this episode of Relationship Renovation, we explore the transformative journey of Erin and Michael, a couple at a pivotal point in their relationship. Erin, a therapist and mother, and Michael, a father, share their relatable experiences, offering valuable insights to our audience. They reflect on dysfunctional patterns that affected their relationship and explore the benefits and the power of awareness for positive change. Amidst Erin and Michael’s successive cancer diagnosis’s, the couple faced the challenges of blending a family. Despite their sickness, they bravely shouldered the responsibility of caring for their homeschooling children during the pandemic, inadvertently causing strain between her and Michael. They learned how to confront avoidance of difficult conversations, fear of constructive criticism, and challenges with an ex-spouse. Realizing the importance of open communication, Erin and Michael confronted their avoidance and fear, paving the way for a healthier future together. Throughout their narratives, their relatability shines, amplified by the complexities of their blended family dynamic. Erin and Michael's vulnerability and determination inspires us, proving that even imperfect beginnings can lead to a more fulfilling relationship. By unraveling their past issues and embracing the lessons learned, they forged a smoother, stronger path forward.To learn more about our online program that helps couples improve their relationship and embark on a journey of self-discovery and intimacy building, click this link ------------> Purchase Relationship Renovation at Home Online Course.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Jun 23, 2023 • 45min
126 - The Power of Knowing Your Partner: Insights from Dr. Stan Tatkin on Building Successful Relationships
On this episode of Relationship Renovation, we delve into the importance of knowing your partner in order to have a successful relationship. Our guest speaker, Dr. Stan Tatkin, emphasizes the crucial role of childhood attachment experiences in adult pair bonding. Not knowing your partner's triggers can cause reactions that remind one of unresolved childhood issues, leading to feelings of frustration and blame. The responsibility lies with each partner to understand and manage their own reactions and be knowledgeable about their partner to work collaboratively and maintain a strong relationship. Tune in to this episode for an insightful conversation on cultivating a deep understanding of your partner.In the realm of psychology, few individuals have made a profound impact on the field of couples therapy like Dr. Stan Tatkin. Renowned for his exceptional expertise and groundbreaking insights, Dr. Tatkin has emerged as a true pioneer in the realm of relationship science. With his compassionate approach, innovative theories, and practical tools, he has transformed countless lives, guiding couples toward flourishing partnerships.The PACT InstituteTo learn more about our online program that helps couples improve their relationship and embark on a journey of self-discovery and intimacy building, click this link ------------> Purchase Relationship Renovation at Home Online Course.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Jun 16, 2023 • 35min
125 - From Fairness to Love: How Keeping Score Harms Your Relationship - Nate and Kaley Klemp
What is the "80/80 Framework," and what does it focus on?How does the pursuit of fairness lead to resentment?What is radical generosity, and how can it alleviate inequalities and resentment in partnerships?On this episode of Relationship Renovation, we interview Nate and Kaley Klemp and discuss their 80/80 marriage framework. They explore the problem of resentment in relationships and how it can be self-created and shifted by recognizing personal contributions. They also discuss how modern relationships struggle with achieving fairness due to cognitive biases like availability and overestimation bias. We delve into the importance of structural considerations and shared values in maintaining a healthy relationship. Nate and Kaley share their experience with the 80/80 marriage framework and how it can reduce resentment and lead to a radical generosity mindset. The episode concludes with personal examples from EJ and Tarah, including how to handle shared responsibilities and overfunctioning in relationships.The 80/80 Marriage: A New Model for RelationshipsTo learn more about our online program that helps couples improve their relationship and embark on a journey of self-discovery and intimacy building, click this link ------------> Purchase Relationship Renovation at Home Online Course.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Jun 9, 2023 • 23min
124 - Opposite Reactions: How to Deal with Differences in Your Relationship
How can we honor each other's differences and create a plan that works for both partners in a relationship?What are some examples of daily routines that can impact relationships, and how can we find ways to compromise on them?Why is it important to communicate realistic expectations with our partners instead of expecting them to read our minds?On this episode of Relationship Renovation, hosts EJ and Tarah tackle the issue of how partners react differently in various situations and how it can lead to conflicts in the relationship. They discuss their own experiences with party-hosting, shopping, and morning routines, and advocate for making game plans with one's partner to avoid conflicts. They also discuss the importance of communicating realistic expectations and respecting each other's differences to maintain a strong connection. Tune in to learn valuable insights on how to handle conflicts that arise from differing reactions to situations and how to improve your relationship skills.To learn more about our online program that helps couples improve their relationship and embark on a journey of self-discovery and intimacy building, click this link ------------> Purchase Relationship Renovation at Home Online Course.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Jun 2, 2023 • 36min
123 - Understanding Triggered States: A Guide to Co-Regulating in Relationships - Interview with Lisa Marini
On this episode of Relationship Renovation, our speaker Lisa Marini, a brain-based coach, discusses ways in which couples can navigate their triggered responses during disagreements. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing triggered states versus non-triggered states and developing effective communication and listening skills. Lisa also delves into the brain's response to stress and provides various physical and calming approaches that individuals can take to regulate their emotions. Lisa's proactive and safe approach to dealing with triggering situations is refreshing, and her tips on developing emotional safety in a relationship are valuable for any couple looking to strengthen their bond.Lisa Marini Brain Based CoachCouples PlaybookTo learn more about our online program that helps couples improve their relationship and embark on a journey of self-discovery and intimacy building, click this link ------------> Purchase Relationship Renovation at Home Online Course.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands


