Dear Dr. Tracy (Cloud10)

Whether you’re expecting your first child or your fourth, pregnancy, childbirth, and bringing home baby can stir up a lot of big feelings. Fear of the unknown, discomfort from lack of control, sleepless nights, and hormones can leave us feeling anxious.  This week, I sit down with Liesel from Mommy Labor Nurse to discuss how birth and postpartum education can help empower couples to feel more satisfied with their experience.  If you haven't yet, be sure to check out Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast Episode 136 where Liesel and I talk about preparing your relationship for baby.  Liesel Teen, BSN, RN is a labor and delivery nurse and the founder of Mommy Labor Nurse. Mommy Labor Nurse equips pregnant women with the tools, knowledge, and confidence they need to erase the unknown, feel in control, and have an even better birth - no matter how they deliver. With 8 years and counting as a bedside labor and delivery nurse, Liesel knows that knowledge is the key to an even better birth. To date, over 40k women have completed a Mommy Labor Nurse birth class, eliminated fear, and been empowered by Liesel’s comprehensive childbirth education. In this episode, we discuss:  The biggest fears that show up during pregnancy and delivery Boundaries  The mental load of pregnancy  Tracy’s experience with her unplanned c-section  Liesel’s tips for expecting parents EPISODE LINKS: Mommy Labor Nurse Instagram Mommy Labor Nurse TikTok Mommy Labor Nurse Online Birthing Classes Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's mini session, Dr. Tracy is joined by Dr. Morgan Anderson to discuss the challenges of relationship repair through the lens of attachment styles. They explore how individuals with anxious attachment struggle with distance, often engaging in anxious pursuit and abandoning their own needs to regain a sense of safety. These individuals must learn to self-soothe, such as by taking a walk or doing a task, and become comfortable with discomfort. Whereas those with avoidant attachment deactivate their feelings and needs, pushing away closeness and often wanting to sweep conflicts under the rug. For the avoidantly attached individuals, the focus should be on self-soothing while learning to turn toward their partner, asking for reassurance, and setting clear boundaries. Both attachment styles face unique challenges in repairing relationships, but understanding and addressing these patterns can lead to healthier and more resilient connections. Listen to full episode here: Spotify Apple Follow Dr. Morgan Anderson on Instagram! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the heart of the holiday season, Dr. Tracy and her husband Greg embark on the first official "Dear Dr. Tracy" episode, tackling a fitting and timely listener question about navigating family dynamics. With a primary focus on mother-in-law relationships, they delve into topics like addressing defensive reactions, handling guilt trips, and initiating difficult conversations. Throughout the conversation, this dynamic duo highlights the importance of setting boundaries, practicing effective communication, and initiating generational change within one's own family. With a blend of personal experiences and professional advice, this episode sets the stage for honest and insightful discussions on family dynamics during the holiday season and beyond.  A special thank you to our incredible sponsors for making this show possible! Lume - As a special offer for listeners, new customers GET $5 OFF a Lume Starter Pack with code "INYS" at lumedeoderant.com Honeylove - Save up to 50% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/INYS  OneSkin - Get 15% off with the code "INYS" at oneskin.co  You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here!  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We all pee ourselves a little after having kids and it’s totally normal, right? Sure, it’s common… but it actually isn’t normal. Chances are your OB didn’t sit you down at your first prenatal appointment to discuss the importance of keeping your pelvic floor healthy and there’s an even higher chance they never talked to you about how urinary incontinence, at any level, isn’t normal after baby. So what is normal and how do we take care of our pelvic floor? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Sara Reardon from The Vagaina Whisperer, to talk about your pelvic floor. Dr. Sara Reardon PT, DPT, WCS is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Board-Certified Women’s Health and Pelvic Floor Therapist, and mom of 2. She is the founder of The Vagina Whisperer, an online platform for pelvic floor health and the owner of NOLA Pelvic Health.  In this episode, we discuss: The importance of normalizing correct terminology and the care/treatment of our pelvic floors (5:30) What the pelvic floor is (6:30) Common pelvic floor issues during pregnancy (8:30) and postpartum (13:00) The myth that “leaking is normal” (17:15) Common mistakes surrounding bladder health (19:15) Pain with sex (21:30) What a visit with a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist might look like (22:45) Sarah’s tips for you (32:30) EPISODE LINKS The Vagina Whisperer Website The Vagina Whisperer on Instagram The Vagina Whisperer on TikTok FREE GUIDE: How to Take Great Care of Your Pelvic Floor NOLA Pelvic Health website Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again Struggling with intimacy? Download my FREE GUIDE with 5 ways to improve your intimacy Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Dr. Tracy sits down for episode 3 of her mini-series to speak with Audra and Chelsi, hosts of the "Dear Chiefs" podcast, to discuss the complexities of relationships and marriage with a first responder. As two wives of fire fighters, Audra and Chelsi know all too well the challenges that come with being the default parent while their partner is away at work for days and weeks at a time.  In this episode, Audra and Chelsi discuss the often-misunderstood sacrifices of stay-at-home parents, emphasizing that these individuals take on immense responsibilities both at home and within their relationships. They shed light on the concept of being the "default parent", the emotional toll it can take, and the importance of planning, setting expectations, and finding a balance that prioritizes both partners and children. Lastly, they share realistic strategies on how to integrate their partner back into family life after their work block is complete and the importance of prioritizing your own well-being and independence.    Today’s topics include:  Balancing the role of being a stay-at-home parent and the sacrifices involved  Unveiling the reality of living with a split person due to first responder schedules  Managing missed family moments and embracing the role of the default parent  Strategies for prioritizing both partner and children while maintaining personal balance  The importance of having backup plans and self-care routines  Navigating reintegration and supporting partners after work blocks  Setting realistic standards and reframing expectations in parenting and partnership  Addressing resentment and embracing personal agency within the relationship  Shifting from dependency to self-sufficiency and self-fulfillment    Be sure to follow Audra and Chelsi on Instagram @dearchiefspodcast and listen to their podcast!  Join us LIVE in Toronto on September 12th for my book launch event where I will be joined by Renee Reina to teach you the key to building a healthy interdependent relationship. Tickets here!  You can pre-order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you find yourself asking… How do we feel close again after we just had a disagreement?  My partner doesn’t like to come back and talk about the hard stuff.  My partner doesn’t apologize. I always have to bring up the hard conversations.   I get it.  This is a common experience in our relationships.  The reality? We didn’t learn how to repair. It was never modelled to us or it came attached with a lot of shame. And yet, repairing is one of the most important things we need to do in our relationship because without it, we are more likely to build resentment and disconnection.  In today’s episode, I get to sit with Dr. Morgan Anderson. A previous guest on the podcast (Season 2, Episode 21, a must listen), we talk about: What happens in relationships when you can’t work through conflict Why you need to repair Difficulties with repair through an attachment style lens Ready to learn how to repair, feel closer after the fight, and connect with your partner? Join me in my FREE MASTERCLASS. I will teach you my 4 A’s on how to repair so that you can look at your partner and feel like a team again. Learn More About Today's Guest: Dr. Morgan is a clinical psychologist and relationship coach, host of the “Let’s Get Vulnerable” podcast and creator of the E.S.L relationship method. She helps women break the toxic dating cycle, raise their self-worth and attract the healthy relationship they’ve always wanted. Make sure you head over to her IG page and send her a DM to say hello! Join me in my community! Curious about the relationship cycle you get stuck in? Take the free quiz Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected Join me in my monthly newsletter where I give you actionable tips that you can use today in your relationship Visit my website for more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Dr. Tracy is sitting down with Dr. Tanya Cotler, a renowned clinical psychologist and co-founder of Renni, to discuss attachment science and its profound influence on our parenting and relationships. Dr. Cotler sheds light on how our earliest years, particularly the first three, significantly shape our relationship blueprints. Together, they explore the intriguing link between attachment and feelings of shame, stressing the spectrum of attachment strategies, from anxious to avoidant. Dr. Cotler also dispels common parenting misconceptions, advocates for compassionate and intuitive parenting, and underscores the value of recognizing ruptures and repairs in nurturing a child's autonomy. Furthermore, the discussion extends beyond parenting to how these principles can enrich various relationships, emphasizing negotiation and acknowledging our own needs while fostering connections with others.    Today’s topics include:  The importance of the first three years of life in forming our blueprint for relationships.  The connection between attachment and the experience of shame in challenging moments  How the attachment system is related to our survival instincts and emotional responses  Coping strategies developed in childhood and their impact on adult behavior  Understanding anxious and avoidant attachment styles and their impact on relationships  Exploring intuitive and compassionate parenting and dispelling common myths.  How children communicate through their behavior and body language  The concept of ruptures and repairs in parent-child relationships  The essence of gentle, compassionate parenting and allowing children to learn autonomy  Understanding that it's impossible to meet every need at every moment and the importance of negotiation      You can find Dr. Tanya on Instagram, on her website, and learn more her work at Renni on their website!    You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here!  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For so many, the holidays stir up so many emotions and old wounds. This is particularly true for parents while they sit in front of their children, seeing their own struggles and triggers being reflected back by their children - a window, an opening to be curious and to heal. And it often brings up questions of - where am I with my parent? How do I feel with them? What works and isn’t working anymore? What am I still holding on to? We’re going to tackle something big today. Abbey Williams, MSW, LSW is a behavioural health therapist, the found of You, The Mother, the producer and host of the You, The Mother Podcast, Author of “An ABC of Families,” and mother of 4. She is committed to supporting, empowering, and connecting with mothers in all seasons of motherhood. Abbey has been featured in PopSugar, Parents, Romper, and SheKnows. She navigates her blended family/co-parenting life with her husband, four kids, and two sister labs in Cincinnati, OH. In this episode, we discuss: Abbey’s healing journey as she navigates motherhood Acknowledging unhelpful dynamics between family members Grieving old parts of us that aren’t serving you anymore Abbey’s hardest moments on being a mother while also healing old wounds from her family The answer to this question: How do I know when I need to cut contact with my family? Grieving a mother she didn’t have  EPISODE LINKS You The Mother Website Follow You The Mother on Instagram Follow You The Mother on Facebook Follow You The Mother on TikTok Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Grab my 28 Days of Love email series built with evidence-based tools to help you and your partner start to reconnect. Ready to learn how to repair? Take my free masterclass Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever felt the urge to bite your tongue when something’s bothering you—just to keep the peace? Would you describe yourself as a conflict avoider? Or maybe your partner is a conflict avoider. In this episode, we dive into the real reasons behind conflict avoidance, uncovering how silent resentments can take a toll on your mental well-being and your bond with your partner. We’ll explore why we often dodge difficult conversations, the long-term impact on both individuals and couples, and share practical steps to move from avoidance to constructive communication. Whether you’re struggling with unspoken irritations or seeking a healthier way to handle everyday disagreements, this conversation will help you and your partner break the cycle of conflict avoidance. Tune in as we discuss how small (but powerful) shifts can lead to deeper emotional connection and relationship growth. Don’t miss out on these essential insights to transform conflict into a powerful tool for building trust, respect, and closeness. Links: Ready to deepen your connection? Download my 100 Questions!  Want your questions answered on the show? Submit them here!     You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here!    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Dr. Tracy is joined by Dayna Abraham, a bestselling author and parenting expert. She is the founder of Lemon Lime Adventures, and her unique, out-of-the box perspective and workshops have been used by 200k+ parents, teachers, therapists, and pediatricians to get control of their child’s most difficult behaviors. Together, they will discuss Dayna’s Calm the Chaos Framework and roadmap, consisting of five key steps that everyone experiences at their own pace. Dayna provides practical insights on diffusing challenging situations, emphasizing the impact of fatigue on our patience.     EPISODE LINKS:   You can learn more about Danya on her website and pre-order her book Calm the Chaos: a Fail-Proof Road Map for Parenting Even the Most Challenging Kids. You can also find her on Instagram and TikTok.    You can pre-order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're getting ready for another holiday season. With Passover, Good Friday, Easter, Eastern Orthodox Easter, and Ramadan coming up, it seemed like a great time to ask you, my community, some important questions about family get togethers and talk about how you want to show up. When it comes to family gatherings, 46% of you feel "okay negative" about them. In this episode, we talk about: What you can and cannot control when it comes to our family, including acknowledging a key emotion that shows up here Shifting towards consciously choosing so that you can show up aligned Being a united front with your partner Join me in my community! Curious about the relationship cycle you get stuck in? Take the free quiz Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected Join me in my monthly newsletter where I give you actionable tips that you can use today in your relationship Visit my website for more Many said you have negative feelings about things you cannot control (86%). That's a lot! One of the things we must recognize is that family gatherings bring out things that we have no control over, including: Other's views of you Toxic behaviours and comments When others push your boundaries ... and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this mini session, Dr. Tracy chats with Anna Aslanian about codependency and understanding how people end up in codependent relationships. They redefine codependency, moving away from the old assumption that it always involves addiction, and instead highlighting it as a response to trauma and a way of seeking safety in relationships. They emphasize that dependency is not inherently negative, as humans are relational beings who need connection. Dr. Tracy and Anna also explore the nuanced definition of trauma, explaining that it isn't always about major life events but can include any hurtful experiences that remain unprocessed. They discuss the importance of recognizing both big and small traumas, approaching them with self-compassion and without judgment, and avoiding comparisons with others' experiences. Be sure to follow Anna on Instagram Listen to the full episode here: Spotify Apple Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

*Trigger Warning: Childhood Sexual Trauma  This week, Dr. Tracy is sitting down with the inspiring and resilient Jessalynn Biederstadt, the host of the Invisible Scars podcast and owner of the Doted Boutique. As a victim and survivor of the Willow River, child sexual assault pornography case in 1999, Jessalynn has shown immense strength in her healing journey and is opening up and sharing the very real ups and downs of that process with us today. From the incredible work she’s doing with her podcast and the platform she’s giving to other victims of trauma to the messy and inconvenient aspects of the healing process and a very realistic look into what it’s like to “do the work” as a mother and partner, we’re so grateful to have her on to share with us today, and we hope this episode is a reminder that there is no right way or time to heal; you're already doing better than you think you are.     Today’s topics include:  The consequences of internalizing trauma  Why there will never be a “right” time to begin healing  Navigating postpartum while recovering from trauma  The power of sitting and reflecting on your growth  Overcoming personal trauma and doing the work while in a partnership  Losing people during the healing process    You can find Jessalynn on Instagram and listen to Invisible Scars here!   A special thank you to our incredible sponsors for making this show possible! OneSkin - Get 15% off with the code "INYS" at oneskin.co Lume - As a special offer for listeners, new customers GET $5 OFF a Lume Starter Pack with code "INYS" at lumedeoderant.com Honeylove - Save up to 50% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/INYS  You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here!  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week is episode 1 of Dr. Tracy's exciting new mini-series, where she sits down with real couples to unravel their untold stories beneath the surface of their relationships. In this episode, Dr.Tracy sits down with Shaun and Rini Frey, parents to a 2.5-year-old daughter with another baby on the way. They share how their relationship felt more than solid for so many years and how the arrival of their daughter brought on new challenges in their relationship that they didn’t anticipate. From passive-aggressiveness to scorekeeping and doubts, they share the struggles they faced and the steps they took as a couple to strengthen their relationship again.    Topics of today’s episode include:  The unexpected challenges faced by new parents and the impact on relationships  The importance of leaning on resources like couples therapy to help you navigate the difficult periods of your relationship  How childhood experiences can shape your approach to resolving conflicts  Exploring the differences in expectations placed on partners versus children  The significance of discussing important topics before becoming parents  Prioritizing connection through shared activities, date nights, and quality time  Embrace challenges, prioritize one another, understand each other's love languages, and maintain open communication    Be sure to follow Rini and Shaun on Instagram @ownitbabe and @ownitdad!    You can pre-order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of the biggest struggles being seen with dealing with COVID19? The uncertainty.  What does this look like tomorrow? Next month? This winter?  So it's no wonder that 85% of the women I polled said they were stressed out and experiencing burnout.  Today, I sit with Dr. Julie Beaulac to talk about how we can calm the F*#$ down by re-tuning our nervous systems. And ultimately, if we can retune our nervous systems, we can master burnout. Dr. Beaulac is a registered psychologist and consultant based in Ottawa, Canada. She is also a mindfulness and yoga teacher and an enthusiast of all things movement and in nature. She works with individuals, groups, and organizations to become more engaged, productive, and happier in their lives.  In this episode, we discuss: 13;01 - What is leading us to burn out? 18:19 - What happens inside of us when we experience chronic stress?  21:14 - Explaining polyvagal theory 28:42 - How to hack our vagus nerve 37:47 - Quick and easy ways to retune and calm your nervous system Grab Dr. Beaulac’s free guide to the 5 QUICK and EASY things you can do right now to find calm. Click here to download.  Looking for more to tackle burnout? Dr. Beaulac and I have a special BLACK FRIDAY SALE for our e-course Beyond Burnout. Save $100 off with promo code F2020 (because it’s just that kind of year). You can overcome burnout. Click here for more information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do you do when a partner replies with “Well, I guess I’ll just never … again” after you share something with them? In this episode, Dr. Tracy and her co-host Greg answer this question and talk about how to respond to a partner’s "all or nothing" statement in response to a concern raised. Dr. Tracy talks about the underlying emotion in this expression, provides strategies for having a constructive conversation in that situation, and how to break out of this tricky cycle that stops couples from feeling close and connected. Links: Ready to deepen your connection? Download my 100 Questions! https://drtracyd.com/connect Want your questions answered on the show? Submit them here! https://drtracyd.com/podcast You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here! https://drtracyd.com/book Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For today's bonus episode, I sit down with fellow Psychologist Dr. Shefali to discuss what it means to build a healthy parent-child relationship.  Dr. Shefali is an acclaimed author, international speaker, and clinical psychologist.  If you haven't already, be sure to check out season 3 episode 4 where Dr. Shefali and I discuss the parent-child relationship. EPISODE LINKS Order Dr. Shefali's newest book The Parenting Map Free Online Summit the Parenting Mastery Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this mini session, Dr. Tracy chats with Eve Rodsky about turning "invisible work" into "visible work." Invisible work includes the behind-the-scenes tasks mothers and women often handle without recognition. Eve shares how she created the "Shit I Do" spreadsheet, listing all these tasks and gathering input from women in various communities. This effort made the extensive contributions of mothers more visible. Eve discusses the importance of women taking agency in their lives and introduces the core findings of her book "Fair Play: A Game-Changing Solution for When You Have Too Much to Do.”. Listen to the full episode here: Apple Spotify Follow Eve on Instagram and grab a copy of her book here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you find yourself frequently feeling overwhelmed and overstimulated by your environment? Perhaps you’ve heard those close to you say “You’re too sensitive.” You’re not alone and in fact, you might be part of the 20-30% of the population that are highly sensitive people.  Today I am sitting with Natalie Brunswick to talk about highly sensitive people and the impact that being a highly sensitive person can have on our lives. Natalie Brunswick is a registered occupational therapist who focuses on supporting parents during the perinatal period, navigating the parenting journey, and beyond. She believes in a holistic, relational, and trauma-informed approach to mental health, wellness, and parenting. She has also been trained with Postpartum Support International and is a proud mom to two amazing boys.  In this episode, we discuss: What a highly sensitive person (HSP) is [4:55]  What makes the trauma experience unique for HSP [8:00] Traits of HSP we can identify in our children [14:35] Family dynamics that show up when there are HSP [22:30] How our childhood as an HSP might impact our adult relationships [30:30] HPS and attachment styles [34:30]  EPISODE LINKS Natalie’s Website Connect with Natalie on Instagram  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again Get intentional with your partner. Grab my 100 Questions to Deepen Your Connection Guide Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are we wired to fix our loved ones? It might feel that way when you notice discomfort showing up when your kids or your partner are experiencing something unpleasant.  It’s easy to get caught up in finding the solution, but could we be missing their feelings and leaving them feeling invalidated?  In this episode, I sit down with Michelle Kenney from Peace and Parenting, to talk about repair, the urge to fix our loved ones, and what we can do instead when these feelings show up in our partnerships and parenting.  Michelle is a mother of two girls, as well as a former teacher and counsellor turned Certified Parenting Instructor. After years of consequences, bribes and star charts, she finally reshaped the relationship she shares with her daughters and credits peaceful parenting for changing her life. Michelle considers herself a recovering yeller, perfectionist and control freak who has found a more calm and connected way to parent. Using the ideas of Brain Science as her guide and working on childhood hurts as her deeper work, she helps other parents do what she has been able to do for herself over the last decade. In this episode, we discuss:  Fixing in our relationships [03:00] The desire for our partners to parent as we do [05:45] Our inability to separate other people’s suffering from our own [06:15] The contrast between how we consciously parent our children and how we treat our partners [07:00] Helping our partners parent vs telling them what to do [11:45]  Seeing our younger self is our child’s reaction [19:30] Apologies without saying “I’m sorry” [22:30]  Why we push pain away [27:30] EPISODE LINKS: Peace and Parenting Instagram Peace and Parenting Website Peace and Parenting YouTube Channel  Peace and Parenting Podcast Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As we approach the many gatherings that the holiday season brings, the need for teamwork and connection in our relationships is as relevant as ever. This week, Dr. Tracy is sitting down with Christa Hardin, host of the Enneagram and Marriage podcast, author, and founder of Reflections Counselling Centre, to explore the Enneagram assessment as a tool for building stronger connections in our partnerships. She shares her own personal experience with the Enneagram, the positive impact it’s had on her marriage, and the several benefits of this assessment when it comes to couples seeking to strengthen their relationships and better themselves. Christa takes us through the nine enneagram types, the concept of wings, the three conflict triads, and emphasizes the significance of self-care in maintaining healthy relationships. She also provides guidance on approaching relationships with compassion, focusing on individual self-improvement, and embracing each other's strengths and imperfections. It’s such an eye-opening discussion that goes beyond partnerships and into gaining a better understanding of ourselves to help us navigate and live more meaningful and connected lives.  Today’s topics include:  The benefits of the Enneagram vs. other assessments  What to do if your partner isn’t interested in taking the Enneagram test  A high-level overview of the nine Enneagram personality types  How do Enneagram wings work?  The 3 instincts of marriage  Conflict triads and what they mean  The importance of self-grounding and self-care in the midst of relationship struggles  Why you should revisit your love story  Leading with intention but leaving a necessary margin    You can find Christa on Instagram, listen to her podcast and find her book on her website!     A special thank you to our incredible sponsors for making this show possible! OneSkin - Get 15% off with the code "INYS" at oneskin.co Lume - As a special offer for listeners, new customers GET $5 OFF a Lume Starter Pack with code "INYS" at lumedeoderant.com Honeylove - Save up to 50% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/INYS   You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here!  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You finally have a minute to pause and relax. As you hold your cup of coffee, just heated up for the fourth time, and look around your house, you feel overwhelmed. How can you relax when the mess keeps triggering you? I get it. There can be so much stuff in our homes that we stop feeling happy in our space, get stuck getting rid of things, and in general, feel a sense of overwhelm by everything going on. Enter Katy Wells. She is a decluttering expert, podcaster, and simplifier, a boy mom, and she knows how to help you declutter your home and your life.  In this episode, we discuss: Why are we so triggered by mess? What are the negative thoughts, emotions, and beliefs that come up with mess? Identifying when your "stuff" owns you, and what you can do to shift out of this Letting go of things that feel sentimental And Katy's top tips to help you start living a simplified and decluttered life To Learn with Katy: Follow Katy on Instagram Take her 14-day challenge Check out her toy course Join me in my community! Curious about the relationship cycle you get stuck in? Take the free quiz Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected Join me in my monthly newsletter where I give you actionable tips that you can use today in your relationship Visit my website for more What’s Coming Next? The Mother wound with Bethany Webster. Subscribe and Review in iTunes Lovely Addition to Personal + Couple's Therapy “I just love listening to her podcasts. Super resourceful and I definitely recommend taking a listen" ~ Afireinside7 I would love to hear from you. I would be so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes. I love hearing what you have to say about the episode, but also so that others who might benefit from listening to this podcast can find it!  Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I can’t wait to hear from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s here! Season 6 of the podcast is launching with a brand-new name: Dear Dr. Tracy! In this episode, Dr. Tracy’s pulling back the curtain on why she made this change, what it means for the future of the show, and how she’s stepping outside her comfort zone to bring you even deeper, more real conversations about relationships, resentment, intimacy, and all the messy in-between moments. Dr. Tracy discusses why the name change, how you can be part of the show, what’s been going on behind the scenes, a parenting moment she didn’t sign up for (and why she got a cake for it), and what’s coming this season.  Links: Ready to deepen your connection? Download my 100 Questions!  Want your questions answered on the show? Submit them here!     You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here!    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Growing up we learn so much from our mothers and growing up the messaging we receive is "obey thy mother." The things we learned from our mothers growing up and the way they coped in the world show up in us, throughout our lives. But What if our mother was wrong? What if they are passing along their own trauma? What if they cross our boundaries and teach us not to listen to ourselves? Bethany Webster began blogging in 2013 about the Mother Wound and quickly experienced a worldwide demand for her work. Though blending research on intergenerational trauma, feminist history, and psychology with her own personal story, Bethany's work is the result of decades of research and her own journey of healing. She is a writer, international speaker, and transformational coach around the world sharing her growing body of work that is raising the standard of women's leadership and personal development.  In this episode, we discuss: What is the Mother Wound? How does shame, guilt, and fear play a role? What does the Mother Wound look like for women? Why is it important to heal it? What happens in our lives when we are willing to heal? To Learn with Bethany: Visit her website Check out her book Learn more about her online course Join her facebook group Join me in my community! Curious about the relationship cycle you get stuck in? Take the free quiz Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected Join me in my monthly newsletter where I give you actionable tips that you can use today in your relationship Visit my website for more What’s Coming Next? Healing after conflict: why you need repair in your relationship with special guest Dr. Morgan Anderson. Subscribe and Review in iTunes Lovely Addition to Personal + Couple's Therapy “I just love listening to her podcasts. Super resourceful and I definitely recommend taking a listen" ~ Afireinside7 I would love to hear from you. I would be so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes. I love hearing what you have to say about the episode, but also so that others who might benefit from listening to this podcast can find it! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I can’t wait to hear from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I sit down with my husband Greg to discuss our experience completing my 100 Questions to Spark a Deeper Connection Guide. We'll also discuss the poll results from a series of relationship questions I shared on my Instagram, and share our perspectives on enhancing communication and connection with your partner.  In this episode we discuss:  Our experience completing the 100 Questions Guide (it's free!) Finding balance between the quantity and quality of communication in your relationship  The significance of open discussions and setting expectations during major life transitions like starting a family  Identifying common triggers for resentment and finding effective ways to address them in relationships  Overcoming the challenges of initiating meaningful conversations with your partner  The benefit of dedicating regular check-ins with your partner to nurture and strengthen your relationship    Pre-order my book now (Released 09/12)! Your pre-order purchase includes many exclusive bonuses. Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Dr. Tracy is joined by Dr. Taylor Arnold, a kids nutrition expert, nutritionist, PhD, pediatric dietician, and mom of three. Dr. Arnold specializes in helping parents shape healthy relationships with food, and she offers valuable insights on how to raise the next generation of eaters who love and nourish their bodies. Together, they discuss generational patterns related to food, high-pressure eating environments, and the importance of allowing children to learn about how different foods affect them, enabling them to connect feelings in their bodies with the foods they eat. We also address the challenges posed by well-meaning grandparents who may overstep boundaries and inject diet culture into conversations at mealtime. Lastly, Dr. Arnold discusses setting boundaries at mealtime and exploring alternative ways to minimize waste beyond forcing children to eat everything on their plates.    In this episode we discuss:  Generational patterns: the clean plate club and high-pressure eating environment  Managing children's relationship with sweets and food in general  Helping children connect feelings in their bodies with the foods they eat  Dealing with well-meaning grandparents and their influence on kids' eating habits  Setting boundaries at mealtime  Avoiding food waste and finding alternative ways to minimize waste  Food neutrality and creating a healthy and respectful mealtime environment.    You can find Dr. Arnold on YouTube where she offers 3 free courses along with Instagram, and her website Growing Intuitive Eaters!    You can pre-order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Dr. Tracy is sitting down with her editor at PESI Publishing for a behind-the-scenes look into the making of her new book, "I Didn't Sign Up for This." In this intimate conversation, Dr. Tracy shares the origin story of her book and her observation of the common experiences we all often face in relationships yet we don’t talk about openly. Recognizing that people often learn best from stories rather than just tips and tricks, she wanted to create something that was accessible at home and incorporated realistic, everyday stories such as the fights with our partners, the stressors of cohabitation, co-parenting, blending families, and even retirement. Dr. Tracy also opens up about her decision to incorporate her own experiences into the book, drawing from her own marriage. She explains what led her to choose the title "I Didn't Sign Up for This" and how she maintained client confidentiality while sharing their powerful stories within the book.    Today’s topics include:  The power of storytelling and the need to address everyday relationship challenges that often go unspoken  The common stressors and complexities of various life scenarios, including cohabitation, co-parenting, blending families, and retirement  The concepts of dependence vs. interdependence in relationships, with a focus on self-reflection and healthy dynamics  Dr. Tracy’s decision to include her own experiences from her marriage and explains why she chose the book's title  How she maintained client confidentiality while including their impactful stories in the book    You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here!  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In June of this year, I was asked to speak at a conference on imposter syndrome for women in business. Being one of my goals for the year, I was super excited and quickly said yes. Then, a feeling crept in. This feeling of “who are you to speak in front of all those women?” and “do you really have anything to share that they already don’t know?” Have you been there before? When you start feeling like an imposter and that you are not qualified or worthy of that opportunity? That’s what Amanda Tobe, an Industrial Organizational Psychologist from Toronto, Canada, and I are diving into on the podcast today: Imposter Syndrome. Whether this is a new term for you, or an old familiar face, Amanda shares how to move beyond imposter syndrome that may be holding you back: 7:10 - Amanda’s personal experience with Imposter Syndrome 8:58 - What is Imposter Syndrome? 12:21 - How your core beliefs support Imposter Syndrome 21:14 - Imposter Syndrome and Self Sabotaging 22:19 - The 3R’s to help you overcome Imposter Syndrome 37:07 - Growth Mindsets and the Key Factors 41:32 - How you can use fear in a positive way Links from this episode: Free E-Book: Leading Through Crisis and Transition: A COVID19 toolkit to help you lead with strength, intention, and grace Book: Own your Greatness: Overcome Impostor Syndrome, Beat Self-Doubt and Succeed in Life (by authors Lisa Orbé-Austin and Richard Orbé-Austin Book: Everything is Figureoutable by Marie Forleo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Overwhelmed. Can you relate to this feeling?  Overwhelmed with the number of things you need to get done. From cleaning the house, homeschooling your kids, organizing meals, working, maintaining friendships, and connecting with your partner - the list goes on. But what would happen if you took a pause? Took a deliberate moment to rest through the day. In this episode, I connect with Allison Keating, founder of bWell Clinic in Ireland, about how we can move out of the mindset of being a perfect woman and giving ourselves the space to not always please, perform or be perfect.  Here are a few of the highlights:  5:32 - What does the ‘striving mode’ look like? 9:53 - The Pause  12:03 - Reflecting to determine where we learned our norms from 19:43 - What’s the impact on our relationships with our partners and children? 21:43 - Strategies to help you let go of the overwhelm 37:53 - Ways to start to nourish and replenish yourself Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tired of always being the initiator in your relationship? This week, Dr. Tracy addresses the common issue of "my husband doesn’t plan date nights," a struggle many listeners have shared. She discusses the prevalent belief in heterosexual relationships that men should instinctively know and plan for their partner's needs, emphasizing that healthy relationships require intentional effort and open communication. Dr. Tracy highlights the importance of recognizing different seasons in partnerships, acknowledging bids for connection, and separating self-worth from a partner's actions. She offers practical advice on creating a system for planning date nights, balancing the division of labor, and appreciating each partner's contributions. By understanding and communicating needs effectively, couples can improve their connection, intimacy, and overall relationship satisfaction.  Leave Dr. Tracy a voicemail here!  A special thank you to our incredible sponsors for making this show possible! ZocDoc - Go to Zocdoc.com/INYS and download the Zocdoc app for FREE. Then find and book a top-rated therapist, psychiatrist, or psychologist today. Links: Ready to deepen your connection? Download my 100 Questions!  Want your questions answered on the show? Submit them here!     You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here!    Ready to learn how to repair? Save now! Grab my REPAIR workshop       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s safe to say that "mommy brain" is due for a rebrand! In this episode, Dr. Tracy sits down with Dr. Nikki Pensak, a clinical psychologist, TEDx speaker and author of "Rattled," to discuss the challenges and opportunities of motherhood, particularly during the postpartum period. Dr. Nikki shares her journey from academia to becoming a mother, emphasizing the mental health needs of mothers often overlooked. They discuss the transformation of the maternal brain during matrescence, the pressures of social media, and the reality of baby bonding and breastfeeding challenges. Dr. Nikki rebrands "mommy brain" as a brilliant adaptation to motherhood's demands and advocates for early postpartum mental health care. They explore three pillars for thriving postpartum: mental health treatment, understanding motherhood, and thriving beyond birth trauma. The episode flips the narrative on motherhood, viewing it as a profound opportunity despite its challenges. Dr. Tracy concludes with actionable tips: self-compassion, incorporating movement, and practicing present-moment connection.    Be sure to keep up with Dr. Nikki on Instagram @drnikkipensak and grab a copy of her book here! Leave Dr. Tracy a voicemail here!  A special thank you to our incredible sponsors for making this show possible! Cozy Earth - Visit cozyearth.com and use code SHRINK at checkout for an exclusive 35% off. Loop - Visit loopearplugs.com and use code LOOPXDRTRACY for 10% off of your order. Links: Ready to deepen your connection? Download my 100 Questions!  Want your questions answered on the show? Submit them here!     You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here!    Ready to learn how to repair? Save now! Grab my REPAIR workshop       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, Dr. Tracy delves into how early childhood experiences shape our adult relationships with Dr. Kate Truitt, an esteemed clinical psychologist and neuroscientist known for her expertise in trauma and resilience. Dr. Truitt, founder of the Truitt Institute and CEO of the Amy Research Foundation, shares insights from her memoir, Keep Breathing, highlighting the powerful role of the amygdala—"Amy"—in shaping our responses to safety, lovability, and belonging. Their discussion covers the positive and powerful impact that showing personal vulnerability as therapists has had on their client relationships, the importance of connection, and the difference between codependency and trauma bonding. Dr. Kate expresses that while our past influences us, we have the power to choose healthier paths and that self-compassion is a key to healing and growth. Tune in to discover how understanding these dynamics can lead to deeper self-awareness and stronger, more fulfilling relationships.  Be sure to keep up with Dr. Kate on Instagram and visit her website here. Leave Dr. Tracy a voicemail here!  A special thank you to our incredible sponsors for making this show possible! Cozy Earth - Visit cozyearth.com and use code SHRINK at checkout for an exclusive 35% off. Links: Ready to deepen your connection? Download my 100 Questions!  Want your questions answered on the show? Submit them here!     You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here!    Ready to learn how to repair? Save now! Grab my REPAIR workshop       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the season finale of the podcast, Dr. Tracy tackles one of her most frequently asked questions: "How do I get my partner to go to therapy?" But first, she has a special announcement to share: she's writing her second book! Dr. Tracy then dives into the importance of starting therapy early in a relationship to build trust, enhance communication, and address issues before they become critical. She discusses the challenges many couples face, especially when one partner is hesitant, often due to stigma or fear of blame. She shares strategies for encouraging a reluctant partner, including empathetic communication, understanding their concerns, and approaching the conversation with care. The episode also explores the benefits of therapy, such as identifying and changing negative cycles, fostering personal growth, and deepening emotional connection. Dr. Tracy encourages listeners to be patient, respect their partner's pace, and consider therapy as a tool to strengthen and sustain their relationship.  Leave Dr. Tracy a voicemail here!  A special thank you to our incredible sponsors for making this show possible! Cozy Earth - Visit cozyearth.com and use code SHRINK at checkout for an exclusive 35% off. Links: Ready to deepen your connection? Download my 100 Questions!  Want your questions answered on the show? Submit them here!     You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here!    Ready to learn how to repair? Save now! Grab my REPAIR workshop       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Dr. Tracy sits down with Alyssa Blask Campbell, parent, teacher, emotional development expert, and CEO of Seed and Sew, and together, they delve into the realm of children's emotional intelligence. Alyssa shares her journey into this field, driven by the need for personalized approaches to regulating children's emotions when she recognized that all of the resources out there were often crafted as a “one size fits all” approach. She shares her work creating the Collaborative Emotional Processing (CEP) method, emphasizing sensory mismatches, the impact of parental shame, and the importance of allowing children to experience various emotions safely. Together, they highlight the significance of equipping children with emotional processing tools and supporting them through challenging experiences that will help them not only when they are young but as they grow into adulthood. Lastly, they discuss the significance of setting boundaries and understanding consequences in the context of a child's growth and the development of their emotional intelligence skills.     Today’s topics include:  The need for personalized approaches to regulate children's emotions  Introduction of the Collaborative Emotional Processing (CEP) method  Emphasis on sensory mismatches and understanding children's unique needs  The impact of parental shame  The Importance of allowing children to safely experience a range of emotions  Equipping children with tools for emotional processing  Supporting children during challenging experiences  You can find Alyssa Blask Cambell on Instagram, on her website, and listen to her podcast!    You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here!  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Dr. Tracy is joined by Dr. Vanessa LaPointe, a clinical psychologist, author, international speaker, and mother, and together they discuss the effects of social media on children in this digital age and the importance of guiding conversations around it within the household. She shares the importance of fostering genuine connections, the stages of brain development in children, and the crucial role parents play in co-creating a healthy digital experience. Dr. LaPointe also shares valuable insights on maintaining discipline with a balance of firmness, compassion, and kindness and highlights effective tools and resources, such as the Dove Confidence Kit, to empower parents in guiding their children through the complexities of social media.    In this episode we discuss:  The desire for social connection and the surface-level engagement provided by social media  Concerns about the mental health of youth and the role of social media in isolation  Co-creating a positive online experience for children by teaching and modeling wise consumption  The Dove Confidence Kit as a tool for meaningful conversations about social media and resources for parents on self-image and self-esteem discussions  Balancing firmness, compassion, and kindness in disciplining children without shame or blame  Prioritizing family connections and moments of quality engagement over screen time    Episode Links:  You can find Dr. Vanessa LaPointe on Instagram and be sure to learn more about her work on her website!  Learn more about the Dove Confidence Kit HERE!  Stand up for #KidsOnlineSafety HERE.    You can pre-order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Dr. Tracy is celebrating 100 episodes of the podcast! Kicking off the show with a moment of gratitude, she reflects on the show’s incredible journey towards nearly one million downloads and expresses her appreciation for the supportive community we’ve created together.  The episode then dives into the essential topic of emotion regulation with the guest of honour, Dr. Cindy Hovington, a mom of three with a doctorate in neuroscience, podcast host, founder of Curious Neuron, and the Wondergrade app. Together, they explore the shift from impulsive reactions to deliberate responses in parenting, highlighting the formative role of past experiences in shaping our emotional reactions as parents and individuals. The conversation touches on the importance of giving children the space to express their anger in a safe way and the invaluable practice of modelling emotional awareness as parents. Additionally, the episode underscores the significance of identifying emotional regulation zones and addresses the sensitive issue of physical abuse in parenting. Dr. Cindy's profound insights offer invaluable guidance to parents navigating the intricate landscape of emotions, both at home and beyond.  Today’s topics include:  Responding vs. reacting when parenting  Managing dysregulation of the nervous system and Dr. Cindy’s 3-zone self-assessment  Why revisiting your own upbringing and history with emotional regulation will benefit your children  How to best approach anger when it comes to our children and creating a safe space for them  The importance of practicing self-awareness in moments of tension and difficulty  Why physical abuse is never an acceptable or productive response    You can find Dr. Cindy and learn more about the Curious Neuron on their Instagram, website and podcast! Also be sure to check out the Wondergrade App.   A special thank you to our incredible sponsors for making this show possible! OneSkin - Get 15% off with the code "INYS" at oneskin.co Lume - As a special offer for listeners, new customers GET $5 OFF a Lume Starter Pack with code "INYS" at lumedeoderant.com You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here!  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass      Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected     Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s mini session, Dr. Tracy and Dr. Jen Douglas, a clinical assistant professor at Stanford University, licensed psychologist, and mental wellness speaker, tackle mom burnout and perfectionism, highlighting the pressures modern mothers face. They discuss how today’s moms spend twice as much time on parenting compared to 1965, coupled with the demands of being constantly available to employers. This has led to unrealistic expectations of being a hands-on, super-present mom. They emphasize the importance of allowing yourself to just "be," as taking a moment to relax doesn’t diminish your worth as a mother. The session calls for reevaluating perfectionist standards and giving yourself grace in the journey of motherhood. Listen to the full episode here: Spotify Apple Be sure to keep up with Dr. Jen on Instagram @drjenofficial Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr. Tracy sits down to discuss bids for connection in a relationship and what these bids can look like. She provides valuable insights on how to effectively respond to these bids and offers tips specifically for individuals who tend to be people pleasers. Dr. Tracy also unveils details of her new book, "I Didn’t Sign Up for This", which is now available for pre-order and will launch on September 12th. She shares a glimpse into the lives of four real-life couples that she will be discussing in her book, all of whom she has personally worked with as their couples therapist.    In this episode, we discuss:   Defining bids for connection in relationships   Understanding what bids for connection can look like  Types of people pleasing and how to respond in relationships   People pleasing as a subconscious form of safety and connection  Acknowledging the presence of a bid without sacrificing everything  Tuning in and practicing active engagement in bids for connection    You can pre-order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's episode, Dr. Tracy returns for episode 4 of her mini-series, and she's joined by the remarkable couple, Ryan and Britt, hosts of The Laughing Couple Podcast. Together, they shed light on balancing both the romantic and professional aspects of their relationship with their bustling home lives and their thriving business. They share how they’ve learned to navigate the often unspoken challenges that arise and emphasize the importance of open and honest communication in relationships. Together, they dive into the key pillars that they've really leaned on to maintain a connection with each other, including focusing on experiential intimacy and creating a bucket list of shared activities that they both look forward to completing with each other. Ryan and Britt also share some heartfelt advice for those struggling in their relationships, emphasizing the importance of generosity and empathy in partnerships. They share the exercises and tools they've used to overcome relationship roadblocks, especially when it comes to navigating the mental load both at home and in business.    Today’s topics include:  Balancing romance and business as partners  Challenges of sharing relationship struggles openly with friends and family  The importance of having trusted sounding boards outside the relationship  The importance of open communication and how starting their podcast saved their marriage  The importance of setting aside quality time for each other and encouraging generosity and empathy in relationships  The role of experiential intimacy in maintaining a strong bond  Exercises and tools for overcoming relationship roadblocks  How they navigate the mental load at home and in business    Be sure to follow Ryan and Britt on Instagram @thelaughingcouple and listen to their podcast!   Join us LIVE in Toronto on September 12th for my book launch event where I will be joined by Renee Reina to teach you the key to building a healthy interdependent relationship. Tickets here!  You can pre-order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever reacted in a way that felt… bigger than the moment? Maybe your partner forgets to check in, and suddenly you feel unimportant or abandoned. Or you receive a small piece of feedback and spiral into shame. You might wonder, “Why am I like this?” In this episode, Dr. Tracy guides you through how to identify when your inner child is showing up—and how to begin healing those younger parts of you that still carry unmet needs and emotional wounds. This episode explores: What the inner child really is (and what it isn’t) The subtle signs your inner child is driving your reactions A personal story of when Dr. Tracy's own inner child took the wheel—and how she did the work The exact steps Dr. Tracy uses with clients to heal emotional triggers and reparent themselves with compassion Why understanding your inner child can transform not just your relationship with yourself, but with your partner and your loved ones If you’ve ever said, “I know better, but I still react this way,” this episode will help you move from self-blame to self-understanding—and offer you a clear path to healing. Press play now to begin the powerful process of reconnecting with your inner child in a way that’s healing, grounded, and life-giving. LINKS: Want your questions answered on the show? Submit them here!     Ready to deepen your connection? Download my 100 Questions!  Build better connection and feel close starting today. Join the 30 Days to Us Challenge Heal old wounds and build healthy interdependence with my book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” - order here!    Episode Sponsors: Learn more about AQUATRU: https://aquatru.com Use promo code for 20% off TRACY Learn more about ACORNS: acornsearly.com/tracy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I sit down with Allyn Rose to discuss her unique journey of processing grief, a preventative double mastectomy, IVF, marriage, and motherhood.    Allyn first made waves in the media and society when she decided to undergo a preventive double mastectomy as a contestant on Miss America.  Years later, she is sharing her journey as a breast cancer advocate, professional speaker, on-air host, legal and political scholar, Tedx speaker, national media outlet contributor, and the first ever featured Sports Illustrated swimsuit model with a mastectomy, wife, and new mom.    In this episode, we discuss:  The power of vulnerability and sharing your story    Processing grief through life’s different seasons   Bravery despite negative feedback    The effects of the IVF journey when in a partnership    Finding grace through the heaviness of motherhood by practicing gratitude and perspective    Balancing being a mom with other responsibilities, despite comparison    Tips to be proactive about your breast health      EPISODE LINKS:   Allyn Rose Instagram   Allyn Rose Website   Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again   Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love  Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass    Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I sit down with my in-house defensiveness expert and husband, Greg, to unpack the often-misconceived topic of assertive vs defensive communication styles.    We answer real questions from our community about what it looks like to champion self-respect and a deeper understanding of your partner by lending practical steps to change the defensive patterns in our relationships and implementing assertive and authentic responses.    In this episode, we discuss:  Important examples of defensive and assertive responses   How modelled communication styles from our personal history effect our present communication styles    The effect that the words we use have on our inner narratives   The ways that adequacy, shame, and self-worth play a part in our responses   How self-respect is a key player in understanding defensiveness   The key differences between the female and male experience in our responses    How assertiveness creates space for your thoughts, feelings, needs, and your partner’s understanding      EPISODE LINKS:   Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again    Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love  Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass    Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode I sit down with Dr. Jolene Brighten, a hormone expert, nutrition scientist, and thought leader in women’s medicine to address the common question we all have when addressing our hormones: Is This Normal?    We take a deeper look at common misconceptions behind every day female symptoms such as our energy levels, period pains, appetites, and sex drive in order to gain a more holistic understanding of why we feel the way we feel.     In this episode, we discuss:    Common signs that our hormones may not be normal   How societal pressures play a role in pushing us to function outside of our physical and mental capacity  The barriers that women face when it comes to putting themselves first  Implementing practices to help shift your stress and take control of your day  A multifaceted approach to understanding and responding to lower sex drive  Sleep and other lifestyle factors we can address in order to bring our hormones into balance  The impacts of intermittent fasting on the female body   Living in the “both, and” space when approaching our nutrition      EPISODE LINKS:   Dr. Jolene Brighten Instagram  Dr. Jolene Brighten Website      Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again     Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode I sit down with Neha Ruch, a rising thought leader and sought after speaker in the world of women, work, parenting, and identity.    Featured in Forbes, Oprah Daily, and New York Family Magazine, and founder of Mother Untitled, the digital destination for ambitious and progressive women, Neha is on a mission to update the perception of stay at home motherhood in America.     Together, we tackle the topic of what it means to be “A Stay At Home Mom” and dive into the complexities that mothers face when transitioning from traditional career paths into a focus on family life.     In this episode, we discuss:  What it means to be ambitious and lean into family life for a chapter  The societal and internal barriers mothers face when choosing to pause from their careers  How to practice proper consideration and communication with your partner when preparing for shifts in parenthood and career life   What it means to “re-meet” your partner when you become parents  The responsibility behind advocating for your own needs and nurturing your identity  What it means to practice conscious parenting in the midst of healing from your own pain and trauma  How to ask and invest in help when you are the parent on pause    EPISODE LINKS:   Neha Ruch Instagram   Neha Ruch Website   Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again     Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I sit down with neurodiverse affirming pediatric occupational therapist, Laura Petix, who specializes in sensory processing skills for neurodivergent individuals.       Laura is the parent of a neurodivergent daughter and CEO of the OT Butterfly, where she educates parents on how sensory processing can have a direct impact on learning and behavior.      Together, we discuss neurodiversity, sensory processing, and a lot of good stories in between.    In this episode, we cover:    Defining the "sensory cup" and what that means for neurodivergent children   The differences in sensory processing between the neurodivergent and neurotypical brain   How to share knowledge with a partner when raising a neurodivergent child     The negative narratives children internalize about themselves   How to have regulated and calm responses as parents in dysregulated moments    Understanding the child’s internal experience when having a dysregulated moment     Normalizing communication with your child about your sensory stimulation and needs as a parent   Breaking down the meaning of neurodiversity and neurodiverse affirming  High threshold vs. low threshold profiles for sensory processing and how to regulate them    The autonomous connection we can have with our spouse and child when it comes to our sensory experience    After listening to this episode, be sure to listen to part 2, Episode 73, with Laura and Dr. Tracy here.   EPISODE LINKS:   Laura Petix Instagram   Laura Petix Website     Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again     Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr. Tracy sits down to answer some of your most asked questions across social media, her website, and clinical visits.   Listen as Dr. Tracy tackles key topics in marriage and parenthood when it comes to managing boundaries, the mother-in-law dynamic, and more.   In this episode, she covers: Grief and raising your family in a city without family support How to build friendship and connection with others outside of your family How to process inner narratives in alignment with your values Adjusting your expectations when the reality of family-life is different than you planned The shifts to the marriage dynamic after having children How to set, communicate, and act upon our boundaries with others Practices to create safe and secure environments in your marriage How to raise your children to be autonomous, interdependent individuals Tips to navigate different background experiences in defining your values and creating compromise with others Want Dr. Tracy to answer your questions? Submit your topic on drtracyd.com/podcast. Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again   Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I sit down with Lo Mansfield, a specialty certified OB nurse who has spent her career in labor and postpartum, and the teacher and face behind the Labor Mama community courses and resources.    Together, we discuss the intricacies of postpartum and the power of how resources and knowledge can change our experiences.    In this episode, we cover:    The feeling of grief in pregnancy and child birth   The importance of having a support system and receiving help in postpartum  How to acknowledge and have grace for your own change on the parenting journey   The ability to have an empowered and knowledgeable birth experience  Responding to fear in the labor process  How to practice pain with purpose   Recognizing postpartum mental health challenges and implementing accountability      EPISODE LINKS:   The Labor Mama Instagram  The Labor Mama Website       Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again     Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected   Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I sit down with Christina Nelson, a social worker and creator of the Radical Stepmoms podcast.      Cristina is passionate about providing support to stepmoms and assisting them in getting unstuck so they can build the love and life they desire.      Together, we take a deeper look at the realities of being a stepmom and open up an honest conversation to discuss resentment, responsibilities, and dynamics within the stepmotherhood role.      In this episode, we discuss:    How stepmotherhood changes and challenges your identity   The negative representation of stepmoms in the media  Processing the grief and your initial expectations of motherhood    How to find confidence in your place and power in the stepmom role    The feeling of resentment and how to process through it    Addressing your needs and advocating for yourself when moving into a set family dynamic    Practicing open communication and boundary setting   The definition of "disengaging" and how to practice it    Tips to strengthen your relationship with your partner     EPISODE LINKS:    The Radical Stepmoms Podcast Instagram  The Radical Stepmoms Podcast Website Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again       Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love      Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass         Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I sit down with Matthew Fray, a relationship coach and author of "This is How Your Marriage Ends". He leans on the lessons of his failed marriage and divorce to help others avoid making the same mistakes he did.     Together, we discuss the importance of mindful validation and communication in marriages. He shares his insights on how small actions can lead to bigger messages and the impact of emotional neglect and micro-betrayals in relationships. Matthew also shares tips on how to embrace uncomfortable conversations and work towards conflict resolution in a marriage.     In this episode, we discuss:  The common struggle between communication and validation when there is a problem   Inadvertently delivering a message through small actions and the long term effects   How to get over your defensive and invalidating tendencies   Mindful validation during disagreements can help couples work through conflicts   How our relationships often reflect the stuff we are working through   The key to working towards conflict resolution is leaning into discomfort and embracing uncomfortable conversations    EPISODE LINKS:  Matthew Fray Instagram  Matthew Fray Blog  Purchase his book here!    Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again         Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love        Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass           Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected        Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I sit down with Kacie Rose, the world traveler behind Kacie Rose Travel. After a life-changing solo trip and her own "Under the Tuscan Sun" moment, Kacie Rose moved to Italy in January 2021 to be with her long-distance partner. By sharing her experiences online about her life as an American living abroad, travel tips, and more, she has built an outstanding online community of 1.5 million people.  Together, we delve into her experiences of moving abroad and the struggles of navigating life living in a new country. She shares her experiences of embracing a new culture, navigating the language barrier, building friendships as an adult, and how she has worked to maintain a healthy relationship with her partner.    In this episode we discuss:  The importance of prioritizing quality time in a long-distance relationship  Navigating personal growth and significant life changes as a couple  Adapting to cultural differences in an intercultural relationship  Struggles with losing independence when navigating language barriers  Building and nurturing friendships as an adult  Tips for individuals planning to live abroad  EPISODE LINKS:   Kacie Rose Travel Instagram  Kacie Rose Travel TikTok  Kacie Rose Travel YouTube  Kacie Rose Travel Website    Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again     Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever felt lonely in your own relationship... longing for romance but afraid to ask for it? You’re not alone. So many of us crave connection, but the fear of rejection, disappointment, or even feeling like a burden keeps us silent. In this episode, Dr. Tracy and her husband Greg dive deep into the emotional weight of longing for more while holding back our true desires. They unpack why asking for romance can feel so vulnerable, how past experiences shape our fears, and the subtle ways resentment builds when needs go unmet. Dr. Tracy and Greg discuss the steps you can take to break free from this cycle. This episode offers simple, actionable shifts to express your needs without guilt or fear. Because you deserve love, effort, and connection in your relationship. Ready to create more romance in your relationship? Join my popular 10-Day More Than Roommates challenge! Created for the busiest couple, each day you'll receive three exercises to help you feel close and more connected. I won't tell you to kiss your partner, but by the end of the challenge, you'll want to kiss your partner. LINKS: Ready to deepen your connection? Download my 100 Questions!  Want your questions answered on the show? Submit them here!     Heal old wounds and build healthy interdependence with my book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” - order here!    Learn more about ACORNS: acornsearly.com/tracy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Answering your questions! In this bonus episode, Dr. Tracy answers a powerful listener question: “Is divorce contagious?” She explores how a friend’s separation can impact our own relationship, the research behind social contagion, and why moments like these often reflect unspoken needs or desires. Taking her 18 years of working with clients through all seasons of their relationship, Dr. Tracy reminds listeners that while divorce isn’t truly “catching,” it can be a mirror inviting us to pause and reconnect. If you’re feeling the distance in your relationship and looking to reconnect, join Dr. Tracy's More Than Roommates Challenge or try her 30 Days to Us. LINKS: Want your questions answered on the show? Submit them here!     Heal old wounds and build healthy interdependence with my book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” - order here!    Episode Sponsors: Learn more about AQUATRU: Use promo code for 20% off TRACY Learn more about ACORNS: acornsearly.com/tracy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most people approach arguments with one goal in mind: winning. But what if winning an argument actually means losing something far more important—connection? In this episode, Dr. Tracy sits down with Jefferson Fisher, a trial lawyer and viral communication expert, to explore why people approach conflict the wrong way. Jefferson shares practical strategies that will help you stay in control, reduce defensiveness, and shift from a "you vs. me" mindset to an "us vs. the problem" approach. In this episode, they discuss: Why winning an argument often damages the relationship A simple phrase that instantly de-escalates conflict How to say difficult things without fear or avoidance A key mindset shift that transforms the way couples communicate For anyone who has felt frustrated by recurring fights or struggles to be heard in their relationship, this episode offers game-changing insights. Communication doesn’t have to feel like a battle—learn how to argue better, not harder. Grab Jefferson Fisher's New Book "The Next Conversation: Argue Less, Talk more" Follow Jefferson Fisher on Instagram Links: Ready to deepen your connection? Download my 100 Questions!  Want your questions answered on the show? Submit them here!     You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here!    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"You're young..." "You'll get pregnant again..." "At least you have a healthy child..." "At least you can get pregnant..." It's estimated that nearly 1 in 4 pregnancies results in a miscarriage. Yet somehow most of us are unaware of how many people we know that have experienced pregnancy loss until we experience one. Feelings of isolation, self-blame, guilt, and shame can pour in during the aftermath of a loss, however the experience of pregnancy loss is incredibly personal and does not impact two people the same way. An out of order loss can make it difficult for our support networks to know what we need and what to do, leading to an array of platitudes. But how do we deal with these feelings and the platitudes? I sat down with Dr. Jessica Zucker the creator of the #IHadAMisscarriage campaign and the psychologist behind the Instagram account @IHadAMiscarriage. Together we discussed our personal experiences with miscarriage, common themes that show up for mothers after, and the challenges that come with asking for support when a loss has occurred. Dr. Jessica Zucker is a Los Angeles-based reproductive and maternal mental health psychologist. She specialized in this field long before experiencing a second trimester miscarriage firsthand. She earned a Ph.D. in clinical psychology, a Master's degree in human development, as well as a Master's degree in public health. Her educational pursuits married with her clinical practice and research have lead her to write extensively on this topic for outlets such as The New York Times, The Washington Post, New York Magazine, and Vogue. Her first book I HAD A MISCARRIAGE: A Memoir, a Movement is available now (Feminist Press + Penguin Random House Audio) In this episode, we discuss: What lead Dr. Jessica Zucker to do this work and her own personal journey The themes that show up for mothers after miscarriage The platitudes that are offered by others and how to cope Dealing with uncertainty and grief surrounding miscarriage and control Dealing with self-blame, guilt, and shame How fixing is the denial of emotional intimacy Coping with the anxiety of getting pregnant again after a loss Now it’s your turn! Join me over on Instagram, or leave me a note here about your experience with miscarriage. What’s Coming Next? My next episode is with a special guest that has changed my world, and we are going to bust through the common relationship myths that couples can fall into. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Dr. Tracy sits down for episode 2 of her mini-series highlighting the hard, less talked-about moments in relationships that we often don’t see on social media. This week, she’s joined by the hilarious and honest duo, Cat and Nat, to bring a fresh perspective on the realness of building and balancing strong friendships as adults and how rewarding it can be when you put yourself out there. Together, they delve into the nitty-gritty of maintaining the balance between personal needs and nurturing friendships—a struggle especially familiar to parents. They also highlight their experiences of being both friends and business partners and the importance of recognizing what each person brings to the partnership and the ebbs and flows of their relationship. Whether you're navigating the complex landscape of adult relationships or just looking to make new connections, this episode offers valuable insights into fostering meaningful bonds that truly last.    Today’s topics include:  Navigating personal needs and emotions while exploring friendships  The role of friendships in the lives of parents – an essential component often overshadowed by other commitments  Cultivating strong friendships, acknowledging that genuine connections take time to develop  The challenges faced by mothers striving to build adult friendships and sharing their vulnerabilities  The pivotal role parents play in teaching their children about the essence of friendship  Recognizing the reality that not every person will form a connection with you, and getting comfortable with it  Understand the value of recognizing individual strengths within a friendship and remaining flexible  Building resilience by embracing rejection and understanding that it's often not a reflection of personal worth    Be sure to follow Cat and Nat on Instagram @catandnat and listen to their podcast Cat and Nat Unfiltered. Be sure to also check our their business the Common Parent for resources for parenting teens and tweens.    You can pre-order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A client once told me through tears that she hadn't been honouring her, and she pointed to her body. I could see reflected in her face the experiences of so many women - including me. It wasn't just a week of not listening to her body. It was years. Possibly her whole lifetime. We build these inner dialogues and narratives around our bodies and food, many of them being unconscious that guide us to make daily decisions. Some of these decisions leave us feeling good, albeit temporarily. While many of these are more examples of ways that we deeply abandon ourselves - the inner wisdom that our bodies hold. In this episode, I'm sitting down with Dr. Meagan Gallagher, psychologist at Integrated Wellness, on how we can start to listen to our bodies and goss these old messages around size, food, and body.   In this episode, we discuss: The common harmful and negative messages we learn about our bodies Breaking the connection between body size and self-worth (hint: stop saying to yourself that you'll do something when you lose those 5 pounds) The connection between stress and food (and how we can use our bodies to shift this) Learning to sit in discomfort and acknowledging that our bodies are noisy How to support someone if you suspect they are struggling with their body When to seek professional help Join me in my community! Curious about the relationship cycle you get stuck in? Take the free quiz Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected Join me in my monthly newsletter where I give you actionable tips that you can use today in your relationship Visit my website for more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when you sit two relationship experts down for a chat? This episode is just that - two relationship experts, one conversation. Everyone has their own attachment style, it's the way we build and respond to relationships. When we understand our attachment styles we can better help our relationship maintain healthy boundaries. Speaking of boundaries, have you ever sat down with your partner to discuss your boundaries within the relationship? In this episode I sit down with Dr. Morgan Anderson to discuss attachment styles and growth edges within relationships. Dr. Morgan Anderson is a clinical psychologist and relationship coach, host of the “Let’s Get Vulnerable” podcast and creator of the E.S.L relationship method. She helps women break the toxic dating cycle, raise their self-worth and attract the healthy relationship they’ve always wanted. She’s on Instagram @drmorgancoaching - make sure you head over to her page and send her a DM to say hello In this episode, we discuss the following: Communicating in relationships and finding your boundaries Using your attachment style to tune into how you show up in your relationship Finding your growth areas for each attachment style What security can look like in a relationship What’s Coming Next? My next episode is the season finale where I answer your questions! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We all have triggers. Our partners all have triggers. And they are not always the same things. Building a relationship that brings an understanding of each other’s triggers, strengths and differences is complicated. When we bring compassion, understanding, kindness and accountability into our relationships, our love and connection blossoms. In this replay episode, Michaela Thomas, clinical psychologist, couples therapist and founder of the private psychology practice The Thomas Connection, and I discuss building compassion for healthy and strong relationships. In this episode, we discuss: The Fire Triangle of Relationships [7:23] The 3 Parts of Compassion [22:59] Motherhood & Compassion [29:12] Defining Compassion & Mindfulness [33:13] What you can do in your relationship to start using compassion [46:07] EPISODE LINKS: Michaela Thomas on IG Pause*Purpose*Play Group on Facebook The Thomas Connection The Lasting Connection Book Now Available Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When I returned to work after my second maternity leave, I was doing it all. Eight clients back to back. An hour commute home. Nursing my daughter. Building a website.  Creating a podcast. The list goes on. I was feeling exhausted. I was often dizzy and short of breath (despite looking after regular meals, water intake, and sleep). And then my body started screaming at me, telling me that I needed to stop.  This. Was. Burnout.  If you have experienced burnout, or think you might be experiencing it, you are not alone. In this episode, I speak with Mallory Rowan, coach and speaker, and a recovered woman from burnout, about moving towards living your life and business in alignment with what matters most to you:  9:26 - Mallory’s experience with burnout 13:01 - Signs and symptoms of burnout 18:39 - How to start recovering from burnout 26:49 - The mindsets that put us at risk for burnout 30:41 - Mallory’s non-negotiables for managing self-care 44:26 - Strategies to help live a meaningful life For Mallory’s free guide to help you master your Instagram bio, click here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Tracy and her husband, Greg, dive into one of the most common relationship traps: the urge to fix rather than connect. After a personal moment of miscommunication, they break down how well-intentioned problem-solving can actually push partners further apart instead of bringing them closer. Greg shares his instinct to fix problems quickly, while Dr. Tracy unpacks the deeper emotional needs that often go unmet when one partner jumps straight to solutions. Through relatable stories, vulnerable reflections, and real-life relationship tools, they explore why fixing is often a way to manage our own discomfort—and what to do instead. Click play to find out why fixing isn’t always helping—and what to do instead. And don’t forget to share this episode with the fixer in your life. RESOURCES: Want your questions answered on the show? Submit them here!     Discover your relationship negative cycle with my free quiz: Take it here Ready to deepen your connection? Download my 100 Questions Build better connection and feel close starting today. Join the 30 Days to Us Challenge Heal old wounds and build healthy interdependence with my book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” - order here! LINKS: Vionic Shoes: Use code TRACY for 15% off at https://www.vionicshoes.com Air Doctor Pro - air purifier: Use code TRACY for $300 off at https://airdoctorpro.com/ AquaTru - water filter: Use promo code for TRACY for 20% off at https://aquatru.com/ ACORNS Early debit card and smart app for kids: acornsearly.com/tracy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Dr. Tracy sits down with Eli Weinstein, a therapist specializing in relationships and parenting with a private practice in New York and Nevada. He is the host of The Dude Therapist Podcast, where he aims to modernize mental health discussions and offer relatable views. Together, they discuss communication patterns in relationships, renegotiating the expectations we hold in our relationships, and some of the things we should consider early on in a partnership. Eli discusses parenting and the idea that often arises that each parent has to parent the same, and when it’s important to recognize that each person in a partnership brings something unique to the table when it comes to parenting. Lastly, they discuss parenting challenges and boundaries, along with understanding the core needs in relationships and how addressing these core needs can positively impact relationship dynamics.    Today’s discussion includes:  Communication patterns and renegotiating relationship expectations  Exploring partnership dynamics and the significance of vulnerability in difficult moments  Navigating social media as a therapist and managing personal/professional boundaries  Embracing differences in parenting, using the "import/export list" to assess family values  Recognizing the importance of evolving together in marriage and embracing individual growth  Understanding core needs in relationships, such as connection and respect  Eli's personal challenges as a parent, including managing expectations and communication    Episode Links:   You can find Eli on Instagram @eliweinstein_lcsw and on his website eliweinsteinlcsw.com. Be sure to also listen to his podcast The Dude Therapist Podcast!    You can pre-order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect      Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Dr. Tracy is sitting down with Stephanie Kramer, a leader in the beauty industry who serves as the Chief Human Resources Officer at L'Oreal USA, a professor at FIT, a mother of two, and the author of "Carry Strong”. Stephanie’s book aims to empower women in navigating the intricate balance of pregnancy, parenthood, and work. Drawing from her personal experiences, Stephanie shares her inspiration for writing “Carry Strong”, shedding light on the often-overlooked silent struggles and unique challenges faced by working women before, during, and after pregnancy. The conversation then explores the complexities of work-life balance, the pressure to do it all and how to take a more “flexible” approach to adapt to the ever-changing demands of motherhood. Plus, the two also swap notes on topics like mom guilt, the fear of missing out (FOMO), and the very real struggle of trying to maintain a sense of identity in this particular phase of life. In the words of Stephanie herself, you can do it all, not at the same time, and not alone.   Today’s topics include:  The silent suffering working women endure in the early phase of pregnancy  Work-life balance in motherhood and how to approach it more fluidly  Moving through mom guilt and shame as a working parent  How to go from FOMO (fear of missing out) to COMO (certainty of missing out)  The freeing nature of prioritization and making conscious decisions based on your values  Struggling with identity and how to come back to yourself    You can learn more about The Carry Strong Project on Instagram and check out the book and website here!     You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here!  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In her final solo episode of the year, Dr. Tracy reflects on this incredible year of podcasting before diving into something she's personally struggled with and found the power of confronting: self-abandonment. Drawing from both personal experience and listener questions, she explores the signs, reasons, and consequences of self-abandonment in our relationships. The episode offers practical insights into setting boundaries, practicing self-compassion, and building a supportive community. Dr. Tracy candidly shares the challenges she's faced this year with the creation and release of her new book, "I Didn't Sign Up for This," the ways it brought her self-abandoning tendencies to the light, the relationships she had to walk away from, the loneliness she felt, but the beautiful growth that came from finally choosing herself. Hopefully, this episode serves as a guide for staying true to yourself and living a full and authentic life!  A special thank you to our incredible sponsors for making this show possible! Lume - As a special offer for listeners, new customers GET $5 OFF a Lume Starter Pack with code "INYS" at lumedeoderant.com Honeylove - Save up to 50% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/INYS  OneSkin - Get 15% off with the code "INYS" at oneskin.co    You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here!  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever had someone say to you "I'm sorry about your divorce?" or maybe you've said this to someone. Is there really something to be sorry for? "It was a choice I had to make and for other people, who don't understand what it is to be in a bad marriage and how hard it is to get yourself out of it, all they feel for you is sadness." Sometimes marriages just don't work. Toxic relationships can bring out the worst versions of ourselves and we just know it's time to move on. Moving on and your relationship with yourself after is what we are talking about in today's podcast episode as I sit with Michelle Dempsey-Multack to talk about divorce. Michelle Dempsey-Multack is a co-parenting mom, author, divorce coach and certified divorce specialist helping women move on before, during, and after divorce. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When we first fall in love, there’s an attraction and excitement that sets the person apart from anyone else in the world - yet over time, we shift away from this. When I polled the community 67% of you said you felt like your partner’s roommate rather than their lover. Conversations feel transactional. There’s a loss of physical connection. The spark feels lost. But why does this happen? What can we do about it?  In this episode, I discuss: What the honeymoon phase is [0:30] Reasons why you might feel like roommates [1:30] 7 ideas to try to shift from roommates back into lovers [3:48] Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again Get intentional every day with your partner. Grab my Daily Rituals Guide. Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s mini-session, Dr. Tracy addresses coping with anxious attachment in relationships. She explains that it’s not your fault and stems from unmet needs in the past. Dr. Tracy emphasizes self-soothing with affirmations like “I am loved, I am enough, I am worthy” and highlights the importance of looking inward for acceptance. Understanding triggers, practicing self-compassion, and clearly communicating your needs and struggles to your partner are key strategies. Self-compassion involves acknowledging suffering, recognizing it as a human experience, and offering yourself grace. Listen to the full episode here: Spotify Apple Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You’ve prepared everything for baby’s arrival: ✅Birth plan ✅Hospital bag ✅Freezer meals ✅Set up nursery ✅Install car seat You’ve done the research and checked your list twice. But did you prepare your relationship? Many of us have thought that a baby will bring us closer as a couple. Perhaps you haven’t had any noteworthy struggles in your relationship so far and think nothing will change. Or perhaps things have changed a lot since then. As a mother and a clinician, the thing that strikes me the most is just how much we don’t share our relationship difficulties. The resentment. The moments of anger towards our partner. The feelings of disconnection and like we are ships passing in the night.  In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Cassidy Freitas to talk about the things no one told you would happen in your relationship after having a baby. Dr. Cassidy Freitas is a San Diego based mom to three and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in supporting millennial parents through pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting. She hosts the top-rated parenting podcast HoldingSpace. Every Friday on Instagram Dr. Cassidy shares relatable reels and doses of joy with the funniest TikToks.  In this episode, we discuss: Dr. Cassidy’s experience of becoming a mother [6:30] The one thing Dr. Cassidy and Dr. Tracy didn’t prepare before baby [8:30] Feelings of fear entering motherhood [11:30] Postpartum mental health [12:45] The challenge of being a couples therapist who struggles with their relationship [18:15] The myth that we will feel closer after baby [19:15] What we can do to work through this phase [26:30] Values [30:10] Generous interpretation [31:15] Kids learn by what they observe [37:30] EPISODE LINKS Dr Cassidy’s private practice website Follow Dr. Cassidy on Instagram Listen to her podcast: Holding Space Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again Looking to deepen your connection? Download my free guide of 100 Questions Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Did you know that 1 in 4 couples sleep in separate beds?1 Despite this common experience, many people continue to feel a lot of stigma around speaking out about their need for a restful night's sleep - which may mean sleeping in a different room from your lover. People tend to learn that there must be something wrong with a relationship if a couple is sleeping in separate beds. There is a term for sleeping in separate beds that contributes to this learned stigma: "Sleep divorce." This term implies that sleeping apart is a sign of a relationship lacking in love and sex. But what if you continue to sleep in the same bed with restless night's sleep? Does your relationship improve or deteriorate? Are you more snappy and short with your partner the next day because their snoring kept you awake? Or maybe you feel a missing desire for your partner because you're the one waking with the baby all the time. I invited Renee Reina, Ph.D. in Psychology and host of the top-ranking parenting podcast "The Mom Room" to break through the stigma and talk about prioritizing sleep and continuing to nurture our relationships. In this episode, we discuss: Renee's community's surprising response to her disclosure of sleeping in separate rooms Early messaging around parents not sharing beds The relationship progression she experienced in terms of bed sharing and sleeping with her partner When sleeping in separate beds works - and when it doesn't Prioritizing and making choices to nurture her relationship Links: Listen to Renee's progression of their relationship and sleep, tune into Episode 44 Tune into our episode together on Mom Room about resentment and relationships  Join me in my online community, Be Connected, to learn how to improve your communication and connection. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you dealing with a narcissist or someone with chronically defensive tendencies? In this session, Dr. Tracy and Dr. Jaime Zuckerman explore the key differences between a chronically defensive person (non-narcissist) and a full-blown narcissist. The session delves into the behavioral contrasts, highlighting that defensive partners lack malicious intent, whereas narcissists are often intentionally harmful. To wrap up, Dr. Tracy and Dr. Jaime offer insights on managing relationships with both non-narcissistic and narcissistic partners.  Listen to full episode here: Spotify Apple Follow Dr. Jaime on Instagram! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The butterflies have faded, the sparks feel dim, and now… it’s like you’re just coexisting. You love each other, but your relationship feels more like roommates than romantic partners. Sound familiar? In this episode, Dr. Tracy and Greg dive into what really happens after the honeymoon stage—why passion shifts, why connection starts to feel harder, and why so many couples struggle with feeling distant as life gets busier. If you’ve ever thought: Why doesn’t it feel the same anymore? Are we falling out of love, or is this normal? How do we get back what we had? This episode is for you. You’ll learn: ✔️ The biggest misconceptions about love after the honeymoon stage. ✔️ Why feeling like “roommates” doesn’t mean you’re broken—it means you’re human. ✔️ Practical ways to bring back connection, even when life feels overwhelming. If you’ve been craving more intimacy, laughter, and closeness in your relationship, hit play now. Podcast Episodes Mentioned: From Escalation to Calm Stop Sidestepping Conflict Links: Free Guide: Change Your Stories, Change Your Relationship 100 Questions to Deepen Your Connection 30 Days to Us - All New Connection Challenge More Than Roommates Challenge Relationship Repair Program Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Dr. Tracy explores the complex emotions of anger and shame and how they shape our relationships and upbringing. She discusses the responses she received when asking how her audience learned about anger growing up, how anger was handled at home, and what anger meant. Additionally, she discusses the powerful impact of shame, especially on highly sensitive children, and the struggles it poses in embracing and understanding our emotions. Dr. Tracy, offers insights on how to navigate these emotions in our relationships and provides valuable tips on expressing anger constructively and how to let go of those shame-based parenting patterns.    Today’s discussion includes:  The fear of anger and the impact of childhood experiences on our relationship with this emotion  Common beliefs about anger that lead to emotional suppression  Tips on expressing anger constructively and fostering open communication with partners  The detrimental effects of shame and its link to depression and social anxiety  Breaking free from shame-based parenting patterns to create a nurturing emotional environment for children    You can pre-order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I sit down with renowned Potty Training Consultant, Allison Jandu. As the owner and founder of Potty Training Consultant, Allison has worked with over 6,000 families, offering potty training advice and support for parents. Together, we explore the pressures and challenges of potty training, how to navigate setbacks, and the importance of taking a personalized approach that suits your family's needs. From identifying readiness signs in your child to incorporating rewards and measuring small wins, we cover a range of practical strategies to make the potty training journey smoother and more successful.      In this episode, we discuss:    How to know when your child is ready and when to start the potty training process   The pressures of potty training and how to navigate setbacks   The importance of allowing you and your family time to readjust along the way   Using rewards in the potty training process   The importance of acknowledging the successes of your potty-training progress  Recognizing that potty training involves everyone in your family    Allison’s top tips to parents entering the potty training process  Episode Links:  Allison Jandu Instagram  Potty Training Consultant Website  Potty Training Consultant Free Resources     Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again     Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let me set the scene. The tree is up. The lights are on. The decorations are hanging. And I am envisioning a picture perfect moment… the kids smiling in their Christmas outfits while we all smile for that Instagram-worthy photo. Cue. Reality. My kids are now 5 and 7. Hot chocolate ends up on their clothes more than in their bellies. I haven’t sat down all day. And this is nothing like what I envisioned.  And I pause. I take a breath. I welcome my perfectionistic voice and say, “Oh, hey there, I was wondering when you would show up this holiday season.” The challenge with social media is that we see these beautifully crafted images without seeing what truly happened before.  Family photos? Don’t even get me started – you know it didn’t look like “and everyone say cheese!” in one frame.  Holiday get-togethers? Nope, not everyone is happy 100% of the time.  The work project? Also probably didn’t go down as it is shown on social media. The nursery and beautifully captured image of baby laying in the crib? This is the highlight reel. So many women and mothers show up in my office struggling with high expectations and perfectionism.  The challenge? Life is not perfect. You are not meant to be perfect. There will be mistakes. It is not possible to be the perfect caregiver, partner and individual.   And even more so? It’s a trait that society places on us. And this pressure from society is not helpful. Join me as I speak with DR. JEN DOUGLAS, a clinical assistant professor at Stanford University, licensed psychologist, and mental wellness speaker. She focuses on helping individuals overcome anxiety, perfectionism and trauma which may be holding them back from living their lives in the most full and authentic way. In this episode, we discuss: 13:47 – What is perfectionism and how does it show up for people? 22:23 – Why do I strive for it? 34:37 – What is the connection between burnout and perfectionism? 48:09 – Overcoming the all-or-nothing thinking 53:13 – What you can start doing now to help perfectionism EPISODE LINKS Dr. Jen Douglas on Instagram Check out her Freedom From Perfectionism Course Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Grab my 28 Days of Love email series built with evidence-based tools to help you and your partner start to reconnect. Ready to learn how to repair? Take my free masterclass Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's mini session is all about scheduling sex and prioritizing intimacy. Don't leave sex until the end of the night when you're exhausted. Dr. Tracy encourages listeners to be intentional about scheduling it and making it a priority. Remember, intimacy isn't just about intercourse; it's also about emotional connection and shared activities. She offers suggestions and encourages new approaches like naptime sex and taking off the pressure by just being close. If sex feels like a chore, talk openly with your partner about what feels good and what doesn't. Build intimacy through vulnerability and connection in all forms!  Listen to the full episode here: Spotify Apple Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Does your partner share everything with their parents? This episode dives into this topic after receiving a question from one of our community members.  In this episode, we discuss: What kind of impact could sharing everything with your extended family/mother-in-law have on you? Your relationship with your partner? Your relationship with their family? Exploring triangulation and scapegoat dynamics Key questions for you to explore within yourself The reason behind your partner's sharing How to move forward Join me in my community! Curious about the relationship cycle you get stuck in? Take the free quiz Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected Join me in my monthly newsletter where I give you actionable tips that you can use today in your relationship Visit my website for more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are in a time of crisis. Moving into the summer, what is one question that you should be asking yourself. Picture your life as a garden. Everything you can pour your energy into, everything that is important to you is a different plant. You have a plant for each relationship (your children, your partner, your extended family), for career, friendships, self-care, etc. Close your eyes for a moment and imagine your garden. When you can see your garden, now picture a watering can filled with water. That watering can - that’s you. You get to choose, each day, where you pour your water into. You only have 1 watering can; what will you choose today? Launching Season 2 of I’m Not Your Shrink Podcast, I share the number one question we all need to be asking ourselves, which I have personally learned in the past year. Looking for more with me? Check out my weekly Q&A. Each Friday I answer your questions: https://drtracyd.com/blog Join my 5-day challenge to help cope with crisis in your relationship: https://sendfox.com/lp/1x7ey3 Come join me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/dr.tracyd/ Check out my new membership space for women who are looking to strengthen their relationship: https://beconnected.drtracyd.com Looking to master stress and find balance? Check out my e-course to help you Cultivate Self-Compassion and Awareness: https://cultivating-awareness.teachable.com/p/from-stressed-to-balanced Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We know that women and mothers carry a higher mental load than their partners. It isn’t just completing the household and childcare tasks, it is also the mental and emotional work that it takes to remember to do these tasks. The mental load became even more evident to me after my second child was born. It wasn’t just going to the doctor appointments for check ups, it was remembering to schedule them. It wasn’t just showing up for the birthday parties, it was buying the gifts and remembering to RSVP. In this episode, Dr. Morgan Cutlip, relationship coach and owner of My Love Thinks, and I discuss the mental load: 5:05 - Our own stories of addressing the mental load in our relationships 8:19 - Taking the invisible and making it visible 16:28 - How women tend to self-sabotage addressing the mental load 29:28 - Dealing with the guilt that shows up when we start to change 39:09 - How to address this with our partners  To find out more about Dr. Cutlip, you can visit her blog here, check out her course for couples on coping with the mental load, and be sure to follow her on Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We all know that feeling when someone apologizes but doesn't really apologize. Or what about for ourselves, when we aren't sure we have anything to apologize. Why is apologizing so hard? What makes a good apology? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many people don't think of divorces as happy, which is why the story from today's guests is an important one! When Nikki DeBartolo and Benjamin Heldond got divorced, they devised a strategy to put their son's needs first. Together, they helped each other heal and build a new, blended, family.  In this episode, we discuss: How Nikki and Ben came to be "Our Happy Divorce" The markers/moments that they knew it was time to divorce When you're trying to find the "right" way through separation Nikki's and Ben's response to someone who says "I have to stay for the kids" Their individual pain points in their divorce Their prioritization of their son The key piece of respect and mutuality For more from Our Happy Divorce: Follow them on Instagram Learn more about their book Head over to their website Ready to learn how to repair, feel closer after the fight, and connect with your partner? Join me in my FREE MASTERCLASS. I will teach you my 4 A’s on how to repair so that you can look at your partner and feel like a team again. Join me in my community! Curious about the relationship cycle you get stuck in? Take the free quiz Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected Join me in my monthly newsletter where I give you actionable tips that you can use today in your relationship Visit my website for more What’s Coming Next? The season finale where I answer YOUR questions! Subscribe and Review in iTunes "This podcast provides sound advice, examples, and information for the modern mother navigating a world full of opposing advice. I feel uplifted and empowered after listening." ~ Kat&Babe_ I would love to hear from you. I would be so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes. I love hearing what you have to say about the episode, but also so that others who might benefit from listening to this podcast can find it! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I can’t wait to hear from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are here! Already at the season finale. Season finales are bittersweet. I have gratitude for all the amazing conversations of this season and I feel sad that we are taking a break! I love ending the season by taking your questions. So here are three of YOUR questions that I will answer in this episode: How does one deal with the fear of abandonment when you are someone with anxious attachment? How do I get my partner to prioritize better? How do I navigate the mother wound while feeling low self-esteem, mom-guilt, and exhausted in general?  Did something resonate with you this episode? If so, be sure to share it with a friend! Ready to learn how to repair, feel closer after the fight, and connect with your partner? Join me in my FREE MASTERCLASS. I will teach you my 4 A’s on how to repair so that you can look at your partner and feel like a team again. Join me in my community! Curious about the relationship cycle you get stuck in? Take the free quiz Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected Join me in my monthly newsletter where I give you actionable tips that you can use today in your relationship Visit my website for more What’s Coming Next? We're taking a summer vacation! I'll be back in the fall with more great episodes and conversations. Be sure to leave me a review and send me a DM on Instagram about your topic ideas for next season. I love hearing from you! Subscribe and Review in iTunes "This podcast provides sound advice, examples, and information for the modern mother navigating a world full of opposing advice. I feel uplifted and empowered after listening." ~ Kat&Babe_ I would love to hear from you. I would be so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes. I love hearing what you have to say about the episode, but also so that others who might benefit from listening to this podcast can find it! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I can’t wait to hear from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Don't go to bed angry" is probably one of the most common well wishes provided to newly weds during evening toasts and handwritten cards. But what this misses is that if you are escalated and angry, the last thing you should do is continue to talk about the issue at hand. When both partners are flooded and overwhelmed, this is a recipe for additional hurt words that do not get unheard. In this episode, I sit down with Greg, co-owner of Integrated Wellness, my business partner, my co-parent, and my partner in life, to discuss some of the common stereotypes, misperceptions and myths in romantic relationships.  In this episode, we discuss: - Not going to bed angry and what you can do instead - Is it love at first sight? - Are having disagreements dealbreakers? - Does validating my partner mean they are right? - "Happy wife, happy life" - The idea that women should be the ones to stay at home with the kids and how this is a huge myth in our own home - The stay at home parent isn't really "working" - Women hold the cards in the relationship to make things work Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Dr. Tracy is sitting down with Jennifer Chaiken and Emmalee Bierly, licensed marriage and family therapists, co-owners of the therapy practice “The Therapy Group,” and co-hosts of the “Shrink Chicks” podcast. The two kick off the episode by taking us back to their grad school days and the reasons why their ultimate goal as therapists, podcast hosts, and public figures is to make therapy more relatable, digestible, and accessible for all. They then open up about the reality of starting a podcast about therapy as a practicing therapist and the ways it’s impacted their relationships with their clients. For the main event, the conversation dives into the roots of personalization and why some of us are quick to take the blame for other people's feelings or behaviour. From childhood experiences and parental dynamics to how personalization can manifest in our various adult relationships, the trio provides valuable insight and guidance on how to navigate, find empathy, set boundaries, and respond instead of reacting in triggering situations with the people closest to us. Ultimately, this episode emphasizes the power of personal agency and how to honor your authentic self in adult relationships, just in time for the holidays.    Today’s topics include:  Breaking down the traditionally clinical walls of therapy   Deepening the client/therapist relationship   What personalization is and how it shows up for people   Chaotic upbringings and the various ways personalization can develop   The importance of reflecting inward and acknowledging some of the survival mechanisms you’ve brought into adulthood   Having a highly sensitive child and approaching that as a parent   Finding empathy and understanding generational behaviour  What it means to be hard on the inside and soft on the outside  Preventative care and how to step into responding instead of reacting  The power of personal agency     You can find more from Jennifer and Emmalee on their Instagram, website and podcast!   A special thank you to our incredible sponsors for making this show possible! OneSkin - Get 15% off with the code "INYS" at oneskin.co Lume - As a special offer for listeners, new customers GET $5 OFF a Lume Starter Pack with code "INYS" at lumedeoderant.com Honeylove - Save up to 50% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/INYS  You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here!  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass      Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected     Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever found yourself suddenly the default parent, with your partner nowhere in sight and you’re left to tend to the baby? Or maybe you find yourself asking your partner to watch the baby and if now is a good time to shower. I’ll never forget the time I couldn’t find my husband one sunny Saturday. Left to do our baby’s bottle and nap time, I was enraged. When did I become the default parent and why? When I saw Renee’s TikTok about her husband making pancakes, I knew this was a conversation we needed to have on the pod!  Renee Reina is the mom friend you always wanted. She is a writer, content creator, Doctor of Psychology, busy body, mom, self-proclaimed over-sharer, and is the host of the top-ranking parenting podcast The Mom Room.  In this episode, we discuss: Why Renee doesn’t want her husband to make pancakes on Saturday Mornings How expectations, desires, and wishes differ Renee’s strategy for smoother weekends Tracy’s “pancake” story Expressing our needs to our partners  The “me” parts and coming to the “we solution” Why you want an equal partner (rather than delegating tasks) EPISODE LINKS Renee’s Instagram Renee’s TikTok The Mom Room Instagram The Mom Room Website Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Does it feel like a never-ending cycle with your partner when it comes to setting boundaries with the family?  Maybe you both end up getting stuck on what you should do when your mother-in-law gives TEN gifts, when you both told her only two.  What are the missteps in our relationship when it comes to boundaries? My husband and business partner joins me for today's episode on boundaries. Why bring in Greg? In a heterosexual cis-gender relationship, he has the other side of the experience when it comes to holiday boundaries.  In this episode, we discuss: Who should set the boundaries with extended family What it means when we're at different points in our journey with boundaries (e.g., one gets defensive; one is critical) Important decisions to consider when it comes to setting boundaries with family  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Want to be on the same page with your partner this holiday season? Grab the Same Page Parenting Holiday Webinar and feel like a team with family.  Ready to learn how to repair? Take my free masterclass Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New year, new season! Dr. Tracy is kicking off Season 5 with fellow clinical psychologist, colleague, and friend, Dr. Meagan Gallagher, to dive into the complexities that come with the new year. They address the societal pressures, especially the overused and abused "new year, new you" mantra, that often lead to comparison and anxiety. The discussion emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, rest, and acknowledging one's "enoughness." Dr. Tracy and Dr. Meagan challenge the damaging fitness and diet culture associated with resolutions and advocate for setting intentions aligned with personal needs. They also touch on insights about supporting partners in their goals and so much more. Join them for a refreshing perspective on approaching the new year with authenticity and self-compassion!  You can follow Dr. Meagan on Instagram and find her at Integratedottawa.ca  A special thank you to our incredible sponsors for making this show possible! Lume - As a special offer for listeners, new customers GET $5 OFF a Lume Starter Pack with code "INYS" at lumedeoderant.com Zocdoc - Go to Zocdoc.com/INYS and download the Zocdoc app for FREE. Then find and book a top-rated doctor today.    You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here!  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the parents who just want their child to be happy. When I told my daughter that I just needed five minutes before I could rub her back at bedtime, she screamed at me. And what I did next was not my best moment. I could feel it coming over me. I screamed back at her. I know so many parents get to this point - the exhaustion and overwhelm. The Demands. Being pulled in so many directions. We raise our voice. We show up not aligned with how we want to. We maybe even slip into shame. It was my luck that I was sitting with Dr. Shefali the next day for the podcast. It was my luck that I was sitting with Dr. Shefali the next day for the podcast. Dr. Shefali is an acclaimed author, international speaker, and clinical psychologist.  In this episode, we talk about: Navigating one of the hardest relationships in our life - with our children When our expectations are not met and setting our own boundaries Building compassion with ourselves as parents How do we approach the meltdowns How do I get my partner to do this work too To learn more about Dr. Shefali: Visit her website Check out her coaching program Follow her on instagram Join me in my community! Curious about the relationship cycle you get stuck in? Take the free quiz Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected Join me in my monthly newsletter where I give you actionable tips that you can use today in your relationship Visit my website for more What’s Coming Next? I'm answering your questions in preparation for another holiday. How can we navigate difficult situations with our in-laws and family?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We all have triggers. Our partners all have triggers. And they are not always the same things. Building a relationship that brings an understanding of each other’s triggers, strengths and differences is complicated. When we bring compassion, understanding, kindness and accountability into our relationships, our love and connection blossoms. In this episode, Michaela Thomas, clinical psychologist, couples therapist and founder of the private psychology practice The Thomas Connection, and I discuss build compassion for healthy and strong relationships: 7:23 - The Fire Triangle of Relationships 22:59 - The 3 Parts of Compassion 29:12 - Motherhood & Compassion 33:13 - Defining Compassion & Mindfulness 46:07 - What you can do in your relationship to start using compassion Links From This Episode: Michaela Thomas on IG Pause*Purpose*Play Group on Facebook The Thomas Connection The Lasting Connection Book Now Available Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Dr. Tracy is sitting down with Dr. Zoe Shaw, a licensed psychotherapist, motivational speaker, life coach, and podcast host. Her extensive experience spans over two decades, during which she's been dedicated to helping women navigate challenging relationships and discover their inner strength. Dr. Shaw opens up the conversation by candidly sharing her own complex journey with shame, tracing it back to her teenage years, when she grappled with a secret pregnancy at the age of 15. She explores the various ways shame can manifest itself, emphasizing the profound difference between guilt and shame and how these emotions manifest in individuals, leading to externalizing or internalizing behaviours. Lastly, the two address the impact of shame on relationships and offer valuable insights into healing and self-acceptance.  Today’s Topics include:  Shame spirals and how to identify if you’re experiencing them  Understanding the difference between guilt and shame  Characteristics of shame externalizers and shame internalizers  How to get to a place of healing in your relationship if you suffer from complex shame  The benefits that deep individual self-work can have on our relationships  Recognizing the energy exchange within a relationship and practicing interdependence instead of co-dependency  Why vulnerability is key to the healing journey if you suffer from complex shame    You can find Dr. Shaw on Instagram on her website, and listen to her podcast!  You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here!  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Dr. Tracy welcomes Eli Harwood, a licensed therapist, author, and creator of the "Attachment Nerd" online community. Eli shares her personal journey of overcoming inherited attachment trauma, emphasizing the importance of breaking intergenerational cycles. Together, Dr. Tracy and Eli explore the pressures of parenting, emphasizing the value of attunement, co-regulation, and being present with children during painful moments rather than trying to eliminate their pain. Eli also introduces her new book, "Raising Securely Attached Kids," which offers insights and practical advice for parents. Key takeaways from this conversation include the importance of repair over perfection in relationships, the necessity of connection in parenting, and understanding that parenting is challenging because it requires confronting our own vulnerabilities. The episode highlights that fostering connection through vulnerability and repair is what truly strengthens relationships.  Be sure to keep up with Eli on Instagram @attachmentnerd and pre-order her new book here! Leave Dr. Tracy a voicemail here!  A special thank you to our incredible sponsors for making this show possible! Cozy Earth - Visit cozyearth.com and use code SHRINK at checkout for an exclusive 35% off. Links: Ready to deepen your connection? Download my 100 Questions!  Want your questions answered on the show? Submit them here!     You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here!    Ready to learn how to repair? Save now! Grab my REPAIR workshop       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever tried to explain the mental load to your partner only to find yourself struggling to find the words or perhaps frustrated that your partner just doesn’t get it?  If you have, you’re not alone. This is a common experience shared in DMs, comments, and even in therapy sessions. So how do we communicate the mental load so our partners can understand?  In this episode, I sit down with Zach Watson, to talk about the mental load. Zach is a content creator, Accountability Coach using the Fairplay method, husband, father, author, TEDx speaker, rapper, and former teacher. In this episode, we discuss:  What lead Zach to learn about the mental load Ways we can help our partners better understand the mental load The common fallacy about the worth of our time Zach’s Christmas present that helped his wife get back into her unicorn space Having tough, vulnerable conversations around sex and intimacy  Showing up authentically and vulnerably on social media EPISODE LINKS: Zach’s Instagram Zach’s TikTok Zach’s YouTube Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of the most common concerns I hear is, "My partner is struggling with their mental health, what do I do?" Dr. Kojo joins me on the podcast to discuss how mental health can show up in relationships. Dr. Kojo Sarfo, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a social media content creator, mental health nurse practitioner, and psychotherapist with over two million followers on all of his social media channels (TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Twitch, Triller). He posts skits, songs, and videos in order to bring people together and promote mental health awareness. On social media, he uses relevant trends and popular music to educate individuals about mental health conditions and the importance of self-care. Dr. Kojo is also the author of Amazon's best-selling book titled "You Already Won". He is also working on his second book, which will be a mental health workbook. He is also the host of Late Night w/Dr. Kojo - which is a daily live show that streams primarily on Facebook on Monday-Thursdays at 6pm PST/9pm EST. In this episode, we discuss: What inspired Dr. Kojo to start his TikTok videos and online media presence How does ADHD impact a couple? What are some things people should be aware of? What can people do in their relationships when their partner is coping with mental health difficulties What are the top three things you wish everyone know about mental health? Connect with Dr. Kojo: Follow him on Facebook Follow him on TikTok Follow him on Instagram Check out his YouTube channel Watch The Late Night with Dr. Kojo on Facebook Join me in my community! Curious about the relationship cycle you get stuck in? Take the free quiz Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected Join me in my monthly newsletter where I give you actionable tips that you can use today in your relationship Visit my website for more What’s Coming Next? Dr. Morgan Anderson on why you need to repair in your relationship. Subscribe and Review in iTunes "This podcast provides sound advice, examples, and information for the modern mother navigating a world full of opposing advice. I feel uplifted and empowered after listening." ~ Kat&Babe_ I would love to hear from you. I would be so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes. I love hearing what you have to say about the episode, but also so that others who might benefit from listening to this podcast can find it! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I can’t wait to hear from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Social media has recently become a place for mothers to connect and share their real, raw truths, but it hasn’t always been this way. For many, we open up our feeds and are flooded with highlight reels of the lives of others. Perfectly curated holiday pictures, clean homes, and women glowing - it can seem as though every other mother has their life together.  Am I the ONLY mother who doesn’t love every aspect of motherhood? Am I the only one crying daily and feeling overwhelmed? Does anyone else feel a rush of anger that feels unrecognizable?  In this episode I sit down with Libby Ward, the Honest Mom, to talk about the myths, shame, and emotions that show up with motherhood. Libby is a digital creator, speaker, and mental health advocate with a deep commitment to breaking the cycles of trauma. Focusing on today’s difficult and complex experiences of mental health, Libby is focused on reaching more women with her perspective-changing stories through her community of over 1.3M on social media. In this episode, we discuss: Anger and rage experienced in motherhood Resentment in relationships after having kids The changes in our identities after having children Supporting mothers in the context that they are mothering in Tackling shame and guilt in motherhood Be sure to check out Libby’s Guided Journal on Amazon! The Honest Mom Journal EPISODE LINKS Connect with Libby on Instagram Follow Libby on TikTok Check out her website Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Want to be on the same page with your partner this holiday season? Grab the Same Page Parenting Holiday Webinar and feel like a team with family.  Ready to learn how to repair? Take my free masterclass Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There is so much happening in the world today. The events taking place are outside of our control, from COVID19 to the Black Lives Matter Movement. So that is why today’s podcast brings my favourite colleagues from across North America to share their top way of coping with the challenges so many of us are facing in the world today. Here is the list of experts sharing on this episode:  Dr. Rachel Goldman, Clinical Psychologist in New York City, New York, on the importance of daily check-ins. www.DrRachelNYC.com Dr. Morgan Francis, Clinical Psychologist in Scottsdale, Arizona, on how to cope through the pressure of a whole body transformation after this pandemic. www.scottsdalepremiercounseling.com Dr. Ann Louise Lockhart, Pediatric Psychologist, parent coach and business owner in San Antonio, Texas on the importance of connection over correction. www.anewdaysa.com Dr. Betsy Chang, Clinical Psychologist in Newport Beach, California, shares about the power of teamwork in your relationship. www.DrBetsyChung.com Hatty J Lee, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Los Angeles California, dives into our own trauma responses and what happens when they are triggered. www.oakandstonetherapy.com Dr. Shawn Horn, Clinical Psychologist, TEDx Speaker and host of the Inspired Living Podcast, shares what toxic shame is and how to work through it. www.drshawnhorn.com Dr. Morgan Anderson, Clinical Psychologist and Relationship Coach shares one mindset that you, as single women, could find helpful right now. https://www.drmorgancoaching.com/ Dr. Morgan Cutlip, Relationship Expert, Coach and Course Creator on how to shift the guilt of motherhood during this time. http://www.lovethinks.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ready to leave people pleasing behind this year? This week, Dr. Tracy is sitting down with Maria Victoria Albina, a seasoned somatic life coach and family nurse practitioner. Together, they unravel the intricacies of our nervous system's impact on daily life, exploring topics like codependency, perfectionism, and self-sacrifice. Using the polyvagal theory, they dive into the connection between our nervous system and how we experience the world. The conversation touches on self-abandonment, the origins of shame, and the empowering journey of reclaiming personal agency. Sharing tools to practice self-compassion and mindfulness, the two provide valuable insights for a transformative new year. Tune in as they navigate the path to break free from old patterns and create a life centered on compassion and self-empowerment!   You can follow Maria Victoria Albina on Instagram and visit her website.   A special thank you to our incredible sponsors for making this show possible! Lume - As a special offer for listeners, new customers GET $5 OFF a Lume Starter Pack with code "INYS" at lumedeoderant.com Zocdoc - Go to Zocdoc.com/INYS and download the Zocdoc app for FREE. Then find and book a top-rated doctor today. Want your questions answered on the show? Submit them here!   You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here!  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass      Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected     Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this mini session, Dr. Tracy talks with Rini and Shaun Frey about overcoming difficult periods in their relationship. Together, they discuss how anger and passive-aggressiveness can lead to disconnection and the importance of initiating early communication before things blow up. Despite eight months of built-up emotions, therapy helped them learn to talk openly and brought them closer. Rini shares her struggle with vulnerability and the expectation that men should take the first step, while Shaun recalls initiating reconciliation after a major fight. They highlight the importance of humour, managing egos, and learning repair strategies, encouraging parents to model these behaviours for their children. Be sure to keep up with Rini and Shaun on Instagram @ownitbabe and @ownitdad Listen to the full episode here: Spotify Apple Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Dr. Tracy is sitting down with Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a licensed clinical psychologist, professor, speaker, and author of two bestselling books “Loving Bravely” and “Taking Sexy Back”. Her work on relational self-awareness has reached millions of people around the world, and today, Dr. Solomon and Dr. Tracy are diving into the real experiences of therapists, the common misconceptions of couples therapy, and how to develop a strong relationship with your therapist. Together, they explore the elements that went into Dr. Tracy’s new book, “I Didn’t Sign Up For This,” and the importance of the patient-client relationship. They also discuss the shifting narrative and stigma of therapy and the many misconceptions and fears of couples therapy in particular.   Today’s Topics include:  Shifting narrative in therapy  Importance of the patient-client relationship and the need for giving feedback to therapists  Acceptance as a requirement in love and relationships  How our ambitions have an impact on relationship challenges  Decreasing stigma around therapy and the common misconceptions about couples therapy  Seeing couples therapy as a sign of strength and vulnerability  Normalizing life changes and addressing relationship problems openly  When to consider solo therapy versus couples therapy    You can find Dr. Alexandra on Instagram, on her website, and listen to her podcast!    You can now order my new book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” here!  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again.  Get intentional with your partner and reconnect with small actions every day with 28 Days of Love    Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass       Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected      Deepen your Connection with your Partner: 100 Questions to Connect  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So many women and mothers show up in my office struggling with high expectations and perfectionism.  The challenge? Life is not perfect. You are not meant to be perfect. There will be mistakes. It is not possible to be the perfect caregiver, partner and individual.   And even more so? It’s a trait that society places on us. And it’s not healthy. Join me as I speak with Dr. Jen Douglas, a clinical assistant professor at Stanford University, licensed psychologist, and mental wellness speaker. She focuses on helping individuals overcome anxiety, perfectionism and trauma which may be holding them back from living their lives in the most full and authentic way. In this episode, we discuss: 13:47 - What is perfectionism and how does it show up for people? 22:23 - Why do I strive for it? 34:37 - What is the connection between burnout and perfectionism? 48:09 - Overcoming the all or nothing thinking 53:13 - What you can start doing now to help perfectionism To find our more about Dr. Jen Douglas, visit her on Instagram or check out her Freedom from Perfectionism course. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's time for another Q&A episode where I answer your questions! In today's episode, I answer a community member's question about sex after baby. Life changes so much after baby is born and the pressure to have intercourse can feel overwhelming.  Breastfeeding, hormone fluctuation, sleep deprivation, birth trauma, feeling touched out, recovering from birth. Is sex off the table? Absolutely not, but the pressure to have it should be. There is no right amount of sex to have and during this postpartum period we are reassessing our entire lives... so intimacy might be a bit different than it was before. In this episode, I discuss: Why the pressure to have sex should be off the table for one year postpartum  How communication with your partner and negative patterns can impact intimacy, especially postpartum My 3 tips for what you can start doing in your relationship today to address intimacy and shift toward connection  Looking for more? Join me in my online teachings so you can feel like a team again Start nurturing your intimacy today. Grab my FREE Nurturing Intimacy Guide Looking for more support? Check out my Nurturing Intimacy Webinar Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this deeply personal solo episode, Dr. Tracy reflects on a decade of motherhood—and the ways parenting has reshaped her identity, her marriage, her boundaries, and her inner world. This episode isn’t a guidebook. It’s a truth-telling moment for anyone feeling lost, tired, or stretched too thin.  RESOURCES: Want your questions answered on the show? Submit them here!     Discover your relationship negative cycle with my free quiz: Take it here Ready to deepen your connection? Download my 100 Questions Build better connection and feel close starting today. Join the 30 Days to Us Challenge Heal old wounds and build healthy interdependence with my book “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” - order here! LINKS: Branch Basics: Use code TRACY15 to save 15% off your Premium Starter Kit Vionic Shoes: Use code TRACY for 15% off at https://www.vionicshoes.com Air Doctor Pro - air purifier: Use code TRACY for $300 off at https://airdoctorpro.com/ AquaTru - water filter: Use promo code for TRACY for 20% off at https://aquatru.com/ ACORNS Early debit card and smart app for kids: acornsearly.com/tracy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"My partner isn't willing to change - what do I do?" We love certainty and the only thing that is certain about our relationships is that we cannot control other people. It's really challenging when our partners are not interested in learning to shift - especially since a couple is two people that make up the struggles.  In this episode, I discuss: What if your partner doesn't want to change? Can change happen when only one person is ready? Ready to learn how to repair, feel closer after the fight, and connect with your partner? Join me in my FREE MASTERCLASS. I will teach you my 4 A’s on how to repair so that you can look at your partner and feel like a team again. Join me in my community! Curious about the relationship cycle you get stuck in? Take the free quiz Ready to learn how to repair? Take my FREE masterclass Looking to improve your relationship? Join me in my online program, Be Connected Join me in my monthly newsletter where I give you actionable tips that you can use today in your relationship Visit my website for more What’s Coming Next? When change feels one-sided. What are we left to do? Subscribe and Review in iTunes "This podcast provides sound advice, examples, and information for the modern mother navigating a world full of opposing advice. I feel uplifted and empowered after listening." ~ Kat&Babe_ I would love to hear from you. I would be so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes. I love hearing what you have to say about the episode, but also so that others who might benefit from listening to this podcast can find it! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I can’t wait to hear from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices