The Communicate & Connect Podcast for Military Relationships

We all tell ourselves stories — about our partners, our relationships, and even about who we are. But what happens when those stories start to hurt our connection instead of helping it? In this episode, I sit down with Lindsey Carnick to talk about something that shapes every relationship — the stories we tell ourselves. As humans, we are meaning-making creatures. Our brains are constantly trying to connect dots, fill in blanks, and make sense of what's happening around us — especially in our closest relationships. But sometimes, the stories we tell ourselves aren't accurate, and they can quietly erode trust, intimacy, and emotional safety. Lindsey and I explore how these stories form, how they impact our reactions, and what we can do to change them. We also talk about what it really means to slow down, respond with intention, and remember that you and your partner are on the same team. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why our brains are "meaning-making machines" and how that affects relationships How assumptions and quick judgments can fuel conflict The difference between reactions and responses — and why slowing down matters How to recognize your body's early warning signs of escalation Tools like the RLT Timeout to create space and safety during conflict The power of clear communication: setting your partner up for success Why remembering you're on the same team can transform your perspective If you've ever found yourself overthinking, assuming, or feeling misunderstood, this conversation will help you slow down, get curious, and reconnect with what's actually true. >>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.  You can sign up for Elizabeth's FREE 10-week relationship email course here.  Read the show notes for this episode here. 

Being married to an entrepreneur, especially within the unique context of military life, comes with a distinct set of challenges and rewards. How do you balance supporting your partner's dream while pursuing your own? What happens when household roles need to shift, and how do you navigate the difficult conversations about finances, time, and personal identity? In this episode "Married to an Entrepreneur? 5 Relationship Survival Hacks You Need to Know", Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky sits down with Heather Jones, a life coach for military spouse entrepreneurs, to have an honest conversation about the realities of being married to an entrepreneur. Heather shares her personal journey of transitioning from a military career and government work to becoming a stay-at-home mom and, eventually, a business owner.  Together, they explore the emotional hurdles, the internal battles with guilt and independence, and the practical strategies needed to make both the business and the relationship thrive. >>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.  You can sign up for Elizabeth's FREE 10-week relationship email course here.  Read the show notes for this episode here. 

Sibling rivalry is one of the most common challenges parents face, but did you know it can also be an opportunity for growth? In this episode, parenting coach DJ Stutz shares practical strategies on how to deal with sibling rivalry while fostering lifelong skills in your children. From creating weekly family meetings to teaching negotiation through playful roleplay, DJ explains how small, intentional actions can transform sibling conflict into valuable lessons in communication, boundaries, and empathy. She also reveals why giving children ownership over certain belongings, offering one-on-one time, and modeling healthy relationships can significantly reduce tension at home. Whether you're dealing with constant bickering, managing strong personalities, or simply want to encourage a healthier sibling bond, this episode offers actionable tips you can start using today. >>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.  You can sign up for Elizabeth's FREE 10-week relationship email course here.  Read the show notes for this episode here. 

What if the secret to a successful marriage wasn't about being perfect… but about learning to love each other through the mess, the distance, and the fear? If you're a military spouse or in any kind of long-distance or high-stress relationship, you know it's not always easy. The deployments, the uncertainties, the constant adapting. And yet, somehow, we still long for connection, for belonging, for a love that lasts. In this episode, I sit down with Tina Erwin, a retired Naval Commander, Navy wife, and mother, who's been married for over 50 years. Through real stories and raw reflections, she shares the secrets to a successful marriage especially when life pulls you in different directions. From navigating fear when your spouse is in danger, to reclaiming your identity in the chaos of military life, Tina offers more than advice. She offers hope, humor, and hard-won truth. Whether you're just starting your military marriage, deep in the trenches, or wondering how to hold it all together… This conversation is your gentle reminder that the secrets to a successful marriage are rooted in love, faith, communication and the courage to grow together. >>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.  You can sign up for Elizabeth's FREE 10-week relationship email course here.  Read the show notes for this episode here. 

If anxiety is keeping you up at night, you're not alone. And you don't have to settle for sleepless, anxious nights. In this episode, we're talking about exactly how to sleep better with anxiety, especially when stress, trauma, or PTSD are in the picture. Dr. Elizabeth is joined by Savannah Hipes, LCSW, DBSM, a sleep and anxiety specialist who works with high-achieving, sleep-deprived professionals to help them finally get the rest they've been missing. Together, they explore why anxiety impacts sleep, how it affects relationships, and what you can do, starting tonight to get real, restorative rest. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone who's ever tossed and turned at night, woken up with their heart racing, or felt like anxiety was controlling their nights (and stealing their days). >>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.  You can sign up for Elizabeth's FREE 10-week relationship email course here.  Read the show notes for this episode here. 

In this episode of the Communicate and Connect Podcast, Liz talks with relationship coach Lauren Dry about the freeze response and how it shows up in communication, connection, and conflict. The freeze response is one of the most misunderstood nervous system reactions, especially in relationships. It can look like emotional shutdown, disconnection, or indifference but it's actually a survival mechanism. Lauren explains why the freeze response happens, how it affects both partners, and what you can do to move from disconnection to reconnection. In this episode, you'll learn: What the freeze response looks like in relationships How unconscious programming and attachment styles affect your reactions Why high-achieving people often experience freeze in their personal lives Simple somatic tools to help regulate your nervous system in the moment How to set connected boundaries that build safety instead of walls If you or your partner tend to shut down during conflict or feel emotionally frozen, this episode will give you practical tools and new insight to create a stronger, more connected relationship. >>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.  You can sign up for Elizabeth's FREE 10-week relationship email course here.  Read the show notes for this episode here. 

Welcome to this episode of The Communicate & Connect Podcast, where we tackle the ever-relevant topic of how to deal with different parenting styles. In today's conversation, host Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky is joined by Adam Angel, a specialist in supporting new dads and an advocate for thoughtful, collaborative parenting approaches. This episode is particularly significant for military families, who often face unique challenges and transitions. Adam begins by sharing his personal journey into fatherhood during the pandemic, which led to his development of a supportive group for new dads. Throughout the discussion, Adam and Dr. Polinsky explore the factors that contribute to varying parenting styles, including cultural backgrounds, childhood experiences, and personal values. They emphasize the importance of understanding child development stages and how this knowledge can bridge gaps between differing parenting philosophies. Together, they provide actionable advice on leveraging common goals to unite parenting efforts, such as focusing on long-term outcomes like resilience, empathy, and independence in children. The conversation centers around enhancing the parent-child relationship while navigating conflicts that often arise from different views on parenting. Adam shares valuable insights into the necessity of open communication between co-parents, encouraging listeners to engage in constructive dialogues that can lead to mutual compromise and understanding. In a society where parenting can be an isolated endeavor, Adam advocates for the importance of maintaining a supportive network, which can greatly enrich the parenting experience. This episode is a must-listen for parents looking to improve their relationship dynamics and discover effective strategies for dealing with different parenting styles. Whether you're part of a military family or simply navigating the daily challenges of parenting, tune in to learn how to enhance communication and connection in your family life while successfully dealing with differing parenting styles.   >>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.  You can sign up for Elizabeth's FREE 10-week relationship email course here.  Read the show notes for this episode here. 

In this episode of The Communicate & Connect Podcast, host Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky welcomes intimacy expert Chloe Mascord to the show, where they dive deep into the intricacies of nurturing intimacy within relationships, with a special focus on the unique dynamics faced by military couples. Chloe, renowned for her expertise in the field, discusses the common challenges and misconceptions surrounding intimacy, emphasizing the crucial distinction between intimacy and sex and the need for emotional closeness for a fulfilling intimate life. Throughout the episode, Chloe offers a wealth of practical tips and strategies to help couples reignite the spark in their relationships, even when faced with hectic schedules and stress. They explore the impact of individual and external factors like stress and body image on intimacy and offer insights into building a positive, connected partnership. Chloe also highlights the power of mindful communication and the transformative effects of simple habits, such as scheduled quality time and thoughtful gestures, in fostering deeper connections. Listeners will gain valuable advice on strengthening their relationships, ensuring intimacy is not only maintained but thrives amidst life's challenges. Whether you're a military couple navigating deployment separations or simply looking to enhance your relationship, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you and your partner connect more deeply. Tune in to discover how to create a more intimate and connected relationship that withstands the test of time.   >>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.  You can sign up for Elizabeth's FREE 10-week relationship email course here.  Read the show notes for this episode here.   

Welcome to Episode 060 of The Communicate & Connect Podcast! I'm your host, Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky, and today we have an enlightening conversation with the incredible Kristal Desantis, a licensed marriage and family therapist based in Austin, Texas. In this episode, we delve into the often-overlooked dynamics of men in relationships and the societal expectations that shape their roles and behaviors. Kristal shares her insights on the shifting roles of men, particularly the challenge of being valued for performance over personhood. We'll unpack the powerful metaphor of "lipstick on a pig" to illustrate the ways we sometimes mask relationship issues, and we'll discuss the knight-in-shining-armor stereotype that many men grapple with. One of the highlights of our discussion is Kristal's book, "Strong: A Relationship Field Guide for the Modern Man," and her innovative STRONG acronym—Safety, Trust, Respect, Openness, Nurturing, and Generosity—that serves as a comprehensive guide to building resilient and loving relationships. We'll touch on practical advice for military couples, the importance of vulnerability, and the impact of societal myths on male sexual readiness and desire. You'll also learn about the fun and transformative Bonding Boot Camps that Kristal and her husband run in Texas, offering couples a chance to reconnect and build better communication skills. Plus, you'll get a sneak peek at Kristal's online courses and in-person sessions designed to strengthen relationships. So, tune in for an episode packed with valuable insights and actionable advice to help make your relationship stronger than ever. Don't forget to check the show notes for links to Kristal's book, courses, and more! >>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.  You can sign up for Elizabeth's FREE 10-week relationship email course here.  Read the show notes for this episode here. 

Welcome to Episode 59 of the Communicate & Connect Podcast! I'm your host, Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky, and today we have a deeply insightful conversation lined up with our special guest, Leigh Conant, a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in the military community. In this episode, we dive into the emotional and logistical complexities of military spouse relocation. Leigh shares her personal experience moving from a well-established community in New Orleans to Camp Lejeune in North Carolina, detailing the mix of excitement and profound grief that comes with leaving friends and cherished homes behind. We explore the hidden stresses of planning and the unique emotional burdens military spouses face during these transitions, including the phenomenon of delayed grief and somatic experiences linked to unprocessed emotions. Listen in as we discuss practical tips for managing these challenging relocations—embracing the full spectrum of complex emotions, fostering clear communication within families, and maintaining meaningful long-distance friendships. We'll also share insights on how busy lives can overshadow our emotional awareness and how embracing the richness of our experiences can bring deeper connection in relationships. Whether you're a military spouse navigating a move or anyone dealing with significant life changes, this episode is packed with valuable advice and heartfelt stories that resonate deeply. So, stay tuned, and let's embark on this journey together! >>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.  You can sign up for Elizabeth's FREE 10-week relationship email course here.  Read the show notes for this episode here. 

Welcome to The Communicate & Connect Podcast with your host, Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky. In today's episode, titled "Coping with PCS Stress with Michelle Farmer," we dive deep into the unique challenges faced by military families during Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves. Joining us is Michelle Farmer, a true expert in navigating military life, having experienced it from multiple perspectives—as an army brat, a service member, a military spouse, and a member of the reserves. Michelle and Dr. Polinsky explore a range of topics, from the complexities of communication within families and fostering open, vulnerable dialogues, to practical and emotional coping strategies during relocations. We'll discuss the importance of building a resilient family culture where difficult emotions can be addressed and understood, and share real-life experiences and tips for managing PCS stress, such as using "I" statements for couple communication, organizing essential documents, and leveraging community resources. Tune in as Michelle shares her personal stories of moving, making new friends, and the profound impact of support networks. We'll also delve into the powerful concepts of cognitive restructuring, reframing stressors, and balancing the scales between eustress and distress. Whether you're a military family or looking to improve communication and connection within your own home, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement. Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe to our podcast, and check out our free ten-week relationship email course to enhance your communication and connection skills! >>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.  You can sign up for Elizabeth's FREE 10-week relationship email course here.  Read the show notes for this episode here. 

Welcome to The Communicate & Connect Podcast! I'm your host, Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky. In today's episode, we're diving into the unique challenges and enriching experiences that come with living overseas and navigating OCONUS military life. Our special guest, Brianna Mendoza, brings her wealth of experience as a military spouse and graduate student in marriage and family therapy, specifically focusing on military therapy. Brianna will share her journey of moving to Japan post-COVID, highlighting her adventures in nature hikes, traditional onsen visits, and connecting with locals through a dog café. We'll discuss the critical importance of communication and coping mechanisms within relationships during such transitions, and how these experiences can strengthen family dynamics. Brianna also offers practical tips for military spouses, from preparation and research before the move to celebrating the unique opportunities of living abroad. We'll explore the logistical hurdles, such as housing adjustments, pet limitations, and strategic planning for overseas assignments, as well as stress management and support networks. Finally, we wrap up with reflections on personal growth and the profound impact of these experiences on relationships and family life. Stay tuned for an insightful conversation packed with valuable advice and heartwarming encouragement for those embarking on their own OCONUS journeys. Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe to our podcast, and check out our free ten-week relationship email course to enhance your communication and connection skills! >>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.  You can sign up for Elizabeth's FREE 10-week relationship email course here.  Read the show notes for this episode here. 

Welcome to The Communicate & Connect Podcast with your host, Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky. In today's episode, we're delving into the unique challenges and triumphs of military marriages with our special guests, Darrell and Veronica Williams. With an impressive 26-year marriage behind them, Darrell and Veronica share their journey from high school sweethearts to long-distance partners, offering invaluable insights into navigating military life together. Dr. Polinsky wraps up this heartfelt conversation by expressing gratitude for the wisdom and mentorship shared by the Williamses, and reminding listeners that there are helpful resources available in the show notes, including a link to Darrell and Veronica's coaching website and a free ten-week relationship email course. From the significance of clear communication and shared decision-making to building trust and balancing military and home life, this episode is packed with practical tips and inspirational stories. Darrell and Veronica emphasize viewing marriage as a commitment that transcends individual needs, rooted in faith, friendship, and mutual support. So, whether you're part of a military couple or seeking to strengthen your relationship, this episode is designed to help you thrive together. Stay tuned for a conversation filled with love, dedication, and actionable advice. And don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe to the podcast! >>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.  You can sign up for Elizabeth's FREE 10-week relationship email course here.  Read the show notes for this episode here. 

Welcome to Episode 55 of The Communicate & Connect Podcast! I'm your host, Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky, and in today's episode, we're diving deep into the complex world of attachment theory and its intertwining with domestic violence, especially within the military context. Joining us is Jef Slootmaeckers, an Emotionally Focused Trainer with ICEEFT and therapist with a profound understanding of the relational dynamics related to domestic violence. In this episode, we explore the intricate balance between emotional regulation and survival strategies, focusing on the pivotal questions of attachment: "Are you there for me?" "Am I good enough?" and "Do I belong?" Through the epsiode, Jef and Liz discuss how these questions influence military relationships through the challenging phases of deployment, homecoming, and everyday interactions. We discuss the cycle of pursuing and withdrawing that many couples experience, emphasizing the unique stressors of military life, and the critical need for boundaries and support in cases of intimate partner violence (IPV). Jef sheds light on the different forms of IPV and the attachment dramas that often escalate conflicts, stressing the importance of deshaming and understanding in therapeutic settings. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the emotional struggles of military families, the powerful impact of naming and processing emotions, and the hope for resolving conflicts through empathy and connection. Join us as we navigate these sensitive topics and aim to normalize the complexities of military life while offering resources and support for couples in need. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation with Jef Slootmaeckers on attachment, love, trauma, and resilience. Don't forget to check out our ARE quiz based on the brief accessibility, responsiveness, and engagement scale for further insights into your relationship. Let's get started! >>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.  Access the ARE: Are You There for Me? Relationship Quiz to help you understand the quality and security of your relationship Read the show notes for this episode here.

Welcome back to The Communicate & Connect Podcast, where we explore the intricate dynamics of relationships and mental well-being, especially within military families. I'm your host, Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky, and today we delve into Episode 54: "How to Deal with Separation Anxiety in Relationships." Joining us is Megan McCullough, a licensed clinical social worker and military spouse with 19 years of experience navigating the unique challenges of military life. In this episode, we'll uncover the often unspoken struggles faced by military spouses, who are expected to "suck it up" and push forward amidst frequent and abrupt separations. Megan shares her invaluable personal insights into the cultural and emotional hurdles, emphasizing the importance of validating these experiences and promoting open discussion. Together, we'll discuss the normalization of seeking therapy, the crucial role of communication, and finding effective coping mechanisms like grounding techniques and self-soothing. This conversation sheds light on the messy realities of deployment and reintegration, from dealing with internal stigma to maintaining connections within dual-income households. Whether you're part of a military family or looking to understand more about separation anxiety, this episode offers practical advice and heartfelt encouragement. So, tune in as we navigate through the complexities of separation anxiety and strengthen our ability to communicate and connect.  Don't forget to check out our ARE quiz based on the brief accessibility, responsiveness, and engagement scale for further insights into your relationship. Let's get started! >>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.  Access the ARE: Are You There for Me? Relationship Quiz to help you understand the quality and security of your relationship Read the show notes for this episode here.

Welcome to Episode 53 of The Communicate & Connect Podcast! I'm your host, Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky, and today we are diving into the fascinating world of nervous system regulation with our esteemed guest, Michelle Cantrell. Michelle is a licensed professional clinical counselor and founder of the Center for Growth and Connection, specializing in emotionally focused therapy and EMDR. In this episode, Michelle shares powerful insights on how to recognize and manage a dysregulated nervous system, highlighting the impact it has on our relationships and emotional well-being. We'll explore techniques like EMDR's resourcing, physical activities for completing the stress response cycle, and the importance of self-regulation and co-regulation in emotional experiences with partners. Michelle and I discuss practical tools, including the RULER acronym for emotional intelligence, the benefits of creative expression, and the role of art therapy in achieving emotional balance. Plus, we'll uncover the surprising power of breath work, positive social interactions, and even crying as methods to soothe and connect. Join us as we unravel the complexities of emotional regulation, offering you effective strategies to bring calm and connection into your relationships. Don't forget to check out Michelle's practice at centerforgrowthandconnection.com and take our ARE quiz based on the brief accessibility, responsiveness, and engagement scale for further insights. Let's get started!   >>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.  Access the ARE: Are You There for Me? Relationship Quiz to help you understand the quality and security of your relationship Read the show notes for this episode here.

Welcome to a very special episode of The Communicate & Connect Podcast titled "Attachment Theory and Healing from Betrayal Trauma with Kelly Bourque." Before we dive in, remember to take our ARE quiz based on the brief accessibility, responsiveness, and engagement scale to assess the attachment dynamics in your own relationships. Together with our host, Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky, marriage and family therapist Kelly Bourque dives deep into how individuals and couples can emerge stronger after experiencing profound relationship challenges. Drawing parallels between emotional healing and the strengthening of fractured bones, Kelly illuminates the journey of healing, emphasizing self-compassion and the necessity of professional help. The discussion takes a special focus on military couples navigating the turbulent waters of deployment, unveiling practical strategies for maintaining emotional closeness and preparing for transitions. We'll also explore the emotional turmoil following betrayal, the paths to recovery, and the profound importance of not facing these hardships alone. Through insightful analogies, expert advice, and Kelly's real-world experience, this episode provides a guide to understanding and overcoming betrayal trauma.   >>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.  Access the ARE: Are You There for Me? Relationship Quiz to help you understand the quality and security of your relationship Read the show notes for this episode here.

Welcome to a very special episode of The Communicate & Connect Podcast titled "Attachment Theory and Marriage with Dr. Greg Cheney." Before we dive in, remember to take our ARE quiz based on the brief accessibility, responsiveness, and engagement scale to assess the attachment dynamics in your own relationships. In this episode, Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky and Dr. Greg Cheney to dive into the fascinating world of Attachment Theory and its impact on marriage, especially within the context of military life. Dr. Cheney brings his unique perspective as a chaplain and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with extensive experience in the military, offering valuable insights into creating secure and connected relationships. Together, they explore the importance of safe haven and secure base relationships, the challenges faced by military couples, and practical strategies to strengthen emotional bonds. Join us as we unravel the complexities of attachment in relationships and discover how understanding these dynamics can lead to deeper connections and emotional well-being. >>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.  Access the ARE: Are You There for Me? Relationship Quiz to help you understand the quality and security of your relationship Read the show notes for this episode here.

Welcome to a very special episode of The Communicate & Connect Podcast titled "Attachment Parenting with Con Sheehan." Before we dive in, remember to take our ARE quiz based on the brief accessibility, responsiveness, and engagement scale to assess the attachment dynamics in your own relationships. Today, we are joined by the esteemed clinical social worker Con Sheehan, who specializes in emotionally focused therapy for families and couples. In this episode, we delve into the world of attachment parenting, exploring how parents' availability and empathetic engagement play critical roles in fostering children's security and resilience. Con provides valuable insights into how children cope with feelings of caregiver inaccessibility and how this can influence their behavior and life choices, including the risks of substance use. We also discuss specific challenges faced by military families, such as managing parental roles during deployment and the unique stresses that can impact both children and parents. To aid our understanding, Con shares examples from his practice, focusing on creating a family environment where each member's needs are understood and met. We'll emphasize the importance of repair, availability, and intentional parenting—even discussing how therapy, even short-term, can be instrumental for families. Whether you're a parent feeling the weight of responsibility or someone interested in emotional and relationship health, this episode is packed with practical advice and deep insights to help you connect more deeply with your loved ones. Join us, and let's start building stronger family bonds today! >>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.  Access the ARE: Are You There for Me? Relationship Quiz to help you understand the quality and security of your relationship Read the show notes for this episode here.

Welcome back to The Communicate & Connect Podcast with your host, Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky. Today, we continue our special series on attachment in relationships and are joined by Dr. Clare Rosoman, a Clinical Psychologist in Brisbane, Australia. She is an international trainer in Emotionally Focused Therapy and is the author of "An Emotionally Focused Guide to Relationship Loss: Life after Love," and its companion workbook, Dr. Rosoman brings compassion, expertise, and grounded advice on navigating the turbulent seas of heartbreak. Before we dive in, remember to take our ARE quiz based on the brief accessibility, responsiveness, and engagement scale to assess the attachment dynamics in your own relationships. In this episode, we'll explore the realities of divorce rates among military couples and delve into the "Goldilocks flexibility" needed to manage the delicate balance between honoring our feelings and moving forward pragmatically. Dr. Rosoman will reveal how your attachment style can be a guiding north star through the process of healing and growth after a relationship loss. Together, Dr. Rosoman and I discuss attachment theory as it relates to our need for closeness, comfort, and the inevitable impact on our emotional regulation when bonds are severed. We'll also share personal reflections on how varying attachment strategies play out in real life, particularly through the lens of military deployments. This episode isn't just about loss—it's a beacon of hope for rediscovering your capacity to thrive post-divorce, and a reminder that through understanding and grieving, we can emerge resilient and ready for deeper connections. So, let's navigate the journey of relationship loss and the transformative power of attachment theory. Whether you're grappling with the end of a relationship or seeking to understand your emotional landscape, we're here to guide you through it—with grace, empathy, and insight. >>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.  Access the ARE: Are You There for Me? Relationship Quiz to help you understand the quality and security of your relationship Read the show notes for this episode here.