Marriage Therapy Radio

Laura finds out how Zach did hanging out with her family over the weekend. Zach shares his struggle between choosing a trendy neighborhood or staying in a corporate setting, leading into a conversation about how environments can affect work and client experiences.They then discuss relational boundaries and the concept of outsourcing emotional needs. Laura explains how people often put too much pressure on their partner to fulfill all their emotional needs, advocating instead for "outsourcing" some emotional support to friends, therapists, or family members—when done with mutual consent. Zach and Laura also reflect on the pressures partners can feel when they are expected to meet specific needs, especially around physical and emotional intimacy.They share a couple of sneak peek clips of the new, Patreon exclusive series, So I Married a Relationship Expert.Episode Highlights: Zach’s Office Dilemma: Zach debates between two office locations—one in a corporate setting and the other in a trendy neighborhood—offering insights into decision-making and how change affects routine. Outsourcing Emotional Needs: Laura explains the importance of seeking support outside the relationship, advocating for healthy outsourcing of emotional needs when a partner can’t meet every need, with mutual consent. Effort vs. Excellence in Relationships: Zach shares a story about a couple where one partner feels validated not because of perfection, but because of the effort made in the relationship. They emphasize how important it is to acknowledge effort even when outcomes aren’t perfect. Acceptance in Relationships: Laura reflects on how some couples reach a point where acceptance of their partner’s limitations is key to maintaining a healthy relationship, rather than continually pushing for unmet needs to be fulfilled. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach and Laura discuss the launch of their new book, Reconnect, and how couples can use it to improve their relationship. They delve into an in-depth discussion on the concept of gaslighting, clarifying that it involves malicious, intentional manipulation—far different from the common emotional invalidation many couples experience. Episode Highlights: How to Use Reconnect: Zach and Laura suggest couples can work through the book slowly, section by section, or use it more casually, dipping into exercises or conversations as needed. They emphasize flexibility in how the book is used to foster meaningful conversations and connection. Gaslighting vs. Emotional Invalidation: They break down the difference between true gaslighting and more common relational behaviors, like emotional invalidation. They stress that many couples mislabel situations as gaslighting when, in fact, they involve misunderstandings or disagreements about past events. Parallel Universes Technique: Zach shares a therapeutic approach where he helps couples understand that their different realities may never align. He introduces the idea of “parallel universes” as a way for partners to acknowledge each other’s feelings without requiring complete agreement on the facts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach is feeling bad that his mustache has garnered very little attention. Laura thinks he should keep it. Zach reports back on his experience with his daughter at the Dave Matthew's Band show. They go on to discuss a bit of some conflict they had right before starting to record. It leads to some great insight into managing one's behavior and reactions even when they are a well-worn habit. Episode Highlights: Managing Defensiveness and Criticism: Zach and Laura explore the recurring dynamic of defensiveness and criticism in their own friendship, with Zach noting that managing his defensiveness is one of the most important skills for him maintaining a healthy relationship. They emphasize the importance of pausing and choosing how to respond rather than reacting immediately. Confirmation Bias in Relationships: The hosts discuss how confirmation bias can skew perceptions in relationships, using a client story to illustrate how one partner might misinterpret their partner’s behavior based on past experiences. The takeaway is to pause and challenge assumptions, asking open-ended questions instead of jumping to conclusions. Relationships as Growth Machines: Laura mentions a phrase from her colleague that “relationships are human growing machines.” The idea is that relationships constantly challenge us to grow, reflect, and improve. The hosts emphasize that relational growth takes time, patience, and a willingness to embrace discomfort. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Laura talks about her new bucket list project, inspired by a client challenge, which leads to a broader conversation about dreaming big and setting personal goals. Zach reflects on a deeply personal experience with his daughter, showcasing the complexities of parent-child relationships and the healing power of patience and open communication. Together, Laura and Zach explore the dynamics of how personal growth and responsiveness to each other’s needs can significantly impact the quality and longevity of relationships. Throughout the episode, they encourage listeners to engage more deeply with their own relationships by taking practical steps and fostering open, honest communication.Episode Highlights: Turning Towards Your Partner’s Needs: They discuss how small, everyday choices to be attentive and responsive to your partner’s needs can strengthen your relationship. Even seemingly minor issues, like Laura’s hearing concerns, can grow into larger stressors if not addressed. The takeaway is the importance of consistently turning towards your partner's needs to maintain a strong connection. Mental Health as a Common Enemy: Zach and Laura highlight the value of viewing mental health challenges like anxiety or depression as "common enemies" in a relationship. By naming and acknowledging these issues, couples can unite against them, fostering a sense of teamwork and mutual support rather than letting the challenges divide them. Keeping Your Partner Engaged: Laura and Zach emphasize the importance of personal growth and maintaining hobbies and interests. They discuss how having passions outside the relationship can make you a more interesting partner and help keep the relationship dynamic and fulfilling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach introduces Laura, his "little sister," and Julie Ruediger, his friend, mentor, and "big sister”. They discuss how they met, what they’ve learned from each other, and the work they are doingtogether this fall. Episode Highlights: Sibling Dynamics and Family Reunions: Zach introduces Julie, who immediately fits into the sibling-like rapport he shares with Laura. The trio dives into stories about family reunions, sibling rivalries, and the lighthearted teasing that defines their relationships. Saying Goodbye to Summer: Zach reflects on dropping his daughter Abi off at the airport and the mixed emotions of enjoying a peaceful home while missing her presence. The conversation touches on the challenges and joys of parenting young adults ready to spread their wings. Julie’s Mentorship and Training with Zach: Julie shares her journey as a mentor at Terry Reals' Relational Life Institute, where she met Zach. They reminisce about their early training sessions, highlighting Zach's growth and talent as a teacher and therapist. Introduction to Relationship Boot Camps: Julie and Zach discuss the upcoming relationship boot camp they are co-facilitating in Philadelphia. They explain the boot camp's structure, purpose, and unique benefits, whether attending as a couple or an individual. The boot camp is designed to teach essential relationship skills in a condensed, intensive format, making therapeutic principles accessible and actionable. Understanding the Adaptive Child: The episode delves into the concept of the "adaptive child," a key idea in relational therapy that refers to the immature, reactive part of ourselves. Julie and Zach discuss how the boot camp helps participants recognize and manage this aspect of their personalities, enhancing personal growth and relationship satisfaction. Navigating Family Triggers: The conversation circles back to family dynamics, with Zach sharing a personal story about managing his temper during a summer visit with his daughter. Julie offers insights on how family relationships can often trigger our adaptive child and the importance of conscious, deliberate responses to these triggers. Resources mentioned in this episode: Relational Life Foundation (https://www.relationallifefoundation.org/) - This website provides information about various boot camps available throughout the year, particularly aimed at individuals who need financial aid or help to access these programs​. Relational Life (https://relationallife.com/) - Similar to the foundation's website, this site offers details on relationship boot camps, with sections dedicated to both couples and therapists. You can find a list of available boot camps and other resources for relationship improvement​. Terry Real (https://terryreal.com/) - Terry Real's website provides a comprehensive list of boot camps for both online and in-person formats, with sections tailored for couples and therapists. You can find schedules, locations, and registration details for various workshops across the country​. Marriage Therapy Radio (https://marriagetherapyradio.com) – Find the links to all the boot camps conducted by Zach Brittle, including both online and in-person sessions. Julie Rudiger (https://www.julierudiger.com/) - Julie Rudiger's website provides a way for people to reach out to her directly with any questions about the boot camps or other relationship resources. It also hosts information on her workshops and professional services​. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Laura shares her latest journey towards better gut health and the surprising benefits she's noticed, like increased energy and clarity. Zach talks about some feelings that were brought up when seeing his brother at the recent Lard Butt race. They then tackle an important listener question: Is it okay to have close friends of the opposite sex (or any potential partner alternative), outside of your marriage? Laura and Zach explore the complexities of friendships in marriage, discussing the importance of trust, communication, and setting boundaries. They share insights on maintaining healthy friendships while ensuring your marriage remains the top priority. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Laura touches base with Zach about his other projects and his upcoming race.Zach shares a successful exercise his clients took on to help them disrupt their boring and predictable patterns of conflict. Paired. Download the PAIRED app at https://www.paired.com/MTR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach and Larua discuss the downside of Nice Guys with the man who literally wrote the book on it. Dr. Robert Glover wrote No More Mr. Nice Guy over 20 years ago after seeing his relationships crumble even though he was so nice. His sage wisdom will help any man (or woman) stuck in the nice cycle. Check out Dr. Glover at: https://www.drglover.com/ Pick up his book at: https://amzn.to/4d95LERWhile you are on Amazon pre-order Zach & Laura's new book: https://amzn.to/4ds7XY6 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach woke up 5 minutes before recording this episode. Laura is a bit baffled and shares a story about her best friend giving her a new beverage to help her tummy now that she's 40. They make the big announcement of their new book Reconnect: A Marriage Counseling Workbook: Guided Conversations & Exercises for a Long-Lasting Relationship available for pre-sale now. https://amzn.to/3WGgi4G It would be awesome if you headed over to Amazon to pre-order today https://amzn.to/3WGgi4G. Thanks for your support of Zach and Laura.Sponsor:Paired. Download the PAIRED app at https://www.paired.com/MTR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach and Laura discuss how to deal with feeling overwhelmed. This leads them into a great conversation about how to listen to yourself and control the things that you can control. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Laura discusses how regular she is (if you know what I mean). Together they contemplate if it is worth not engaging with certain things that bring distress.Zach and Laura reflect on some of the insights from a recent interview regarding the importance of feeling heard. They provide tools and resources to help couples and individuals meet this essential aspect of their relationship.Sponsor:Paired. Download the PAIRED app at https://www.paired.com/MTR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Laura gives an update on her son's diagnosis and her efforts to raise funds to fight his Not Fun condition. Zach shares about his upcoming book club. They address a listener's question about differentiating from your grown kids. They discuss how it is necessary, but sometimes painful. This is a great episode for folks with kids of any age. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach and Laura start the podcast remembering how it all started. They share how they met and how the podcast was launched. Laura is getting back into weightlifting and is hoping Zach will be at the finish line when she finishes her Iron Man. Zach shares about a recent fight he had with his wife, Rebecca. Although he doesn't go into the content of the fight, he is very open about how the fight ended and what he learned about himself in the following two days. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach reconnects with Laura after her 2+ week travels in Europe. She shares what she learned while away. Zach recounts his birthday celebration and some gifts he received that are prompting him to slow down. They go on to discuss the importance of changing the pace, and specifically slowing down, to create space for change in your life and in your relationship. Join MTR Patreon to get exclusive behind-the-scenes and exclusive content from Zach and Laura. https://www.patreon.com/MarriageTherapyRadio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach and Laura discuss making change, 2 dollar bills, the tooth fairy, and the struggle of using the bathroom in a one-piece outfit. They go on to discuss the importance of good boundaries. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Susan Morgan Taylor joins Zach and Laura to discuss her work as a sex therapist. She talks about some of the different types of sex therapies/therapists and shares her leys to pleasure. Download her audio Pleasure Keys Guided Meditation here: https://susanmorgantaylor.ck.page/8f8b0e42c6 You can learn more about her work at https://www.pathwaytopleasure.com/ Sponsor:Paired. Download the PAIRED app at https://www.paired.com/MTR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach and Laura discuss their latest "streaks". Not surprisingly, Laura's is a little more sexy than Zach's. Laura asks how to deal with unmet expectations in your relationship. Should you lower your standards? Should they step up to the plate? Is there a middle way? Join the community at https://www.patreon.com/marriagetherapyradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach's family is all together for the summer. Laura is getting up to speed with her mountain biking. They invite listeners to support the podcast by joining Patreon. Come for the perks, stay because you support building stronger relationships. Laura asks when complaining is too much or too little in a relationship. It leads to some great discussion on emotional bank accounts and some tips and tricks to make complaining work within your relationship. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach and Laura discuss a number of topics including Mother's Day disappointment, getting to a decision point as a couple, and a special announcement about an upcoming book. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach and Laura tackle the tough questions of relationship. Like, "How do you pack for a multi-city trip?".After some discussion of their travels, Laura shares about her passion for sex therapy. Zach finds it very helpful and we think you will too. Sponsor:Paired. Download the PAIRED app at https://www.paired.com/MTR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach is away on some travels, so Laura gets to welcome back a previous guest, Craig Smith. Craig is a therapist, coach, and all-around good guy. They discuss how working on yourself can be one of the best things you can do for your marriage. Learn more about Craigs work at https://www.greatestdaymindset.com/Sponsor:Stop wasting money on things you don’t use. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions by going to https://rocketmoney.com/mtr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Marriage is hard and Sophia, a 14-year-old from NY, wants some answers to what she has been learning. Zach answers her questions and is able to learn a bit about the life and relationships of "kids today". Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After a false start recording, Zach and Laura kick off the episode with some intros for new listeners. They go on to discuss the concept of "being triggered". Why does it happen? And what can you do about it?Sponsor:Target the root cause of aging with OneSkin. Get 15% off by using code MTR at https://oneskin.co Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After some discussion of Ted Lasso and Gray's Anatomy, Zach and Laura hear from Charisse Cooke https://charissecooke.com/ about her work and new book The Attachment Solution. Charisse shares about the origin of the styles and how they deeply impact our relationships. You will end this episode with some great tools to better understand yourself and your partner. Sponsor:Stop wasting money on things you don’t use. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions by going to https://rocketmoney.com/mtr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach wishes his brother a happy birthday. Laura reminisces about old crushes. Zach presents a concept about seeing greater options in your potential responses to your partner and constantly choosing the response that moves you away from conflict and toward connection and intimacy. Sponsor:Paired. Download the PAIRED app at https://www.paired.com/MTR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Laura admits to a potential crime in the most privileged setting possible. Zach drops his wife off for surgery after an argument in the car.After starting strong they return to your questions. The answers to these questions from individual listeners contain insight that will benefit all relationships. Sponsor:Target the root cause of aging with OneSkin. Get 15% off by using code MTR at https://oneskin.co Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach and Laura welcome spring by answering a couple of questions listeners have sent in. They share both their clinical perspective as well as their personal experiences in this first in an AMA series. Sponsor:Target the root cause of aging with OneSkin. Get 15% off by using code MTR at https://oneskin.co Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach and Laura chat with author Matt Fray https://matthewfray.com/ about his book This is How Your Marriage Ends https://matthewfray.com/order-book/. Matt's wisdom was hard-earned after a divorce that forced him to look deeply at the skills and habits he lacked in his marriage. You will end this episode with insights that will improve your relationship. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Laura is working to get in the best shape of her life. Zach is celebrating women and recognizing he sometimes gets the Man Flu. They share some great resources that can support you as you seek to grow your relationship.Sponsor:Paired. Download the PAIRED app at https://www.paired.com/MTR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Laura is moving back into her house. Zach recaps his trip to Costa Rica to receive training from Esther Perel and Terry Real. Sponsor:Stop wasting money on things you don’t use. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions by going to https://rocketmoney.com/mtr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach and Laura are both seeing ADHD be raised as a topic, if not an issue, in their practices. So they are delighted to get to sit down with Melissa Orlov to learn how to address its impact on a marriage. Melissa is a leading expert on the impacts of ADHD on marriage and relationships, the author of The ADHD Effect on Marriage, and the founder of ADHD & Marriage. Their discussion is insightful for those in a marriage impacted by ADHD, or anyone interested in this underdiagnosed neurodiverity. Sponsor:Target the root cause of aging with OneSkin. Get 15% off by using code MTR at https://oneskin.co Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach shares his impressive home improvement skills. Laura is grateful for a listener's support. They discuss a recent TikTok trend that may have a greater impact on a relationship than many understand. Sponsor:Target the root cause of aging with OneSkin. Get 15% off by using code MTR at https://oneskin.co Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach has an engaging conversation with Dr. Sara Nasserzadeh about her research and new book Love by Design. Laura is off this week. They discuss the 6 ingredients to build lasting love. You can learn more about Dr. Nasserzadeh's work and order her book at https://www.sara-nasserzadeh.com/ Sponsor:Stop wasting money on things you don’t use. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions by going to https://rocketmoney.com/mtr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach is a bit annoyed with his auto dealer. Laura is downsizing her car to a much bigger vehicle. They go on to discuss the importance of positive collusion with your partner to better yourself and your relationship. They offer a number of personal examples as well as some tips and tricks to see growth in any marriage. Sponsor:Paired. Download the PAIRED app at https://www.paired.com/MTR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach and Laura welcome Dr. Jessica Higgins to the podcast. They discuss the importance of acknowledging and expressing emotions, modeling vulnerability, and using language that promotes curiosity and understanding in communication. They emphasize the need to slow down, bring awareness to interpretations, and create space for regulating emotions during interactions.Learn more about Dr. Higgins and her work at https://drjessicahiggins.com/Sponsor:Visit https://lumedeodorant.com and use code MTR for $5 off a Lume Starter Pack Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach and Laura discuss the role of Wordle in their lives. Laura had a fun conversation with her kid after he walked in on her and her husband. In a roundabout way, this reminds Zach of a tool he's been using in his practice to help couples make meaning of their decisions and experiences. Sponsor:Identify and cancel your unwanted subscriptions, track your bills, and save money by signing up for free at https://rocketmoney.com/mtr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach and Laura discuss their New Year's goals. They reflect on a kind listener's email offering some critique. In the spirit of new beginnings, they offer a ton of insight into what to do when you are feeling stuck or you feel like your partner is keeping you stuck. Sponsor:Paired. Download the PAIRED app at https://www.paired.com/MTR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach and Laura hear from Dr. Nick Sotelo about his work helping men manage their anger. Nick has a fascinating background that gives him a unique perspective on unmanaged anger. He has developed many helpful resources for men to address this in their lives. Sponsor:Visit https://everyplate.com/podcast and enter code 49MTR to get started for as low as $1.49 per meal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Laura wasn't really feeling the Christmas spirit this year. Zach started his Christmas morning around 11. Laura accidentally stole half of a sign. They reflect together on Christmas cards and how to be authentic but also remind each other that we are OK. They talk a bit about broken hearts and early relationships and spend time reflecting on this last year and their hopes for the new year. Sponsor:Identify and cancel your unwanted subscriptions, track your bills, and save money by signing up for free at https://rocketmoney.com/mtr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach and Laura reflect a bit on making it to 300 hundred episodes and what they hope listeners have gained along the way. Zach tells Laura how he has learned from her in the different way that she approaches thinking and talking about sharing fondness and admiration. It leads to a great conversation about how to appreciate your partner and love them the way they want to be loved. Sponsor:Identify and cancel your unwanted subscriptions, track your bills, and save money by signing up for free at https://rocketmoney.com/mtr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach reflects on some of what he heard at a recent therapist conference. It leads to a wonderful discussion of the different parts of ourselves that we bring to our relationships and how we can access those parts for the improvement of our marriages and partnerships. Sponsor:Visit https://www.dipseastories.com/mtr for a free 30-day trial of erotic audio storiesConnect with your partner every day using Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach and Laura get to the topic they teased last episode. It is an exercise that couples can use to safely discuss the unspoken topics in their relationship. If done well, it will lead to greater intimacy, understanding, and maybe some makeup sex :) Sponsor:Paired. Download the PAIRED app at https://www.paired.com/MTR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach and Laura's kid kind of sing a song together. Laura discusses toilet time with your partner, leading to a great discussion about different types of intimacy. She hoped to work out an exercise she's been doing with her clients, but she and Zach got distracted. At the end of the episode, Laura shares an important update about what she is doing to support her son's recent diagnosis. Sponsors:Visit https://everyplate.com/podcast and enter code 49MTR to get started for as low as $1.49 per mealIdentify and cancel your unwanted subscriptions, track your bills, and save money by signing up for free at https://rocketmoney.com/mtr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach and Laura discuss the exhaustion and stress of the holidays and the relational struggles that can cause.Sponsors:Visit https://www.dipseastories.com/mtr for a free 30-day trial of erotic audio storiesVisit https://everyplate.com/podcast and use code 49MTR for a $1.49 per meal special Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach and Laura welcome Sazan and Stevie Hendrix; authors, influencers, parents, and a real couple, to discuss their new book and more. Be sure to check out the book and all they have to offer at https://stevieandsazan.com/ Sponsors:Visithttps://www.dipseastories.com/mtrfor a free 30-day trial of erotic audio storiesConnect with your partner every day using Paired. Download the app athttps://www.paired.com/MTR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach and Laura discuss hair length and how it works for each of them. They contemplate if there are any shared activities that they could enjoy doing together (besides podcasting). This leads to a conversation about how treating areas of your relationship that you want to improve like a hobby. Sponsors:Visit https://www.dipseastories.com/mtr for a free 30-day trial of erotic audio storiesVisit https://everyplate.com/podcast and use code 49MTR for a $1.49 per meal special Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today we break from our normal format to share an episode from Dan Heath's new podcast What It's Like To Be... Dan interviews Laura about what it's like to be a couples therapist. It's a chance to hear about Laura and her work from another perspective. We hope you enjoy it. Check out the other episodes at https://www.whatitsliketobe.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach is flying solo this week and is joined by real-life couple Elizabeth and Steve Andrews. They share stories of what brought them together, the struggles they have overcome, and what keeps them going after over 30 years together. Sponsor:Connect with your partner every day using Paired. Download the app at https://www.paired.com/MTR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach and Laura sit down to discuss infidelity and recovery with Dr. Monique Thompson. Dr. Thomson offers insight and practical tips for navigating this traumatic event in any relationship.Learn more about Dr. Thompson and her offerings at https://doctormoniquethompson.com/about-dr-thompsonAt the end of the episode, she shares the secret of her famous bundt cake. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Laura is trying to solve a persistent eye twitch. Zach shares about his recent trip to Ireland and what he learned about life and relationships in his travels. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.