Relationship Renovation: Marriage Advice, Intimacy & Couples Communication

Book a Discovery Call for Relationship Renovation CoachingOr email us directly at coaching@relationshiprenovation.com with the subject line “Couples Coaching Application.” Order Relationship Renovation at Home Manual from AmazonJoin Our Patreon CommunityTake the Emotional Safety Assessment QuizIn this episode of the Relationship Renovation Podcast, hosts EJ and Tarah Kerwin sit down with renowned OB/GYN Dr. Maria Sophocles to unpack the truth about menopause, hormones, and how they shape sexual health, intimacy, and relationship wellness. With nearly three decades of experience and a global reputation for advancing women’s care, Dr. Sophocles sheds light on why so many women feel unseen and unsupported during perimenopause, low libido, and the “bedroom gap” that can grow between partners in midlife.The conversation blends science, empathy, and practical solutions—covering everything from hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and CO₂ laser treatments to the emotional impact of hormonal shifts and the cultural “pink tax” on women’s wellness.Whether you’re a woman navigating change, a partner trying to understand, or a couple feeling distant, this episode offers hope, clarity, and tools to rebuild connection, safety, and vibrant intimacy. Listen in and feel empowered to advocate for your body, your pleasure, and your relationship.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Book a Discovery Call for Relationship Renovation CoachingOr email us directly at coaching@relationshiprenovation.com with the subject line “Couples Coaching Application.” Order Relationship Renovation at Home Manual from AmazonJoin Our Patreon CommunityTake the Emotional Safety Assessment QuizIn this deeply resonant episode of Relationship Renovation, hosts EJ Kerwin and Tarah Kerwin open up with raw honesty about the challenges and crises their relationship faced over the past year. Drawing on their own experiences—and the many couples they’ve supported—this conversation explores how practicing vulnerability, emotional safety, and practical decision-making skills can help couples withstand even the most severe financial and emotional stress. You'll discover how patterns from years past still shape present struggles, and gain insight into the power of creating new narratives together.Listen in for actionable strategies, real-life stories, and a heartfelt reminder: true connection isn’t about avoiding hardship, but learning how to support each other through it. If you’re seeking hope and practical guidance for your relationship, this episode offers powerful motivation to keep fighting for love, resilience, and the growth hiding beneath life’s toughest seasons. Plus, the hosts share resources like their Relationship Renovation at Home manual and community options to help you find the support you need, no matter what challenges you’re facing.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Book a Discovery Call for Relationship Renovation CoachingOr email us directly at coaching@relationshiprenovation.com with the subject line “Couples Coaching Application.” Order Relationship Renovation at Home Manual from AmazonJoin Our Patreon CommunityTake the Emotional Safety Assessment QuizHighlights from the EpisodeHow Sex Turns Transactional: Tarah shares a story from a recent couples session: “If you do this and you do it well, I’ll give you sex.” Sound familiar? Turns out, it’s more common than we think.Both Partners Are Responsible: EJ and Tarah reflect on their own patterns of expectation, let-down, and the rewards/punishments that silently build up over time.Unspoken Stories Drive Anxiety: Ever felt relief when your partner wasn’t expecting sex… or disappointment when connection didn’t lead there? You’re not alone. Opening up those stories, rather than burying them, is the first step to real change.Emotional Safety is Key: The hosts discuss how building a foundation of emotional safety—being able to share, be transparent, and give verbal appreciation—creates true desire and real intimacy.Actionable Tools: From ‘The Frisky Scale’ (yes, really!) to conversation starters on how you want to feel valued outside the bedroom, EJ and Tarah give you practical ways to break the transaction cycle.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In this deeply personal episode, Tarah interviews EJ about his avoidant tendencies — why he used to shut down during conflict, how it affected their relationship, and what it took to start feeling safe enough to stay present when things got hard.Book a Discovery Call for Relationship Renovation CoachingOr email us directly at coaching@relationshiprenovation.com with the subject line “Couples Coaching Application.” Order Relationship Renovation at Home Manual from AmazonJoin Our Patreon CommunityTake the Emotional Safety Assessment QuizSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Book a Discovery Call for Relationship Renovation CoachingOr email us directly at coaching@relationshiprenovation.com with the subject line “Couples Coaching Application.” Order Relationship Renovation at Home Manual from AmazonJoin Our Patreon CommunityTake the Emotional Safety Assessment QuizIn this episode of the Relationship Renovation Podcast, licensed therapists and hosts EJ and Tarah Kerwin explore the delicate balance between being attuned to your partner and staying true to yourself. Drawing from their own relationship journey—as both a couple and co-therapists—they share real stories, practical tools, and insights that help couples move from reactivity to connection.You’ll learn how to:Communicate your needs without triggering defensivenessRecognize and respond to your partner’s emotional cuesUse timing and tone to create emotional safety during conflictPrevent resentment and strengthen trust through consistent repairIf you’ve ever wished you could communicate better during moments of stress, this episode will give you hope, clarity, and actionable skills to build a more emotionally safe and connected relationship.Join EJ and Tarah as they model vulnerability, share their own “fail moments,” and guide you toward becoming more connected, understanding, and confident in your communication—one intentional conversation at a time.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Book a Discovery Call for Relationship Renovation CoachingOr email us directly at coaching@relationshiprenovation.com with the subject line “Couples Coaching Application.” Order Relationship Renovation at Home Manual from AmazonJoin Our Patreon CommunityTake the Emotional Safety Assessment QuizAre you tired of small habits turning into big fights? Do you wish your partner could just “know” how you feel—without you having to explain it every time?In this episode of Relationship Renovation, Tarah and EJ Kerwin share how hidden assumptions and unspoken judgments quietly chip away at intimacy. Drawing from a recent psychodrama training and their own marriage, they reveal how a simple act like fixing a partner’s hair uncovered 15 years of miscommunication and resentment.You’ll learn:Why assumptions and daily habits can trigger unexpected tensionHow to use the “Empty Chair” technique for safe, honest conversationsSimple ways to stop wishing your partner could read your mind—and start creating emotional safety insteadIf you’re ready to turn everyday frustrations into opportunities for growth and connection, this episode offers both heartfelt stories and actionable tools.🎧 Listen now to start breaking free from assumptions and building a stronger, more intentional relationship.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Book a Discovery Call for Relationship Renovation CoachingOr email us directly at coaching@relationshiprenovation.com with the subject line “Couples Coaching Application.” Order Relationship Renovation at Home Manual from AmazonJoin Our Patreon CommunityTake the Emotional Safety Assessment QuizIn episode 245 of the Relationship Renovation Podcast hosts Tarah and EJ Kerwin dive deep into the transformative power of hope in relationships. Drawing from both their own experiences and years working with couples, they reveal how losing hope is a common stage for struggling partners—and how the right support at the right time can be the spark that ignites real transformation. The Kerwins candidly discuss those pivotal moments when despair feels overwhelming, yet just one person’s belief, whether a coach, therapist, or loved one, can breathe new life into a relationship. You’ll also hear personal stories and relatable examples, making it clear that everyone—even the “experts”—faces these tough times.Tune in to discover what it takes to become a holder of hope for your relationship, why seeking outside guidance isn’t just helpful but sometimes necessary, and how the skills for emotional safety and deeper connection are learned, not innate. Whether you’re struggling with chronic friction, communication issues, or just feel stuck in a rut, this episode offers practical wisdom, encouragement, and a roadmap for rekindling joy with your partner. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation that could be the very first step on your journey to a happier, healthier relationship!Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Book a Discovery Call for Relationship Renovation CoachingOr email us directly at coaching@relationshiprenovation.com with the subject line “Couples Coaching Application.” Order Relationship Renovation at Home Manual from AmazonJoin Our Patreon CommunityTake the Emotional Safety Assessment QuizEJ and Tarah Kerwin dive into the power of their Emotional Safety Assessment—a free tool now available on their website. They openly model the entire process, walking through all 13 questions and sharing their honest scores and reflections. Listeners will get a behind-the-scenes look at how the hosts use this assessment both personally and with the couples they coach, highlighting its ability to reveal strengths and pinpoint areas needing attention. With real-life examples, self-awareness, and moments of humor, EJ and Tarah demonstrate how understanding your individual and shared emotional safety is the foundation for deeper intimacy and connection.This episode is a must-listen for couples seeking practical, actionable ways to improve relationship closeness and trust. Whether you’re wondering how emotionally safe your partnership feels or seeking new tools for growth, EJ and Tarah guide you through using the assessment and interpreting its results—without judgment or resorting to blame. Discover what emotional safety really means, why it matters, and how couples at any stage can move from surviving to thriving. Tune in for vulnerable storytelling, expert insights, and the inspiration you need to start your own path to a more connected, emotionally safe relationship.**Take the Emotional Safety Quiz***Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Book a Discovery Call for Relationship Renovation CoachingOrder Relationship Renovation at Home Manual from AmazonJoin Our Patreon CommunityTake the Emotional Safety Assessment QuizOn this episode of Relationship Renovation, Tarah and EJ Kerwin share the secret weapon they use to bring calm, clarity, and connection to even the most stressful parts of daily life: the “Predict, Plan, Prepare” (Triple P) tool, developed by renowned relationship expert Dr. Stan Tatkin. Listen in as they break down exactly how Triple P works, why couples struggle without a plan, and how this simple mindset shift can minimize conflict and help partners feel like a true team—even during life’s most hectic moments. With honest anecdotes about their own home routines (think school mornings and dividing chores), Tarah and EJ show you how implementing this tool can help dissolve tension, foster emotional safety, and prevent the cycle of disconnection from taking hold.Purchase the Relationship Renovation at Home Online CourseVisit relationshiprenovation.com for more tips and resources to elevate your partnership and emotional well-being!Relationship Renovation YoutubeContact UsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Book a Discovery Call for Relationship Renovation CoachingOrder Relationship Renovation at Home Manual from AmazonJoin Our Patreon CommunityTake the Emotional Safety Assessment QuizIn this episode of Relationship Renovation, EJ and Tarah Kerwin share real-life experiences and expert insights on how couples can "change the season" in their lives rather than letting external events dictate the tone of their relationship. You'll discover a simple yet powerful three-step framework—awareness, boundaries, and intentional rituals—to help you and your partner name your current season, create practices that support your relationship, and shift out of reactivity into empowered connection. Whether you’re navigating a hectic school schedule, a major life transition, or just the everyday grind, this episode is packed with relatable stories and actionable advice to help you stay grounded, connected, and in charge of your relationship journey.Purchase the Relationship Renovation at Home Online CourseVisit relationshiprenovation.com for more tips and resources to elevate your partnership and emotional well-being!Relationship Renovation YoutubeContact UsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Book a Discovery Call for Relationship Renovation CoachingOrder Relationship Renovation at Home Manual from AmazonJoin Our Patreon CommunityTake the Emotional Safety Assessment Quiz In this heartfelt episode of the Relationship Renovation Podcast, hosts EJ and Tarah Kerwin sit down with Ben and Julie, a couple who met in high school, faced the challenges of teen parenthood, and nearly reached their breaking point after 27 years together. Through their honest and vulnerable conversation, Ben and Julie share what brought them to couples counseling, how learning tools like emotional check-ins and self-soothing changed everything, and why healing old wounds transformed not only their relationship, but their whole family. Whether you’re on the verge of giving up or just looking for hope, this episode will inspire you to believe that deeper happiness and connection truly are possible—no matter how long you’ve been together.Purchase the Relationship Renovation at Home Online CourseVisit relationshiprenovation.com for more tips and resources to elevate your partnership and emotional well-being!Relationship Renovation YoutubeContact UsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Book a Discovery Call for Relationship Renovation CoachingOrder Relationship Renovation at Home Manual from AmazonJoin Our Patreon CommunityTake the Emotional Safety Assessment QuizAre you struggling to support a loved one dealing with anxiety or OCD?Wondering how to recognize the difference between comforting and enabling anxious behaviors?Curious about what practical steps actually help when someone you care about is overwhelmed by fearful thoughts?In this heartwarming episode, hosts Tarah and EJ Kerwin welcome their daughter Mia to share her candid journey with OCD and anxiety. Together, they explore Mia's experience from early challenges and therapy breakthroughs to the communication strategies that made a difference within their family. Whether you’re a parent, partner, or someone seeking stronger emotional connections, you'll discover actionable advice for building resilience, offering support without reinforcing fears, and fostering trust in your most important relationships. Tune in for insights that will empower you to navigate anxiety and strengthen your bond with the people you love.Purchase the Relationship Renovation at Home Online CourseVisit relationshiprenovation.com for more tips and resources to elevate your partnership and emotional well-being!Relationship Renovation YoutubeContact UsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Book a Discovery Call for Relationship Renovation CoachingOrder Relationship Renovation at Home Manual from AmazonJoin Our Patreon CommunityTake the Emotional Safety Assessment QuizAre you or your partner navigating the challenges of a chronic condition like diabetes in your relationship?Wondering how you can support a loved one without overstepping, or how to maintain open communication and intimacy?Curious about strategies to set healthy boundaries and foster empowerment together? IIn this heartfelt episode, hosts Tarah and EJ Kerwin sit down with Ben Tzeel—a registered dietitian, certified diabetes educator, and strength coach who’s thrived with type 1 diabetes for over 25 years. Ben shares invaluable personal and professional insights on managing diabetes without letting it define your life or your partnership. You'll learn about balancing care and autonomy, the impact of stress on health and relationships, and practical ways couples can communicate, set boundaries, and build trust around health challenges. Whether you’re seeking hope, guidance, or relatable real-life stories, this episode is packed with empowering advice to help couples and individuals strengthen their relationships in the face of adversity.Connect with Ben TzeelPurchase the Relationship Renovation at Home Online CourseVisit relationshiprenovation.com for more tips and resources to elevate your partnership and emotional well-being!Relationship Renovation YoutubeContact UsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Book a Discovery Call for Relationship Renovation CoachingOrder Relationship Renovation at Home Manual from AmazonJoin Our Patreon CommunityTake the Emotional Safety Assessment QuizIn this episode of Relationship Renovation, hosts Tarah and EJ Kerwin sit down with Heather and Paul Christensen, founders of Thin Line Relationships, to explore the unique challenges faced by first responders, healthcare professionals, and military families. Through their own deeply personal story—from survival mode and divorce, to healing, reconnection, and now helping others—Heather and Paul reveal the hidden patterns, practical tools, and mindset shifts that can transform even the most chaotic relationships. Listen in as they discuss real-world solutions for creating emotional safety, overcoming trauma, and rekindling connection, offering hope and actionable advice for any couple ready to thrive amidst life’s pressures.Learn More About Thin Line RelationshipsVisit relationshiprenovation.com for more tips and resources to elevate your partnership and emotional well-being!Relationship Renovation YoutubeContact UsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Book a Discovery Call for Relationship Renovation CoachingOr email us directly at coaching@relationshiprenovation.com with the subject line “Couples Coaching Application.” Order Relationship Renovation at Home Manual from AmazonJoin Our Patreon CommunityTake the Emotional Safety Assessment QuizIn this episode of the Relationship Renovation Podcast, hosts Tarah and EJ Kerwin are joined by therapist Leanne Rogers to unpack the transformative concept of differentiation—the ability to honor your own identity while staying deeply connected to your partner. Drawing on Leanne's unique journey from wedding planner to couples counselor, the conversation dives into real-life examples, practical tips on managing emotional risks, and how to create emotional safety without losing yourself (or your relationship’s spark) along the way. Packed with actionable insights and gentle wisdom, this is an essential listen for anyone seeking more authentic, resilient, and connected love.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Book a Discovery Call for Relationship Renovation CoachingOr email us directly at coaching@relationshiprenovation.com with the subject line “Couples Coaching Application.” Order Relationship Renovation at Home Manual from AmazonJoin Our Patreon CommunityTake the Emotional Safety Assessment QuizIn this special episode, hosts Tarah and EJ Kerwin sit down with Zach Brittle, host of Marriage Therapy Radio, for a deeply authentic and vulnerable conversation unlike any other.This is a replay of their appearance on Marriage Therapy Radio.Instead of focusing on their roles as therapists or podcasters, Tarah and EJ open up about their journey as a couple—sharing the real, sometimes messy, and absolutely inspiring moments that have shaped their marriage.Get ready to hear the Kerwins talk candidly about what it’s like to be both partners and professionals in the world of marriage counseling. From balancing the pressures of their work with raising a blended family of four kids, to navigating extraordinary personal challenges—including trauma recovery and the transformative impact of ketamine-assisted therapy—they hold nothing back. Zach guides the conversation with compassion and curiosity, asking the kinds of questions that will make you reflect on your own relationship and the growth that comes with adversity.Whether you’re a couple navigating your own ups and downs or just looking for honest insights into what makes a relationship thrive, this episode offers valuable lessons on intimacy, accountability, and the bravery it takes to be truly seen by your partner. Tune in to hear how Tarah and EJ have rebuilt, reimagined, and renovated their own relationship—and how their story can inspire yours.Learn More About Zach BrittleListen to Marriage Therapy RadioSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Book a Discovery Call for Relationship Renovation CoachingOr email us directly at coaching@relationshiprenovation.com with the subject line “Couples Coaching Application.” Order Relationship Renovation at Home Manual from AmazonJoin Our Patreon CommunityTake the Emotional Safety Assessment QuizIn this transformative episode of the Relationship Renovation Podcast, hosts Tarah and EJ Kerwin sit down with Zach Brittle, renowned couples therapist and host of Marriage Therapy Radio, to unpack the complex and often misunderstood world of intimacy in long-term relationships. Zach, who is uniquely certified in both Relational Life Therapy and Gottman Therapy, dives deep into the many layers of intimacy—emotional, intellectual, physical, sexual, and spiritual. Instead of falling into the trap of viewing intimacy as a simple binary between emotional and physical needs, Zach introduces powerful new frameworks and negotiation strategies that empower couples to identify, define, and revive all forms of connection in their relationships.Listeners will hear candid, refreshing discussions on why so many partners feel disconnected—sexually and emotionally—even after years together, and how shifting your mindset and communication style can make all the difference. Zach shares insightful questions every couple should ask themselves, like “What is sex for?” and “What truly counts as intimacy in our relationship?” Whether you’re struggling with mismatched sex drives, navigating changing bodies, or just looking for more depth and openness in your partnership, this episode offers actionable tools and fresh perspectives. Tune in and get inspired to talk about intimacy in entirely new ways—these are conversations that could transform your relationship forever!Learn More About Zach BrittleListen to Marriage Therapy RadioSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Book a Discovery Call for Relationship Renovation CoachingOr email us directly at coaching@relationshiprenovation.com with the subject line “Couples Coaching Application.” Order Relationship Renovation at Home Manual from AmazonJoin Our Patreon CommunityTake the Emotional Safety Assessment QuizIn this transformative episode of Relationship Renovation, hosts Tarah and EJ Kerwin introduce listeners to their brand-new Relationship Renovation Sexual Intimacy Inventory—a powerful tool designed to spark open, honest, and non-triggering conversations about sexual intimacy. As Tarah and EJ model the inventory in real-time, they share personal insights, explore vulnerable topics such as emotional safety, sexual satisfaction, communication challenges, and the impact of trauma and upbringing on their intimate connection. This episode offers you concrete questions and strategies to bring more connection, understanding, and growth to your own relationship, whether you're struggling with mismatched desire, communication hurdles, or want to deepen your bond.Tune in to discover how Tarah and EJ have cultivated emotional safety and acceptance while navigating differences in their sexual relationship—and learn how you can apply these best practices to your own partnership. With practical tips, honest dialogue, and a free downloadable worksheet, this episode will help you move past avoidance, negotiate your needs, and foster an intimate, resilient, and satisfying partnership. Don't miss out on this invaluable conversation that will motivate, inspire, and equip you to renovate your sexual intimacy together!Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Book a Discovery Call for Relationship Renovation CoachingOr email us directly at coaching@relationshiprenovation.com with the subject line “Couples Coaching Application.” Order Relationship Renovation at Home Manual from AmazonJoin Our Patreon CommunityTake the Emotional Safety Assessment QuizThis episode of the Relationship Renovation podcast dives deep into these pressing questions with Dr. Monique Thompson, a renowned therapist and life coach specializing in infidelity recovery.Join hosts Tarah and EJ Kerwin as they sit down with Dr. Thompson to uncover the complexities of infidelity, trauma, and the incredible potential for growth within couples who choose to face these challenges head-on. Dr. Thompson shares her unique journey into healing work, the inspiration behind her acclaimed "Infidelity Recovery Workbook," and practical tips for both the betrayed and those who have broken trust. Packed with humility, hope, and actionable guidance, this episode provides valuable insights for couples at any stage of recovery. Whether you’re a professional looking for tools to support your clients or an individual seeking a path forward, you’ll leave inspired, informed, and ready to take the next step toward a stronger, healthier relationship. Don’t miss this candid, compassionate conversation that’s already helping countless couples transform pain into powerful connection.LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. MONIQUE THOMPSONInfidelity Recovery WorkbookSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Book a Discovery Call for Relationship Renovation CoachingOr email us directly at coaching@relationshiprenovation.com with the subject line “Couples Coaching Application.” Order Relationship Renovation at Home Manual from AmazonJoin Our Patreon CommunityTake the Emotional Safety Assessment QuizHosts Tarah and EJ Kerwin welcome Dave and Suzanne to share their extraordinary journey of growth, heartbreak, and reconnection. From meeting as high school sweethearts, a painful breakup, and over 30 years apart in unfulfilling relationships, Dave and Suzanne reveal how fate—and Facebook—brought them back together. Listeners will discover how their commitment to personal healing and working with a proven relationship model helped them nurture a partnership grounded in trust, honesty, and true emotional safety.This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking hope and practical tools for transforming their own love story. Dave and Suzanne's willingness to be vulnerable, seek guidance even when "happy," and prioritize their partnership offers a roadmap for listeners to foster deeper emotional intimacy. Hear how they developed rituals that keep them connected daily, navigated major life transitions together, and became role models for secure, thriving relationships. Whether you’re at a crossroads in your relationship or looking for inspiration, Episode 232 delivers both heartfelt storytelling and actionable insights to help you build a stronger, more fulfilling connection.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands