42: Discovering the Transformative Power of Self-Compassion with Cheri Krause
Love Each Other Better
Self-awareness can be powerful, but without self-compassion, it can easily turn into self-criticism or shame. In this episode of Love Each Other Better, I talk with Cheri Krause, Licensed Professional Counselor, Coach, and teacher of Nonviolent Communication, and my friend and colleague of nearly twenty years. Cheri is passionate about the transformative power of self-compassion, and shares her knowledge, experience, and wisdom with us generously in this conversation. In this episode, you'll learn: What self-compassion actually is and why it’s essential alongside self-awareness A...
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41: Slow Down to Go Forward: The Missing Step in Conflict Resolution
Love Each Other Better
Are you and your partner stuck in the same arguments over and over? In this episode, which is the third in my new series called "Common Communication Patterns That Keep Couples Stuck — And How to Get Unstuck," I’ll break down how rushing to get through a conflict might feel like progress, but is ultimately unproductive and keeps you stuck and frustrated. I’ll introduce my Heart-Centered Conflict Navigation Roadmap, an NVC-based approach that guides couples through conflict in a connecting, productive, and efficient way. You’ll learn why slowing down, empathic understanding, and...
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40: They Said They’d Do It… But They Didn’t: 5 Reasons Why
Love Each Other Better
You asked your partner to do something, they said they’d do it… and they didn’t. And now you’re frustrated, wondering if your partner really cares or if you’re asking for too much. If this dynamic feels familiar, you’re not alone — and it’s not because your partner is a jerk. In most relationships, missed follow-through has far more to do with unmet needs, unclear communication, or shifting capacity than a lack of love. This episode is Part 2 of my series, Common Communication Patterns That Keep Couples Stuck — and How to Get Unstuck. Today, we explore 5 compassionate...
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39: When Talking More Doesn’t Help: Breaking the Loop of Feeling Unheard
Love Each Other Better
In this episode of Love Each Other Better, I’m kicking off a new series on the communication patterns that keep couples stuck — and how to get unstuck. We’re starting with one of the most common: when one partner talks more and more to feel heard, while the other gets overwhelmed and pulls away to find relief. It’s a loop that leaves both people feeling disconnected, even though both are trying. I’ll introduce a powerful concept from Nonviolent Communication: interrupting for the sake of connection. It’s a way to pause, reflect, and stay present without shutting each other...
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38: Love Beyond Monogamy: Author Brian G. Murphy on How to Thrive in Open Relationships
Love Each Other Better
In this special episode of Love Each Other Better, I sat down with Brian G. Murphy — author of Love Beyond Monogamy, certified relationship coach, and co-founder of the Queer Theology podcast. In this illuminating interview, Brian shares insights on navigating non-monogamy and open relationships, including: How to navigate differing desires between partners and approach the conversation about opening a relationship Handling jealousy and fostering intentional, authentic communication Why even couples who choose to stay monogamous can benefit from exploring these questions...
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37: We Are Generous by Nature: A Birthday Tribute to Marshall Rosenberg
Love Each Other Better
What if generosity isn’t something we have to teach or force — but something we’re born with? In this special episode honoring the birthday of Marshall Rosenberg, the founder of Nonviolent Communication (NVC), I share a personal story about my 5-year-old daughter — and how her spontaneous, joyful act of giving reminded me of one of Marshall’s most powerful teachings: “What I want in my life is compassion — a flow between myself and others based on a mutual giving from the heart.” We’ll explore: Why generous giving flows naturally when we feel connected and free How this...
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36: Why You're Afraid of "Getting in Trouble" with Your Partner and What to Do About it
Love Each Other Better
Ever feel like you're “in trouble” with your partner—even though you're a grown adult? That tight feeling in your chest, the urge to defend yourself, shut down, or appease… it’s more common than you think. And it’s not your fault. In this episode, we explore how growing up in a punitive culture wires us to associate conflict with danger—and how that fear shows up in our adult relationships. Using the lenses of Nonviolent Communication (NVC), Terry Real’s Adaptive Child vs. Wise Adult, and self-compassion, we look at how to shift from self-protection to connection, even when...
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35: Do I Even Matter to You? How Appreciation Heals — and How to Make It Stick
Love Each Other Better
Ever find yourself wondering, “Do I even matter to him/her/them?” despite all you do? That painful question points to a fundamental human need: to contribute, to be seen, and to know that your presence truly makes a difference. When this need goes unmet, relationships can grow distant and disheartening. In this episode, we explore why appreciation isn’t just a nice gesture — it’s essential emotional medicine that helps relationships heal and thrive. But more than that, it’s a practice you can build — a new habit of truly noticing, acknowledging, and expressing gratitude in ways...
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34: Can Debate and NVC Coexist? A Nuanced Exploration with Margot Magowan
Love Each Other Better
What happens when a seasoned debater embraces the compassionate lens of Nonviolent Communication (NVC)? In this episode, I’m joined by writer and commentator Margot Magowan, who has debated on Fox News, CNN, MSNBC, and Good Morning America—and now finds herself navigating the delicate intersection between advocacy and empathy. Margot shares her evolving journey from using sharp logic to influence others (including her daughter) to practicing deep empathic listening—and how that shift has transformed her family life. We explore what it’s been like for her to integrate NVC into...
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33: How to Listen (and Get Heard) When You're Caught in Conflict
Love Each Other Better
Do you feel unheard in your relationship—or like every conversation turns into an argument? In this episode, we’ll unpack what’s really going on when you and your partner get stuck in blame, defensiveness, or silence. You’ll learn how to truly listen (and get listened to) using the powerful tools of Nonviolent Communication (NVC). We cover: What’s really underneath most conflict Why empathy changes everything How to stop defending and start connecting Simple questions that shift the dynamic fast If you’re longing to feel more understood, emotionally safe, and connected in...
info_outlineIn this episode, I dive into a topic that's crucial for fostering peace and connection in your relationships: How to Get Your Partner to Change.
Now, I know what you're thinking – isn't trying to change your partner futile? We've all heard that the only person you can change is yourself. But let's be real: most of us find ourselves wanting our partners to change certain behaviors, especially when those behaviors impact us.
In this episode, I explore how Nonviolent Communication (NVC) can support you in navigating this delicate territory without resorting to nagging, complaining, demanding, or threatening. Drawing on examples from my own relationships and those of listeners and clients, I share practical strategies to communicate effectively and foster understanding.
In this episdoe I discuss:
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The importance of shamelessly accepting your own desires for your partner to change.
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How to identify and articulate your feelings and needs surrounding your partner's behavior.
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Approaching the conversation with curiosity rather than criticism.
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Understanding your partner's perspective and the needs driving their behavior.
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The power of connection and empathy in facilitating meaningful change.
Join me as I explore how to shift from adversaries to allies in the journey toward growth and connection in your relationship.
Resources
~Want individualized support with your unique relationship? I've got you. Schedule a free 30-minute call to get a customized plan for how to get your relationship from where it is to where you want it to be. Book your free call at www.calendly.com/alimillercoaching/30
~Get your free lists of feelings and needs at www.alimillercoaching.com/feelingsandneeds
~Email your thoughts and ideas to ali@alimillercoaching.com or DM me on Instagram @alimillercoaching. I'm here to support you in creating the loving, fulfilling relationship you desire.