In this episode, Justin and Bridget share some life updates that have been wonderful personal and couple development opportunities. Listen to this episode to hear about our personal experiences with COVID-19, a weekend trip to Door County, and a bat encounter. 

In this newest edition of the Couples Develop podcast, Justin and Bridget discuss Justin's Birthday, the importance of reflection, using our pain as a catalyst for growth, and communication, especially between couples, during the pandemic. All this and more on this week's episode. Check it out!

Referenced: Brene Brown Unlocking Us podcast episode: Glennon Doyle and Brene on Untamed March 24th, 2020. "Rehumanize Your Business" by: Ethan Beute and Stephen Pacinelli

In this episode, Justin and Bridget discuss several resources (listed below) and express how one's mindset is paramount in allowing them to achieve their goals effectively and with purpose. They explain how gratitude and contentment for where they already are while feeling excited and motivated for their future are two ideas that can coexist. This and more on this week's episode- have a listen! 

"Think and Grow Rich" by: Napoleon Hill

The Law of Attraction

"The Meaning of Marriage" by: Timothy and Kathy Keller

Justin and Bridget chatted about the topic of networking and dating- how the two scenarios share similarities and are also of course quite different. They shared both of their personal experiences with reaching out to professionals in their respective fields and the pros they have identified as a result of their experiences. Justin also shared an incredible idea for those single listeners out there attempting to differentiate themselves from your standard online dating profile. Justin and Bridget also mentioned an article he found (referenced below) discussing how some couples who's weddings had been canceled due to  COVID-19 used their intended wedding money to pay a down payment on a house instead. All this and more on this week's edition of the Couples Develop podcast- check it out!

Materials mentioned in this episode: 

"Rejection Proof" by: Jia Jiang 

"Coronavirus Halted Their Wedding Plans, So These Couples Bought Homes Instead" by: Adrienne Gaffney, The Wall Street Journal

https://www.wsj.com/articles/coronavirus-halted-their-wedding-plans-so-these-couples-bought-homes-instead-11589380265

"The Gifts of Imperfection" by: Brene Brown

This week, Justin and Bridget talked about the topic self-discovery and shared their opinions on how it's a journey rather than a destination. They talked about some books and quotes that have inspired them on their journey. Justin was also extremely patient with Bridget on their first golfing adventure and surprised her with an exploding golf ball. 

In this episode, Bridget chatted with Jessica who recently completed her internship for her Counseling program and will be finishing her program shortly. Jessica was a joy to speak with and provided me, and I hope you all listening, with so much wisdom regarding her internship, relationship reflection, sharing her faith, and also her work in producing a workbook she titled, "Firm Foundations." She hopes the book will impact all people including those in prisons and jails who also need healing and hope. Please tune in to hear more about my conversation with Jessica. 

"Firm Foundation" can be purchased here online: https://thegreatiamfoundation.com/product/firm-foundation-workbook/

Checks can be addressed to:

GIAF

P.O. Box 11888

Shorewood, WI 53211

262-320-7537

Jessica can be reached at this email concerning the workbook: [email protected]

Bridget was excited to talk with Gina who is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Minnesota. Gina chatted with us about many things including her own therapy practice, her experience in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy, wisdom to share with beginning interns, and she even shared how the Enneagram has impacted her own work and life. 

In this episode, Justin and Bridget share their thoughts on long distance relationships- the type of relationship they actually had when they first began dating. We were inspired by an article by Mark Manson that highlighted some important pieces of consideration for those people navigating long distance relationships which is linked here. Bridget also had to explain who Doug was to Justin and wants to adopt a pet deer. It's casual. https://markmanson.net/long-distance-relationships