Licensed clinical social worker and couples counselor Dr. Dan Sneider has spent over a decade helping partners navigate conflict — and he'll be the first to admit he's had to unlearn his own rigidity along the way. In this warm, practical conversation, Dan shares how playfulness, presence, and a well-timed check-in can turn tension into connection.

What You'll Hear

• Why "lightening up" starts with learning to see the silliness in our daily habits — and how Dan's own kids have taught him to do it better than any class ever could
• The simple "temperature check" Dan teaches couples to use during transition moments, so playfulness never lands at the wrong time
• Why using "I" language instead of "you" language changes the entire trajectory of a difficult conversation
• The communication belief Dan had to unlearn: that a calm tone of voice alone means you're not being harmful
• How to handle it gracefully if laughter or humor accidentally lands wrong in an intimate moment
• Dan's dancing analogy for healthy relationships — knowing when to lead, when to follow, and how to stay fully yourself either way
• A daily practice (a morning walk and a few minutes of journaling) that helps Dan choose joy and presence again and again, one day at a time

Resources Mentioned on this Episode

- intimacyshift.com — Dan's website, including a free PDF with steps and frameworks for healthier, more intimate conversations

- Intimacy Shift Group Program — Dan's recurring program helping couples move from conflict to lasting connection

- Dan’s website: http://intimacyshift.com/

- Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/growthandgratitudetherapy/

- Learn more about Malcolm's work at the World Laughter Organization™

Featured Guest:

Dr. Dan Sneider is an experienced couples and individual therapist who teaches proven techniques to transform relationships. He lives in Asheville, North Carolina with his two amazing kids. His signature 12-part program ‘The Intimacy Shift: A Blueprint for Moving from Conflict to Lasting Connection’ has helped hundreds of people improve their relationships and is open to anybody ready to build or rebuild an intimate connection.

Connect with Dr. Dan:

Website: http://intimacyshift.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthandgratitudetherapy/

Meet the Host: Malcolm Grissom

Malcolm Grissom, affectionately known as "The Stand-up C.E.O.," is a team-building and employee engagement expert. Malcolm, an award-winning actor, comedian, International speaker, and best-selling author, masterfully blends humor, improv, and business acumen to enhance team dynamics and profitability. As a certified laughter leader, he leverages the power of positive psychology and his social work background to create engaging, results-driven experiences. Whether inspiring executives, strengthening teams, or energizing audiences, Malcolm’s unique approach fosters connection, creativity, and success. His ability to transform corporate culture with humor and insight makes him a sought-after speaker and consultant.

Follow Malcolm:

Website: malcolmgrissom.com

Facebook: facebook.com/malcolmgrissom

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/malcolmgrissom

Stressed, stuck, or leading on autopilot? It’s not a motivation problem—it’s a connection problem. Malcolm’s weekly virtual improv classes boost engagement, collaboration, and retention—all while having fun. Register now for a complimentary month: https://malcolmgrissom.thrivecart.com/everyday-encores/

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