Boundaries vs. Ultimatums with Willa Williams

In this episode, Alisa Grace sits down with licensed marriage and family therapist Willa Williams to unpack the often-confused concepts of boundaries and ultimatums. They explore the difference between making a request, setting a boundary, and issuing an ultimatum—highlighting how tone, intention, and personal responsibility can either build connection or create division in your relationships.

Together, they provide practical tools and real-life examples to help you communicate needs in a healthy way, create emotional safety, and respond maturely when on the receiving end of a boundary. Whether you’re navigating conflict with a spouse, roommate, friend, or coworker, this episode offers wisdom and encouragement to help you grow in both courage and compassion.

Resources Mentioned:

• Speaker-Listener Technique (PDF) – A simple yet powerful communication tool that fosters active listening and mutual understanding in any relationship.
• Blue Trust (Colby Gilmore) – Biblically-centered financial planning and investment management for couples and individuals.
• The Couples Institute – Dr. Ellyn Bader – Professional therapy resources and relationship education.
  
  

Connect with Us:

• Website: cmr.biola.edu
• Facebook: facebook.com/biolacmr
• Instagram: instagram.com/biolacmr
• YouTube: www.youtube.com/@biola-cmr
  
  

Join the Conversation:

• Subscribe to The Art of Relationships Podcast to never miss an episode.
• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform to help others discover the show.
• Share this episode with someone who could benefit from these relationship insights.
  Sign up for weekly updates and resources from the Center for Marriage and Relationships:
  👉 http://eepurl.com/bgsuQv

About the Hosts:

Chris Grace, Ph.D., and Alisa Grace are passionate about helping people build and sustain healthy relationships. As leaders of the Biola University Center for Marriage and Relationships, they combine the wisdom of Scripture with scholarly research to offer practical advice and insights. Learn more about their work at cmr.biola.edu.