Are you looking to build more meaningful and thriving relationships in your life, both personally and professionally? This episode delves into the core concepts behind Connect, the practical and timely book by David Bradford, Ph.D., and Carole Robin, Ph.D., drawing on decades of experience and the material from their renowned Interpersonal Dynamics course at Stanford Graduate School of Business, often called "Touchy-Feely."

Discover the hallmarks of exceptional relationships, where you feel truly seen, known, and appreciated for who you are. Learn why vulnerability, supported by trust, is crucial, and how it can come from strength, not weakness. We explore the difference between a presented image and sharing who you really are, moving beyond the pressure to constantly "spin" everything positively.

This episode unpacks essential skills for building deeper connections, including:

• Letting yourself be more fully known through self-disclosure.
• The critical role of emotions and feelings in communication – understanding how they reveal the importance of events.
• Becoming more curious and using open-ended questions to help others open up, while avoiding the pitfalls of giving unsolicited advice.
• The power of behaviorally specific feedback to raise difficulties constructively and minimise defensiveness. Learn how to stick with your own reality and reactions rather than making assumptions about others' intentions.
• How to deal with conflict productively, repair relationships after mistakes and misunderstandings, and why addressing "pinches" before they become "crunches" is vital.
• Understanding the dynamics of influence in relationships and striving for balance.

Drawing on real-world examples, including the authors' own journey through conflict and repair, this episode offers valuable insights for navigating challenging conversations and fostering high-trust relationships that lead to both professional success and personal fulfillment. Tune in to learn how applying these practical concepts can be transformational in your life.