Relating vs. Being Right — Understanding Their Map
Why do so many conversations with people we care about spiral into arguments? Often it’s because we’re focused on being right instead of relating.In this episode of Couples in Focus, I unpack the difference between proving your point and stepping into someone else’s “map” — their inner world of experiences, feelings, and beliefs. You’ll hear real-life examples of how shifting from defensiveness to curiosity can transform conflicts into moments of connection, whether with a partner, friend, coworker, or family member.We’ll explore why relating builds trust and emotional safety, and I’ll share practical tools you can use to pause, listen, and connect without losing yourself in the process.For more on relationships and therapy, visit coupletherapy.earth.
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18:55
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18:55
The Curiosity Factor in Communication
SummaryIn this conversation, Michael Preston discusses the importance of giving partners the benefit of the doubt in relationships. He emphasises how this shift in perspective can transform negative interactions into positive ones by fostering curiosity and understanding. Instead of reacting defensively to perceived slights, partners can approach each other with empathy and a desire to understand the other's experiences, leading to healthier communication and conflict resolution.TakeawaysGiving your partner the benefit of the doubt can change dynamics.Curiosity can replace defensiveness in relationships.Understanding your partner's day can foster empathy.Transforming negative cycles into positive interactions is crucial.Effective communication is rooted in emotional intelligence.Empathy leads to better conflict resolution.Positive interactions can enhance personal growth.Relationships thrive on understanding and curiosity.Recognising triggers can help manage responses.Healthy partnerships require ongoing effort and understanding.Learn more by visiting my websites and the new online program.
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25:42
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25:42
Why Modern Mental Health Gets It Wrong — And How to Find Our Way Back
Modern mental health often promises quick fixes — usually in the form of medication. While antidepressants can help, they rarely touch the deeper roots of why so many of us are struggling.In this episode of Couples in Focus, I take a step back and ask: what if the crisis isn’t just chemical, but human? We’ll explore the four foundations of good mental health — nature, movement, social connection & meaning, and touch — and how losing these has left us unbalanced. I’ll also share the metaphor of the inner compass, showing how our thoughts, emotions, and body sensations can guide us back when we feel lost.If you’re tired of surface-level solutions and want to reconnect with the deeper foundations of well-being, this episode is for you. Learn more at coupletherapy.earth.
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28:01
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28:01
Why Love Was a Lie — The Truth About Real Love
We’ve been sold a lie about love. Movies, books, and social media tell us it’s all about sparks, passion, and intensity — but that isn’t real love.In this episode of Couples in Focus, I delve into the truth about lasting love: why it feels calm rather than chaotic, why it develops gradually over time, and how attachment theory reveals what a genuine connection is built upon. You’ll hear stories that highlight the difference between intensity that fizzles out and the kind of steady, safe love that lasts.If you’re ready to rethink what love really means and how to build it, tune in — and learn more about relationships and therapy at coupletherapy.earth.
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25:26
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25:26
Finding Your Way Back — The Inner Compass of Mental Health
Why do we so often feel lost in our mental health journey? In this episode of Couples in Focus, I introduce the metaphor of the inner compass — the signals of our thoughts, emotions, and body sensations that point us toward balance or warn us when we’re drifting off course.Through real stories, we’ll explore how ignoring small signals, such as tension, rumination, or sadness, only makes them grow louder, and how learning to listen helps us make small course corrections before they become crises. You’ll discover practical tools for reorienting yourself to your inner compass, allowing you to find steadiness and clarity in everyday life.For more on therapy and emotional well-being, visit coupletherapy.earth
Couples in Focus is a podcast for anyone wanting to improve their relationships. Hosted by Thomas and Michael, two relationship therapists from https://coupletherapy.earth/ and thesecurecouple.com, it offers expert insights, real-world advice, and answers to audience questions. They cover communication, intimacy, trust, and conflict, providing actionable tools and compassionate guidance. Each episode explores relatable challenges and offers practical strategies to help couples strengthen their connection and thrive in their relationships.
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