Transforming Relationships with Stacy & Paul Martino

Introduction

Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes listeners to a special episode featuring Stacy and Paul Martino. For over 14 years, the Martinos have helped thousands transform their marriages, parenting, and families—often working with just one spouse. Their revolutionary method has resulted in a 1% divorce rate among program participants over six years.

The Martinos' Journey

Stacy shares how their personal struggles led to the accidental discovery that one person can create meaningful change in a relationship. Paul recalls the moment he realized they needed to share this approach with others to help families stay together.

The Importance of Relationship Skills

Dr. Lycka discusses how many couples struggle due to a lack of people skills, not love. He shares his own experience of reconnecting with his wife after drifting apart, emphasizing that small, intentional actions can rekindle relationships.

Unlearning False Beliefs

Paul highlights the misconception that both partners must meet each other halfway. Instead, relationships function as a closed loop—one person's actions continuously shape the dynamic. Stacy adds that repetitive conflicts arise when couples reach the limits of their skill set, emphasizing the need for new strategies.

Breaking the Cycle of Repeated Arguments

Stacy explains that unresolved conflicts resurface because they were never truly solved. Creating win-win solutions is a skill that must be learned. She stresses that the problem is not the individuals but their lack of effective communication strategies.

Understanding Personal and Relationship Histories

Dr. Lycka and Paul discuss how past experiences, often influenced by parents, shape relationship dynamics. Paul encourages couples to consciously break cycles that do not serve them by recognizing that each relationship is unique.

Prioritizing Connection in a Busy World

Stacy advises couples to focus on intention rather than time. Strengthening relationships provides a solid foundation that makes life’s other responsibilities easier to manage. She emphasizes the importance of resolving conflicts rather than ignoring them.

Embracing Differences as Strengths

Dr. Lycka shares a personal story about how he and his wife have learned to appreciate their differences. Paul explains that differences should not be seen as superior or inferior but as unique strengths that complement each other. Stacy adds that understanding a partner’s perspective fosters deeper connection.

The Key to a Fantastic Life

Stacy attributes her fulfillment to personal and relationship development, while Paul highlights the importance of personal responsibility and overcoming obstacles. They both emphasize that relationship transformation starts with one person taking the lead.

Final Thoughts & How to Connect

Stacy and Paul share how listeners can access their resources:

• Visit www.relationshipdevelopment.org for free tools.
• Get their book The Missing Piece: A Proven Method to Single-Handedly Transform Your Relationship and Create Harmony in Your Home at www.missingpiecebook.com.

Dr. Lycka invites listeners to visit www.drallenlycka.com for weekly insights and a chance to win a luxury vacation. He encourages audience engagement and looks forward to their questions and comments.

BIO:

For over 14 years, the Martinos have helped thousands of people to transform their marriages, parenting and families! (all by working with only ONE spouse). During a 6-year study of student results, the students in their RelationshipU® program had a 1% Divorce Rate, over 6 years! Those results are unheard of and that's because...their methodology WORKS! Through their profound work, the Martinos have shown that couples work, doesn’t work; marriage issues are not mental health issues, and that relationship is a skill-set and it can be learned.

Social Media:

IG: @staceymartinordo

FB: https://www.facebook.com/StaceyMartinoLPC