In this episode of Between Two Clinicians, Talia Bombola and Adam discuss the complexities of family dynamics during the holiday season, focusing on the concept of invisible loyalties and the importance of setting boundaries. They explore how these loyalties can shape behaviors and expectations within families, particularly during gatherings. The conversation emphasizes the need for individuality in relationships and the challenges of navigating family expectations while maintaining personal well-being. Listeners are provided with tools and insights to help manage holiday stress and foster healthier family interactions.

In this episode, Adam Luke and Talia Bombola discuss the complexities of romantic relationships, focusing on the differences between avoidant attachment and disinterest. They explore signs of avoidant attachment, the dynamics of dating, and the importance of setting realistic expectations. The conversation emphasizes the need for emotional availability, communication, and recognizing red flags in relationships. They also touch on cultural influences and the significance of partner compatibility, ultimately encouraging listeners to prioritize their needs and desires in dating.
takeaways
Understanding the difference between avoidant attachment and disinterest is crucial in dating.
Signs of avoidant attachment include isolation and disappearing acts.
It's important to recognize when someone is just not that into you.
Cultural perspectives can influence how we view relationships and attachment.
Setting realistic goals in dating can help avoid disappointment.
Identifying red flags early can save time and emotional energy.
Vulnerability is key in building healthy relationships.
Compatibility with a partner can amplify personal growth and happiness.
Communication about needs and expectations is essential in relationships.
It's important to recognize when to walk away from a relationship that isn't fulfilling.

In this conversation, Adam Luke and Talia Bombola explore the complexities of family dynamics, particularly focusing on the distinction between closeness and enmeshment. They discuss how enmeshment can lead to unhealthy relationships, the importance of setting boundaries, and the challenges of navigating family expectations in romantic partnerships. The conversation emphasizes the need for individuality and mutual respect in relationships, while also identifying red flags that may indicate enmeshment. Ultimately, they advocate for healthy family systems that allow for authentic connections and personal growth.
takeaways
Enmeshment can lead to unhealthy family dynamics.
Boundaries are essential for healthy relationships.
Closeness does not equate to enmeshment.
Healthy families allow for individuality and respect.
Recognizing red flags in family dynamics is crucial.
Differentiation from family of origin is important.
Family expectations can impact romantic relationships.
Authenticity should be welcomed in family systems.
It's important to prioritize your own needs in relationships.
Healthy communication is key to navigating family dynamics.

In this conversation, Talia Bombola and Adam Luke discuss the complexities of parallel parenting, especially in high-conflict situations. They explore the importance of establishing clear boundaries, the role of parenting plans, and the emotional challenges faced by parents navigating divorce. The discussion emphasizes the need for parents to prioritize their children's well-being while managing their own emotional health. They also touch on the long-term implications of parenting decisions and the importance of fostering healthy relationships between children and both parents.
takeaways
Parallel parenting is essential when collaboration isn't safe or possible.
The mental load of parenting doesn't stop after separation.
Establishing a thorough parenting plan is crucial for clarity.
Children should be prioritized over parental conflicts.
It's important to let the parenting plan guide decisions.
Emotional intelligence is key in navigating co-parenting.
Boundaries help maintain peace in high-conflict situations.
Children can sense parental dynamics and should be allowed to form their own opinions.
It's vital to manage your emotional health for the sake of your children.
Parallel parenting can lead to healthier relationships in the long run.

In this conversation, Talia Bombola and Adam Luke discuss the implications of AI in therapy, exploring ethical concerns, the role of AI in mental health support, and the potential dangers of dependency on technology. They emphasize the importance of human connection in therapy and the risks associated with AI's influence on relationships and mental health.

In this episode, Adam Luke and Talia Bombola explore the complex dynamics of relationships, focusing on why individuals often find themselves repeating the same patterns in their romantic choices. They discuss concepts such as repetition compulsion, the influence of childhood experiences on adult relationships, and the importance of understanding attachment styles. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-awareness and the recognition of personal patterns to foster healthier relationships. The hosts also touch on the significance of setting clear expectations and deal breakers in dating, advocating for open communication and honesty in relationships.

In this conversation, Adam Luke and Talia Bombola discuss the complexities of inheritance and financial resources, exploring how these factors influence identity, behavior, and family dynamics. They emphasize the importance of viewing money as a tool for creating memories and legacies, rather than merely a materialistic asset. The discussion also highlights the need for financial education and responsibility in future generations, advocating for open conversations about money within families. In this conversation, Talia Bombola and Adam Luke discuss the complexities of inheritance, financial responsibility, and the mindset surrounding money. They explore how individuals often navigate their relationships with money, the psychological impacts of expecting an inheritance, and the importance of valuing time over monetary wealth. The discussion emphasizes the need for a healthy relationship with finances, viewing money as a tool rather than a moral issue, and the significance of making informed decisions about investments versus expenses.

In this episode, Talia Bombola and Adam Luke dive into the transformative journey of parenthood, exploring how raising children reshapes identity, priorities, and emotional resilience. They discuss the importance of slowing down, fostering secure attachments, balancing routines with flexibility, and creating meaningful connections. The conversation also addresses the emotional complexities of single parenthood, the 'genius curse' among high-achievers, and practical strategies for maintaining self-care while navigating the unpredictability of family life. Listeners will find insights on embracing the messiness of parenting and reconnecting with their own childhood to build deeper, more attuned relationships with their children.

In Part Two of their powerful conversation, Talia Bombola and Adam Luke dig deeper into the realities faced by married single moms — women carrying the bulk of parenting, emotional labor, and household responsibilities while navigating relationships that lack true partnership.
They explore the intersection of parenthood, codependency, gender roles, and communication breakdowns, highlighting how societal expectations often leave women feeling trapped, unsupported, and emotionally depleted. Talia and Adam stress the importance of autonomy, equitable task-sharing, and courageous conversations as essential for healthier family dynamics and stronger marriages.
This episode offers insight and practical relationship advice for anyone grappling with marital issues, emotional labor imbalances, or the struggle to balance personal growth with parenting responsibilities.

In this episode, Talia Bombola and Adam Luke dive into the complex and often invisible emotional labor carried by “married single moms” — women who feel like they are parenting alone despite having a partner. They explore the inequities in household and childcare responsibilities, the societal pressures that reinforce traditional gender roles, and the emotional toll this dynamic takes on women and families.
Talia and Adam unpack how outdated expectations, a lack of co-parenting models, and the “helper mentality” among fathers contribute to modern relationship strain. They also discuss postpartum challenges, the difficult decisions some women face about staying or leaving, and how real systemic change requires shifting cultural norms — not just personal effort.
Whether you're navigating these dynamics yourself or seeking to understand them better, this conversation offers validation, clarity, and hope for creating more equitable partnerships.