

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

Oct 17, 2023 • 46min
ERP 394: How To Express Your Emotional Needs In Relationship - An Interview With Dr. Laura Louis
Are you finding it difficult to communicate your emotional needs in your relationship, leaving you and your partner feeling like you're speaking different emotional languages? Sad to say, you are not alone in this struggle. Many individuals face the challenge of effectively expressing their emotional desires to their loved ones. In this enlightening conversation, we delve into this very issue and explore actionable steps to improve your communication and connection. From recognizing emotional triggers to embracing self-soothing techniques, you'll discover how to build an environment of safety and openness in your relationship. Join us as we unravel the secrets to clearer communication and a deeper emotional connection. Dr. Laura Louis, author of "Marital Peace," is a Licensed Psychologist with a Ph.D. from Howard University's APA-accredited Counseling Psychology Program. With over 10 years of experience in the field, she specializes in multicultural and couples counseling. Her expertise includes increasing intimacy, rebuilding trust post-infidelity, and enhancing communication skills. Dr. Louis also addresses various clinical issues, offers career counseling, and aids in acculturation for immigrants. Her background spans diverse settings, from psychiatric hospitals to elementary schools, where she focuses on improving sleep and stress management for individuals and organizations. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 4:17 Introducing Dr. Laura Louis: A multifaceted expert in relationship counseling. 7:05 The foundation of expressing emotional needs. 15:02 Various factors that can unconsciously interfere with our ability to Express emotional needs. 22:13 A step-by-step approach to expressing emotional needs. 29:35 Navigating emotional risks in communication. 39:08 Practical aspects of recognizing emotional triggers and self-soothing techniques. Mentioned Marital Peace (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication Connect with Dr. Laura Louis Websites: atlantacoupletherapy.com Facebook: facebook.com/AtlantaCoupleTherapy | facebook.com/groups/BlackMarriageMattersOfficial (*group) YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCh2I0xywV8TuKM9xs4yqh2g Instagram: instagram.com/dr.lauralouis 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.

Oct 10, 2023 • 54min
ERP 393: How To Get Through The Power Struggle In Relationship — An Interview With Shan Merchant
Power struggle is a phase in a relationship where couples face heightened awareness of their differences, needs, and unmet expectations. It represents a shift from the initial romantic honeymoon stage to a stage where partners become more aware of each other's flaws and unresolved issues. This stage is marked by emotional turbulence and communication breakdowns as couples navigate the complexities of their evolving connection. However, it's also seen as an opportunity for growth and transformation if approached with conscious effort and relationship skills. In this episode, we explore dynamic strategies and practical tools to help couples overcome challenges in their relationship and foster a more peaceful, loving connection. Discover how to determine which stage your relationship is in, prioritize emotional safety, communicate with empathy, and deepen your mutual understanding. Join us as we discuss practical steps to strengthen your relationship and establish a robust foundation for lasting love and harmony. Shan is an Imago Couples Therapist and Relationship Expert. She helps professional couples on the brink of divorce finally find peace in their relationship and put their wedding rings back on. She's authored the book "From Power Struggle to Peaceful Couple". Shan's on a mission to stop couples settling for unhappy relationships that drain their energy because she believes great relationships are the foundation for a great life. Shan works globally from England. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 3:52 Shan's journey: From romantic dreams to relationship expertise. 14:08 Understanding and navigating the power struggle in relationships. 22:08 Embracing conflict as nature's savage gifts in the power struggle. 26:36 Emotional safety and communication in a relationship. 34:47 The imago dialogue: A structured path to safe and effective communication in relationships. 38:02 Using dialogue to improve communication in relationships. 45:13 Improving communication in relationships through empathy and respect. Mentioned Getting the Love You Want: A Guide for Couples, 20th Anniversary Edition (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Imago Relationship Therapy Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love ERP 138: The Most Critical Ingredient for Relationship Success With Dr. Harville Hendrix & Dr. Helen Lakelly Hunt ERP 303: How to Create Safe Conversations — An Interview with Drs. Harville Hendrix & Helen Lakelly Hunt Connect with Shan Merchant Websites: shanmerchant.com Facebook: facebook.com/shannon.merchant.3 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/shan-merchant-couples-therapist-dating-relationships 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.

Oct 3, 2023 • 51min
ERP 392: How To Reduce Reactive Patterns In Relationship — An Interview With Adele Spraggon
Award-winning author and thought leader, Adele Spraggon, discusses techniques for reducing reactive patterns in relationships. She shares success stories of healing couples on the brink of divorce and emphasizes the importance of hardware rewiring. Learn how to build trust, suspend automatic reactivity, and decrease patterns for healthier and more empowered connections.

Sep 26, 2023 • 56min
ERP 391: Understanding Dominant & Submissive Roles In Relationship — An Interview With Chris M. Lyon
Dominant and submissive roles within relationships have always carried an air of mystique and intrigue. Yet, more often than not, these roles are shrouded in misunderstanding, creating confusion and misconceptions that can leave couples navigating uncharted waters. In the intricate dance of intimacy, it's easy to fall prey to preconceived notions, equating dominance with control or submission with passivity. In this episode, we delve into these intricate roles, unraveling the complexities and unveiling the truths that lie beneath the surface. By addressing common misconceptions and offering actionable insights, we hope to illuminate the path for couples seeking to understand and embrace these roles in their relationships. Through a deeper comprehension of the interplay between dominance and submission, couples can cultivate a more authentic, harmonious, and fulfilling connection with one another. Join us as we embark on a journey to demystify these roles and pave the way for healthier, more profound relationships. Chris M. Lyon is a relationship expert and coach certified in applied neuroscience and brain health. She is the author of "Leading and Supportive Love: The Truth About Dominant and Submissive Relationships". She developed L/s (Leading/supportive) Types that define common behavioral patterns exhibited by many couples. Lyon has coached thousands through crisis, trauma, and leadership for over two decades. She's been featured in various media and teaches online courses at coachlyon.com. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 5:32 Exploring Chris Lyons motivation behind the interest in dominant and submissive relationship dynamics. 7:58 Misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding dominant and submissive relationships. 14:51 The consequences of mismatched roles in daily interactions within dominant and submissive relationships. 18:39 Understanding relationship orientation on a spectrum. 24:10 Exploring attraction and cultural messages in relationship roles. 30:32 Trust, leadership, and the role of vetting in dominant-submissive relationships. 36:48 Navigating dominance: From skill development to cultural influences. 42:03 The interplay between dominance and submission in kink and relationships. 44:34 Addressing the issue of mismatched relationships. 50:26 Embracing authenticity in dominant and submissive relationships. Mentioned Leading and Supportive Love: The Truth About Dominant and Submissive Relationships (*Amazon Affiliate link) (audiobook) Leading and Supportive Love: The Truth About Dominant and Submissive Relationships (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) D/s Relationship Masterclass Collection Increase Relationship Skills (survey) Connect with Chris M. Lyon Websites: coachlyon.com | linktr.ee/ChrisMLyon Facebook: facebook.com/CoachLyon YouTube: youtube.com/@TheChrisSea Instagram: instagram.com/Chris_sea1 TikTok: tiktok.com/@chris.sea 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.

Sep 19, 2023 • 57min
ERP 390: How To Recognize Emotional Immaturity & Abuse In Relationship — An Interview With Dr. David Hawkins
Emotional immaturity can be a subtle yet profoundly impactful issue within relationships, often remaining hidden beneath the surface until it begins to erode the connection between partners. In this episode, we will delve into the nuanced aspects of emotional immaturity and abuse within relationships. Drawing from expert insights, we will explore the telltale signs and behavioral patterns that may indicate emotional immaturity, shedding light on the damage it can inflict on both individuals and partnerships. By gaining a deeper understanding of these dynamics, we empower ourselves and others to navigate relationships with greater emotional intelligence, fostering environments of trust, respect, and genuine connection. Join us as we embark on this journey to uncover the tools and knowledge necessary to recognize and address emotional immaturity and abuse in our relationships. Dr. David Hawkins is a clinical psychologist, director of the Marriage Recovery Center, and a best-selling author of over thirty books. Dr. Hawkins has helped bring healing to thousands of marriages and individuals since he began his work in 1976. He is passionate about working with couples in crisis and helps them discover a new way of doing things to have a healthy and thriving relationship. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 9:36 Dr. David Hawkins: Pioneering the path to healing relationships. 19:16 The complex dynamics of emotional abuse in relationships. 29:06 Unpacking the lack of emotional connection: The role of avoidant tendencies. 36:03 Emotional abuse vs. Narcissism: Understanding the critical differences. 43:32 Dr. David Hawkins' insights into the readiness for change among individuals in relationships with emotionally abusive partners. 45:32 Navigating the complexities of emotional abuse: Seeking help and resources. Mentioned When Loving Him Is Hurting You: Hope and Help for Women Dealing With Narcissism and Emotional Abuse (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) When Pleasing Others Is Hurting You: Finding God's Patterns for Healthy Relationships (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Increase Relationship Skills (Google Form) (Survey) Connect with Dr. David Hawkins Website: marriagerecoverycenter.com Facebook: facebook.com/marriagerecoverycenter YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCKrmBnvqdvugfYpLS6r1AzA Instagram: instagram.com/marriagerecoverycenter Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mad-in-love/id1618828831 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.

Sep 12, 2023 • 56min
ERP 389: Understanding Our Stress Language As Well As Our Partner's Stress Language For Better Living & Loving — An Interview With Chantal Donnelly
The podcast explores stress languages in relationships and how they impact our connections. Chantal Donnelly, a relationship stress expert, shares insights on understanding stress patterns and adaptive strategies. The importance of recognizing and responding to each other's stress language is discussed, along with strategies for effective communication and conflict resolution.

Sep 5, 2023 • 54min
ERP 388: How to Clear Resentments To Avoid The Roommate Syndrome In Relationship — An Interview With Monica Tanner
Are you feeling stuck in your relationship, grappling with resentment, or sensing that you and your partner have unwittingly transformed into mere roommates? If so, you're not alone. Maintaining a fulfilling, long-lasting relationship can be challenging in a world where the dynamics of love and partnership are constantly evolving. Relationship advice often comes from all directions and it's easy to find ourselves lost in a sea of conflicting guidance. In this insightful conversation, Monica Tanner and Dr. Jessica Higgins delve into practical strategies to address these challenges head-on. The conversation reveals that successful relationships require intentional effort, a commitment to understanding, and the courage to engage in constructive conflict. From cultivating curiosity and practicing vulnerability to navigating differences with grace, they offer actionable steps to reignite the spark in your relationship and avoid falling into the dreaded roommate syndrome. Monica Tanner, Relationship Coach and host of the Secrets of Happily Ever After podcast, transforms marriages with simple communication, connection, conflict resolution, and commitment strategies. Her mission is to lower the divorce rate and improve marital satisfaction. Through her engaging podcast, vibrant social media community, and practical programs, Monica's expert guidance has impacted thousands of couples, by helping them ditch resentment and roommate syndrome and get back to living their happily-ever-after love story. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 5:46 Monica's quest to understanding genuine relationships. 8:38 The challenges of maintaining passion and longevity in modern relationships. 17:18 Nurturing healthy relationship dynamics through boundary setting. 23:16 Navigating emotional withdrawal: The impact of negative interaction patterns. 28:11 Recognizing and addressing hidden resentment. 41:24 Cultivating respectful disagreements and nurturing healthy communication. 48:19 The role of curiosity, interest, and creative problem-solving in deepening intimacy and passion in relationships. Mentioned The Space Between: The Point of Connection (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Free Intimacy Quiz Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication Connect with Monica Tanner Websites: monicatanner.com Facebook: facebook.com/monica.tanner2 Instagram: instagram.com/monitanner1 Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/secrets-of-happily-ever-after/id1345544810 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.

Aug 29, 2023 • 59min
ERP 387: How To Prioritize Reconnecting & Regulation In Relationship — An Interview With Dr. Jody Carrington
In a world where technology offers countless ways to be connected, why is it that so many of us still feel disconnected? Why is it becoming increasingly difficult to forge deep, meaningful connections with others? In this episode, Dr. Jody Carrington and Dr. Jessica Higgins explore the intricacies of reconnecting and finding balance in relationships, along with the skill of nurturing genuine connections. Whether it's strengthening bonds with our children, partners, colleagues, or even within ourselves, they delve into the heart of building authentic relationships. From handling emotional challenges to embracing the significance of acknowledgment, they unravel the multifaceted nature of human interaction. So, if you're ready to peel back the layers of disconnection and embark on a journey towards reconnection, join us on this episode. Dr. Jody Carrington is a psychologist sought after for her expertise, energy, and approach to helping people solve their most complex human-centered challenges. Jody focuses much of her work around reconnection. Jody uses humor, and all she has learned in her twenty-year career as a psychologist to empower everyone she connects with. In her latest book, Feeling Seen, she dives into what it takes to reconnect a disconnected world. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 7:24 Dr. Jody Carrington's professional evolution: From first responders to child psychiatry. 15:55 The challenge of repairing relationships. 19:14 Building emotional language and regulation. 24:52 Identifying core motivators of disconnection in relationships. 30:52 The importance of acknowledging the various contributors to disconnection. 38:01 Indigenous teachings on land acknowledgment as a lesson in genuine bearing witness. 42:10 Fostering resilience in professionals to address the increasing emotional dysregulation in society. 53:28 Accessing Dr. Carrington's workshops and podcasts for accessible mental health conversations. Mentioned Teachers These Days: Stories and Strategies for Reconnection (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Kids These Days: A Game Plan For (Re)Connecting With Those We Teach, Lead, & Love (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Feeling Seen: Reconnecting in a Disconnected World (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love Connect with Dr. Jody Carrington Websites: drjodycarrington.com Facebook: facebook.com/drjodycarrington Twitter: twitter.com/DrJCarrington?s=20&t=6-oqtPKGW3zZnKeT0eI6Hg YouTube: youtube.com/c/drjodycarrington Instagram: instagram.com/drjodycarrington/?hl=en LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-jody-carrington/?originalSubdomain=ca 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.

Aug 22, 2023 • 52min
ERP 386: How To Identify & Shift Unconscious Patterns In Relationship - An Interview With Johanna Lynn
Johanna Lynn, expert in identifying and shifting unconscious patterns in relationships, discusses the profound connections between family trees and personal growth. Topics include recognizing patterns of codependency, understanding the influence of early attachment systems and intergenerational trauma, and strategies for examining and shifting unconscious patterns in relationships. Learn how to stay connected with a parent who struggles with healthy relating and the importance of understanding oneself within the context of the family map.

Aug 15, 2023 • 57min
ERP 385: How To Uplevel Value In Relationship — An Interview With Glenn Sandifer
In today's complex dating landscape, finding real connections and lasting partnerships has become a tough puzzle to crack. This challenge is particularly pronounced in the context of high-value individuals seeking meaningful relationships while managing their careers and personal growth. In this episode, seasoned relationship experts Glenn Sandifer and Dr. Jessica Higgins delve into the complexities of this issue, shedding light on actionable strategies that individuals can implement to overcome hurdles and achieve their relationship goals. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, the significance of aligning with like-minded individuals, and the value of having mentors and role models to guide one's journey. By exploring the depths of these topics, this enlightening conversation offers a roadmap for those striving to create fulfilling relationships and unlock their full potential within the context of modern dating dynamics. Glenn, a strategist and executive leader with over 20 years of experience, developed The Middle Ground to help professionals understand the roadblocks that often conflict with professional success. He believes that understanding the reasons behind relationship breakdowns is crucial for success in dating and overcoming restarts. Glenn is a Christian, husband, father, HBCU Alumnus, Omega Man, and Viking, residing in Nashville, Tennessee with his wife Takeena and two children. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 5:59 From personal experience to professional insight: The journey that inspired the book. 11:42 Categorizing and understanding six types of men and women 16:30 The middle ground paradigm: Departing from extremes for lasting and fulfilling relationships. 21:12 Transforming toxic mindsets: Embracing cooperation, service, and duty in relationships. 26:37 Three phases of development: Building discipline, skill, and leadership. 34:15 The importance of modern women choosing partners who align with their values and goals. 39:42 The dynamics of high-value relationships: Symbiotic connection between high-value men and women. 45:40 Cultivating a supportive network: Nurturing relationships with like-minded and mentors. Mentioned The Middle Ground: How To Get Great Dating Outcomes in a Modern World Part 1 (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) The Middle Ground: How To Get Great Dating Outcomes in a Modern World Part 2 (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) The Plumber Joke: paintsquare.com/humor/joke/?763 Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love Connect with Glenn Sandifer Websites: themiddlegroundbook.com Facebook: facebook.com/themiddlegroundbook TikTok: tiktok.com/@themiddlegroundbook YouTube: youtube.com/@themiddlegroundbook Instagram: instagram.com/middlegroundbook 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.


