The Relationship Pod

In this episode of The Relationship Pod, I sit down with art therapist Annie Rees to explore how creativity can be a powerful path to healing trauma. Annie shares her journey from a high-pressure fitness lifestyle to a health crisis that woke her up to the importance of listening to her body. Through body painting, abstract art, and nervous system-informed practices, she found deep healing—and now helps other women do the same. We talk about how art therapy supports nervous system regulation, especially for those who struggle with traditional mindfulness tools. Annie breaks down the neuroscience behind practices like the bilateral butterfly exercise and offers practical tools anyone can try—whether you're dealing with perfectionism, dissociation, or just want to reconnect with your body. You’ll learn simple, accessible ways to ground yourself through play, nature, and creative expression—even if you don’t have a therapist or partner to co-regulate with. This episode is full of wisdom for anyone healing from trauma or looking for new ways to connect with themselves. 🎨 Topics we cover: → Annie’s personal healing journey through art → How body painting and play can help with trauma and dissociation → The science behind creative regulation tools like bilateral drawing → What to do when perfectionism or shame blocks your creativity → At-home exercises for grounding, connection, and nervous system balance → Why co-regulation is so powerful during healing This conversation is a reminder that healing doesn’t have to be quiet or still—it can be messy, playful, colorful, and deeply creative.

In this episode, I sat down with executive communication coach Shako Lokman, and wow - this conversation was transformational. Shako opened up about his personal journey from feeling socially anxious and awkward to becoming a grounded, charismatic leader. What struck me most was his message that confidence isn’t something you’re born with - it’s something you build through inner work, presence, and self-acceptance. We talked about: → The real difference between presence and energy (and how they create charisma) → Why trying to “perform” confidence backfires → How self-esteem impacts the way we communicate → The role of inner child work, emotional surrender, and healing old beliefs → Why working with a mentor accelerates true transformation Shako doesn’t teach quick fixes - he teaches how to become deeply aligned with your most authentic self so you can lead, speak, and connect with ease. Whether you’re navigating leadership, relationships, or self-worth, this episode offers powerful insights you can apply today.

Is it really a red flag… or just human? In this episode of The Relationship Pod, I sit down with our in-house psychotherapist, Reshma, to unpack what’s gone wrong with how we use the term 'red flag' in today’s dating culture. We explore how trauma, attachment styles, and fast-paced social media trends have transformed this once-useful concept into something that can actually block intimacy. Together, we get into: 🚩 How “red flag” culture has shifted from protection to perfectionism 🧠 Why our nervous systems and trauma responses can distort what we see in others ⏳ The pressure to judge fast—and how it’s keeping us disconnected 💬 The real markers of healthy connection: empathy, boundaries, and repair ❤️ Why building trust means unpacking our baggage together, not avoiding it entirely This conversation is honest, deep, and filled with nuance, because real relationships are nuanced. If you’re feeling burnt out by dating, stuck in loneliness, or overwhelmed by what’s “okay” and what’s not… this episode is for you.

In this episode of The Relationship Pod, I’m joined by Charlotte Stebbing-Mills—well-being specialist and co-founder of The Wellness Theory - for a powerful conversation on how burnout affects our relationships.Charlotte opens up about her own journey through severe burnout and the toll it took on her relationship. We break down the stages of burnout, explore the six core psychological needs driving our behavior, and talk about why we often (unknowingly) outsource those needs to others.You'll learn practical tools to regulate your nervous system, communicate your needs without shame, and set healthy boundaries—without falling into codependency. If you or someone you love is navigating burnout, this episode is packed with insight to help you reconnect and reset.Follow Charlotte on Instagram @wellnesstheory or visit thewellnesstheory.com for more resources.

Welcome to The Relationship Pod! In this Q&A episode, I answer your questions about narcissistic behavior, building healthy relationships despite insecurities, and effective self-love routines.I cover narcissistic traits and boundary-setting, why insecure people CAN create healthy relationships, my three-component self-love framework, and when to leave versus work on a relationship.Expect actionable insights and compassionate advice for healing patterns, setting boundaries, and building inner security.

You were never "too much." You were just never met with enough.This space is for the tender-hearted. For the ones learning to hold themselves with the love they’ve always given so freely.For the ones ready to break old cycles — gently, intentionally.Each episode is an offering — words that name your experience, tools that meet you where you are, and truth that softens shame and strengthens your sense of self.Follow along on Instagram @iamsarahboutros — where I share daily guidance, heart-led reflections, and reminders that you’re not alone in this.You're not broken. You're becoming.

Meet Reshma, our new trauma-informed psychotherapist joining The SECURE Method team! In this heartfelt conversation, Reshma shares her journey from feeling "less than" across multiple cultures to finding her authentic self through person-centered therapy. We explore how being truly seen without judgment transforms lives, why the therapist-client relationship is crucial for growth, and Reshma's approach to breaking people-pleasing patterns. Discover powerful client transformation stories and why healing isn't linear. If you're struggling with boundaries or searching for someone who can genuinely hold space for your journey, this episode offers insight, grounding, and hope. Connect with Reshma on Instagram @reshmasecuremethod!

In this episode, I’m joined by heartbreak expert Keegan from @girlgoatcoaching for a deep and powerful conversation on how to move through heartbreak and transform pain into personal power.Keegan opens up about her own healing journey—from childhood abandonment to relationship patterns rooted in self-abandonment—and shares how taking responsibility for your healing (without self-blame) can become one of your greatest sources of strength.We explore: → Why closure is something we give ourselves → The myth of needing to “get over” someone to move forward → How somatic healing supports emotional recovery → Rebuilding trust in yourself before trusting others → Finding proof that love is still possible - even after deep lossIf you’re in the middle of heartbreak or feeling like love may never feel safe again, this episode is a warm, honest reminder that healing is possible - and you’re not alone in it.🤍 Follow Keegan on Instagram @girlgoatcoaching for more tools on healing heartbreak and reconnecting with your body.

In this episode of The Relationship Pod, I sit down with Lindsay Matthews, a tech and brain health expert, to dive into the intricate world of modern relationships. Together, we explore how dating apps, social media, and the culture of instant gratification shape our connections and influence our mental health.Highlights Include:The impact of dating apps on today’s relationshipsHow instant gratification culture affects our love livesThe science behind dopamine and its role in attractionSocial media’s role in shaping our connectionsPractical advice for navigating the complexities of modern datingJoin us for a thoughtful conversation packed with psychological insights and practical tips to help you build meaningful connections in a digital world.

Hey everyone! In this episode of The Relationship Pod I'm joined by my amazing client Victoria who's been working with me on overcoming low self worth and breaking through self sabotaging relationship patterns. Victoria opens up about her incredible transformation—from feeling like a total mess to finally embracing genuine happiness. We’ll discuss the power of being real on social media, how compatibility beats trying to change someone, and the art of spotting red flags before you get too deep.Want to know how to ditch the unhealthy dynamics and make space for real connections? We’ve got you covered! 💪🏼✨Here’s what you can expect:00:00 Intro01:15 Authenticity: Why it matters on social media and in life03:45 We’re all a mess sometimes—let’s get real about it!05:30 Compatibility over trying to fix someone else08:00 Spotting red flags early in dating—don’t get blindsided!10:15 Consistency matters—actions speak louder than words12:00 Embracing vulnerability: It’s not as scary as you think14:30 Saying goodbye to unhealthy relationships16:00 Final thoughts and key takeaways

Welcome back to another episode of The Relationship Pod! I’m your host, Sarah Boutros, and today, I'm diving deep into a solo episode where I get real and vulnerable about a topic that many can relate to: emotional shutdowns in our relationships during tough moments.In this episode, we’ll explore:My childhood experiences with conflict and their lasting impactTips for improving communication and speaking up effectivelyThe importance of giving yourself space to process emotionsStrategies for sharing your feelings with your partner without causing panicEmbracing vulnerability by getting comfortable with being wrongIf you’ve ever felt the urge to clam up when things heat up in your relationship, this episode is packed with practical tips and insights to help you navigate those moments with more grace and openness.I hope you found some valuable insights and strategies to help navigate emotional shutdowns in your relationships. Remember, it's all about progress, not perfection. We’re on this journey together, and every step toward better communication is a win.Stay tuned for more discussions on fostering healthy connections in our next episode. 🙂

Welcome to another enlightening episode of The Relationship Pod! I'm Sarah Boutros, and today I’m flying solo to dive deep into the concept of self worth and the journey to building confidence and security in oneself. Having worked on my self worth since I was 17, I’m excited to share my personal experiences and insights with you.In this episode, I cover:- What it means to feel worthy- Recognizing signs of low self worth- My SSA Framework: Self Respect, Self Compassion, and Taking Action- Practical steps to improve your self worth and break free from negative patternsThrough candid storytelling and practical advice, I aim to help anyone struggling with feelings of inadequacy to build a more confident and fulfilled life. I'll guide you on how to respect yourself, show self compassion, and take meaningful actions towards self-improvement.Join me to discover actionable strategies that can kickstart your journey towards a healthier relationship with yourself. And don’t forget to check out my Healthy Relationships 101 course—it’s packed with everything you need to transform your self worth and relationships.

Welcome back to The Relationship Pod! 🤍 In this episode, my partner Nathan, a fitness guru, and I dive into a juicy topic: how having sex early on can impact your dating and relationships.🗣 What we chat about:Nathan's journey from seeing sex as a trophy to appreciating the benefits of waiting.The influence of social norms and the lack of proper education on men's early views about sex.Why holding off on physical intimacy might be the secret to better dating experiences.The different ways men and women view potential partners – and what that means for relationships.How avoiding assumptions and taking your time can help you really get to know someone.Tips for self-reflection and switching up your dating game to build healthier connections.Social media and dating apps: Are they making relationships more complicated?The importance of consistency, communication, and being the person you want to date.We drop serious wisdom with practical advice for navigating the dating world. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to better your relationship game, these insights can help you create more meaningful and lasting connections.

Join The Wellness Theory for an insightful episode as Charlotte interviews me, Sarah Boutros—a relationship writer, podcast host, and founder of Co Rising, an inspiring Dubai-based community for women focused on fostering meaningful relationships. In this episode, I share my powerful journey of overcoming dysfunctional family dynamics, battling suppressed emotions, an eating disorder, and depression. Through personal growth and self-love, I created Co Rising to help others connect authentically and explore meaningful relationships.You'll learn about the influence of childhood and family dynamics on relationships, how internal work transforms external relationships, and the impact of social media on self-perception and relationships. I'll also discuss techniques for building self-awareness, self-confidence, and positive self-talk, emphasizing the importance of safe spaces for emotional expression and support. Additionally, I'll highlight how mutual appreciation, ongoing effort, and vulnerability are essential for successful relationships.Charlotte and I dive deep into our own experiences, discussing the need for trust and the importance of self-growth before depending on relationships to fulfill personal needs. We explore practical strategies such as journaling, seeking feedback, and practicing self-compassion. Key topics include the dynamics of building healthy relationships, internal versus external focus for personal growth, social media's role in relationship dynamics, and the power of mutual appreciation and ongoing effort. Tune in for an episode filled with heartfelt stories and valuable insights on creating and maintaining healthy, meaningful relationships.

In this episode, I delve into personal anecdotes and lessons learned about creating lasting safety in relationships. Topics include overcoming people-pleasing tendencies, setting healthy boundaries, expressing needs and feelings, and understanding the crucial importance of valuing oneself.A key takeaway is understanding the root cause of our behaviors in relationships and addressing these underlying issues. By gaining insight into these patterns, we can develop a healthier relationship with ourselves. Self-awareness and self-love form the foundation for creating secure, meaningful connections, and I share how embracing these concepts transformed my approach to relationships.We also explore embracing the discomfort of vulnerability as a pathway to deeper, authentic connections, requiring courage and practice. Additionally, I discuss the importance of self-regulation and practicing grace, offering tips on managing emotions and responding with kindness, which enhances relationship quality.Lastly, we discuss the significance of recognizing that true safety in relationships comes from being valued for one's authentic self. This understanding shifts how we interact with partners and fosters a deeper sense of security and fulfillment.Through therapy, self-reflection, and consistent practice, I've found ways to navigate the challenges of shifting from an unsafe pattern to one of genuine connection and safety. Tune in to gain insights and practical strategies for building and maintaining long-term safety in your relationships.

In this episode, my boyfriend Nathan and I delve deep into the complexities of love and relationships, sharing personal insights and advice we wish we could tell our younger selves. Tune in for a heartfelt and candid discussion filled with wisdom and realizations.We explore how our understanding of love has evolved from our early twenties to the present day. We discuss the impact of family upbringing on our love and relationship expectations, shedding light on how these early influences shaped our perspectives and choices.We also emphasize the importance of developing self-awareness and personal growth for healthier relationships. By reflecting on our past experiences, we highlight the shift from chasing excitement to seeking stable, respectful partnerships, illustrating how maturity and self-discovery have transformed our approach to love.Practical relationship advice is offered, underscoring the significance of time, consistency, and communication. Our conversation aims to provide valuable insights and guidance for listeners at any stage of their relationship journey, encouraging a deeper understanding of love and partnership.Join us for an episode filled with honest reflections and meaningful advice that we wish we had known earlier.

Join me, Sarah Boutros, along with my boyfriend Nathan, in a thought-provoking conversation about the importance of independence in a healthy relationship in this episode titled "Independence." In our discussion, we’ll delve into the delicate balance between togetherness and individuality, exploring why maintaining this equilibrium is crucial for a dynamic partnership.Discover how excessive togetherness can hinder unique experiences and conversations, and examine the pitfalls of becoming too insular, which often leads to resentment. Together, Nathan and I will identify signs of codependency and emphasize the necessity of personal space and engaging in individual activities to foster healthier relationship dynamics.Moreover, I'll share practical tactics for reintroducing independence into relationships without sparking blame or conflict. Throughout our conversation, we’ll navigate the nuances of maintaining healthy independence while avoiding excessive detachment from your partner, offering actionable strategies to navigate these complexities.Join us for an enriching discussion filled with insights into fostering a balanced and thriving relationship.

Welcome to "My Story" with me, Sarah Boutros. Here, I invite you to join me on a journey where personal narratives unfold into profound lessons of growth and resilience. As a relationship coach with years of experience, I'm here to share my own transformative journey, offering you an intimate glimpse into the pivotal moments that have shaped both my life and career.In each episode, I delve fearlessly into the intricacies of relationships, self-discovery, and overcoming obstacles. Drawing from my own experiences of triumph and trial, I aim to inspire and empower you on your own unique path. Whether it's navigating heartbreak or cultivating inner strength, my authentic storytelling and expert insights offer invaluable guidance for anyone seeking to embrace change and foster deeper connections.Together, let's embark on a journey of reflection, revelation, and empowerment. Join me as I share my story and extend an invitation for you to embark on your own transformative quest. Tune in to "My Story" and let's uncover the power of resilience, authenticity, and the unwavering belief in our capacity for growth.