Hey Reader, In today’s episode, I answer another round of listener questions. We talk about a husband who never stops talking, choosing phone calls over texts, setting boundaries with family, political disagreements, and expectations around money. Different people. Different relationships. But a lot of the same problem: How do you say what you need without pushing away the people you love? In this episode, you'll learn: How to interrupt someone who talks too much without starting a fight What...
16 days ago • 1 min read
Hey Reader, The back to school countdown is officially on around our house. We're squeezing in every last pool day, staying outside a little longer, and enjoying the slower pace before backpacks replace beach towels. I hope you're finding time to enjoy the season you're in before the next one begins. Let’s jump in to this week’s 3 things: #1. From My Inbox: “I am an extrovert, and my wife is an introvert. Often, she clams up and will not even respond to me. What tips do you have to help...
21 days ago • 2 min read
Hey Reader, You're in a tense conversation. Your face goes warm, eyes start to water, and the words rush out before you can stop them. "I'm so sorry. Please ignore me." Here's what to do next time. Nothing. Do not apologize. Your body is doing what it's built to do. Those tears are protecting you. In today's episode, I break it down from both sides, yours and theirs. Here's what you'll learn: Why apologizing for the tears works against you The line to say that turns tears into strength What...
23 days ago • 1 min read
Hey Reader, You don't usually hear from me on Fridays, but this episode earned the exception. Before Dave Ramsey was my friend, he was somebody I admired. You probably know him as the guy who helps people take control of their finances. Sit with him a while, though, and you find the deeper skill. He knows how to help you tell the people you love that your boundaries have shifted and your goals have changed, without losing the relationship. In today's episode, Dave and I get into: How to tell...
27 days ago • 1 min read
Hey Reader, One more Australia story and then I'll move on. Deal? Coffee in hand as I type this, which will make sense when you get to #3. Let's get into it. #1. From My Inbox: "I struggle to control my anger when I see people make mean comments intended to hurt others. What's the best way to stay calm and still defend someone?" That heat you feel watching someone get torn down means you care. That's good. Now get control of it before you speak. One slow inhale through your nose. Shoulders...
28 days ago • 1 min read
Hey Reader, If you know someone who is in pain and the first words you say to them are, "Tell me if you need anything," or "Let me know if there's anything I can do"...that's the wrong thing to say. How you communicate when someone is hurting can mean the difference between growing closer in the relationship or losing it. In this week's episode, I'm teaching you how to show up when someone you love is hurting. You'll learn: The well-meant phrase that makes it worse Why the best comfort leans...
30 days ago • 1 min read
Hey Reader, We're heading home from Australia this week, and I'm grateful. We loved our time Down Under. Still, there's no place like home. Over the years, I’ve noticed most of the questions people ask me are about communicating with the people under their own roof: their spouses, siblings, children, and even their grown kids. So this week is about home. :) #1. From My Inbox “My adult children and I have radically different views about religion, politics and just the world in general. Do you...
about 1 month ago • 2 min read
Hey Reader, One of my favorite things is reading emails from listeners. This week I received one that grabbed my attention. She said, “I love your book and podcast, but your car videos are still my favorite.” The truth is, I like making car videos. There’s something special about sitting in the truck with just a microphone and a pink carseat in the back, talking directly to you. So, this week I’m back in the truck discussing a hot button topic: bad bosses. You can't always choose your boss....
about 1 month ago • 1 min read
G'day from Australia Reader, Over the past week I've visited the Wheel of Brisbane, watched my first Wallabies rugby match, tried Vegemite (it’s a pass for me), and learned enough Australian phrases to get myself into trouble. Travel has a way of reminding you that people can sound completely different while struggling with many of the same things. Different words and accents, yet the same need to feel heard, be respected, and maintain self-control. That's what this week's newsletter is...
about 1 month ago • 2 min read