Empowered Relationship Podcast: Your Relationship Resource And Guide

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 chil

In the ongoing series on emotional immaturity, we continue our exploration by delving deeper into the intricate dynamics that underpin its development. Drawing from our previous discussions, we aim to build upon foundational knowledge and delve into the nuanced differences between emotional immaturity and emotional abuse. By shedding light on these subtleties, we provide listeners with invaluable insights that can help them navigate complex emotional landscapes with greater understanding and clarity. Through a blend of insightful discussion and actionable advice, our goal is to equip our audience with the tools necessary to not only recognize but also address and ultimately overcome emotional immaturity. By fostering a deeper understanding of these concepts, listeners can cultivate healthier connections and embark on a journey of personal growth. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 09:05 Understanding the interplay of childhood experiences, parental influe

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

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

In a previous episode, discussions surrounding emotional immaturity and its genderized portrayal sparked significant interest and feedback from listeners. Responding to this engagement, today's episode marks the beginning of a comprehensive multi-part series, committed to exploring emotional immaturity in depth. The series aims to shed light on this topic without resorting to labels or diagnoses, acknowledging emotional immaturity as a developmental facet existing on a continuum. This particular episode focuses on unraveling the concept of emotional immaturity, shedding light on its definition and key characteristics. Dr. Jessica Higgins underscores the significance of cultivating awareness as a tool for establishing realistic expectations and effectively navigating the challenges that emotional immaturity may pose in relationships. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 8:50 Defining emotional immaturity: Recognizing patterns and understanding the continuum.

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 pres

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 a deep-rooted desire to please others, leading individuals to prioritize the needs and desires of those around them over their own well-being. The fear of disappointing or upsetting others can make it difficult to assert personal boundaries, as individuals may worry about potential conflict or rejection. In this episode, we explore the pervasive impact of people-pleasing behaviors on the establishment of healthy boundaries in relationships. We offer actionable guidance for overcoming this challenge by helping listeners recognize people-pleasing behaviors, understand the importance of boundaries, learn how to effectively communicate needs to partners, and negotiate differences in a way that fosters greater intimacy and understanding between both individuals. The discussion provides practical exercises and examples that can help list

The hookup culture is a societal shift characterized by casual, short-term sexual engagements, highlighting a reluctance to commit to long-term relationships. This cultural phenomenon, especially prevalent among young adults and college students, poses challenges rooted in an insufficient understanding of the physiological and emotional aspects involved. The immediate pursuit of pleasure, combined with societal expectations, frequently results in miscommunication, unmet expectations, and emotional turmoil, reshaping the dynamics of modern relationships. In this episode, Dr. Joe Malone and Dr. Jessica Higgins share valuable insights and actionable steps to navigate this complex landscape, providing a nuanced perspective on fostering healthier connections amid the complexities of contemporary dating norms. Join us as we unpack the intricacies of the hookup culture and discover strategies to cultivate more meaningful and fulfilling relationships. Dr. Joe Malone, The Sexual Integrity Scientist. holds a Ph.D. in H

According to research, in 39% of households, women contribute equally or more to the income compared to men. This transformation, while positive, marks a significant shift from traditional gender roles and poses a unique challenge when both partners are engaged in the workforce. Historically, women often assumed the role of stay-at-home moms, responsible for all household chores. Women raised in such settings encounter the challenge of harmonizing these deeply rooted expectations with the pressures of a thriving career. As a result, the need to redefine the concept of a successful mother and wife becomes crucial, calling for collaborative endeavors from both spouses. In this episode, we explore strategies and insights aimed at addressing this dynamic, guiding couples through the process of redefining gender roles and fostering mutual understanding. Brian Page is the founder of Modern Husbands. He shares ideas on managing money and the home as a team. He is a former Milken National Educator of the Year, CNN Mo

In the previous episode, we delved into the intricacies of navigating challenging relationships with in-laws, particularly amidst the holiday season. We discussed valuable insights on emotional regulation and proactive communication. Now, in part two, Dr. Jessica Higgins further explores the multifaceted nature of conflicts and disparities that can arise in these relationships. Drawing from client cases and personal anecdotes, she illuminates common challenges encountered. In this episode, Dr. Higgins focuses on three key areas related to privacy within the context of in-law relationships. The overarching theme is the crucial need for partners to align their perspectives and establish a shared understanding, especially when it comes to issues like proximity, boundaries, and the level of disclosure within the extended family. If you haven't listened to part one of this series, I recommend that you do. You'll find the link below. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this

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 Navig

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 th

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 an

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

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 Neg

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

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 individual

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 i

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 c

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