#106 Why Should I Validate Something I Don’t Even Agree With?

In this episode of Choosing To Stay, we explore one of the most important—and often overlooked—skills in relational recovery after betrayal: seeking to understand.

Seeking to understand isn’t about agreeing or even seeing things the same way. It’s about being present, seeking to understand, and respecting your partner’s experience—even when it differs from your own. We dive into what active listening actually looks like, why it can feel so hard (especially when emotions run high), and how it helps build emotional safety during a time when safety often feels lost.

Through practical insights and real-life examples, we’ll talk about how active listening helps move the relationship forward—not by going back to what it was, but by co-creating something new, healthier, and more connected.

Whether you're the partner in healing or the individual seeking recovery, this episode offers valuable tools for slowing down, tuning in, and creating space for healing through communication.

Listener Reminder: Recovery takes time, intention, and practice. Active listening won’t fix everything overnight—but it’s one of the most powerful tools you can use to begin healing together.

Thank you for tuning in!

We’re here to support couples healing from infidelity and betrayal, offering encouragement, practical skills, and expertise each week. As certified relational recovery coaches, we are passionate about guiding you toward hope, empathy, and lasting healing.

Stay connected with us and access all the resources we offer—coaching sessions, groups, and more—by visiting this link.

Your Hosts:

Hali RoderickCertified Relational Recovery CoachTICC, ACC, APSATS CPC-Candidate, ERCEM-trained

Stephanie HambyCertified Relational Recovery CoachMCLC, ACC, APSATS CPC, ERCEM-CWe look forward to journeying with you!