In a world where we’re taught to speak up, make our point, and persuade, the skill of listening often gets overlooked—and undervalued. Yet listening, when done well, can transform our relationships far more than talking or lecturing ever could.

In this episode of Stronger in the Difficult Places, Dr. Zoe sits down with Licensed Professional Counselor Gina Yanovitch to explore how truly hearing others can deepen understanding, foster connection, and defuse conflict. Gina, author of Stop Avoiding It, shares how coping skills, neuroscience, and scripture can help us move out of our emotional minds, embrace uncertainty, and navigate hard conversations with grace.

 

What We Discuss in This Episode:

• Why listening is a more powerful relationship tool than talking or persuading
• How better listening can help you understand your partner on a deeper level
• The connection between coping skills and flexibility in problem-solving
• How to move out of your emotional mind and resist the urge to avoid discomfort
• The role of uncertainty and change in personal growth

 

About Gina Yanovitch: Gina Yanovitch is a Licensed Professional Counselor in sunny Phoenix, Arizona, specializing in trauma and relationships. In her new book, Stop Avoiding It, she equips readers with tools to face difficult emotions and conversations head-on—combining practical coping skills, brain science, and spiritual wisdom.

Connect with Gina:

Stop Avoiding It: stopavoidingit.com Website: mindhelm.org Instagram: @mind_helm

 

Pre-order my book Stronger In The Difficult Places: drzoeshaw.com/book

 

Free Downloads:

Download the Steps to Healing from Complex Shame™ PDF: here Get the First Chapter of Stronger in the Difficult Places: here

 

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Dr. Zoe Shaw Website