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  • Ever feel like you just need a moment to yourself but aren't sure how to bring it up? Or what else do you want in your marriage, but aren’t getting?

    In this episode, I’m showing you - through real life examples - how asking for and getting what you want in your marriage is easier than it seems. I tell you exactly how to communicate your needs without guilt or frustration. In fact, you’ll strengthen your relationship in the process!

    What You'll Learn From This Episode:

    How to clearly and calmly ask for what you need from your partner.

    Tips for framing your requests in a way that avoids conflict and builds understanding.

    The power of being upfront about your self-care needs and how it benefits both you and your relationship.

    Real-life examples of effective ways to ask for time to recharge and get what you want.

    If you're ready to start asking for what you want and need, this episode is your go-to guide!

    Action Items After You Listen:

    Try out the methods I share and see how they change your conversations at home.

    Got a story to tell me or a question? Email me at [email protected].

    Enjoying the podcast? Leave a review and help others find us too!

    For full show notes and more about working with me, head to https://rachaelcunningham.com/.

  • Are you struggling to stay connected with your partner amidst ongoing conflicts? Do you feel like unresolved issues are driving a wedge between you and your spouse?

    In this insightful episode, I sit down with Relationship Coach Raquel Reis to discuss how to maintain a strong bond even when disagreements are left unresolved.

    We dive deep into effective communication strategies and explore powerful insights from the book Fight Right by John and Julia Gottman.

    What You'll Learn From This Episode:

    How to maintain connection with your partner during conflicts. Effective communication techniques for resolving disagreements. Key takeaways from Fight Right by John and Julia Gottman. The importance of having fun together. Practical tips for fostering a healthy and resilient relationship.

    If you’re tired of feeling distant from your spouse and ready to reignite the connection, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now to transform your relationship and discover the secret sauce to staying connected, no matter what challenges come your way!

    Find full show notes and how to work with Raquel at rachaelcunningham.com.

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  • Ever wonder what a coach talks about with her coach? You're in for a treat.

    In this episode of Joyful Love, I'm diving into a topic that affects many of us—burnout and how to rediscover joy in our lives. I'm working on these things with another coach friend and I knew I wanted to share it with you.

    What You'll Learn in This Episode:

    A Peek into My personal coaching

    Understanding Burnout: How to recognize and address burnout, even when you're passionate about your goals.

    Learn about anhedonia, the inability to feel joy, and how it can impact your life.

    Discover simple yet effective ways to combat anhedonia and rediscover joy and pleasure in your daily life.

    When it's okay to re-evaluate what you need.

    Join me as I explore these topics and share my personal journey of navigating midlife challenges and finding balance. It's a candid and heartfelt episode that I'm honored to share.

    For full show notes, go to rachaelcunningham.com

  • In today’s episode of Joyful Love, I’m diving into a question from one of my clients that I think many of us can relate to. Her question was: “How do I handle detrimental thoughts?”

    I know this is a topic that hits home for many of us, and it certainly does for me. So let’s explore some practical ways to take control of your mind when intrusive thoughts start creating anxiety.

    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    5 steps to take back control of your mind when detrimental thoughts create anxiety. How to calm your nervous system to find a sense of peace. When to embrace logic and take action to counteract those thoughts. How gratitude can help soothe your overactive, worrying brain.

    Stick around to discover strategies that can help you manage and reduce those pesky thoughts. Let’s get started!



  • In today's episode of Joyful Love, I talk with Dr. Carla Atkinson about perimenopause. There's a lot of discussion about this time of life for women right now ... and it's about time! We live in an era of awakening around women's health, and we are lucky to have providers like Dr. Carla who stay up to date with the latest and best care for their clients.

    However, there are still many providers who don't know how to help women with midlife shifts. This is why we must learn to take charge of our own health and understand our bodies well enough to ask for the care we deserve.

    If you're a mother still raising children, you may need extra support to navigate your self-care while parenting! Dr. Carla Atkinson addresses this as well. Tune into episode 111 to learn more and be inspired to view this time of life with grace and strength!

    What You'll Learn From This Episode: Symptoms of perimenopause Where to begin if you're noticing changes What to ask your doctor if you're near 40 or above How to navigate perimenopause and mothering Why this is a beautiful, powerful time of life!

    Listen now!

    For more information go to https://rachaelcunningham.com/

  • We're tackling the problem of overdrinking In today's episode with Patrick Fox. Patrick helps men who want to stop drinking and is the host of the Alcohol Rethink Podcast.

    Alcohol can have damaging affects on relationships. I've seen it too many times to count. But there is hope! Patrick shares his own story about drinking and how he changed his life. He gives tips on how to talk to our partners about their drinking, how we can help them, and we can help ourselves.

    In this episode, you will learn:

    How drinking too much can hurt our relationships. The importance of learning why people drink too much. Why letting go of shame is at the root of healing. How drinking can affect parenting. Tips for talking to your partner about their drinking.

    Listen now! And share with a friend who might have a spouse struggling with over - drinking. She will thank you!

    For more information, show notes, and links to Patrick's information, visit https://rachaelcunningham.com/

  • Have you ever snapped at your partner after they said something, only to regret it later? Maybe you wondered, "Why did I react so quickly? Where did THAT come from?"

    In this episode, we delve into the powerful difference between reacting and responding. You'll learn how to understand your emotions and transform your interactions with your partner by choosing conscious, intentional responses.

    What You'll Learn:

    The difference between a reaction and a response, and why it matters. Practical steps to train your brain to pause and respond thoughtfully. Techniques to build confidence and compassion as you navigate emotional triggers.

    Tune in now to empower yourself with the tools to show up as your best self in every situation.

    To join The Stoked Marriage for Women Only, go to stokedmarriage.com

    For more information, go to rachaelcunningham.com

  • Have you ever wondered if your partner even likes you anymore? You know you love each other deep down, but has the fondness, laughter, and enjoyment of each other left the building?

    When we have a culture of criticism and irritation in our homes, it can feel as if you don't even like each other.

    You can change that culture though. Listen to this episode to learn:

    Why feeling liked is sometimes better than being loved

    How one person can lead the way to creating more "Likability" in the relationship

    How we influence each other in the relationship

    How the amount you like yourself affects how you feel about your partner

    Tune in now to bring back a little "LIKE" in your relationship!

    Get the full episode notes here: https://rachaelcunningham.com/category/podcast/

  • Today in episode 107, I'm talking with Divorce coach, Corrie Woods.

    In this insightful conversation, Corrie shares her personal journey through divorce, offering valuable wisdom and practical advice for anyone facing a similar situation. From managing the emotional rollercoaster of making that decision, to co-parenting with grace, Corrie's experience offers hope for those who might need to complete their relationships.

    We delve into the common challenges women experience as they struggle to find the right answers for themselves. Corrie sheds light on the importance of personal growth before, during and after that decision.

    Furthermore, Corrie offers invaluable insights into the often-overlooked aspect of post-divorce healing and growth. She emphasizes the transformative power of self-reflection, forgiveness, and embracing self-trust as essential steps toward reclaiming and rediscovering your identity outside of marriage.

    We address the common questions of, "Will the kids be okay?" and "How will we pay the bills?"

    If you are navigating this tough decision, tune in to discover Corrie's invaluable insights and discover the path toward healing, empowerment, and renewed hope.

    Get the full episode notes and find Corrie's Information at https://rachaelcunningham.com/category/podcast/




  • In this episode of Joyful Love, I sit down with Master Parenting Coach and author of "Less Drama More Mama," Pam Howard. Together, we delve into practical strategies for having a more calm, cool, and connected experience with motherhood.

    One of the key topics we explore is the all-too-relatable issue of yelling at our kids. Pam offers invaluable guidance on how to break free from this cycle.

    And what about when you don't agree with your partner? Pam helps us understand how to view our relationship as a team, even if we're not on the same page.

    Whether you're a seasoned parent or just embarking on this journey, this episode offers invaluable insights for fostering a nurturing relationship with your children ... without hindering your relationship with your spouse!

    Tune in to episode 106 as Pam helps us create less drama and more meaningful connections in our families.

    Find out more information at https://rachaelcunningham.com/category/podcast/

  • In this episode of Joyful Love, Cris joins me as we discuss the meaning of LOVE. After 27 years, our definition of love has changed a little. Or maybe a lot.

    One thing we agree on is that the more we care for ourselves, the easier it is to love each other. But how do we do that when life is so hard? How do we actively love ourselves in thought and action so that loving others is easier?

    Is it possible to love someone else when you neglect and criticize yourself? Tune in to hear this important discussion and find out.

    What you'll learn:

    * What Love means to a married couple of 27 years
    * How we see ourselves matters
    * Why being aware of your thinking matters in relationships
    * How Nature helps us to be present with our own worthiness and beauty

    For full show notes and transcript, go to https://rachaelcunningham.com/category/podcast/

  • In this episode of Joyful Love, I share with you how I'm choosing to embrace Perimenopause and listen to my own needs right now.

    During my 4-month hiatus, I've had so many benefits of hitting the "pause" button on a few things in life.

    Slowing down has helped me prevent burnout, make clearer decisions, and deepen my relationships. But it also gave me a little surprise that I'll tell you about in this episode ... a welcome surprise!

    Tune in to hear how I'm approaching my own midlife awakening, what I've created along the way, and how you can join me in what's to come!

    Listen to the end to hear all about the Have A Better Marriage By Friday Challenge coming up and how to register!


    For full show notes and transcript, go to: https://rachaelcunningham.com/podcast/ep_104/

  • In this episode, we dive deeper into the concept of planned rests and intentional breaks, exploring how they act as crucial periods of healing and growth. Drawing inspiration from nature's cyclical rhythms, we examine the necessity for rest in our lives, especially amidst our busy routines in womanhood, motherhood, career pursuits, and relationships.

    Episode Insight:

    Understanding the significance of planned rests as essential for healing and growth. Exploring the parallels between nature's seasonal rest and our own need for rejuvenation. Overcoming societal pressures and patriarchal ideologies about constant productivity to embrace the transformative power of intentional breaks.

    What You'll Learn:

    How planned rests contribute to increased energy, creativity, and peace. Identifying areas in your life that would benefit from a break and how to approach this transition. The art of trusting yourself in taking a break and its positive impact on personal and relational well-being. How embracing rest serves as a catalyst for personal growth and the cultivation of joyful living.

    Listen now to discover just how productive rest can be - for your life and relationship.

    To learn more and take a free class on better connection, go to rachaelcunningham.com

    For more info and to join Stoked: The Marriage Mastermind For Women, go to : https://www.stokedmarriage.com/smm-01

  • As the holiday season approaches, the desire to create lasting memories for our families often clashes with the need for personal rest and relaxation. In this episode, we explore how to strike a balance between nurturing our own well-being and ensuring joyful experiences for loved ones.

    What you'll learn:

    Striking a Balance: Learn how to harmonize personal rest with family holiday activities without reaching the breaking point.

    Client Stories: Here a few real-life examples of clients who managed to honor their need for rest while creating memorable moments for their families.

    Preventing Overwhelm: Practical steps to avoid overwhelming situations during the Holiday season and what self-respect has to do with it.

    The Power of Emotions: Embrace both positive and challenging emotions to create space for joy and peace during the holidays.


    Get ahead of the game this season! A peaceful, joyful, and connected Holiday begins with This episode, a pen, and a piece of paper!

    Grab your pen and paper and listen on!

    For more information, check out https://www.rachaelcunningham.com/

  • In this episode of "Joyful Love," I tell you exactly how to deal with a defensive partner.

    We've all been there, attempting to address issues or seek improvements in our relationships, only to have our partners become defensive. This episode explores why this happens and provides practical strategies to foster a deeper connection and open communication with your spouse.

    You'll hear how my client, Sarah had success in helping her husband feel comfortable in conversations about making change. And I'll tell you the five tools she adopted to help her do so.

    You'll learn how to create understanding, validate emotions, and work collaboratively to resolve issues, ultimately leading to a more harmonious and supportive partnership.

    Here's what you'll learn:

    1. Discover the root causes of partner defensiveness, including fear, insecurity, and past experiences.

    2. Gain insights from a client's success story in transforming a defensive dynamic into a more peaceful and connected relationship.

    3. Learn the five essential steps to effectively respond to your partner's defensiveness, including active listening, validation, perspective exploration, and collaboration.

    4. Understand that improving your relationship goes beyond surface-level issues; it's about building confidence in yourself to navigate and manage both solvable and unsolvable problems in your partnership.

    Tune in to "Joyful Love" and equip yourself with the tools and knowledge to foster healthier, more satisfying relationships.

    For full show notes, visit
    https://www.rachaelcunningham.com/

  • Can you believe it? The Joyful Love Podcast has hit 100 episodes of inspiration, stories, and relationship wisdom!

    To celebrate this journey, I've got something special in store for you.

    In this episode, I'll share my most embarrassing moment as an entrepreneur yet! And then I get to what you really want to know about - the newest, most accessible way to work with me yet - the brand-new membership program!

    This membership is going to be your opportunity to get all the coaching and support you need to create a marriage and life you're stoked to be in!

    Tune in to hear the details and how you can be a Founding Member!

    For more information, go to https://www.rachaelcunningham.com/

  • Resentment normally turns to anger and disconnection in a marriage. But what if we could flip the script and use this feeling FOR our connection instead?

    In today’s episode, "How To Turn Resentment Into Emotional Connection," you'll discover practical strategies for transforming feelings of resentment into emotional intimacy.

    What You'll Learn:

    The nature of resentment and how it can silently affect your relationships.

    The importance of recognizing and acknowledging resentment to regain personal power.

    Why expecting a perfect 50/50 balance in relationships can lead to more stress.

    Three key questions to ask yourself when you feel resentment, including how to communicate your needs to your partner.

    How expressing gratitude and appreciation can be an antidote to resentment

    The importance of self-awareness in resolving resentment and building emotional intimacy.

    Don't miss this episode if you want to learn how to turn resentment into an opportunity for growth, connection, and a thriving marriage

    For more information and show notes, go to https://www.rachaelcunningham.com/

  • If you ignore or avoid your emotions ... eventually you'll POP! I've been there and I'm sure you have too.

    So today, I'm showing you exactly what to do with your triggers and emotions.

    You know how sometimes we get so busy with our daily lives that we forget to pay attention to how we feel inside?

    When we barrel through our emotions and try to avoid them, we do ourselves no favors. And when we feel triggered, we think something is so wrong that we feel paralyzed and stuck in that feeling.

    This happens becasue we don't know how to process our feelings.

    In this episode, I show you how to fully process your emotions, even the not-so-fun ones, and how doing this can actually make us wiser, more decisive, and have more joy and peace in life.

    You'll learn how to stop avoiding your feelings and start tapping into the wisdom of your body.

    If you want to stop ignoring your emotions, listen on!

    For more information and full show notes, and a free class on better connection, head to https://www.rachaelcunningham.com/

  • Difficult conversations are part of marriage. And it can be uncomfortable to start one. Your nervous system goes on overload. You feel tense, stressed, and like you want to RUN!

    This is why we often avoid hard talks and simply hold in our feelings and let them fester.

    But If you hold in your frustration or confusion, it’ll come out eventually … often with passive-aggressive anger.

    Let’s change that!

    In this episode, you’ll learn how to get comfortable with uncomfortable conversations. You’ll reach solutions to your marriage problems more quickly - while you stay connected!

    Tune in and learn:

    How to be aware of your emotions in the moment and remain present with your partner.

    Why you don’t have to be right!

    How To listen to your partner’s perspective so YOU can be heard too.

    4 Steps to help difficult conversations flow and reach better solutions


    Listen now and have better conversations tonight!

    For more information go to https://www.rachaelcunningham.com/

  • Communication with two different people who live all of life together can get tricky at times. Our decisions affect each other. And the way we talk to each other matters.

    Often we're married to someone who is opposite from us in communication styles. One can be an internal processor, where they need time and space on their own to think about decisions.

    And the other can be more external. The external processor needs to verbally express their thoughts and opinions.

    If we don't understand these different needs, it's easy to take offense at your partners communication style.

    How do you not feel ignored when your partner is quiet?

    How do you not feel bombarded when your partner expresses all of their stress out loud?

    If you've ever been confused by how you or your partner respond and communicate, tune in to this episode.

    You'll learn the difference between the two communication styles and how to use them for the good of your relationship instead of against it.

    You'll learn to hold space for each other's hearts and to trust that you and your partner are on the same team. You're kicking the ball to the same goal ... even if you have a different route of getting there!

    If you'd like more information or to get on my newsletter, go to https://www.rachaelcunningham.com/