Optimal Relationships Daily - Dating, Marriage and Parenting

2924 Episodes

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2922: How to Support People In Emotional Pain by Rachel Shanken of Mind Body Wise on Emotional Support

2026-03-0210:39

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2922: Rachel Shanken shares compassionate, practical guidance on how to truly support someone in emotional pain, without minimizing, fixing, or dismissing their experience. Drawing inspiration from Megan Devine's work at Refuge in Grief, she offers powerful language shifts that replace common but harmful phrases with words rooted in empathy and presence. This piece helps you become a steadier, more supportive friend or partner by teaching you how to "be with" someone in their hardest moments. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://mindbodywise.com/blog/how-to-support/ Quotes to ponder: "Silence really is golden." "Healing takes time. Everyone heals at his/her own pace. I hope you feel better soon." "Don't try to fix and don't "do"…instead "be with.""

2921: Why We Don't Tell People About Our Dreams by Margo Aaron of That Seems Important on Protecting Goals

2026-03-0106:47

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2921: Margo Aaron explores the surprising shame that keeps us from sharing our dreams, revealing that it's not ridicule we fear most, but accountability. Through stories from her time in a psychiatric clinic and conversations with hundreds of adults, she uncovers how secrecy protects us from being "on the hook." Listen to discover why vulnerability, community, and gentle accountability are essential to bringing our dreams to life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.thatseemsimportant.com/psychology/why-we-dont-tell-people-about-our-dreams/ Quotes to ponder: "With a stranger, you can release the tension of your secret without any accountability." "We carry our dreams in secret. Hold them tight to our chest. And tell no one." "Sharing our dreams carries shame. Shame about the content of the dream. Shame about possessing the dream. Shame about our inability to fulfill, begin, or finish the dream." Episode references: Eat Pray Love: https://www.amazon.com/Eat-Pray-Love-Elizabeth-Gilbert/dp/0143038419

2920: Diet Culture: How the Diet Industry is Hurting Moms by Crystal Karges on Diet Culture Impact

2026-03-0107:59

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2920: Crystal Karges exposes how diet culture preys on mothers' vulnerabilities, especially during the fragile postpartum season, selling weight loss as a false solution to deeper fears of rejection and inadequacy. She challenges the harmful "bounce-back" narrative and unrealistic body standards, calling women to reclaim motherhood with compassion and body trust. This powerful reflection invites mothers to resist diet culture and embrace the miraculous strength and wisdom of their bodies. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.crystalkarges.com/blog/killing-us-softly-how-diet-culture-is-sabotaging-motherhood Quotes to ponder: "Giving birth and being born brings us into the essence of creation, where the human spirit is courageous and bold and the body, a miracle of wisdom." "Research has shown that women's body satisfaction worsens from 1 to 9 months postpartum, with negative body image being directly correlated with poor mental health and abnormal eating behaviors." "When everything we see has been photoshopped or altered in some form or fashion, we are brainwashed to believe that our bodies should look like the unicorn that doesn't exist."

2919: [Part 2] 7 Easy Ways to Be a Better Mom (Real Advice From Full-Time Moms) by Maggie Towne with Get Your Gusto Back

2026-02-2811:17

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2919: Maggie Towne shares heartfelt, practical guidance to help moms grow in confidence, release guilt, and embrace grace in everyday motherhood. From learning self-love and letting go of toxic comparisons to prioritizing alone-time and meaningful connection, her advice encourages moms to care for themselves so they can show up more fully for their children. It's a refreshing reminder that becoming a better mom starts with becoming a healthier, happier you. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.getyourgustoback.com/how-to-be-a-better-mom/ Quotes to ponder: "Comparisons don't help anyone. You know your child's needs." "You aren't perfect! So stop trying to be." "The way to become the best mom that you can be… is to become the best person that you can be."

2918: [Part 1] 7 Easy Ways to Be a Better Mom (Real Advice From Full-Time Moms) by Maggie Towne with Get Your Gusto Back

2026-02-2709:51

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2918: Maggie Towne challenges overwhelmed mothers to release the pressure of perfection and embrace the power of simply being good and consistent. She shares practical, realistic self-care habits that restore energy, confidence, and emotional balance, helping mothers show up more present and refreshed for their families. If guilt and exhaustion have been constant companions, this guidance offers a hopeful and sustainable reset. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.getyourgustoback.com/how-to-be-a-better-mom/ Quotes to ponder: "You don't need to be a perfect mom. You don't need to be a better mom than other moms. And you don't need to prove anything to anyone." "Your only goal now is to be a good mom as consistently as you can. Love your child. Feed your child." "Taking care of yourself will give you a "full cup", which will help you fill your child's cup." Episode references: Obé Fitness: https://obefitness.com/ NEOU Fitness: https://neoufitness.com/ Beachbody On Demand (BODi): https://www.bodi.com/

2917: How to Help Your Child Succeed in School by Adina Soclof on Academic Support

2026-02-2608:48

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2917: Adina Soclof explains that a child's academic success begins with a parent's mindset, not pressure or control. By offering unconditional love, encouraging responsibility, praising effort over intelligence, and responding calmly to setbacks, parents can build resilience and true motivation. This guidance empowers you to support your child in a way that strengthens both their confidence and long-term success. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://parentingsimply.com/how-to-help-your-child-succeed-in-school/ Quotes to ponder: "If their child succeeds than they have succeeded. If their child fails they think they have failed as parents." "If you respond in frustration to your child's less than perfect schoolwork, you actually decrease your child's motivation to learn." "Avoid telling children " You are so smart! You are the brightest kid I know!" Instead make sure to praise them for working hard and for persevering at a difficult task."

2916: Who Are Your Friends? by James Altucher on Meaningful Connections

2026-02-2509:54

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2916: James Altucher redefines friendship in a deeply personal reflection on connection, growth, and intentional relationships. He explores how friends, whether online, distant, or even authors and creators, should inspire, challenge, and uplift us rather than drain our energy. His perspective invites you to reconsider who you allow into your life and how consciously choosing your influences can transform your daily experience. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://jamesaltucher.com/blog/who-are-your-friends/ Quotes to ponder: "Everyone I interact with will have the qualities of a friend." "Friends teach me new things. They challenge my beliefs in a constructive way." "First off, I only want friends that inspire me and lift me up." Episode references: The Things They Carried by Tim O'Brien: https://www.amazon.com/Things-They-Carried-Tim-OBrien/dp/0618706410

2915: Want a Better Relationship? Work on Collaborative Communication by Dr. Lisa Firestone of PsychAlive on Mutual Understanding

2026-02-2409:19

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2915: Dr. Lisa Firestone explores how collaborative communication can transform romantic relationships by fostering empathy, shared understanding, and emotional safety. She breaks down practical tools, like attuned listening, separating past triggers from present conflicts, and repairing after ruptures, that help couples feel truly known and supported. Learning to communicate with vulnerability and calm creates a stronger, more resilient bond built on trust and teamwork. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.psychalive.org/want-a-better-relationship-work-on-collaborative-communication/ Quotes to ponder: "Collaborative communication does not just refer to the words that come out of our mouths. Rather, it encompasses all the intricate ways we communicate through tone, expression, body signals, etc." "Communicating collaboratively means taking actions that draw our partner out and trying to understand an interaction from their perspective." "Our communication will always (and pretty much only) go more smoothly when we learn tools to calm down within ourselves."

2914: Communication Methods by Colin Wright of Exile Lifestyle on Effective Communication

2026-02-2308:44

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2914: Colin Wright explains that good communication isn't a solo skill, it depends on mutual buy-in and a willingness to factor in the other person's priorities and perceptions. By calmly surfacing uncomfortable topics, asking how someone prefers to connect, and adjusting your approach without self-erasure, you can untangle crossed wires and make tough conversations far more workable. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://exilelifestyle.com/communication-methods/ Quotes to ponder: "Successful communication is a multi-person effort." "It's important to remember that there will be situations in which someone else's needs simply won't line up with yours, and in those cases it's okay to shuffle the larger deck, rather than focusing on your own hand, as I previously mentioned." "A coworker may misread your jokey familiarity as a lack of respect, rather than as cordial friendliness."

2913: 7 Assumptions We Need to Stop Making About Other People by Marc Chernoff of MarcAndAngel on Avoiding Misjudgment

2026-02-2210:54

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2913: Marc Chernoff reminds us that our snap-judgments are often stories we invent, and that a smile can hide pain we'll never see. By dropping seven common assumptions about others and practicing empathy when people offend us, you'll communicate with more compassion, take less personally, and make choices that help you grow. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.marcandangel.com/2019/12/03/7-assumptions-we-need-to-stop-making-about-other-people/ Quotes to ponder: "Just because someone isn't on your road, doesn't mean they are lost." "Rarely do people do things because of us. They do things because of them." "The way we treat people we strongly disagree with is a report card on what we've learned about love, compassion, kindness and humility."

2912: The Pinky Promise: Stick To It - Or Shed Some Blood by Nir Eyal of Nir and Far on Commitment and Accountability

2026-02-2209:30

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2912: Nir Eyal explains why we break commitments even when we genuinely mean them: we're usually trying to escape discomfort, and distraction is the quickest exit. He shows how to manage internal triggers, protect time for traction with timeboxing, and reduce external triggers, then lock it all in with a meaningful "pinky promise" pact that makes follow-through non-negotiable. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.nirandfar.com/pinky-promise/ Quotes to ponder: "The root cause of all human behavior is the desire to escape discomfort." "The most effective technique for staying on track is timeboxing, planning out periods of time to do what you say you will each day." "When I wanted to finish the first draft of my book Indistractable, I swore a pinky promise to my accountability partner that I would pay him $10,000 if I didn't finish the draft by my deadline."

2911: Can You Find Your Soulmate Later in Life? by Dr. Diana Kirschner of Love in 90 Days on Relationship Timing

2026-02-2108:50

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2911: Dr. Diana Kirschner challenges the myth that love fades with age, offering empowering tools and inspiring real-life stories to prove that finding a soulmate in your 50s, 60s, or 70s is not only possible, it can be deeply fulfilling. Through affirmations, self-love practices, and mindset shifts, women are shown how to become visible, vibrant, and romantically unstoppable at any stage of life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://lovein90days.com/can-you-find-your-soulmate-later-in-life/ Quotes to ponder: "The biggest lie about age that women still believe is that men are not attracted to older women." "Maybe, it's not so much about being a male or a female of a certain biological age. Maybe, it's more about finding the person who makes life a little easier, a little more fun, a little more meaningful." Episode references: The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran: https://www.amazon.com/Prophet-Kahlil-Gibran/dp/0394404289

2910: [Part 2] Sample Morning Routine for Sleep Deprived Moms by Cara Harvey of A Purpose Driven Mom on Energy Support on Energy Support

2026-02-2006:41

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2910: Cara Harvey offers a refreshingly simple and grace-filled approach to surviving mornings as a sleep-deprived mom. By prepping breakfast options, using independent play through a morning basket, and assigning light chores, even to toddlers, moms can reclaim calm, reduce chaos, and build habits that benefit the whole household. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://apurposedrivenmom.com/morning-routine-sleep-deprived-moms/ Quotes to ponder: "Morning basket is a tool you can use to help your mornings, not something else to keep up with!" "This isn't complicated Pinterest craft time or super messy play. This is a great time for them to have an activity they can use their imaginations with so that you can get tasks done." "Don't forget how powerful the small tasks can be and applaud yourself for taking a step!" Episode references: Baby Einstein (product site): https://www.kids2.com/collections/baby-einstein Picasso Tiles: https://www.picassotiles.com

2909: [Part 1] Sample Morning Routine for Sleep Deprived Moms by Cara Harvey of A Purpose Driven Mom on Energy Support

2026-02-1908:32

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2909: Cara Harvey shares compassionate and practical advice for exhausted moms navigating chaotic mornings with little sleep. Drawing from her own struggles with postpartum anxiety and toddler sleep disruptions, she offers small, adaptable morning habits that help moms reclaim peace, productivity, and moments of self-care, without guilt or overwhelm. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://apurposedrivenmom.com/morning-routine-sleep-deprived-moms/ Quotes to ponder: "Small tasks and habits you can add into your morning will make the rest of the day feel less overwhelming." "I thought it made me look weak, I thought people would judge me or think I wasn't a good mom. If you're struggling, please go seek help and ask for what you need!" "Don't feel like because you can't sit and binge an audiobook for 3 hours, those 5 minutes while you brush your teeth and wake up don't matter, because they do!"

2908: How to Deal With Extreme Family Dependency AND Spotting Codependency in Friendships by Sara Stanizai on Balanced Connection

2026-02-1810:08

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2908: Sara Stanizai explores how extreme family dependency and codependent friendships often masquerade as closeness while masking deep dysfunction. She outlines clear signs to look for, like blurred boundaries, emotional fatigue, and unhealthy control, and offers tools like journaling, boundary-setting, and therapy to help you reclaim your autonomy and build healthier, more sustainable relationships. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.prospecttherapy.com/blog/2023/1/27/how-to-deal-with-extreme-family-dependency & https://www.prospecttherapy.com/blog/2023/1/20/part-1-spotting-codependency-in-friendships Quotes to ponder: "You can't choose your family. It's fair even to say that you can't choose what qualities and characteristics you inherit from your family." "Dependency can take on a form of loving and passive behavior, but also anger and manipulation." "Neither the victim nor the fixer are sustainable roles in a friendship."

2907: Beautiful Beneficial Boundaries by Shana Olmstead on Healthy Limits

2026-02-1708:59

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2907: Shana Olmstead explores how setting compassionate, firm boundaries can radically improve emotional well-being and transform relationships, even the most complicated ones with children or parents. Learn how honoring your own needs not only liberates you from guilt and resentment, but also supports the growth of others by encouraging self-responsibility and mutual respect. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://shanaolmstead.com/2019/05/07/beautiful-beneficial-boundaries/ Quotes to ponder: "Boundaries help relationships stay healthy." "If you continue to sacrifice yourself too much in service of other people you aren't allowing yourself to grow and shine that beautiful light you have inside of you in order to help others." "You can do this with love and compassion, but if you don't you will continue feeling resentful and that is not healthy for the relationship."

2906: How to Stop Being Mean to Yourself by Rose Lounsbury on Self-Compassion

2026-02-1607:25

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2906: Rose Lounsbury reflects on the deeply ingrained habit of self-criticism and how it's often hidden beneath a polished exterior of achievement and productivity. By asking herself the deceptively simple question "Was I kind to myself?" each day, she reveals how cultivating self-compassion can radically transform how we define success and emotional well-being. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://roselounsbury.com/how-to-stop-being-mean-to-yourself/ Quotes to ponder: "Being kind to myself is Good Day Metric #1 because it's the big daddy of them all, the one that I must do if I want any of the other ones to matter." "Much of what people perceive as self-confidence in me is simply the clever way I've learned to deal with feelings of inadequacy." "I've gotten so good at playing 'well functioning and successful adult' that I can even fool myself most of the time."

2904: Breaking Our Addiction to Home Updates - The Hidden Money We Saved by Selling Our House by Chris of Keep Thrifty

2026-02-1511:15

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2904: Chris from KeepThrifty reveals how selling their home helped his family break free from an endless cycle of remodeling projects that drained time, energy, and money. By embracing the limitations of apartment living, they discovered a surprising sense of peace, contentment, and financial freedom, allowing them to redirect resources toward meaningful experiences together. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.keepthrifty.com/breaking-addiction-home-updates/ Quotes to ponder: "Every one of these updates would have increased the value of our home but they would have seriously interfered with our financial ability to pursue other dreams." "Our lack of ability to take action has left us feeling freer than we did before." "Home isn't about a building, the walls, the furniture, or finishes. It's about the people, the time together, and the life we are able to live."

2905: The One Question You Can Ask to Stop Fighting With Your Partner by Dr. Margaret Rutherford on Healthy Connection

2026-02-1509:05

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2905: Dr. Margaret Rutherford reveals how one simple shift in perspective can defuse recurring conflict and bring more compassion into your relationship. By challenging the instinct to take things personally, you can interrupt destructive cycles and reconnect with your partner's humanity, even in moments of stress or misunderstanding. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://drmargaretrutherford.com/the-one-question-you-can-ask-to-stop-fighting-with-your-partner/ Quotes to ponder: "You interpret their actions to be about you, maybe even to the point you think they are intentionally attempting to hurt you." "Most of us want to get along and have the best assumed of us, to be given the benefit of the doubt." "You don't wake up and hope you can make your partner miserable…"

2903: What Is a Highly Sensitive Person - and Are You One? by Sharon Martin of Highly Sensitive Refuge on Nervous System Awareness

2026-02-1408:39

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2903: Sharon Martin explores the unique experiences of highly sensitive people (HSPs), individuals who feel emotions and sensory input more intensely than most. By identifying common traits like emotional depth, empathy, overstimulation, and perfectionism, she offers both validation and practical strategies for HSPs to navigate life with more self-compassion and balance. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://highlysensitiverefuge.com/are-you-highly-sensitive-person/ Quotes to ponder: "Due to your heightened sensitivity to everything and everyone, it makes sense that you need time alone to replenish your energy." "Be careful not to over-schedule yourself and take on too many activities and commitments." "Give yourself the same love and kindness that you extend to others."

Comments (12)

Golnoosh Sabery

this was all I had to hear ❤️🫂

Jan 20th

Kaya

this is a quick and easy listen I like to keep a copy of it downloaded to my phone so I can listen to it while I'm in the car during times where I'm feeling anxious or stressed about a certain social situation or things get tense at home.poignant!

Jul 28th

_Maryami_

wow that was perfect , l think u change alot lives with youre episodes . thank you✨

Aug 30th

Mohammed Mehrvand

Hello I am an English teacher and a YouTuber, i just wanted to use some of your podcast on my channel for practicing engish and I can invite them to subscribe to your channel. that would be great if I had your permission. thank you

Oct 14th

Ron McKinley

completely disappointed in this pod cast, twisted views of what a man really is.

Jun 16th

wearsunscreen

Oh please. Another entitled Mom telling us how perfect she is.

Mar 30th

T. K. Bennett

Thank you for this!! I needed this!!!

Jun 12th

Anna Tramposch

this is so shallow how do you consider this real advice...

Jun 6th

Faye0103

All great information! Thank you for the reminders. 😘

Apr 21st

Michi Primer

Oh, I can relate to this! Though it is not like having 2 houses near one another, there are some similarities. My current relationship is we have a house together in India, but I come back to my home country ( for 4-6months) to visit with my family and work a little. He remains in India taking care of the orchard and running the house. We have been in this type of telationship for 6 years and it is the best relationship I've ever had in my entire life. With todays technology...video chatting...were always connected. When I return its like seeing each other for the first time...simply awesome! Works for us!

Jan 26th

Tracy Goutermont

re: Episode 157: This is awful advice from an obviously selfish man who believes it is okay for men to have a narcissistic harem.

Jan 4th

Reply (1)

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