In this conversation, Nathan Holritz interviews Judy Herman, a licensed therapist, about her journey into therapy, the simplicity of love, and the complexities of relationships. They discuss the importance of awareness, responsibility, and authenticity in romantic partnerships, emphasizing that while relationships can be simple, they often require effort and understanding to navigate challenges. Judy shares insights from her own experiences and her books, highlighting the significance of communication and personal growth in fostering healthy relationships. Nathan and Judy emphasize the importance of taking ownership, understanding the authentic self, and the critical role of honesty and vulnerability in fostering intimacy. They explore how curiosity can mitigate conflict and create a safe space for open communication, ultimately leading to healthier and more fulfilling relationships.

Resources

Judy's Website: https://www.judycounselor.com/

Judy’s Books:

Resources Relationships with Purpose: Secrets to Better Relationships and A Better Life, Judy Herman - https://link.deciding2.love/47wckn5d

Beyond Messy Relationships: Diving Invitations to Your Authentic Self, Judy Herman - https://link.deciding2.love/59rty63k

Judy’s Podcast: Better Relationships, Better Life - On Apple, https://link.deciding2.love/kjvfz4rj and on Spotify, https://link.deciding2.love/ymkuyt9jDeciding to Love is a podcast exploring how to create enjoyable, long-term romantic relationships we actually want to be in! The podcast is hosted by Nathan Holritz, long-time entrepreneur and podcast host - and a romantic at heart. Check out the website at decidingtolove.com, and if you're interested in being a guest on the show, go to decidingtolove.com/share-your-story to learn more and apply to be on the show! Check out the website at decidingtolove.com, and if you're interested in being a guest on the show, go to decidingtolove.com/share-your-story to learn more and apply to be on the show! You can also follow Deciding to Love for short clips and inspiration from the show: https://www.instagram.com/decidingtolovexo https://www.facebook.com/decidingtolovexohttps://www.tiktok.com/@decidingtolovexo

Summary

In this interview, Nathan Holritz speaks with Steve and Shannon about their long-term relationship, exploring themes of romance, curiosity, and personal growth. They discuss the importance of maintaining curiosity in relationships, the challenges Shannon and Steve faced in their relationship, and how they navigated through difficult times. The couple shares insights on the significance of presence and mindfulness, the dynamics of new relationship energy, and the impact of inner child work on their partnership. Their journey highlights the importance of self-awareness, communication, and emotional health in sustaining a loving relationship. Nathan, Shannon, and Steve explore the complexities of trauma, emotional processing, the importance of somatic release, and the significance of of sovereignty and emotional independence for the sake of a healthy, long-term romantic relationship. The discussion also touches on the unconventional choice of sleeping in separate beds and how it can positively impact relationships by allowing for personal space and emotional clarity.

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Resources

Living Untethered, Michael Singer - https://link.deciding2.love/yhtwmwvw

Mating in Captivity, Esther Perel - https://link.deciding2.love/2p9dv4s8

Shannon Hammaker on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/shannonhamaker/
Check out the website at decidingtolove.com, and if you're interested in being a guest on the show, go to decidingtolove.com/share-your-story to learn more and apply to be on the show!
You can also follow Deciding to Love for short clips and inspiration from the show:
https://www.instagram.com/decidingtolovexo
https://www.facebook.com/decidingtolovexo
https://www.tiktok.com/@decidingtolovexo

Host Nathan Holritz reconnects with Paul and Sarah, a couple together for 20 years, to explore the foundations of their lasting relationship. They reflect on how they met, the role of spiritual connection, and the lessons they’ve carried forward from past experiences.

The conversation centers on emotional intelligence, communication, and personal responsibility—highlighting the importance of respect, ease, and independence. They discuss how self-awareness, emotional regulation, and clear expectations shape healthier dynamics, emphasizing that strong relationships are built through intentionality, open dialogue, and a grounded sense of self.

Summary

In this conversation, Nathan Holritz engages with Field and Karie, exploring the depths of love, respect, and communication in relationships. They discuss the importance of love and respect, the impact of honesty on trust, and the necessity of navigating uncomfortable discussions. Field and Karie share their personal experiences and insights on how to maintain a loving and respectful relationship over time, emphasizing the need for intentionality and understanding in their interactions.

Resources

The Five Love Languages - https://link.deciding2.love/4w8jrhmh

Love and Respect - https://link.deciding2.love/mr2w7cpz

Summary

In this episode, Nathan Holritz hosts Mark and Sarah, a couple with over 30 years of relationship experience. They share their backstory, discussing how they met and the initial attraction that sparked their long-lasting relationship. The conversation delves into the importance of faith, communication, and intentionality in maintaining a healthy relationship. They emphasize the significance of self-care, navigating challenges together, and the role of humor and fun in their marriage. Mark and Sarah also discuss the importance of never going to bed angry and the need for security in a relationship, ultimately highlighting the choice to like and love each other through the ups and downs of life.

Summary

In this conversation, Nathan Holritz engages with Joe and Denise to explore the complexities of romantic relationships, emphasizing themes of unconditional acceptance, personal responsibility, and the importance of open communication. They discuss the societal pressures to present an ideal self, the significance of freedom within relationships, and the need for individual growth. The dialogue highlights the distinction between happiness and love, advocating for a deeper understanding of relationships as opportunities for personal evolution rather than mere sources of happiness.

Resources

New Paradigm of Love - https://link.deciding2.love/bpasbrey

......Deciding to Love is a podcast exploring how to create enjoyable, long-term romantic relationships we actually want to be in! The podcast is hosted by Nathan Holritz, long-time entrepreneur and podcast host - and a romantic at heart. Check out the website at decidingtolove.com, and if you're interested in being a guest on the show, go to decidingtolove.com/share-your-story to learn more and apply to be on the show! You can also follow Nathan Holritz for short clips and inspiration from the show: https://www.instagram.com/nathanholritz https://www.facebook.com/nathanholritzhttps://www.tiktok.com/@nathanholritz

Summary

In this conversation, Nathan Holritz speaks with Jim and Laura about their 27-year relationship, exploring themes of commitment, emotional readiness, attraction, leadership, and the importance of respect and trust in marriage. They discuss their backstory, the challenges of navigating commitment, and the significance of personal responsibility and growth in maintaining a healthy relationship. Jim and Lara share insights on creating a safe space for communication and the concept of alliance in relationships, emphasizing the need for teamwork and mutual support. In this conversation, Jim and Lara discuss the complexities of maintaining a healthy marriage, emphasizing the importance of emotional support, personal responsibility, and effective communication. They share their journey through challenges, the significance of commitment, and the necessity of addressing annoyances in a constructive manner. Jim and Lara highlight the concept of covenant in marriage, advocating for a mindset that prioritizes partnership and mutual growth over individual grievances.

Resources:

Hold Me Tight, by Dr. Sue Johnson - https://bit.ly/4rT8Dg3

Love and Respect, by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs - https://bit.ly/3Opj5xs

Jordan Peterson Marriage Series - https://get.dailywire.com/jordan-b-peterson/marriage-subscribe

Show Notes

Cooperation vs competition, being more considerate of your partner's perspective, and intentionally addressing anything that is creating a divide in your relationship - big topics on today's episode highlighting Kim and Chris!

Resources:

I Said This, You Heard That, by Kathleen Edelman

Website

Book

YouTube

Summary

In this episode of Deciding to Love, Nathan Holritz discusses the critical role of honesty in building long-term romantic relationships. He explores the necessity of self-honesty for personal growth and the importance of being honest with partners to foster trust and intimacy. The conversation delves into the nature of dishonesty, often stemming from fear, and emphasizes the need for open communication to enhance relationship dynamics.

Summary

In this heartfelt conversation, Nathan Holritz interviews his Grandfather, who shares his remarkable love story with his late wife, Grandma. The discussion covers their initial meeting, the challenges they faced, and the deep love that sustained their 66-year marriage. Key themes include the importance of communication, empathy, and the commitment to continually choose love in a relationship. The Grandfather's wisdom and experiences provide valuable insights into building and maintaining a lasting romantic relationship.