Better Relationships, Better Life

Judy Herman

Whether in the workplace, or in your home space, navigating relationships can be overwhelming! No one wants to feel like they’re walking on eggshells, or hoping that the other will magically improve. Proper attention to insights, attitudes, & effective communication takes time, effort, and care- but it's so worth it. Welcome to the Better Relationships, Better Life podcast, with host Judy K. Herman, author of Beyond Messy Relationships. Judy is a relationship expert who knows how to bring increased awareness and more transparent communications in any type of relationship, whether at our 9-to-5 jobs, or our 24/7 lives. Join her every week as she interviews courageous, seasoned relationship experts who can help you bring these tools to your office and family life.  When harnessing the power of relationships, you will introduce positive momentum in your organization, marriage, friendships, and mentorships. Find out how, every week on Better Relationships, Better Life. read less
Society & CultureSociety & Culture

Episodes

Episode 050: How to Amputate Fear in Parenting & Family Life - Part 2
Dec 20 2022
Episode 050: How to Amputate Fear in Parenting & Family Life - Part 2
This father-daughter duo are known for their commitment to being an inspiration and using each day to awaken to learn. A family with values to stand up for what is right to be brave even when no one is looking, they are teaming up to share their powerful perspectives through conversations that matter. Daughter, Ashley Register a University of Northern Colorado alumna is a dedicated and seasoned event planning professional as well as a singer and songwriter among her many talents and skillsets currently serving as Event Manager for the Westin Company in Atlanta, GA. And Father, John Register is a Silver medalist, two-time, two-sport Paralympic Athlete, two-time Olympic trials qualifier, combat Army veteran, amputee, and the founder of the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee's now defunct Paralympic Military Sports Program. Register uses his life experience as an inspirational speaker to inspire people to hurdle adversity, amputate fear, and embrace a new normal mindset to win life's medals. Together the pair create a powerhouse unique synergy in conversation that challenges the audience to open their sphere of influence and mindset through the lens of their respective lens.   Here is what to expect on this week’s show: Naming fear will destroy it Planting seeds to grow a legacy Opening opportunity for our children when they’re qualified Opportunity opens more doors than hard work Reminder that parents are human, too Parents need to show up & listen to their children The importance of extending grace & lifting others Where you focus is where your energy goes   Connect with John and Ashley: Links Mentioned: Website: https://johnregister.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/jfregister Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnfregister/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JohnFRegister LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnregister/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiG9MrQUc3AogdmIlMArT3w For Judy’s resources and connection: Relationship Stress Quiz - https://www.judycounselor.com Complimentary Clarity Call - https://judykherman.as.me/ComplimentaryCall LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/judykherman/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 049: How to Amputate Fear in Parenting & Family Life - Part 1
Dec 13 2022
Episode 049: How to Amputate Fear in Parenting & Family Life - Part 1
John Register and his daughter, Ashley Register share what it means to stand up for what is right. This is one of a two-part episode series on “How to Amputate Fear in Parenting and Family Life.” Daughter, Ashley Register is a dedicated and seasoned event planning professional as well as a singer and songwriter in Atlanta, GA. Her Father, John Register is a Silver medalist, Paralympic Athlete, Olympic trials qualifier, combat Army veteran, and amputee. As a professional speaker, he inspires people to hurdle adversity, amputate fear, and embrace a new normal mindset to win life's medals. Here is what to expect on this week’s show: How overcoming the trauma of becoming an amputee, mixed with fear and doubt, influenced faith and family values.  A healthy perspective of young adults is to see their parents as fellow humans who are also going through life. The importance of tuning into each child’s uniqueness and exposing them to experiences that shape them as adults. How the accumulation of family convictions led to Ashley’s courageous leadership in a peaceful protest. Advocating for black lives matter and being in harms way, she experienced her dad’s support. Connect with John and Ashley: Links Mentioned: Website: https://johnregister.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/jfregister Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnfregister/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JohnFRegister LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnregister/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiG9MrQUc3AogdmIlMArT3w For Judy’s resources and connection: Relationship Stress Quiz - https://www.judycounselor.com Complimentary Clarity Call - https://judykherman.as.me/ComplimentaryCall LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/judykherman/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 048: How to Create Psychological Safety in the Workplace
Dec 6 2022
Episode 048: How to Create Psychological Safety in the Workplace
Adam Nemer is the founder of Simple Mental Health, a leadership Consulting firm that helps improve employee satisfaction, productivity, and retention by creating mental health literate and psychologically safe mental well-being cultures. As a CFO and executive who struggled with severe depression, anxiety, and panic, Adam speaks to leaders about how they can help the 20% of their employees who struggle with a diagnosable mental illness. Here is what to expect on this week’s show: The importance of breaking the stigma of mental illness to help employees receive the help they need. How do we need to redraw the line of appropriateness in offering help to the 20% of employees struggling with mental illness? Why mental health first aid training needs to be as common as CPR training Mental health literacy is necessary for creating an environment where people can perform their best. The more we create space for telling our stories, the more our organizations can be bastions of mental well-being.    Connect with Adam Nemer: Website: https://simplementalhealth.com Adam’s Phone: 503-970-2050 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplementalhealth_/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mentalsimple LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simple-mental-health/ For Judy’s resources and connections: Relationship Stress Quiz - https://www.judycounselor.com Complimentary Clarity Call - https://judykherman.as.me/ComplimentaryCall LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/judykherman/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 046: 5 Powerful Practices from adversity to adventures
Nov 22 2022
Episode 046: 5 Powerful Practices from adversity to adventures
Andy is a committed father and family man after serving in the Navy and owning a successful business. Struggling with family adversity, and remarriage, Andy and his wife were faced with what became a seven-year battle to save their son's life. Together, and with help, they WON. Twenty-year-old Drew is happy, healthy, and doing great! Born out of these experiences, Andy created Always Adventure. He helps overwhelmed parents live happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives. Now as an author, speaker and coach, he’s also involved in the non-profit organization Fathers and Families Support Center. Here is what to expect on this week’s show: How one family endured intense adversity during their son’s adolescent and life-threatening years. The importance of pursuing the right kind of help. Andy’s quote “They loved him with our heart” makes self-nurturing and a healthy practice of letting go possible.  We are not the sum total of the worst decision we’ve ever made.   Connect with Andy: Website: https://alwaysadventurelife.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlwaysAdventureLife/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4Lf2aqjF1GEYsk_fuRq_NA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-way-b65a50167 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/always_adventure_life/ Residential Treatment Center mentioned: https://www.embarkbh.com   For Judy’s resources and connection: Relationship Stress Quiz - https://www.judycounselor.com Complimentary Clarity Call - https://judykherman.as.me/ComplimentaryCall LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/judykherman/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 042: Secrets to an Unstoppable Business & Marriage
Oct 25 2022
Episode 042: Secrets to an Unstoppable Business & Marriage
Kyle and Ariel Tresch are husband-and-wife digital marketing consultants, who have built a thriving relationship AND many thriving businesses together. After helping companies scale their teams & revenue by tens of millions of dollars, the happy couple suddenly found themselves in a dark place -- as the everyday stresses of business began to take a toll on their relationship. Kyle and Ariel chose to fight for their marriage. In doing so, they pioneered a brand new approach to doing life and business in a way that has allowed their relationship to flourish and their businesses to skyrocket. Today - they are founders of a coaching company called Couplepreneurs™ where Kyle & Ariel equip other entrepreneur couples with the proven strategies they need to rapidly scale businesses to 7 figures or more (while going on more date nights than ever before). Here is what to expect on this week’s show: How to combine business and marriage into a unified purpose that creates a flowing partnership. Growing through tension, friction, and conflict can show us the need to bust through old beliefs. The value of re-examining traditional marital roles in order to synchronize as a couple in business & life. Respecting each other’s giftedness for partnership and unified purpose. The necessity of identifying faith, clarity, and hierarchy of values   Connect with Kyle & Ariel Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/couplepreneurscommunity Instagram: https://instagram.com/couplepreneurs_official For Judy’s resources and connection: Relationship Stress Quiz - https://www.judycounselor.com Complimentary Clarity Call - https://judykherman.as.me/ComplimentaryCall LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/judykherman/ Media Page - https://www.judycounselor.com/judy-herman-professional-bio/media/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 041: Alzheimer’s & Caregiver Relationships
Oct 18 2022
Episode 041: Alzheimer’s & Caregiver Relationships
Better Relationships, Better Life with Judy Herman Episode 041: Alzheimer’s & Caregiver Relationships Cheryl Blanchard is a licensed social worker, certified dementia care specialist, and a certified case manager. She has worked with seniors for several years in a variety of roles. She has focused most of her training on caring for those with Alzheimer’s Disease, along with their families. Cheryl provides information on caring for a loved one with a dementia diagnosis. She also supports caregivers. Here is what to expect on this week’s show: Definition and misconceptions about Alzheimer’s and Dementia Common complications with care giving and family relationships Breaking through denial in order to prepare for progressive stages of the illness. How to edit a vow that was previously promised in order to care effectively for the loved one while staying well as a caregiver.   Connect with Cheryl: Links Mentioned: Website: https://www.alztennessee.org/ Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/AlzTN Twitter: https://twitter.com/alztn?s=21&t=Cvt3TqgNo0mmBamxl4rpXw Instagram: https://instagram.com/alzheimerstn?igshid=MDE2OWE1N2Q= Hire Judy to Speak, plus additional resources:   Relationship Stress Quiz - https://www.judycounselor.com Complimentary Clarity Call - https://judykherman.as.me/ComplimentaryCall LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/judykherman/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 040: Severe Mental Illness & the Partnered Marriage Part 2
Oct 11 2022
Episode 040: Severe Mental Illness & the Partnered Marriage Part 2
Better Relationships, Better Life with Judy Herman   Episode 040: Severe Mental Illness & the Partnered Marriage Part 2   This is Part 2 of my conversation with Mark Lukach. He is the author of the international bestselling memoir My Lovely Wife in The Psych Ward.   If you haven’t yet, make sure you go back to the previous episode. We talk about the care-giving season of Mark and Giulia’s young marriage.   This episode is “Severe Mental Illness and the Partnered Marriage.” We talk through how to maintain a sense of family when you know that crisis and trauma might be on a loop cycle.   Mark first wrote about Giulia in a New York Times "Modern Love" column. He has also shared their story at The Moth Main Stage, and at a TEDx conference.   My Lovely Wife In The Psych Ward is the product of 5 years of Mark’s writing. He shows how mental illness redefined his marriage to Giulia, and ultimately affirmed the power of love.   Here is what to expect on this week’s show: Learning to maintain a sense of family while in a loop cycle of severe mental illness. A pathway toward accepting and embracing the reality of the mental illness while realizing its after affects. How reciprocal perspectives are necessary for sustaining the relationship. Resilience and healing through the written word. Necessity of self-care and individual therapy for the non-ill spouse. Wellness factors required for partnered teamwork and preparation.   Connect with Mark: Website: http://www.marklukach.com For Judy’s resources and connection:   Relationship Stress Quiz - https://www.judycounselor.com Complimentary Clarity Call - https://judykherman.as.me/ComplimentaryCall LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/judykherman/   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 039: Severe Mental Illness & the Care-Giving Marriage Part 1
Oct 4 2022
Episode 039: Severe Mental Illness & the Care-Giving Marriage Part 1
Better Relationships, Better Life with Judy Herman   Episode 039: Severe Mental Illness & the Care-Giving Marriage Part 1   This episode and the next are part 1 and 2 of a topic that touches many of us. “Severe Mental Illness.” In part 1 we’re addressing the care-giving season of a young marriage. In part 2 we address the growing partnership of Mark & Giulia Lukach. This is a remarkable story. You’ll want to be sure and tune into both parts. Mark Lukach is the author of the international bestselling memoir My Lovely Wife in The Psych Ward. His freelance writing has been published in the New York Times, The Atlantic, Pacific Standard, Wired, and other publications. He is currently the ninth grade Dean at The Athenian School, where he also teaches history. Mark lives with his wife, Giulia, and their sons in the San Francisco Bay area. Here is what to expect on this week’s show:   ·      The unexpected onset of severe mental illness in a young married couple. ·      How psychosis and recovery changes the husband/wife partnership into care-giver/patient. ·      Necessity of therapy and support for the caregiver. ·      The role of denial and the condition of anosognosia. ·      What’s needed in partnered healing. Connect with Mark: Website: http://www.marklukach.com For Judy’s resources and connection:   Relationship Stress Quiz - https://www.judycounselor.com Complimentary Clarity Call - https://judykherman.as.me/ComplimentaryCall LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/judykherman/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 038: 3 Unexpected Surprises from Better Relationships, Better Life
Sep 27 2022
Episode 038: 3 Unexpected Surprises from Better Relationships, Better Life
Judy K Herman helps families and leaders change complaints into cooperation in their 9-5 jobs and 24/7 lives. She’s been doing that all her life at various stages from her family of origin to 40 years of marital experiences with two husbands (not at the same time.) Her second career as a psychotherapist specializing in relationships followed seasons of homeschooling her four (now adult) children.   She’s the author of top ten finalist “Beyond Messy Relationships” published in 2019. Her weekly podcast “Better Relationships, Better Life” features influencer experts and courageous couples.   The book and podcast have become “therapy beyond the four walls of her counseling office.” Judy is among the top 3 marriage counselors in Chattanooga. She is licensed in Tennessee and Georgia. Her innovative counseling and coaching includes virtual and outdoor retreat packages.   When she’s not having backyard adventures with her 5 young grandchildren, you can find her exploring her own adventures. Part of that is honing her craft as a speaker and writer. The other part is international travel along with facilitating retreats and mastermind groups.   Here is what to expect on this week’s show: • What lights you up? • What are the common themes in your life? • What does it mean to be willing to evolve? Connect with Judy: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/judykherman/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judykherman/ instagram: https://www.instagram.com/judycounselor/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyHermanRelationships For Judy’s resources and connection:   Relationship Stress Quiz - https://www.judycounselor.com Complimentary Clarity Call - https://judykherman.as.me/ComplimentaryCall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 037: Finding Fun & Flow Through Life
Sep 20 2022
Episode 037: Finding Fun & Flow Through Life
Better Relationships, Better Life with Judy Herman   Episode 037: Finding Fun & Flow Through Life   Jody Lentz facilitates better teams, better meetings and better decisions. His creative communication and innovative approach helps organizations think, plan and act strategically. His passion is engaging organizations to create high-performance, low-drama work cultures.   Jody’s clients span the government, higher education, entrepreneurial and corporate realms. One of his proudest business achievements has been on a team developing “Serious Play,” a product for the LEGO company. Based in Nashville, Jody and his wife of 34 years have three adult sons and two grandchildren.   Here is what to expect on this week’s show: ·      Tapping into fun and wonder in family and business. ·      The difference between a facilitator and a consultant. ·      Take work seriously. But don’t take your life too seriously. ·      Injecting play and light-heartedness in everything you do. ·      Balancing creative flow to avoid stuck-ness or boredom in your relationships and career. ·      Mentioned the book: “Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience” by Mihaly Csikszentmilhalyi     Connect with Jody:: Links Mentioned: www.JodyLentz.com http://www.thinkwithyourhands.com/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jody-lentz-bna For Judy’s resources and connection:   Relationship Stress Quiz - https://www.judycounselor.com Complimentary Clarity Call - https://judykherman.as.me/ComplimentaryCall LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/judykherman/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 035: Beyond Messy Relationships: Divine Invitations to Your Authentic Self
Sep 6 2022
Episode 035: Beyond Messy Relationships: Divine Invitations to Your Authentic Self
Better Relationships, Better Life with Judy Herman Episode 035: Beyond Messy Relationships: Divine Invitations to Your Authentic Self Rebecca Greene is back (see episode # 12) now on the other side of the microphonewith Judy. From one therapist to another, Rebecca brings thought-provoking questions after reading Judy’s book, “Beyond Messy Relationships.” Their common professional trainings and careers led them to a “soul-sisterhood” connection. Both have been hosts and guests on each other’s podcasts. Both share common values on marriage, family, and relationships.  Rebecca’s Whinypaluza Vlog has over 3.7 million views. On this episode, she is masterful at bringing out Judy’s intense and dramatic story. With 40 years of marital experiences to two different husbands, Judy shares the catalyst for writing her book. Issues addressed include divorce, re-marriage, mental illness, abortion, and resilience. Tune into the conversation behind the curtain of an “uncoupled” relationship therapist.  Here is what to expect on this week’s show: How confronting and releasing shameful secrets can become transformational moments in our lives. How to use a resilience formula - AIR: Awareness, Intentionality, Risk of growth The value of reframing narratives of painful endings. i.e. divorce vs. ‘natural completions.’  Relationship advice for those caring for loved ones with mental illness.  The need for support regardless of the shame of secrecy or “imposter syndrome.” Our lives are more than the initials behind our names and more than the roles we play (as spouse, parent, mother, etc.)  Connect with Rebecca: Blog  https://www.whinypaluza.com/ Book  https://bit.ly/WhinypaluzaBook Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/whinypaluzaparenting Instagram https://www.instagram.com/becgreene5/ @becgreene5 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whinypaluzamom?lang=en @whinypaluzamom Links Mentioned: Get your signed copy of Beyond Messy Relationships https://www.judycounselor.com/beyond-messy-relationships/ For Judy’s resources and connection: To hire Judy as a speaker – https://www.judyspeaker.com Relationship Stress Quiz - https://www.judycounselor.com Complimentary Clarity Call - https://judykherman.as.me/ComplimentaryCall LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/judykherman/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 034: Deepening Connection Through Listening, Creativity, and Risks of Growth
Aug 30 2022
Episode 034: Deepening Connection Through Listening, Creativity, and Risks of Growth
Better Relationships, Better Life with Judy Herman   Episode 034: Deepening Connection Through Listening, Creativity, and Risks of Growth   John Noltner is an award-winning photographer who has worked on four continents, gathering stories of human courage, grace, and resilience. He has produced projects for national magazines, Fortune 500 companies, and non-profit organizations. His multimedia art project, A Peace of My Mind, reflects his belief that art and storytelling can help individuals, organizations and communities articulate their deepest values and encourage action toward building social capital and community connections.   Here is what to expect on this week’s show: ·      How stressful events can lead to creative connection ·      Tuning into your passion is becoming aware of what feeds your soul ·      The importance of navigating risks and becoming open to uncertainty ·      Peace is rooted in listening in which another person feels seen and heard with a story that matters ·      Openness to conversations broadens our understanding of the world   Links Mentioned: https://www.broadleafbooks.com/store/product/9781506471211/Portraits-of-Peace www.apomm.net Twitter https://twitter.com/apeaceofmymind1 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/apommstories/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/A-Peace-of-My-Mind-186355973157/ For Judy’s resources and connection:   Relationship Stress Quiz - https://www.judycounselor.com Complimentary Clarity Call - https://judykherman.as.me/ComplimentaryCall LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/judykherman/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 033: Redefining Normal: Thriving Partnership While Parenting Special Needs Children
Aug 23 2022
Episode 033: Redefining Normal: Thriving Partnership While Parenting Special Needs Children
Better Relationships, Better Life with Judy Herman   Episode 033: Redefining Normal: Thriving Partnership While Parenting Special Needs Children   Wendy and Bob Andersen are an entrepreneurial couple whose lives have shifted dramatically with the discovery of their newborn son’s rare genetic disorder. They learned to partner through major decisions in order to meet the needs of their family.   Wendy soon found her passion advocating for her family and other families who are also going through extraordinary means to care for their children. As a public speaker, she’s a woman who isn’t afraid to speak truth to power or challenge the status quo if it means creating more equity and respect for all.   Wendy & Bob are a couple who have learned and are living a life of Redefining Normal.     Here is what to expect on this week’s show: ·      The importance of a solid partnership when the unexpected happens and life turns upside down. ·      How adapting to the challenges of a special needs child brings hope to other families. ·      The value of setting intentions while letting go of the results. ·      Why it’s vital to redefine normal ·      Advice for families with special needs children while honoring their unique challenges.   Connect with Wendy: www.wendyandersenpresents.com https://www.facebook.com/WendyAndersenRedefiningNormal/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-andersen-867a1041   For Judy’s resources and connection:   Relationship Stress Quiz - https://www.judycounselor.com Complimentary Clarity Call - https://judykherman.as.me/ComplimentaryCall LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/judykherman/   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 032: Corporate Leadership Wellness at Work & at Home
Aug 16 2022
Episode 032: Corporate Leadership Wellness at Work & at Home
Better Relationships, Better Life with Judy Herman Episode 032: Corporate Leadership Wellness at Work & at Home Dennis & Angela Buttimer, are professional speakers, leadership consultants, and yoga teachers. Both have been featured in various media outlets as experts on human behavior in the workplace. They’ve authored two books, CALM: Choosing to Live Mindfully, and Inspired: 365 Days of Mindful Mojo. Their TEDx talk is entitled “Defusing Stress with Mindful Mojo.” Dennis has a coaching practice. Angela is a psychotherapist who loves to cook and dance in the kitchen. Together, they’ve learned to integrate their marriage and business together.   Here is what to expect on this week’s show: ·      What corporate leaders need for their emotional and relational wellness ·      The necessity of implementing strategies for stress management ·      Why a growth mindset is crucial for a growing company ·      The importance of busting through isolation during dark times ·      How a trusted community is necessary in order to get through difficulties and loss   Connect with Dennis and Angela: www.pathtobestself.com www.bookmotivationalspeakers.com LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennis-buttimer-19108b2/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-buttimer-ms-cvp-lpc-28021a19/   For Judy’s resources and connection: Relationship Stress Quiz - https://www.judycounselor.com Complimentary Clarity Call - https://judykherman.as.me/ComplimentaryCall LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/judykherman/   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices