Ever wondered why some relationships stand the test of time while others crumble? Tracy Baker Lawrence, a distinguished relationship psychologist from Australia, joins us to unravel the mysteries of lasting love. With Tracy's wisdom on the Enneagram leading our journey, we're diving into the depths of personality patterns and how crucial they are in fostering empathy and understanding between partners. This episode promises to be a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to strengthen their bond with their partner, or simply curious about the psychological underpinnings of human connection.We focus on the importance of early intervention in preventing relational rifts and how recognising your own and your partner's behavioural patterns can lead to more effective conflict resolution. By addressing childhood wounds and unspoken needs, Tracy underscores that blame has no place in a healthy relationship. Discover how the conscious investment in your partnership can be the key to a resilient and deeply connected future, just as we maintain our health or our homes.In the dance of relationship dynamics, understanding the motivations that drive us and our partners is like learning the steps to a beautiful ballet. Tracy helps us decode the pathways of our personal motivational drivers, be it through the head, heart, or gut, and their profound impact on the way we relate to one another. You'll learn about the delicate balance of personal responsibility, control, and the interplay of masculine and feminine energies, and how mutual understanding can be the most healing aspect of any relationship. So tune in and let Tracy Baker Lawrence offer you the keys to not just nurturing but truly flourishing in your partnership.Check out Tracy's work and book in for her sessions here: https://theinsightagency.com.au/Thankyou for listening, if you liked it, please remember to subscribe.Join our Private "Thriving relationships - Deepening connection to self and others" community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1107209283451758/Website: https://michaelandamy.com.au/Join our free 7 day relationship challenge: https://michaelandamy.com.au/free-relationship-challengeIf you would like to book in a private discovery call with us, here is the link: https://michaelandamy.com.au/call

Have you ever felt that despite your best efforts, the connection with your partner seems to be missing that electric charge it once had? Cindra Banks, a relationship and intimacy sage, joins us to unravel the mysteries of reigniting passion and nurturing a fulfilling partnership. Cindra offers a treasure trove of wisdom for couples seeking to elevate both their emotional and physical bonds.Our heartfelt discussion peels back the layers of traditional gender roles and the silent burdens they impose, particularly on women striving to balance the demands of caregiving, career, and intimate connections. We discover practical ways to harmonise partnership responsibilities, like chore lists, and move beyond surface-level bickering to unearth the deeper emotional currents that drive our actions and reactions. This episode is an invitation to redefine intimacy, moving it from a chore to a joint adventure in pleasure and discovery.Wrapping up, we focus on the transformative power of open-hearted conversation and share how simple tools – like thought-provoking question cards and relationship apps – can act as keys to unlock the hidden chambers of each other's desires and fears. These shared moments of vulnerability are the cornerstones of a robust relationship. So tune in and let's explore together how to keep the language of love vibrant and evolving, ensuring that your connection with your partner remains a source of strength and joy.Check out the connection cards mentioned: https://au.theadventurechallenge.com/products/connection-cards-couples-edition/Follow Cindra Banks on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cindrabanks?igsh=MXQybHBhMGE5ODdqcQ==Thankyou for listening, if you liked it, please remember to subscribe.Join our Private "Thriving relationships - Deepening connection to self and others" community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1107209283451758/Website: https://michaelandamy.com.au/Join our free 7 day relationship challenge: https://michaelandamy.com.au/free-relationship-challengeIf you would like to book in a private discovery call with us, here is the link: https://michaelandamy.com.au/call

Ever feel like your long-term relationship could use a little more spark? Michael and I challenge the tried-and-true strategy of scheduled date nights and uncover why they might be adding more pressure than passion to your partnership. Instead, we share innovative ways to keep the flame alive through everyday interactions, proving that it's not just about carving out time, but about creating moments that matter. This episode is all about redefining intimacy and connection—moving beyond the calendar and into a realm of spontaneous affection. Discover the potent 'sexual currency' that lies in playful banter, heartfelt compliments, and those seemingly insignificant yet relationship-strengthening daily gestures. Michael and I guide you through the intricacies of desire, showing how a continuous spark can outshine any scheduled encounter and truly deepen your bond.Wrapping up our discussion, we look at the lifestyle choices that could be sabotaging your intimate life without you even knowing it. From the false allure of alcohol as a romantic enhancer to the intimacy-eroding effects of screen time, we lay bare the habits that may be holding back your love life. Plus, we underscore the importance of sleep in keeping your libido healthy and passion potent. Don't miss our actionable advice and the free resource linked in the show notes to help you pinpoint and ignite those areas of your relationship in need of a little extra heat.Thankyou for listening, if you liked it, please remember to subscribe.Join our Private "Thriving relationships - Deepening connection to self and others" community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1107209283451758/Website: https://michaelandamy.com.au/Join our free 7 day relationship challenge: https://michaelandamy.com.au/free-relationship-challengeIf you would like to book in a private discovery call with us, here is the link: https://michaelandamy.com.au/call

Ever felt lost steering through the sea of sex education with your tween or teen? Natalie Stokell joins us as a beacon of hope, advocating for a transformative and positive spin on this crucial aspect of parenting. She brings to the table a rich tapestry of psychology and parenting experience, making her the ideal guide for breaking generational silence and including must-have conversations about pleasure and healthy relationships. With Natalie's insights, we'll arm you with the tools to initiate these essential dialogues and navigate the digital age's explicit challenges, ensuring our youth are prepared for confident and informed intimate futures.If you think that sex education is just about preventing diseases and pregnancies, think again. Our latest episode takes you through a reimagined journey of sex ed, where connection, healthy relationships, and pleasure anatomy are the core tenets. Natalie Stokell sheds light on why feeling-based sex education is so critical during the whirlwind of adolescence and how equipping teens with knowledge can actually lead to safer, not riskier, behaviors. We don't shy away from discussing mainstream porn's impact either, as we explore the importance of porn literacy and debunking myths for a healthier understanding of sexual pleasure.The conversation doesn't stop there; we're passionate about ensuring these life lessons aren't relegated to awkward school assemblies or hushed whispers. Natalie's "Tell Your Daughters" platform is a treasure trove of resources, offering workshops like "Tools for Teens," which tackle consent and communication in bite-sized, relatable chunks. And for parents feeling out of their depth? We've got you covered with an evening session dedicated to you, complete with an online toolkit to support those dinner table talks. So tune in, as Natalie Stokell helps us step up the sex education game, for both our daughters and sons, and transforms uneasy conversations into empowering ones.Show notes:FREE 27 page Parent Glossary - so you can know what red flag acronyms your teens might be using like GNOC and KPC mean (- Get Naked On Camera, Keeping Parents Clueless):https://mailchi.mp/265dd51442fb/p96v4k9icoBook recommendations from preschool through to teens:https://www.tellyourdaughters.com.au/blog/my-book-recommendations-across-all-agesUpcoming workshops for tweens and teens:https://www.tellyourdaughters.com.au/book-a-workshopWaitlist for "60 one minute conversations to have with your tweens and teens about s.x, bodies and relating"https://www.tellyourdaughters.com.au/waitlistThankyou for listening, if you liked it, please remember to subscribe.Join our Private "Thriving relationships - Deepening connection to self and others" community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1107209283451758/Website: https://michaelandamy.com.au/Join our free 7 day relationship challenge: https://michaelandamy.com.au/free-relationship-challengeIf you would like to book in a private discovery call with us, here is the link: https://michaelandamy.com.au/call

Have you ever faced a moment so dark it seemed impossible to find the light? Andrea Gullick, a beacon of resilience and wisdom, joins us to recount her own journey through such depths. She bravely opens up about battling mental illness and coping with devastating personal losses, all while maintaining the conviction that happiness is a personal responsibility. Andrea's stories are laced with empathy and humor, offering powerful insights into how we can cultivate transformation within our lives and relationships. Her message is clear: happiness is a choice we're all capable of making, regardless of our circumstances.When life throws its worst at us, who do we become? This episode delves into the raw and often painful process of redefining oneself after loss. Andrea generously shares her experience of navigating the turbulent waters of grief following the loss of her husband. Her poignant narrative sheds light on the importance of maintaining individuality within a partnership and the daunting yet empowering task of building a new identity from the ashes of the past. Andrea's honesty and vulnerability provide a roadmap for anyone embarking on the tumultuous journey of self-discovery after their world has been turned upside down.Finally, we peel back the layers of our unconscious beliefs to reveal how they shape our experiences and relationships. Andrea guides us through the labyrinth of our internal narratives, questioning the stories we've told ourselves about love, worthiness, and success. With her, we confront the self-imposed limitations holding us back and embrace the uncertainties of life's journey. Her wisdom is a gift to us all, reminding us that the power to heal, to grow, and to forge ahead in the creation of the love and life we desire, resides within each of us. Join us for an episode that will not only move you but might just alter the course of your life.Thankyou for listening, if you liked it, please remember to subscribe.Join our Private "Thriving relationships - Deepening connection to self and others" community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1107209283451758/Website: https://michaelandamy.com.au/Join our free 7 day relationship challenge: https://michaelandamy.com.au/free-relationship-challengeIf you would like to book in a private discovery call with us, here is the link: https://michaelandamy.com.au/call

When the foundations of a family tremble under the weight of a relationship coming undone, where do you turn? Eva and Amanda from Family Focus Mediation extend their hands to guide us through this labyrinth with empathy and expertise. As they peel back the layers of their own separations, they reveal how their personal paths led them to become beacons of support for others. This episode uncovers the heartfelt mission of mediation, emphasizing a child-centered approach that aims to soften the impact of family transitions and prioritizes the emotional well-being of the most vulnerable.The journey of untangling intertwined lives is fraught with challenges, yet it's the silent echoes in young minds that beckon our utmost care. Eva and Amanda encourage parents to embrace clear communication and stable routines as pillars for children to lean on amidst change. We delve into the emotional and financial strains of divorce, contrasting the hefty price of litigation with the more gentle approach of mediation. As our guests share their wisdom, they inspire a vision where co-parenting becomes a dance of cooperation rather than a battle of wills, ensuring that the future for these evolving families is navigated with dignity and respect.We part with a chorus of gratitude for the insights shared by Eva and Amanda, pondering on the importance of relationship resilience and the support systems that underpin thriving partnerships. Their stories serve as a lighthouse for those adrift in the sea of separation, illuminating the way towards calmer shores. Join us in this exploration of the transformative power of mediation, where the end of a partnership can also mean the beginning of a renewed commitment to family harmony and individual growth.Contact Amanda and Eva here: https://www.familyfocusmediation.com.au/Thankyou for listening, if you liked it, please remember to subscribe.Join our Private "Thriving relationships - Deepening connection to self and others" community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1107209283451758/Website: https://michaelandamy.com.au/Join our free 7 day relationship challenge: https://michaelandamy.com.au/free-relationship-challengeIf you would like to book in a private discovery call with us, here is the link: https://michaelandamy.com.au/call

Discover the secret to transforming your relationship from surviving to thriving as we, Michael and Amy, guide you through the groundbreaking work of John and Julie Gottman. With a couple's coach approach, we're bringing you a no-holds-barred conversation filled with insights into the four communication patterns that can spell doom for any partnership. Get ready to equip yourself with the tools to recognise and resolve these challenges, as we provide examples and strategies that will change your relationship game for good.Ever found yourself wondering why small arguments escalate into full-blown conflicts? Chances are, you've encountered one of the four horsemen of the apocalypse in relationships—criticism, contempt, defensiveness, or stonewalling. We're taking a deep dive into the origins of these behaviors, unpacking how childhood experiences and everyday habits can lead to a breakdown in communication. But fear not, because we're all about solutions. We'll share the antidotes to these patterns, helping you to foster a nurturing and respectful dialogue with your partner.The journey doesn't end with recognising these patterns—it's about overcoming them, particularly the most destructive of all: contempt. This episode isn't just an exploration, it's a roadmap to building a culture of appreciation within your partnership. We share heartfelt anecdotes and client successes that highlight the importance of mutual effort and admiration. So, join us for this transformative session and let's take that brave step together towards a more loving and resilient bond with your partner.Thankyou for listening, if you liked it, please remember to subscribe.Join our Private "Thriving relationships - Deepening connection to self and others" community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1107209283451758/Website: https://michaelandamy.com.au/Join our free 7 day relationship challenge: https://michaelandamy.com.au/free-relationship-challengeIf you would like to book in a private discovery call with us, here is the link: https://michaelandamy.com.au/call

Have you ever felt disconnected from your own body, especially when it comes to intimacy and pleasure? That's the pivotal question we unpack with Kimberly Vita Rose, a somatic sex educator and sexological bodyworker, who graces us with her profound insights on forging a deeper bodily connection and shedding the layers of sexual shame. Through her diverse expertise in midwifery, naturopathy, and nutritional medicine, Kimberley guides us through the power of somatic practices in enriching relationships and personal empowerment.Our candid conversation takes a turn into the personal as I open up about the transformative period of leaving a long-term relationship, leading to a voyage of self-discovery and the art of communicating boundaries and desires. We delve into the historical and societal pressures that shape our understanding of women's sexual anatomy and the necessity for precise language in reclaiming our bodies. Kimberley shares the enlightening effect of tantra retreats and somatic practices that have revived not only my sense of self but also the dynamic of her second marriage.Wrapping up this episode, we touch on practical tools for daily reconnection with our physical selves, from mindful breathing to somatic awareness. Kimberly also introduces us to the wheel of consent and the nuance of embracing vulnerability in our sexual dialogues. For those eager to continue this journey of growth and connection, Kimberley extends an invitation to her upcoming online offerings and shares how listeners can tap into her wealth of wisdom. Join us in this heart-opening discussion that promises to shift the way you think about intimacy, pleasure, and communication.Here are some key resources from the show:Book - Esther Perel "Mating in Captivity" https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27485.Mating_in_CaptivityFacebook - Kimberley Vita RoseInstagram - Kimberley Vita Rose Website - www.kimberleyvitarose.comSomatic Sex Educators Association of Australasia Website to find a practitioner - Somatic Sex Educators Association of Australasia | SSEAAThankyou for listening, if you liked it, please remember to subscribe.Join our Private "Thriving relationships - Deepening connection to self and others" community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1107209283451758/Website: https://michaelandamy.com.au/Join our free 7 day relationship challenge: https://michaelandamy.com.au/free-relationship-challengeIf you would like to book in a private discovery call with us, here is the link: https://michaelandamy.com.au/call

Have you ever found yourself gripped by the green-eyed monster, feeling like it might just tear your relationships apart? You're not alone. On the red couch today, we're unraveling the intricate patterns of jealousy and how it can show up not just between lovers, but among family members and colleagues too. Reflecting on personal journeys, we examine the intertwining of professional aspirations with our home lives, and how these strands can sometimes weave a complex web of envy and competition.Dive deep with us as we dissect the murky waters of jealousy and insecurity, particularly through the lens of a stay-at-home mom whose world has been upended by self-doubt. It's a raw look at how feelings can often masquerade as facts, and the importance of distinguishing between the two. We'll talk about the pitfalls of actions like snooping that can fracture the trust you've built with your partner, and the brave step of confronting the past to pave the way for a more secure future. This episode is a guide through the thorny brambles of emotions, helping you find a path to open communication and empathy.As we wrap up, we turn the spotlight on the power of vulnerability and the strength it takes to lay bare our deepest fears to someone we love. We're offering not just insights but also practical tools, like the use of "I statements," to articulate feelings without blame. And for those moments when the journey seems too challenging to face alone, we're here to extend a hand with an invitation for a free strategy call to provide personalized support. So, whether you're looking to fortify your relationships or simply seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, join us—because it's time to transform jealousy from a foe to an ally in love and life.Thankyou for listening, if you liked it, please remember to subscribe.Join our Private "Thriving relationships - Deepening connection to self and others" community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1107209283451758/Website: https://michaelandamy.com.au/Join our free 7 day relationship challenge: https://michaelandamy.com.au/free-relationship-challengeIf you would like to book in a private discovery call with us, here is the link: https://michaelandamy.com.au/call

Ready to rediscover the magic that made your relationship sparkle? Our special new year edition of Thrive is your ticket to revitalizing the love and excitement you once felt for each other. Drawing from Harville Hendrix' acclaimed Imago Therapy, we provide an intimate exercise that promises to help you and your partner pinpoint and share the specific actions that used to light up your days together. Whether it was a spontaneous kiss or a shared adventure, revisiting these  gestures can pave the way to a rekindled romance.Thankyou for listening, if you liked it, please remember to subscribe.Join our Private "Thriving relationships - Deepening connection to self and others" community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1107209283451758/Website: https://michaelandamy.com.au/Join our free 7 day relationship challenge: https://michaelandamy.com.au/free-relationship-challengeIf you would like to book in a private discovery call with us, here is the link: https://michaelandamy.com.au/call

Have you ever wondered how a mere act of validation can transform your relationship dynamics? How does acknowledging your partner's emotions and perspectives deepen your bond like nothing else? Welcome to our enlightening conversation about this secret ingredient of fulfilling relationships. Together, we, Michael and Amy, your relationship coaches, unravel the power of validation, discuss its essence and impact on relationship dynamics. We shed light on the importance of active listening, setting aside our own biases and truly understanding our partner's point of view. We delve into the detrimental effects of not validating your partner's experiences, and how they can lead to a lack of intimacy and understanding.We also explore the role of curiosity in effective communication and how it can help build stronger connections. We emphasise the transformative power of practicing validation in relationships and provide some useful resources to assist you on your journey. We, Michael and Amy, share our personal experiences as well as tips on how to effectively validate your partner's reality. Our enlightening conversation ends with the announcement of our upcoming 2024 Reboot Program. This program offers a fresh approach to relationship building, focusing on validation and active listening. We invite you to join us and transform your relationships through the power of validation. You can find more details about this program on our website, michaelandamie.com.au/reboot. Thank you for joining us.Thankyou for listening, if you liked it, please remember to subscribe.Join our Private "Thriving relationships - Deepening connection to self and others" community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1107209283451758/Website: https://michaelandamy.com.au/Join our free 7 day relationship challenge: https://michaelandamy.com.au/free-relationship-challengeIf you would like to book in a private discovery call with us, here is the link: https://michaelandamy.com.au/call

Navigating the holiday season can often feel as complex as piloting a ship through a storm. Packed work schedules, family obligations, and financial concerns often push relationships - the very essence of the holiday spirit - to the back seat. Join us, Michael and Amy, your relationship coaches, as we weather this storm together. Drawing from personal experiences and struggles, we explore common challenges couples face during this season, discussing everything from financial woes to family pressures and shifts in routine. We lay bare our own struggles with disconnecting and failing to prioritize our relationship amidst the holiday hustle, with the hope of providing insights into maintaining your bond during this period.Are the holidays creating tension in your love life? Is finding time for each other amidst the chaos of work, children, and family obligations becoming a Herculean task? Don't fret;  We'll explore the impact communication and expressing feelings can have on your relationship, and the power of a softer approach when addressing issues. Plus, we'll share a handy tip to help you manage stress in the moment: staying connected and understanding each other's needs. The holiday season is meant for joy and love, not stress and tension. Together, we'll help you make it so!Thankyou for listening, if you liked it, please remember to subscribe.Join our Private "Thriving relationships - Deepening connection to self and others" community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1107209283451758/Website: https://michaelandamy.com.au/Join our free 7 day relationship challenge: https://michaelandamy.com.au/free-relationship-challengeIf you would like to book in a private discovery call with us, here is the link: https://michaelandamy.com.au/call

Ever feel like the spark has left your relationship? You're not alone - and there's more to it than meets the eye. In our latest episode, we unravel the intricate web of relationships, from the initial hormone-driven honeymoon phase, to the potential pitfalls of disconnectedness. We take a deep dive into the significant role oxytocin - the bonding hormone - plays in relationships and the consequences when it starts to dwindle. Uncovering the impact this can have on physical health, highlighting the link between relationship quality and immune function, it's clear that staying in a disconnected relationship can affect more aspects of life than you might think. It's not all doom and gloom, though - we discuss practical ways to address and fix these issues.Feeling the strain? We're here to help. We wrap up the episode with valuable tips on reigniting the connection in your relationship. We introduce you to our eight-week relationship reboot program, designed to improve communication and prioritize meaningful time with your partner. So, whether you're trying to navigate through a rough patch or looking to deepen a healthy bond, this episode offers the knowledge and tools you need to keep your relationship thriving.Thankyou for listening, if you liked it, please remember to subscribe.Join our Private "Thriving relationships - Deepening connection to self and others" community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1107209283451758/Website: https://michaelandamy.com.au/Join our free 7 day relationship challenge: https://michaelandamy.com.au/free-relationship-challengeIf you would like to book in a private discovery call with us, here is the link: https://michaelandamy.com.au/call

Michael and Amy open up about their recent immersion into understanding the mysterious world of hormones and how they play into the dynamic of a relationship. In many relationships, we are either attuned to the ever-changing rhythms of a women's cycle or we are completely oblivious to how it impacts each week.Michael questions Amy about her journey into working out the puzzle in her own body and both open up about what it means from a women and a mans perspective.Kick back and absorb the reflections that include key ways in which you can bring awareness to this often mis-understood area.Thankyou for listening, if you liked it, please remember to subscribe.Join our Private "Thriving relationships - Deepening connection to self and others" community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1107209283451758/Website: https://michaelandamy.com.au/Join our free 7 day relationship challenge: https://michaelandamy.com.au/free-relationship-challengeIf you would like to book in a private discovery call with us, here is the link: https://michaelandamy.com.au/call

In this episode we unpack surprising areas in a relationship that can lead to divorce!Amy and Michael impart knowledge and personal learnings in these often brushed aside aspects in our relationship that causes suffering and sometimes separation at the extreme end.Kick back and look at this episode as a reflective personal audit on your dynamic as a team. We know you'll benefit from this conversation if you are ready to turn and face your relationship NOW.Thankyou for listening, if you liked it, please remember to subscribe.Join our Private "Thriving relationships - Deepening connection to self and others" community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1107209283451758/Website: https://michaelandamy.com.au/Join our free 7 day relationship challenge: https://michaelandamy.com.au/free-relationship-challengeIf you would like to book in a private discovery call with us, here is the link: https://michaelandamy.com.au/call

Have you ever wondered about certain attributes or traits that you have as part of your personality and how they got there in the first place? Have you ever questioned if this is really a healthy part of you or whether our environment or our experiences influenced us to unearth imbalanced or unhealthy traits or attributes inside of yourself?Claire Phillips is an intuitive coach, a master in peeling back layers within each of us and a teacher in the inner dynamics of the masculine and feminine within us.In this episode we dive into these polarities and how they can play out in a relationship in beautiful and not so beautiful ways! By the end of this, you may have experienced a few "Aha moments" about how much you lean to one side of the feminine or masculine regardless of your gender. Prepare to dive into a new layer of understanding.Thankyou for listening, if you liked it, please remember to subscribe.Join our Private "Thriving relationships - Deepening connection to self and others" community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1107209283451758/Website: https://michaelandamy.com.au/Join our free 7 day relationship challenge: https://michaelandamy.com.au/free-relationship-challengeIf you would like to book in a private discovery call with us, here is the link: https://michaelandamy.com.au/call

We dive deep into the transformative power of vulnerability. Join us as we explore why being vulnerable is crucial for building thriving relationships and the challenges that often block us from embracing it.Main Topics Discussed:The Danger of Stagnancy: Michael and Amy discuss the dangers of allowing a relationship to stagnate due to everyday stresses, external influences, and avoiding issues. They emphasize the need for conscious effort to prevent this.The Role of Vulnerability: We shed light on the significance of vulnerability in creating a deep, connected, and fulfilling relationship. They encourage listeners to feel into their own reactions to this word.Fear and Judgment: Amy opens up about her own fears associated with vulnerability, including the fear of judgment and inadequacy. We discuss the societal and personal factors that contribute to these fears.The Meaning of Vulnerability: Amy and Michael share their personal definitions of vulnerability, highlighting the importance of expressing the deeper truth without any fabrication.Trust and Safety: The hosts stress the necessity of trust within a relationship and how it serves as the foundation for vulnerability. They encourage listeners to reflect on their own level of trust with their partner.Benefits of Vulnerability: Amy and Michael delve into the benefits of vulnerability, such as creating a safe space for both partners to open up, resolving issues internally, and fostering deep emotional connections.Synergy of Vulnerability: We share personal experiences of how vulnerability has transformed our relationship, leading to deeper understanding, intimacy, and desire for connection.The Courage to Be Vulnerable: Michael and Amy emphasize the courage required to open up and challenge societal norms that discourage vulnerability, especially for men. They discuss the importance of practicing vulnerability step by step.Join Michael and Amy in this intimate conversation about vulnerability and learn how it can unlock the potential for thriving, connected relationships. Don't miss the chance to unmask your true selves and deepen your connection with your partner.Couples Connection Retreat info: https://michaelandamy.com.au/couplesretreatThankyou for listening, if you liked it, please remember to subscribe.Join our Private "Thriving relationships - Deepening connection to self and others" community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1107209283451758/Website: https://michaelandamy.com.au/Join our free 7 day relationship challenge: https://michaelandamy.com.au/free-relationship-challengeIf you would like to book in a private discovery call with us, here is the link: https://michaelandamy.com.au/call

In this enlightening episode of "Thrive Again," your couples connection coaches, Michael and Amy, delve into a profound conversation with special guest Jules Girotto. Jules, a certified conscious parent coach with a deep commitment to Eastern wisdom and mindfulness, shares her journey on how our relationship dynamics can significantly impact our children.Many couples find themselves staying together despite unhealthy dynamics within their relationships. But is this truly beneficial for the kids? Join us as we explore the importance of recognising and transforming parenting patterns that affect our children's lives.What's covered:Staying Together for the KidsThe common phenomenon of couples staying together in unhealthy relationships.Questioning the soundness of this approach for the benefit of children.The importance of evaluating the quality of your relationship.Modeling Healthy Conflict ResolutionRecognizing that children absorb and replicate the behaviors they witness.The significance of demonstrating healthy conflict resolution as parents.The impact of unresolved conflicts on children's future relationships.The Need for Awareness and Self-ReflectionHighlighting the importance of self-awareness in conscious parenting.Strategies to become more aware of your patterns and reactions.Shifting from reactive behavior to thoughtful responses with your children.Getting Out of Your Head and Into Your BodyPractical techniques for grounding yourself in the present moment.Acknowledging the anxiety and stress that can arise in parenting.Becoming more mindful by reconnecting with your physical sensations.Journaling for Self-ReflectionUtilizing journaling as a tool to track your parenting patterns.Recognizing recurring triggers and behaviors.The role of journaling in fostering self-awareness and transformation.Empowering Children to Be Seen and HeardThe importance of making children feel worthy and acknowledged.How being present and responsive can positively impact your child's self-esteem.The transformative power of shifting parenting approaches.Thankyou for listening, if you liked it, please remember to subscribe.Join our Private "Thriving relationships - Deepening connection to self and others" community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1107209283451758/Website: https://michaelandamy.com.au/Join our free 7 day relationship challenge: https://michaelandamy.com.au/free-relationship-challengeIf you would like to book in a private discovery call with us, here is the link: https://michaelandamy.com.au/call

Description:In this enlightening episode, Michael and Amy, your couples connection coaches, delve into the heart of relationships with an extraordinary guest, Dolphin Kasper. With over two decades of experience, Dolphin specializes in guiding individuals through the intricate web of relationship dynamics. He shares insights from his extensive journey of working with diverse populations, from troubled youth groups to high-achieving leadership students.Main Points Covered:1. The Journey of Authenticity:Dolphin shares his unique background, growing up with a mother deeply involved in transpersonal and relational work. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in relationships, nurtured by unconditional love and transparency. This foundation lays the groundwork for understanding human behavior in intimate connections.2. Natural Law and Evolution:Dolphin introduces the concept of natural law in relationships, drawing parallels from thriving ecosystems. Just as an ecosystem finds balance and evolution, human relationships are bound by underlying principles that dictate their growth and development. The key lies in understanding our journey's purpose and how it contributes to the whole.3. From Me to We:The hosts and Dolphin discuss the different orientations in relationships, including self-centeredness, caretaking, and partnership. Dolphin introduces the idea of moving beyond partnership into an "all context" perspective, where relationships contribute to the greater world, transcending oppositional dynamics and encompassing a broader purpose.4. Addressing Unmet Needs:Dolphin delves into the challenges faced by couples when one partner is seeking deeper connection while the other seems distant. He emphasizes individual agency and responsibility in relationships, highlighting the importance of creating a larger container for personal experiences and emotional sensations. Unmet needs are explored as signals, leading to the discovery of core unmet needs and authentic communication.5. Navigating Unmet Needs:The hosts and Dolphin discuss the influence partners have on each other and how discomfort can arise when unmet needs collide. They offer insights into creating space for individual experiences while seeking deeper understanding of one's own needs. The episode concludes by emphasizing the courage to express unmet needs without attachment to specific outcomes.Tune in to this transformative conversation to gain valuable insights into evolving relationships, embracing authenticity, and finding a path from surviving to thriving. Prepare for a paradigm-shifting journey of self-discovery and growth in the realm of intimate connections.Thankyou for listening, if you liked it, please remember to subscribe.Join our Private "Thriving relationships - Deepening connection to self and others" community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1107209283451758/Website: https://michaelandamy.com.au/Join our free 7 day relationship challenge: https://michaelandamy.com.au/free-relationship-challengeIf you would like to book in a private discovery call with us, here is the link: https://michaelandamy.com.au/call

As humans, we are entrenched into routine that is fuelled by demands of living in a modern existence. So our reprieve from the "everyday life" is often in the form of a holiday...a getaway...an escape. We briefly unpack why these society has deliberately used this messaging to describe a holiday and how it plays into the way we unconsciously approach them. We dive into quality time vs quantity of time with your partner and how to best utilise what time you have at hand.We offer you two open ended questions to ask your partner on every holiday you go on to tighten up loose ends in our "happiness factor".We also discuss the benefits of micro-holidays to stimulate our cognition , enhance our alive-ness and to inject playfulness into our "normal" reality.Thankyou for listening, if you liked it, please remember to subscribe.Join our Private "Thriving relationships - Deepening connection to self and others" community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1107209283451758/Website: https://michaelandamy.com.au/Join our free 7 day relationship challenge: https://michaelandamy.com.au/free-relationship-challengeIf you would like to book in a private discovery call with us, here is the link: https://michaelandamy.com.au/call