In Part 1 of this moving conversation, Cesar and Foster sit down with Foster’s longtime therapist, JJ Brake, to explore what truly makes relationships thrive. JJ is an expert in couples therapy, parent education, and Internal Family Systems (IFS), and shares the three keys to lasting connection. She breaks down how to navigate conflict, communicate courageously, and offers tangible tools for more mindful relationships.

In this episode they explore: 

• The 3 relationship skills that every couple should know
• Why context doesn’t matter in conflict and what to focus on instead
• The power of the U-turn: how to take ownership of your triggers and communicate from the heart
• Why “I’m sorry” often misses the mark and what real accountability sounds like
• The surprising emotional truth behind your child’s “tantrums”

To connect with JJ Brake, visit jjbrake.com. Her app Unblend.me is the first platform designed for between-session mental wellness. Try it for free now! 

Also mentioned:

• Episode 7: The Eating Habits We Didn’t Choose
• Episode 14: What We Learned in Therapy
• The Gottman Method
• Intimacy From The Inside Out
• Non-Violent Communication
• Internal Family Systems
• Punished By Rewards by Alfie Kohn
• The Sound Relationship House

You can also watch the episodes on YouTube.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a moment to follow Beauty in the Break on your favorite podcast app and leave a review—it really helps!

Reach out to the show—send an email to beautyinthebreakpod@gmail.com and be sure to follow on Instagram. 

Cesar Cardona:

• Attend his upcoming speaking engagements
• Listen to music from Cesar + The Clew on Apple Music and Spotify
• Receive his monthly newsletter Insights That Matter

Foster Wilson:

• Buy her poetry book Afternoon Abundance
• Learn about her postpartum services
• Receive her monthly newsletter Foster’s Village

Created & Hosted by: Cesar Cardona and Foster Wilson

Executive Producer: Glenn Milley

Special Guest: JJ Brake

This episode is brought to you by Arlene Thornton & Associates

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