On Attachment #243: How to Create Healthy, Balanced Relationships with Nedra Glover Tawwab
In this episode, I’m joined by therapist, bestselling author, and boundaries expert Nedra Glover Tawwab for a powerful conversation on what it really means to have healthy dependency in our relationships.
So many of us find ourselves swinging between two extremes — overgiving, people-pleasing, and losing ourselves in others… or shutting down, becoming hyper-independent, and struggling to let anyone in.
But what does the middle ground actually look like?
Together, we explore the spectrum between codependency and hyper-independence, and how both patterns — while protective — can ultimately leave us feeling disconnected and unfulfilled.
This conversation goes beyond romantic relationships. We talk about friendships, family, community, and the importance of having a diverse support system rather than expecting one person to meet all of our needs.
We also unpack:
- Why “healthy dependency” isn’t a weakness, but a fundamental human need
- How codependency and hyper-independence develop as adaptations
- The role of boundaries in creating sustainable, respectful relationships
- Why over-focusing on the why behind someone’s behaviour can keep us stuck
- How to stop over-functioning in relationships and recalibrate your energy
- The importance of having multiple sources of connection and support
- Why doing the “uncomfortable thing” is often the path to secure relationships
Nedra shares practical, grounded insights on how to move away from extremes and towards more balanced, flexible, and connected ways of relating.
If you’ve ever struggled with asking for help, felt resentful in relationships, or found yourself stuck in the same relational patterns, this episode will give you a clear and compassionate framework for doing things differently.
Connect with Nedra Glover Tawwab: