Empowered Relationship Podcast: Your Relationship Resource And Guide

Navigating relationships with in-laws is often a subtle journey filled with its unique set of challenges, and it's a topic that has generated numerous requests from our audience. As we find ourselves on the brink of the holiday season, these challenges may become more pronounced, making it an opportune time to address the intricacies of managing relationships with in-laws. In this episode, Dr. Jessica Higgins provides actionable insights and practical tips to empower listeners in navigating these relationships more effectively. Whether you're grappling with strained connections, seeking strategies for smoother communication, or simply aiming to enhance understanding within the family unit, this episode is for you. Join us as we explore the nuances of in-law interactions, offering valuable perspectives to help you approach these dynamics with intention and foster healthier connections within your family circle. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 4:07 Navigating challenging relationships with in-laws during the holiday season. 8:49 A reflective inventory and setting realistic goals. 13:03 Relationship milestones, family expectations, and cultural considerations. 20:33 The influence of family structure on in-law relationships and the vital role of consensus in marital success. 25:56 A gentle approach to discussing challenges and setting healthy boundaries. 34:59 Tips for emotional regulation and proactive communication. Mentioned You Aren't as Close to my Family as You Think: Discordant Perceptions about In-laws and Risk of Divorce (*NCBI link) (research) Marriage and In-Laws: Factors Influencing Marital Stability (*Adelphi University link) (research) Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love 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.

Spendthrifts and tightwads represent opposite ends of the financial spectrum. A spendthrift tends to be more liberal with spending, often embracing a carefree attitude toward financial matters. On the other hand, a tightwad tends to be more frugal, prioritizing saving and cautious spending. Navigating these distinct financial personalities can pose challenges in a partnership, requiring thoughtful communication, compromise, and understanding to create a balanced and harmonious approach to shared finances. In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of these differing financial approaches, offering actionable strategies to foster collaboration between spendthrifts and tightwads. From exploring joint accounts with individual freedoms to deciphering the art of thoughtful gift-giving beyond monetary values, the conversation provides practical insights. By emphasizing the delicate balance between shared financial goals and individual autonomy, the episode aims to equip couples with tangible steps to navigate the complexities of money matters. Tune in for valuable guidance on building financial harmony and strengthening communication in relationships marked by diverse spending tendencies. Dr. Scott Rick is the author of Tightwads and Spendthrifts: Navigating the Money Minefield in Real Relationships. He is a marketing professor at the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business and holds a PhD in Behavioral Decision Research from Carnegie Mellon, where he was a National Science Foundation graduate research fellow. His research on consumer behavior has been covered in outlets such as The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal. He has published in premier journals spanning marketing, psychology, and economics. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 5:49 Scott Rick's journey into exploring spending orientations shaped by spendthrift influences. 10:17 Navigating the dynamics of tightwads and spendthrifts in relationships: Understanding protective strategies and attraction. 20:18 Financial continuums, tensions, and the concept of financial translucency. 26:05 Balancing financial transparency: Navigating autonomy, trust, and communal approaches in relationships. 36:19 Unlocking the art of gift-giving: Thoughtful gestures, sacrifice, and relationship enrichment. Mentioned Tightwads and Spendthrifts: Navigating the Money Minefield in Real Relationships (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) The 36 Questions That Lead to Love (*The New York Times link) Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication Connect with Dr. Scott Rick Websites: scottrick.com Twitter: twitter.com/scottianrick LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/scottianrick 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.

Embarking on a journey of profound spiritual exploration, particularly through plant medicine, can be a transformative endeavor. However, with the promise of self-discovery comes the responsibility of navigating these realms with caution. In this episode, we delve into the potential pitfalls of venturing into the depths of spiritual work, offering cautionary insights to those considering or already immersed in plant medicine journeys. A wealth of knowledge and experiences are brought to light, highlighting the risks linked to inexperienced facilitators and emphasizing the significance of traditional shamanic practices. Offering practical tips for a safer and more intentional approach, this episode aims to empower listeners on their spiritual quests, fostering a sense of awareness and responsibility in the pursuit of profound personal growth. Megan and Nicole Michelena are Microdosing Institute-certified mental health experts specializing in psychedelic medicine. They are known as the @zenchronicity_sisters and are the co-founders of Zenchronicity, a plant medicine microdosing mentorship program that supports healing through psilocybin mushrooms. Megan is also a certified holistic nutritionist and health coach, and both are trauma-informed yoga teachers and experts in psychedelic medicine. They are also precious stone jewelry makers and crystal experts, and Megan is a gifted astrologer. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 6:07 Navigating the terrain of plant medicine: Insights and considerations with Dr. Jessica Higgins. 12:55 Journey to mastery: The zen chronicity sisters on plant medicine, healing, and self-discovery. 18:51 Nicole's perspective on plant medicine and the inner journey to transformation. 29:29 Navigating microdosing and plant medicine with Zen Chronicity. 39:38 How psilocybin softens neuroplasticity and transforms consciousness. 43:40 Balancing energies: Navigating the dance of masculine and feminine in psychedelic healing. 55:52 Integrating plant medicine with traditional shamanic wisdom. 1:08:03 Practical tips for safe and transformative plant medicine experiences. Mentioned Zenchronicity Podcast (*Apple podcast link) Plants of the Gods (*Apple podcast link) Transaction Analysis by Eric Berne Hamilton Morris (*Wikipedia article) The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) ERP 305: The Surprising & Powerful Benefits of Learning to Tolerate Discomfort — An Interview with Dr. Anna Lembke (podcast episode) ERP 346: Accessing Relatedness & the Priority of Connection — An Interview with Gabriel Kram (podcast episode) Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love Connect with Nicole & Megan Michelena Websites: zenchronicity222.com Instagram: instagram.com/zenchronicity_podcast | instagram.com/zenchronicity_sisters 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 impact of sexual trauma on survivors often leaves a lasting imprint on both their emotional and physical well-being. Alongside grappling with feelings of fear, anger, and sadness, the trauma may be unconsciously stored in the body and unexpectedly reexperienced through somatic triggers during intimate moments. This can undermine a survivor's sense of safety, trust in others, and ability to freely experience closeness. In this episode, we delve into an often unexplored topic of relationships—navigating the intricate terrain of supporting a partner who has endured sexual trauma. The episode not only sheds light on the challenges faced but also presents practical steps, fostering a sense of hope and connection for both survivors and their partners. Join us as we explore the profound impact of trauma on intimacy and how intentional, informed efforts can contribute to healing and strengthen the bonds within these relationships. Megan Lara Negendank, LMFT, CST, is a licensed marriage and family therapist, and a certified sex therapist. She is the founder of Love Heal Grow, a relationship therapy center in Northern California where she specializes in trauma-informed, relationship-focused psychotherapy for survivors of trauma and their partners. She has been featured as a relationship expert on PBS, NPR, and in Sacramento Magazine. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 5:15 Megan Negendank's mission to support survivors and partners through trauma-informed therapy. 9:49 Navigating the complexity of survivor experiences and partner support in the realm of sexual trauma. 17:02 Coping mechanisms, trust challenges, and partner support in sexual trauma recovery. 22:37 Communication, consent, and partner self-compassion in the aftermath of sexual trauma. 32:55 Building bridges to stability: Navigating trauma in relationships through co-regulation and secure functioning. Mentioned Loving Someone Who Has Sexual Trauma: A Compassionate Guide to Supporting Your Partner and Improving Your Relationship (The New Harbinger Loving Someone Series) (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Connect with Megan Negendank Websites: lovehealgrow.com Instagram: instagram.com/megan.lovehealgrow 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 holiday season traditionally beckons gatherings with loved ones, friends, and family, often involving travel to reunite with those we haven't seen in a while. While these occasions can be overwhelmingly positive, the nuances of family and relationship dynamics often introduce challenges. In this episode, we delve into the common tendencies of complaining, comparing, and criticizing, which can disrupt the joyous spirit of gatherings. We delve into insightful strategies to pivot away from these unproductive habits, offering practical solutions for a more positive and enriching experience. By exploring the three P's—pride, pleasure, and purpose—listeners are guided on a journey toward fostering deeper connections during festive occasions, enhancing the quality of interactions with loved ones, and ultimately cultivating a path to greater happiness. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 5:29 The impact of holiday gatherings on our mental tendencies. 9:18 Negative thought patterns and their impact on relationships. 15:52 Applying Gottman's 5:1 ratio to strengthen connections in every relationship. 23:34 The impact of negative behaviors on relationships. 32:09 Cultivating happiness through connection and purpose. Unpacking the Three C's First, let's clarify the three C's to avoid. 1. Comparing We often find ourselves anticipating comparisons, preparing to evaluate and rank ourselves, and engaging in a subtle one-up/one-down competition. Measures of Success: Career Achievements (promotions) Health and Fitness (body weight) Financial Status Attractiveness and Beauty (aging, wrinkles, clothing, hair) Knowledge (current events, politics) Social Engagements (events attended, people met) Fun (recreational activities, trips, etc.) All these aspects contribute to an individual's sense of meaning, purpose, and pride. However, when the intention is to impress or compete to feel superior, it can lead to putting oneself above others, inadvertently diminishing their value. Antidote: Practice expressing appreciation and gratitude for oneself, aiming for a list of 10 appreciations as a countermeasure. 2. Complaining Expressing challenges is a natural way to seek attention and understanding, often as an attempt to bond with others who can relate to hardships. However, dwelling on difficulties, akin to sharing war stories, provides limited satisfaction in connecting. Antidote: Counteracting complaints involves identifying at least 10 positive aspects overlooked in the situation, fostering a more optimistic perspective. 3. Criticizing Judging someone's behavior, especially in family or friendship dynamics, can stem from underlying longings, needs, or vulnerabilities, with limited potential for change compared to romantic relationships. Antidote: If change seems unlikely, self-support involves addressing personal needs and longings through alternative means or advocating for oneself, including setting boundaries. Additionally, acknowledging 10 positive qualities or attributes the person brings to your life can help shift the focus away from criticism. The Negative Effects of the 3 C's Diminished Self-Esteem: Engaging in constant comparison and criticism can lead to feelings of inadequacy, lower self-worth, and diminished self-esteem. Strained Relationships: Continuous criticism and complaining can put strain on relationships, eroding trust, creating tension, and reducing the overall sense of safety and satisfaction. Dissatisfaction in Interactions: The repetitive nature of the 3 C's can leave interactions feeling less meaningful and satisfying, contributing to a sense of dissatisfaction. Avoidance and Disconnection: Over time, the cumulative effect of the 3 C's may lead to avoidance of certain individuals or a decrease in engagement, negatively impacting the connection in relationships. Missed Opportunities for Growth: Focusing on the negative aspects may lead to missed opportunities for personal and relational growth, hindering the exploration of positive and enriching experiences. Draining Interactions: Engaging in the 3 C's can be emotionally draining, both for oneself and others, as the emphasis on negativity outweighs the potential for positive and uplifting interactions. Empowerment and Blame Cycle: The cycle of blame, competition, and one-upmanship perpetuated by the 3 C's can create a disempowered mindset, hindering the celebration of others and fostering deeper connections. Lack of Meaning and Significance: Constant comparison and criticism may lead to a focus on surface-level attributes, overshadowing the potential for deeper connections and the meaningful aspects of relationships. The 3 P's of Happiness Now that we've explored the challenges posed by the three C's, let's shift our focus to the transformative power of the three P's. The concept of the three P's — Pride, Purpose, and Pleasure — draws inspiration from Blue Zone research, examining communities globally recognized for longevity and well-being. Here are actionable strategies aligned with the three P's to foster a balanced and fulfilling life: 1. Pride: Build Community Bonds: Connect with your community, nurturing positive relationships for a heightened sense of belonging and pride. Embrace Traditions: Celebrate cultural or community traditions to strengthen your connection to heritage and foster pride. Achieve Personal Goals: Pursue goals aligned with your values, cultivating a sense of pride and satisfaction. Share Your Successes: Acknowledge and share your accomplishments, reinforcing a positive sense of pride. 2. Purpose: Discover Your Ikigai: Explore your 'ikigai,' finding purpose at the intersection of passion, skill, societal need, and earning potential. Volunteer and Give Back: Contribute to causes aligned with your values, experiencing purpose through meaningful engagement. Set Long-Term Goals: Establish enduring goals reflecting your passions and values for a sense of purpose. Reflect on Core Values: Regularly align actions with core values, providing direction and purpose in life. 3. Pleasure: Prioritize Social Bonds: Cultivate meaningful relationships with friends and family, crucial for overall happiness. Opt for Balanced Nutrition: Enjoy a varied, nutritious diet in moderation for physical and mental well-being. Incorporate Physical Activity: Integrate joyful exercises like walking or dancing into daily routines. Practice Mindfulness: Dedicate time to mindfulness practices, enhancing the enjoyment of the present moment. Embrace Nature: Spend time outdoors, connecting with nature for increased pleasure and well-being. Cultivate Hobbies: Engage in passion-driven activities, such as art or gardening, for a more pleasurable life. By integrating these strategies, you can elevate your overall well-being, embracing the principles of Pride, Purpose, and Pleasure observed in Blue Zone communities. Mentioned The Magic Ratio: The Key to Relationship Satisfaction Blue Zones of Happiness, The: Lessons From the World's Happiest People (The Blue Zones) (*Amazon affiliate link) (book) 25 Days To Strengthening Your Love Through Kindness (free guide link) ERP 125: How Kindness Can Strengthen Your Love (podcast episode) ERP 128: How Kindness Can Strengthen Your Love – Part Two (podcast episode) ERP 129: How Kindness Can Strengthen Your Love – Part Three (podcast episode) ERP 130: How Kindness Can Strengthen Your Love – Part Four (podcast episode) ERP 130: How Kindness Can Strengthen Your Love – Part Five (podcast episode) 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.

Entrusting our happiness to others implies depending on external validation or circumstances to feel content, fulfilled, or complete. Instead of finding intrinsic sources of joy and fulfillment within ourselves, we place the responsibility for our happiness on external influences. This reliance on external factors, especially in relationships, may result in emotional vulnerability and fragile self-esteem. In this episode, we explore the complexities of self-discovery and healing within relationships, delving into the significance of inner child work and its impact on our emotional well-being. We discuss the challenges of embracing vulnerability, acknowledging our shadows, and breaking free from the patterns that hinder personal growth. The conversation highlights the role of self-love and acceptance in fostering healthier connections with ourselves and others, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and genuine expression in our journey toward fulfillment. Deb Blum is a visionary leader and the founder of The Whole Soul Way, a transformational program dedicated to empowering women on their journey toward self-discovery and authentic expression. Through her step-by-step process, Deb helps self-led, do-it-all women break free from fear, conditioning, and external expectations, enabling them to express themselves fully, therefore creating more success, emotionally fulfilling relationships, happiness, and inner peace without losing their edge or disrupting the lives they've worked so hard to create. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 5:59 Introducing Deb Blum and her transformative program dedicated to empowering women through self-discovery. 11:17 Unveiling unconscious behaviors: Exploring tendencies to criticize, blame, or project onto others. 19:02 Deb Blum recounts how the pressure of motherhood and a desire for control brought projecting tendencies to light, leading to insights about her expectations and relationship dynamics. 28:41 Navigating identity attachments: Embracing the complexity of the human condition. 33:20 Unveiling the energy dynamics of repression and embracing the multifaceted human experience. 46:03 Nurturing wholeness through reparenting: The transformative journey. 51:48 The significance of overcoming defensiveness and creating space for genuine dialogue. 57:07 Support and resources. Mentioned The Whole Soul Way (*program sales page) Out of the Shadows: A Shadow Work Starter Kit (*free resources) Do-It-All Inner Power Animal Quiz (*quiz) ERP 174: How to Experience More Love in Your Relationship With Byron Katie Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication Connect with Deb Blum Websites: thewholesoulway.com Facebook: facebook.com/DebBlumOfficial YouTube: youtube.com/debblumnow Instagram: instagram.com/debblum TikTok: tiktok.com/@deb.blum LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/debblum 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 a society that highly values individual achievements and personal pursuits, the dynamics of maintaining emotional closeness within relationships undergo a subtle but significant transformation. Emphasizing autonomy, self-expression, and personal goal pursuit, societal norms shape how individuals navigate connections. In this episode, we explore the nuanced dynamics of emotional intimacy within the context of contemporary societal norms that often prioritize individual pursuits. The discussion delves into the delicate interplay between autonomy and togetherness, shedding light on the challenges individuals face in maintaining meaningful connections while pursuing personal goals. The impact of trauma on relationships is unpacked, highlighting the complexities of healing in the realm of emotional closeness. Join us as we navigate the fine line between independence and the inherent desire for emotional proximity, unraveling the secrets to fostering meaningful connections in a culture that champions individuality. Dr. St John is a psychotherapist, somatic fluid movement and meditation educator, and author of "Healing the Wounds of Childhood and Culture: An Adventure of a Lifetime". He overcame severe childhood trauma and has engaged in the healing process both personally and professionally for 60 years. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 5:09 From brokenness to healing: Dr. Don St John's personal and professional journey. 11:30 The coherence model: Balancing freedom and cohesion in intimate relationships. 14:56 The importance of embracing both closeness and independence in a relationship. 27:09 Navigating change, personal growth, and cultural shifts. 32:47 Shifting from individual identity to cooperative connection. 50:06 Additional resources and information. Mentioned Healing the Wounds of Childhood and Culture: An Adventure of a Lifetime (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: 30th Anniversary Edition (The Covey Habits Series) (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love ERP 348: Access Intraconnection for Well-Being — An Interview with Dr. Daniel Siegel Connect with Dr. Don St John Websites: pathsofconnection.com Facebook: facebook.com/don.s.john.90 Instagram: instagram.com/drdonstjohn LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/don-st-john-36636a55 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.

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.