Communicating better as empty nesters with Rebecca Mullen E144

Communication breaks down in the same few places for almost every couple. This episode is about finding those places before they turn into a fight.

Rebecca Mullen joins Rick and Clancy to talk about the three roles inside a marriage, partner, lover, and friend, and how easily one of them gets neglected once kids leave the house. The conversation moves into why couples assume their partner can read their mind, why apologies so often fall flat, and how something as small as the way you say hello can set the tone for everything else.

Rebecca walks through her four steps to an apology that actually lands, the difference between a boundary and a punishment, and a simple shift in how you greet your person that took her over ninety days to see change.

Rick and Clancy bring their own real moments into it, including one that traces straight back to an argument they processed on a recent episode.

Want to dig into your own communication patterns? Come share what's coming up for you in the Facebook group.https://www.facebook.com/groups/theloudquiet

🎧 Find all episodes, podcast apps, and YouTube links here:https://www.theloudquiet.com

CHAPTERS

0:00 Intro

1:32 Partner, Lover, and Friend Defined

2:22 Why the Partner Role Crowds Out the Lover

4:58 A Childhood Wound That Became Her Calling

6:49 What Empty Nesters Lose When Kids Leave

9:38 Mixing Up Friend Energy and Lover Energy

10:39 Why We Hesitate to Say Sorry

11:20 The Four Steps to a Real Apology

15:40 The Black Hole That Causes Most Confusion

20:07 Surviving Family Gatherings Without a Blowup

23:53 What We Actually Want From Each Other

25:28 The Hello That Sounds Like Goodbye

28:45 How Boundaries Actually Strengthen Love

Here's where you can learn more from Rebecca. Get her free guide, 6 Steps to Better Marriage Communication: https://mcusercontent.com/4cf37118f97d708517b01dc3d/files/936bb894-d4c0-4ed7-2cdd-17843ccf7210/6_Steps_to_Better_Marriage_Communication_Additional_Resources.pdf

Book 6 steps to better Marriage Communication by REbecca S. Mullen https://amzn.to/4vxIi9C (affiliate link)

Listen to her podcast, Habits for Your Happily Ever After: https://rebeccamullencoaching.com/podcast/

Watch her TEDx Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/rebecca_mullen_the_vegetarian_the_hunter_creating_peace_at_the_dinner_table

Join her newsletter: https://rebeccamullencoaching.com/mailing-list/

Her website: https://rebeccamullencoaching.com

Want to be a guest on The Loud Quiet - Empty Nest Living?Send Rick and Clancy Denton a message on PodMatch:

https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/theloudquiethost

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests and should not be taken as legal, financial, or professional advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney, financial advisor, or other professional regarding your specific situation. The opinions expressed by guests are solely theirs and do not necessarily represent the views or positions of the host(s).