Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.Life as a parent can often feel like a flood of responsibilities, expectations, and emotional exhaustion. In this episode, Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP, address the cycle of invalidation that can arise between partners as they try to juggle tasks and manage parenting stress. Through the story of Raj and Brynn, we explore how feelings of being overworked and underappreciated can lead to mutual invalidation in relationships. Join us in uncovering the steps necessary to shift out of a cycle of invalidation into a pattern of offering vulnerability and validation. Tune in for meaningful insights and real world scripts that can help you strengthen your couple relationship as you parent.
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26:49
I Handle Stress "Right," It's My Partner That Handles Stress "Wrong"
Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.This episode dives into the dynamics of emotional regulation between partners in stressful parenting moments, highlighting the contrasting coping behaviors of downshifting and upshifting. Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP provide practical insights using a relatable case study, illustrating how couples can navigate these tensions and foster meaningful communication to create a supportive family environment.• Explaining the downshift-upshift coping dynamic in relationships • Analyzing a common conflict scenario in parenting • Discussing the role of everyday stressors on couple dynamics • Introducing the concept of co-regulation between partners • Offering actionable strategies for improving communication during stress
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26:02
From Silent Resentment to Connection
Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.In this episode, we explore the pervasive issue of resentment in couple relationships, particularly among parents. We discuss its roots in unexpressed emotions and decision-making conflicts, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, active listening, and mutual understanding to resolve underlying issues and prevent resentment from taking hold. Here is what we cover in the show: • Resentment often arises from feelings of being undervalued or unheard • Parenting pressures can exacerbate feelings of resentment • Major life decisions often become breeding grounds for resentment • Vulnerability and transparency are essential for healthy conversations • Mutual understanding plays a key role in decision-making dynamics • Listening without defensiveness fosters connection and heals rifts • Conflict can be an opportunity for growth and intimacy • Practical insights for managing resentment in relationships offered
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37:39
Good Sex-An Interview with Author Dr. Candice Nicole Hargons
Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.Ever wonder how parenting impacts your intimate relationship? Join us for a compelling conversation with renowned sex expert Dr. Candice Nicole Hargons as she shares insights from her latest book, "Good Sex." She dives into the challenges of maintaining a healthy sexual relationship amidst the responsibilities of parenthood. Dr. Hargons, an associate professor at Emory University, offers a compassionate perspective on navigating the changing dynamics of intimacy. She emphasizes the importance of communication and renegotiating relationship terms as couples journey through different stages of parenting.
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37:40
I Need You to Stop Needing Me
Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.This episode addresses the often invisible burden carried by default caregivers like Tasha, who find themselves overwhelmed by both family and partner expectations. Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP, delve into the mismatched needs that arise from these dynamics, frequently leading to misunderstandings and conflict. Through thoughtful discussion, we focus on the critical role of open communication and self-awareness in breaking free from outdated norms that perpetuate inequality. By examining how Tasha's partner, Paul, may inadvertently contribute to this imbalance, we highlight the need for intentionality and shared responsibility within family units.
New Zealand