Title: The Invisible Drift: Staying Connected when Living Busy Lives

Host: Dr. Colleen Mullen​

Episode Highlights:

Understanding the "Invisible Drift": Explore how emotional distance can develop silently in relationships due to daily stressors and routines.​

Real-Life Scenario: Meet Maya and Jordan, a couple navigating the challenges of balancing careers, parenting, and maintaining their bond.​

Expert Insight: Discover Dr. John Gottman's research on "bids for connection" and their significance in sustaining emotional intimacy.​

Actionable Strategies: Implement four practical tools to strengthen your relationship:

Establish a 10-minute daily check-in ritual.

Exchange thoughtful notes or messages to express appreciation.

Redefine date nights to fit your current lifestyle.

Utilize weekends intentionally to reconnect.​growthmachine.com

Encouragement for Initiators: Gain perspective if you often find yourself initiating connection and learn how to navigate this dynamic constructively.​

Resources Mentioned:

Dr. John Gottman's research on emotional bids​

Connect with Dr. Colleen Mullen:

Website: drcolleenmullen.com

Instagram: @drcolleenmullen

TikTok: @loveunboxedpodcast​

Call to Action:

If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe to Love Unboxed and leave a review on your preferred podcast platform. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners seeking to enhance their relationships.

Until next time, Let's keep hope alive! 

More Resources from Dr. Colleen 

• My Mindful Reflections: A Daily Journal for Better Mental Health (get it on Amazon) -  This is a journal designed by Dr. Colleen.  You can use it to track your emotions, highlight  special moments, learn from difficult ones , let go of daily steam through daily narrative pages , and even learn to give yourself permission to take a break.
• Do you want to hire Dr. Colleen to help you?  Please check out her work at DrColleenMullen.com. 

Upcoming Workshops 

"Date Differently"  - for singles who want to break free from past relationship obstacles. 

"Love Them More " - for those in committed relationships who  want to  protect their relationship from future obstacles. 

SUPPORT THE SHOW! 

1. AMAZON.COM Use code LoveUnboxed-20 at checkout when you make your regular purchases on Amazon or visit Dr. Colleen's Amazon storefront.  You won't pay anything extra, but Dr. Colleen will make a small commission on what you purchase.
2. TBD:  Patreon- FInd out the perks of joining the Hopeful Romantic community!

Disclaimer

This show exists only for educational and/or entertainment purposes.  Although Dr. Mullen is a licensed therapist, in the capacity of  her show-hosting duties, she is not your therapist. This show is not meant as a replacement for therapy.  

• Dr. Colleen creates stories of people who are not meant to mimic, copy, or otherwise represent any specific person. These are characters she creates using various  data points from multiple people. Any likeness to any person, living or dead, is purely coincidence. 
•  

Resources for Finding a Mental Health Professional in the U.S. 

1. Therapy Den
2. Psychology Today
3. Mental Health Matters
4. Therapy for Black Girls
5. Dial 211 to be connected to a Social Services Helpline in your area that can provide you with information on mental health resources in your area.
6. The National Suicide Prevention Helpline.  or call 988    If you or someone you care about is thinking about suicide, they are there to help.

Dr. Colleen's online voicemail line is powered by SpeakPipe 

Show Notes for Episode [Insert Episode Number]: Strengthening a Thriving Relationship

Episode Title: How to Make a Great Relationship Even Better

Summary:
In this episode of Love, Unboxed: The Podcast for the Hopeful Romantic, licensed therapist [Your Name] answers a refreshing question from a listener who's already in a thriving, loving relationship. This couple has strong communication, no arguments, and regularly complements each other—but they want to know what more they can do to strengthen their bond. If you’re in a relationship that’s going well, this episode is for you! [Your Name] shares research-backed tips for deepening connection, enhancing emotional intimacy, and growing as individuals within the partnership.

Key Takeaways:

Create New Experiences Together: Learn why novelty is crucial in relationships and how trying new things together can release feel-good chemicals, creating lasting memories and strengthening your bond.

Deepen Emotional Intimacy: Discover how a weekly emotional check-in can open deeper lines of communication and foster closeness.

Practice Rituals of Connection: Simple, consistent rituals like morning coffee or daily walks can be powerful ways to reinforce your relationship.

Physical Connection Beyond Intimacy: Explore the importance of affectionate, non-sexual touch in building connection and satisfaction.

Celebrate Wins Together: Celebrating each other’s big and small achievements can deepen your relationship, fostering mutual support and appreciation.

Keep Growing as Individuals: Personal growth doesn’t just benefit you—it can breathe new life into your relationship.

Listener Question:
“Hi! My partner and I have been together for [X years]. We get along really well, don’t argue, and have good communication skills. We also make sure to complement each other all the time. Are there any tips or tricks to make our relationship even better?”

Resources Mentioned:

Journal of Personality and Social Psychology study on new experiences and relationship satisfaction.

Dr. John Gottman’s research on rituals of connection.

Study from The Journal of Positive Psychology on emotional self-disclosure.

Journal of Social and Personal Relationships on affectionate touch and satisfaction.

Call to Action:
Have a question about love or relationships? Leave us a voicemail, and your question could be featured in an upcoming episode! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who could benefit from strengthening their relationship.

Follow Us:

Instagram: [Insert Instagram Handle]

Twitter: [Insert Twitter Handle]

Website: [Insert Website Link]

Subscribe & Review:
If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe, and leave us a review to help us reach more hopeful romantics just like you.

Next Episode Teaser:

We will explore what it's like to support a partner with ADHD. 

More Resources from Dr. Colleen 

• My Mindful Reflections: A Daily Journal for Better Mental Health (get it on Amazon) -  This is a journal designed by Dr. Colleen.  You can use it to track your emotions, highlight  special moments, learn from difficult ones , let go of daily steam through daily narrative pages , and even learn to give yourself permission to take a break.
• Do you want to hire Dr. Colleen to help you?  Please check out her work at DrColleenMullen.com. 

Upcoming Workshops 

"Date Differently"  - for singles who want to break free from past relationship obstacles. 

"Love Them More " - for those in committed relationships who  want to  protect their relationship from future obstacles. 

SUPPORT THE SHOW! 

1. AMAZON.COM Use code LoveUnboxed-20 at checkout when you make your regular purchases on Amazon or visit Dr. Colleen's Amazon storefront.  You won't pay anything extra, but Dr. Colleen will make a small commission on what you purchase.
2. TBD:  Patreon- FInd out the perks of joining the Hopeful Romantic community!

Disclaimer

This show exists only for educational and/or entertainment purposes.  Although Dr. Mullen is a licensed therapist, in the capacity of  her show-hosting duties, she is not your therapist. This show is not meant as a replacement for therapy.  

• Dr. Colleen creates stories of people who are not meant to mimic, copy, or otherwise represent any specific person. These are characters she creates using various  data points from multiple people. Any likeness to any person, living or dead, is purely coincidence. 
•  

Resources for Finding a Mental Health Professional in the U.S. 

1. Therapy Den
2. Psychology Today
3. Mental Health Matters
4. Therapy for Black Girls
5. Dial 211 to be connected to a Social Services Helpline in your area that can provide you with information on mental health resources in your area.
6. The National Suicide Prevention Helpline.  or call 988    If you or someone you care about is thinking about suicide, they are there to help.

Dr. Colleen's online voicemail line is powered by SpeakPipe 

"Love Unboxed: How to Support a Partner with Depression"

Episode Summary: In this episode of Love Unboxed, Dr. Colleen introduces a special series dedicated to supporting partners with emotional struggles, starting with depression. Through a relatable story of Sally and Johnny, Dr. Colleen unpacks the challenges of maintaining a relationship when one partner is dealing with depression.

She explains the signs of depression, how it manifests differently between men and women, and offers practical advice for partners navigating this tough situation. Dr. Colleen also emphasizes the importance of self-care for those supporting a partner with depression, providing four key steps for maintaining balance in the relationship.

Key Takeaways:

• Depression affects millions worldwide and can have a significant impact on relationships.
• Signs of depression in men often include irritability and withdrawal, as seen in Johnny’s behavior.
• Supporting a partner with depression involves encouraging professional help, practicing patience, taking care of your own emotional health, and allowing space for breaks from the topic.
• Self-care is critical when supporting a partner with depression—don’t forget to prioritize your own needs.
• Long-term treatment for depression often includes therapy and medication management.

Tips for Supporting a Partner with Depression:

1. Encourage them to seek professional help.
2. Be patient and understanding, even when depression doesn’t seem to have an obvious cause.
3. Take care of your own emotional health—engage in activities you enjoy and nurture your social connections.
4. Take emotional breaks and allow both yourself and your partner space from focusing solely on their depression.

Quotes from Dr. Colleen:

• "Supporting a partner with depression can be a challenging experience, but by educating yourself, listening, encouraging them to get professional help, being patient, and practicing self-care, you can help your partner through their journey in and out of depressive episodes."
• "Although depression can be difficult to get through, it is possible for your partner to regain their emotional health and happiness—and I want you to preserve yours at the same time."

Listener Engagement: Dr. Colleen is eager to hear your relationship questions! Submit your voicemails at loveunboxpodcast.com for a chance to have your question featured and answered in a future episode.

Follow Dr. Colleen on Social Media:

• Instagram: @DrColleenMullen
• TikTok: @LoveUnboxPodcast

Don’t forget to subscribe to stay updated on future episodes. As the podcast grows, Dr. Colleen hopes to increase the frequency of new releases, so subscribing ensures you won’t miss out!

Next Episode: Stay tuned for the next episode in the series, where Dr. Colleen will dive into supporting a partner with anxiety.

To my fellow Hopeful Romantics, let's keep hope alive. 

These notes were generated by AI. 

More Resources from Dr. Colleen 

• My Mindful Reflections: A Daily Journal for Better Mental Health (get it on Amazon) -  This is a journal designed by Dr. Colleen.  You can use it to track your emotions, highlight  special moments, learn from difficult ones , let go of daily steam through daily narrative pages , and even learn to give yourself permission to take a break.
• Do you want to hire Dr. Colleen to help you?  Please check out her work at DrColleenMullen.com. 

Upcoming Workshops 

"Date Differently"  - for singles who want to break free from past relationship obstacles. 

"Love Them More " - for those in committed relationships who  want to  protect their relationship from future obstacles. 

SUPPORT THE SHOW! 

1. AMAZON.COM Use code LoveUnboxed-20 at checkout when you make your regular purchases on Amazon or visit Dr. Colleen's Amazon storefront.  You won't pay anything extra, but Dr. Colleen will make a small commission on what you purchase.
2. TBD:  Patreon- FInd out the perks of joining the Hopeful Romantic community!

Disclaimer

This show exists only for educational and/or entertainment purposes.  Although Dr. Mullen is a licensed therapist, in the capacity of  her show-hosting duties, she is not your therapist. This show is not meant as a replacement for therapy.  

• Dr. Colleen creates stories of people who are not meant to mimic, copy, or otherwise represent any specific person. These are characters she creates using various  data points from multiple people. Any likeness to any person, living or dead, is purely coincidence. 
•  

Resources for Finding a Mental Health Professional in the U.S. 

1. Therapy Den
2. Psychology Today
3. Mental Health Matters
4. Therapy for Black Girls
5. Dial 211 to be connected to a Social Services Helpline in your area that can provide you with information on mental health resources in your area.
6. The National Suicide Prevention Helpline.  or call 988    If you or someone you care about is thinking about suicide, they are there to help.

Dr. Colleen's online voicemail line is powered by SpeakPipe 

Love Unboxed Podcast: Episode 5  

Welcome to the place where relationship topics get unboxed one episode at a time. This episode finds me taking some days off after the holidays.  It's been a tiring couple of months and I was just craving some time alone at home to help me recharge.  Pat of my home life entails caring for my sister, Suzy. Suzy has needs that make her very special. I lovingly say I inherited her in 2018 when our mother passed away. That was a chaotic time.  Even though life has stabilized, it's been a busy few months, so I was needing some time alone.  I mention this because time alone at our own home can really be precious when we don't live alone and keep a similar schedule as our partner.  My household also includes Suzy. For those interested in hearing more about what it was like when I inherited Suzy, you can listen to the Suzy Chronicles episode of Coaching through Chaos Podcast right here. 

***** If you have a dating or relationship dilemma you'd like some help with,go to LoveUnboxedPodcast.com and leave me a voicemail with your question.  I can't wait to hear from you! 

'Dating After Divorce - Are You Ready?'

Welcome to Love Unboxed, the podcast for the hopeful romantic, hosted by Dr. Colleen Mullen, a therapist with over 20 years of experience.Dr. Colleen shares insights on finding and maintaining love based on her years of helping clients navigate relationships. Today's episode is a deep dive into the question: How soon after divorce should you start dating?

The Unboxing

The Hopeful Romantic Question of the Week

 "How do you know  you're ready to date after your divorce?"  

This is a complex question with a complex answer. First, we'll review common reasons for divorcing and then Dr. Colleen shares some questions for you to answer.      

 Common Reasons for Divorce:

Unrealistic Expectations

Frequent arguments or arguing in a different style than your partner

Lack of attention

Substance use problems

What to Know Before you Start Dating Again

1.  Reflect on the reasons behind your divorce.  Do you know the reason?  If not, why? Dr. Colleen provides food for thought around communication struggles that can infiltrate a marriage.  

2.  Determine if you are emotionally available to date.  What is your motive for jumping back into the dating pool?  Be clear about this with yourself and with the people you date. Be able to be O.K. with being alone.  Be able to differentiate between being alone and being lonely.  

3.  We explore the impact of betrayal on a person. If you had an affair, do you know what was going on with you that you were able to step outside of your commitment to your partner? If your partner had an affair, how did you process the betrayal,  Is it resolved enough that you won't be leading with distrust or an expectation of betrayal in your next relationship?

The Role of Therapy During This Time

Therapy is a great tool during this time. When you are trying to do things in your love life differently than you have in the past, therapy can help because there will be some un-learning to do as you learn new ways to be.  There can be so much growth in the area of self-awareness during a divorce. It's one of Dr. Colleen's favorite times to work with her clients - when they are getting into, or out of a significant relationship.  

Conclusion: Building a Strong Foundation

Building a relationship is like building the foundation of a house.  There won't be any stability if your foundation is cracked, so take the time while you are divorcing to do the things that can help you look towards your future love life without emotional attachments in the past. 

More Resources from Dr. Colleen 

• My Mindful Reflections: A Daily Journal for Better Mental Health (get it on Amazon) -  This is a journal designed by Dr. Colleen.  You can use it to track your emotions, highlight  special moments, learn from difficult ones , let go of daily steam through daily narrative pages , and even learn to give yourself permission to take a break.
• Do you want to hire Dr. Colleen to help you?  Please check out her work at DrColleenMullen.com. 

Upcoming Workshops 

"Date Differently"  - for singles who want to break free from past relationship obstacles. 

"Love Them More " - for those in committed relationships who  want to  protect their relationship from future obstacles. 

SUPPORT THE SHOW! 

1. AMAZON.COM Use code LoveUnboxed-20 at checkout when you make your regular purchases on Amazon or visit Dr. Colleen's Amazon storefront.  You won't pay anything extra, but Dr. Colleen will make a small commission on what you purchase.
2. TBD:  Patreon- FInd out the perks of joining the Hopeful Romantic community!

Disclaimer

This show exists only for educational and/or entertainment purposes.  Although Dr. Mullen is a licensed therapist, in the capacity of  her show-hosting duties, she is not your therapist. This show is not meant as a replacement for therapy.  

• Dr. Colleen creates stories of people who are not meant to mimic, copy, or otherwise represent any specific person. These are characters she creates using various  data points from multiple people. Any likeness to any person, living or dead, is purely coincidence. 
•  

Resources for Finding a Mental Health Professional in the U.S. 

1. Therapy Den
2. Psychology Today
3. Mental Health Matters
4. Therapy for Black Girls
5. Dial 211 to be connected to a Social Services Helpline in your area that can provide you with information on mental health resources in your area.
6. The National Suicide Prevention Helpline.  or call 988    If you or someone you care about is thinking about suicide, they are there to help.

Dr. Colleen's online voicemail line is powered by SpeakPipe 

FInd Transcript with times stamps also on this page. 

Opening

• The show is still in it's infancy.  If you are finding it helpful, please Subscribe to get all the episodes as they drop. New episodes drop every Thursday.  If you want others to find it, please share it or leave a 5 star review wherever you are listening to it.
• Even simple questions can reflect complex situations. That's what I love about relationships. Let's get into our next Hopeful Romantic Question of the Week.

Main Segment: "Navigating Trust and Boundaries in Relationships"

• Dr. Colleen unpacks the Hopeful Romantic's QUestions of the week about what happens when sharing your location with you Love leads to uncomfortable feelings.
• Dr. Colleen critiques the misuse of location-sharing features and discusses its impact on trust.
• Highlights the role of past traumas in influencing present behaviors.
• Advises on the importance of communication in addressing discomfort in relationships.
• Offers a script for initiating a conversation with a partner about setting boundaries.
• Encourages listeners to prioritize their emotional well-being and seek professional help if needed.

Conclusion

• Dr. Colleen wraps up by inviting listeners to engage with her on social media and submit questions for future episodes.
• Reminds listeners to prioritize open communication and maintaining hope in relationships.

Closing

• Dr. Colleen signs off and promises another insightful episode coming up.

These show notes summarize Dr. Colleen's exploration of trust and boundaries in relationships, offering guidance to listeners on navigating challenging dynamics with their partners.

These show notes were written by AI, They were not checked for grammar or anything other than providing a written record of the episode. 

More Resources from Dr. Colleen 

• My Mindful Reflections: A Daily Journal for Better Mental Health (get it on Amazon) -  This is a journal designed by Dr. Colleen.  You can use it to track your emotions, highlight  special moments, learn from difficult ones , let go of daily steam through daily narrative pages , and even learn to give yourself permission to take a break.
• Do you want to hire Dr. Colleen to help you?  Please check out her work at DrColleenMullen.com. 

Upcoming Workshops 

"Date Differently"  - for singles who want to break free from past relationship obstacles. 

"Love Them More " - for those in committed relationships who  want to  protect their relationship from future obstacles. 

SUPPORT THE SHOW! 

1. AMAZON.COM Use code LoveUnboxed-20 at checkout when you make your regular purchases on Amazon or visit Dr. Colleen's Amazon storefront.  You won't pay anything extra, but Dr. Colleen will make a small commission on what you purchase.
2. TBD:  Patreon- FInd out the perks of joining the Hopeful Romantic community!

Disclaimer

This show exists only for educational and/or entertainment purposes.  Although Dr. Mullen is a licensed therapist, in the capacity of  her show-hosting duties, she is not your therapist. This show is not meant as a replacement for therapy.  

• Dr. Colleen creates stories of people who are not meant to mimic, copy, or otherwise represent any specific person. These are characters she creates using various  data points from multiple people. Any likeness to any person, living or dead, is purely coincidence. 
•  

Resources for Finding a Mental Health Professional in the U.S. 

1. Therapy Den
2. Psychology Today
3. Mental Health Matters
4. Therapy for Black Girls
5. Dial 211 to be connected to a Social Services Helpline in your area that can provide you with information on mental health resources in your area.
6. The National Suicide Prevention Helpline.  or call 988    If you or someone you care about is thinking about suicide, they are there to help.

Dr. Colleen's online voicemail line is powered by SpeakPipe 

Love Unboxed, Season 1, Episode 003: How to Support Your Partner without Solving Their Problems

What Happens When You Solve Your Partner's Problems for Them? 

Episode Title: Supporting Your Partner Without Solving Their Problems

Host: Dr. Colleen Mullen, Hopeful Romantic & Relationship Expert

Episode Overview: In today’s episode of Love Unboxed, we’re tackling a dilemma that many of us face in relationships: should you solve your partner's problems or just listen? This is an episode built around our first caller question, submitted by Mike, who asks whether it's better to offer solutions or simply support your partner when they're stressed.

Dr. Colleen dives into why jumping in to "fix" things isn't always helpful, and how being a good listener can strengthen your connection. She shares practical questions you can ask your partner when they’re dealing with stress, helping them work through their emotions without feeling pressured. Plus, she gives an example from a couple’s therapy session to illustrate how avoiding the urge to solve every problem can lead to deeper emotional intimacy.

Key Takeaways:

• Don't Solve Right Away: When your partner is stressed, they may just need to vent. Jumping to solutions can make them feel unheard.
• Be Curious: Ask your partner what’s really stressing them out and what’s the worst that could happen. This helps them express their emotions and calms their mind.
• Offer Support First: Only after they’ve had a chance to share, ask if they want your help solving the problem.
• Deepen Connection: Listening without solving builds trust and helps you understand your partner better.

Example from a Couple's Session: Dr. Colleen shares the story of a successful couple who struggled to connect because the husband carried work stress home. Through conversation, he revealed irrational fears that were impacting his mood, even though the reality was much less dire. They learned to check in with each other daily, which helped them reconnect and work as a team.

Listener Question:
Mike asks if it’s better to solve your partner's problems or just listen. Dr. Colleen explores this common relationship challenge, offering guidance on how to balance support and problem-solving.

Actionable Advice:

1. When your partner is stressed, start by asking, "What’s stressing you out about this situation?"
2. Follow up with, "What’s the worst thing that could happen if the situation doesn’t change?"
3. After they’ve shared, ask, "Would you like some help with this, or do you just need to vent?"

Call to Action:
Do you have a dating or relationship dilemma you’d like Dr. Colleen to discuss on the show? Leave a voicemail at LoveUnboxedPodcast.com. You get five minutes to tell your story!

Connect with Dr. Colleen:

• Instagram: @DrColleenMullen
• Website: CoachingThroughChaos.com

Next Steps:
Think about where you might be stuck in your relationship or dating life. Are you always looking to fix, or are you ready to listen and connect more deeply? Until next time, let’s keep hope alive!

More Resources from Dr. Colleen 

• My Mindful Reflections: A Daily Journal for Better Mental Health (get it on Amazon) -  This is a journal designed by Dr. Colleen.  You can use it to track your emotions, highlight  special moments, learn from difficult ones , let go of daily steam through daily narrative pages , and even learn to give yourself permission to take a break.
• Do you want to hire Dr. Colleen to help you?  Please check out her work at DrColleenMullen.com. 

Upcoming Workshops 

"Date Differently"  - for singles who want to break free from past relationship obstacles. 

"Love Them More " - for those in committed relationships who  want to  protect their relationship from future obstacles. 

SUPPORT THE SHOW! 

1. AMAZON.COM Use code LoveUnboxed-20 at checkout when you make your regular purchases on Amazon or visit Dr. Colleen's Amazon storefront.  You won't pay anything extra, but Dr. Colleen will make a small commission on what you purchase.
2. TBD:  Patreon- FInd out the perks of joining the Hopeful Romantic community!

Disclaimer

This show exists only for educational and/or entertainment purposes.  Although Dr. Mullen is a licensed therapist, in the capacity of  her show-hosting duties, she is not your therapist. This show is not meant as a replacement for therapy.  

• Dr. Colleen creates stories of people who are not meant to mimic, copy, or otherwise represent any specific person. These are characters she creates using various  data points from multiple people. Any likeness to any person, living or dead, is purely coincidence. 
•  

Resources for Finding a Mental Health Professional in the U.S. 

1. Therapy Den
2. Psychology Today
3. Mental Health Matters
4. Therapy for Black Girls
5. Dial 211 to be connected to a Social Services Helpline in your area that can provide you with information on mental health resources in your area.
6. The National Suicide Prevention Helpline.  or call 988    If you or someone you care about is thinking about suicide, they are there to help.

Dr. Colleen's online voicemail line is powered by SpeakPipe 

Love Unboxed Podcast - Season 1, Ep. 2 : “Reframing the Myth of Relationship Work”

In this enlightening episode of Love Unboxed, host Dr. Colleen explores the commonly misunderstood phrase, “Relationships are a lot of work.” Drawing from her experience as a licensed marriage & family therapist & psychologist, she unpacks how this belief can lead to distress in relationships and offers a powerful reframe: “A sustainable relationship can be a lot of work at very specific times during its lifespan.” Dr. Colleen provides insight into navigating relationship challenges through the stories of two couples, Jenny & Tom and Jerry & Cindy, illustrating the importance of setting boundaries and recognizing red flags.

**Key Points:**

- The common misconception that all relationships should be difficult and require constant effort is addressed.

- Understanding the difference between healthy relationship work and ineffective coping strategies.

- Importance of the honeymoon phase and how it sets the foundation of a relationship.

- Insights on recognizing red flags that are not necessarily deal breakers but must be acknowledged.

- The role of boundaries in maintaining respect and balance within a relationship.

- Discussion on the Broken Wing Syndrome, (find out more in Season 1, Episode 1) where one partner may unintentionally take on the caretaker role, leading to an unbalanced dynamic.

**Couples Discussed:**

1. **Jenny & Tom**: Jenny struggles with Tom's drinking and the hurtful behavior that sometimes accompanies it, leading to a pattern of rationalizing his actions instead of setting clear boundaries.

2. **Jerry & Cindy**: Cindy’s trust issues stemming from a past relationship lead her to scrutinize Jerry's every move, creating a cycle of anxiety and frustration for both partners.

**Takeaways:**

- Recognizing when you are focusing on the wrong aspects of your relationship as “work.”

- The significance of setting expectations and having open discussions about feelings and boundaries.

- Practical strategies for navigating common relationship issues while maintaining personal well-being.

- It's crucial to differentiate between changeable behaviors and deal breakers early in a relationship.

**Resources:**

- Visit [loveunboxpodcast.com](https://loveunboxpodcast.com) to submit questions or share your thoughts.

- Check out Dr. Colleen's journal, "My Mindful Reflections: A Daily Journal for Better Mental Health," for more insights on mental well-being.

**Connect with Us:**

- **Voicemail**: Have a relationship question or story to share? Leave a message at loveunboxpodcast.com.

**Join Us Next Time:**

Stay tuned for future episodes where we tackle more aspects of love, relationships, and personal growth. Let’s keep hope alive and unpack love together!

More Resources from Dr. Colleen 

• My Mindful Reflections: A Daily Journal for Better Mental Health (get it on Amazon) -  This is a journal designed by Dr. Colleen.  You can use it to track your emotions, highlight  special moments, learn from difficult ones , let go of daily steam through daily narrative pages , and even learn to give yourself permission to take a break.
• Do you want to hire Dr. Colleen to help you?  Please check out her work at DrColleenMullen.com. 

Upcoming Workshops 

"Date Differently"  - for singles who want to break free from past relationship obstacles. 

"Love Them More " - for those in committed relationships who  want to  protect their relationship from future obstacles. 

SUPPORT THE SHOW! 

1. AMAZON.COM Use code LoveUnboxed-20 at checkout when you make your regular purchases on Amazon or visit Dr. Colleen's Amazon storefront.  You won't pay anything extra, but Dr. Colleen will make a small commission on what you purchase.
2. TBD:  Patreon- FInd out the perks of joining the Hopeful Romantic community!

Disclaimer

This show exists only for educational and/or entertainment purposes.  Although Dr. Mullen is a licensed therapist, in the capacity of  her show-hosting duties, she is not your therapist. This show is not meant as a replacement for therapy.  

• Dr. Colleen creates stories of people who are not meant to mimic, copy, or otherwise represent any specific person. These are characters she creates using various  data points from multiple people. Any likeness to any person, living or dead, is purely coincidence. 
•  

Resources for Finding a Mental Health Professional in the U.S. 

1. Therapy Den
2. Psychology Today
3. Mental Health Matters
4. Therapy for Black Girls
5. Dial 211 to be connected to a Social Services Helpline in your area that can provide you with information on mental health resources in your area.
6. The National Suicide Prevention Helpline.  or call 988    If you or someone you care about is thinking about suicide, they are there to help.

Dr. Colleen's online voicemail line is powered by SpeakPipe 

"Love, Unboxed: A Podcast for the Hopeful Romantic" is a new project by Dr. Colleen Mullen.  Dr. Colleen hopes this becomes collaborative with you. Each week, Dr. Colleen unboxes one topic on love & relationships so that you gain a deeper understanding of it and can manage it when it shows up in your life. 

Leave your relationship questions for Dr Colleen at LoveUnboxedPodcast.com. The first 5 people who leave a relationship question get a free copy of the journal Dr. Colleen designed: My Mindful Reflections: A Daily Journal for Better Mental Health.

This is Season 1, Episode 1- The subject up for unboxing is the Broken Wing Syndrome. This is sometimes called the Broken Brid Syndrome. Neither the Broken Wing or Broken Bird Syndromes are actual diagnostic terms, rather, they are very popular ways of discussing a particular relationship dynamic.  Dr. Colleen has coined those who have the Broken Wing Syndrome and fall in love with the Birdies with Broken Wings, the Wing Whisperers. 

If you don't know these terms, but you've been insecure in relationships, or seem to reflect on past relationships and feel like you stayed too long, or can see in the reflection that you couldn't get what you needed from your partner emotionally, I encourage you to listen to this. You may relate to what Dr. Colleen unboxes. 

This unboxing includes:

1. The love story of Jenny & Jack, who really enjoy each other, but ultimately can't be what each needs.
2. How the Broken Wing Syndrome is different than the Savior Complex.
3. What the Bird with the Broken Wing needs to heal their wing.
4. What the Wing Whisperer needs to heal in order to find a more balanced partnership.
5. The things Dr. Colleen wants the Wong Whisperer to know.
6. TellTale signs you are dating a Birdie with a Broken Wing.
7. What Jack & Jenny's relationship would have looked like if they got a post-therapy do-over.

What topics do you want Dr. Colleen to unbox??? 

Leave your relationship questions for Dr Colleen at LoveUnboxedPodcast.com. 

More Resources from Dr. Colleen 

• My Mindful Reflections: A Daily Journal for Better Mental Health (get it on Amazon) -  This is a journal designed by Dr. Colleen.  You can use it to track your emotions, highlight  special moments, learn from difficult ones , let go of daily steam through daily narrative pages , and even learn to give yourself permission to take a break.
• Do you want to hire Dr. Colleen to help you?  Please check out her work at DrColleenMullen.com. 

Upcoming Workshops 

"Date Differently"  - for singles who want to break free from past relationship obstacles. 

"Love Them More " - for those in committed relationships who  want to  protect their relationship from future obstacles. 

SUPPORT THE SHOW! 

1. AMAZON.COM Use code LoveUnboxed-20 at checkout when you make your regular purchases on Amazon or visit Dr. Colleen's Amazon storefront.  You won't pay anything extra, but Dr. Colleen will make a small commission on what you purchase.
2. TBD:  Patreon- FInd out the perks of joining the Hopeful Romantic community!

Disclaimer

This show exists only for educational and/or entertainment purposes.  Although Dr. Mullen is a licensed therapist, in the capacity of  her show-hosting duties, she is not your therapist. This show is not meant as a replacement for therapy.  

• Dr. Colleen creates stories of people who are not meant to mimic, copy, or otherwise represent any specific person. These are characters she creates using various  data points from multiple people. Any likeness to any person, living or dead, is purely coincidence. 
•  

Resources for Finding a Mental Health Professional in the U.S. 

1. Therapy Den
2. Psychology Today
3. Mental Health Matters
4. Therapy for Black Girls
5. Dial 211 to be connected to a Social Services Helpline in your area that can provide you with information on mental health resources in your area.
6. The National Suicide Prevention Helpline.  or call 988    If you or someone you care about is thinking about suicide, they are there to help.

Dr. Colleen's online voicemail line is powered by SpeakPipe 

Host: Dr. Colleen Mullen

Episode Overview: In this inaugural episode of Love Unboxed, Dr. Colleen Mullen introduces you to a podcast dedicated to demystifying love and relationships. With over 20 years of experience as a licensed therapist and a lifelong hopeful romantic, Dr. Mullen is here to cut through the noise and provide you with insightful guidance.

Key Highlights:

• Introduction to Dr. Colleen Mullen: Learn about Dr. Mullen’s background and her passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of love.
• Purpose of the Podcast: Discover how Love Unboxed aims to address the dilemmas of modern relationships and offer practical advice for hopeful romantics.
• What to Expect: Each week, Dr. Mullen will tackle your questions, providing valuable insights and strategies for fostering happy and healthy relationships.

Join Us: Subscribe to Love Unboxed and embark on a journey to uncover the secrets of lasting love. Whether you’re single, dating, or in a committed relationship, there’s something for everyone in this empowering podcast.

Connect with Us: Follow Dr. Colleen Mullen on social media and join our community of hopeful romantics. Share your questions and topics you’d like to see covered in future episodes!

Tune in and get ready to unbox the love you deserve!

More Resources from Dr. Colleen 

• My Mindful Reflections: A Daily Journal for Better Mental Health (get it on Amazon) -  This is a journal designed by Dr. Colleen.  You can use it to track your emotions, highlight  special moments, learn from difficult ones , let go of daily steam through daily narrative pages , and even learn to give yourself permission to take a break.
• Do you want to hire Dr. Colleen to help you?  Please check out her work at DrColleenMullen.com. 

Upcoming Workshops 

"Date Differently"  - for singles who want to break free from past relationship obstacles. 

"Love Them More " - for those in committed relationships who  want to  protect their relationship from future obstacles. 

SUPPORT THE SHOW! 

1. AMAZON.COM Use code LoveUnboxed-20 at checkout when you make your regular purchases on Amazon or visit Dr. Colleen's Amazon storefront.  You won't pay anything extra, but Dr. Colleen will make a small commission on what you purchase.
2. TBD:  Patreon- FInd out the perks of joining the Hopeful Romantic community!

Disclaimer

This show exists only for educational and/or entertainment purposes.  Although Dr. Mullen is a licensed therapist, in the capacity of  her show-hosting duties, she is not your therapist. This show is not meant as a replacement for therapy.  

• Dr. Colleen creates stories of people who are not meant to mimic, copy, or otherwise represent any specific person. These are characters she creates using various  data points from multiple people. Any likeness to any person, living or dead, is purely coincidence. 
•  

Resources for Finding a Mental Health Professional in the U.S. 

1. Therapy Den
2. Psychology Today
3. Mental Health Matters
4. Therapy for Black Girls
5. Dial 211 to be connected to a Social Services Helpline in your area that can provide you with information on mental health resources in your area.
6. The National Suicide Prevention Helpline.  or call 988    If you or someone you care about is thinking about suicide, they are there to help.

Dr. Colleen's online voicemail line is powered by SpeakPipe 

Welcome to Love Unboxed, the podcast for the hopeful romantic! Hosted by Dr. Colleen Mullen, a therapist with over 20 years of experience and a lifelong hopeful romantic, this podcast is here to help you find and improve love in your life.

In this trailer, Dr. Colleen introduces herself and her passion for helping people navigate the complexities of relationships. She's been a therapist for two decades, aiding clients in finding and sustaining love. Now, she's excited to share her knowledge with you.

The show kicks off with Dr. Colleen inviting fellow Hopeful Romantics to join her on a brand-new unboxing adventure.

Here are the key points from the Love Unboxed Podcast Trailer:

1. Introduction (00:00:00 - 00:00:30):

• Dr. Colleen Mullen, a therapist for over 20 years, introduces Love Unboxed.
• The podcast is for the hopeful romantic, whether searching for love or seeking to improve existing relationships.

2. Building a Community (00:00:37 - 00:01:05):

• Dr. Colleen establishes Love Unboxed as a space for all hopeful romantics.
• The show is for those struggling in relationships and those in long-term relationships that have lost their spark.
• Dr. Colleen shares her background as a licensed marriage and family therapist, emphasizing her passion for understanding relationships.
• Acknowledges personal growth and learning from her own experiences.

3. Sharing Knowledge and Personal Growth (00:01:30 - 00:01:50):

• Dr. Colleen expresses her commitment to sharing what she's learned over the years about healthy relationship dynamics.
• Acknowledges her journey of personal growth and learning to walk the walk as she talks the talk.

4. Listener Participation (00:01:50 - 00:02:37):

• The show thrives on listener participation.
• Dr. Colleen encourages hopeful romantic listeners to leave voicemails at loveunboxedpodcast.com with their relationship questions.
• Each week, a listener's question will be chosen, unboxed, and addressed, providing practical advice for both the questioner and other listeners.

5. Unboxing Love (00:02:37 - 00:02:55):

• Dr. Colleen looks forward to unboxing love each week with her listeners.
• Promises practical advice for navigating relationship dilemmas, ensuring that everyone gains valuable knowledge to handle similar situations.

Get ready for a weekly journey into the world of love, relationships, and personal growth with Love Unboxed. Tune in and participate to unbox the complexities of love in your life!

More Resources from Dr. Colleen 

• My Mindful Reflections: A Daily Journal for Better Mental Health (get it on Amazon) -  This is a journal designed by Dr. Colleen.  You can use it to track your emotions, highlight  special moments, learn from difficult ones , let go of daily steam through daily narrative pages , and even learn to give yourself permission to take a break.
• Do you want to hire Dr. Colleen to help you?  Please check out her work at DrColleenMullen.com. 

Upcoming Workshops 

"Date Differently"  - for singles who want to break free from past relationship obstacles. 

"Love Them More " - for those in committed relationships who  want to  protect their relationship from future obstacles. 

SUPPORT THE SHOW! 

1. AMAZON.COM Use code LoveUnboxed-20 at checkout when you make your regular purchases on Amazon or visit Dr. Colleen's Amazon storefront.  You won't pay anything extra, but Dr. Colleen will make a small commission on what you purchase.
2. TBD:  Patreon- FInd out the perks of joining the Hopeful Romantic community!

Disclaimer

This show exists only for educational and/or entertainment purposes.  Although Dr. Mullen is a licensed therapist, in the capacity of  her show-hosting duties, she is not your therapist. This show is not meant as a replacement for therapy.  

• Dr. Colleen creates stories of people who are not meant to mimic, copy, or otherwise represent any specific person. These are characters she creates using various  data points from multiple people. Any likeness to any person, living or dead, is purely coincidence. 
•  

Resources for Finding a Mental Health Professional in the U.S. 

1. Therapy Den
2. Psychology Today
3. Mental Health Matters
4. Therapy for Black Girls
5. Dial 211 to be connected to a Social Services Helpline in your area that can provide you with information on mental health resources in your area.
6. The National Suicide Prevention Helpline.  or call 988    If you or someone you care about is thinking about suicide, they are there to help.

Dr. Colleen's online voicemail line is powered by SpeakPipe