In this episode of the Communicate and Connect Podcast, Liz talks with relationship coach Lauren Dry about the freeze response and how it shows up in communication, connection, and conflict.

The freeze response is one of the most misunderstood nervous system reactions, especially in relationships. It can look like emotional shutdown, disconnection, or indifference but it’s actually a survival mechanism. Lauren explains why the freeze response happens, how it affects both partners, and what you can do to move from disconnection to reconnection.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What the freeze response looks like in relationships
• How unconscious programming and attachment styles affect your reactions
• Why high-achieving people often experience freeze in their personal lives
• Simple somatic tools to help regulate your nervous system in the moment
• How to set connected boundaries that build safety instead of walls

If you or your partner tend to shut down during conflict or feel emotionally frozen, this episode will give you practical tools and new insight to create a stronger, more connected relationship.

>>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.

• You can sign up for Elizabeth's FREE 10-week relationship email course here.
• Read the show notes for this episode here.

Welcome to this episode of The Communicate & Connect Podcast, where we tackle the ever-relevant topic of how to deal with different parenting styles. In today's conversation, host Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky is joined by Adam Angel, a specialist in supporting new dads and an advocate for thoughtful, collaborative parenting approaches. This episode is particularly significant for military families, who often face unique challenges and transitions.

Adam begins by sharing his personal journey into fatherhood during the pandemic, which led to his development of a supportive group for new dads. Throughout the discussion, Adam and Dr. Polinsky explore the factors that contribute to varying parenting styles, including cultural backgrounds, childhood experiences, and personal values. They emphasize the importance of understanding child development stages and how this knowledge can bridge gaps between differing parenting philosophies.

Together, they provide actionable advice on leveraging common goals to unite parenting efforts, such as focusing on long-term outcomes like resilience, empathy, and independence in children. The conversation centers around enhancing the parent-child relationship while navigating conflicts that often arise from different views on parenting. Adam shares valuable insights into the necessity of open communication between co-parents, encouraging listeners to engage in constructive dialogues that can lead to mutual compromise and understanding.

In a society where parenting can be an isolated endeavor, Adam advocates for the importance of maintaining a supportive network, which can greatly enrich the parenting experience. This episode is a must-listen for parents looking to improve their relationship dynamics and discover effective strategies for dealing with different parenting styles.

Whether you're part of a military family or simply navigating the daily challenges of parenting, tune in to learn how to enhance communication and connection in your family life while successfully dealing with differing parenting styles.

>>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.

• You can sign up for Elizabeth's FREE 10-week relationship email course here.
• Read the show notes for this episode here.

In this episode of The Communicate & Connect Podcast, host Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky welcomes intimacy expert Chloe Mascord to the show, where they dive deep into the intricacies of nurturing intimacy within relationships, with a special focus on the unique dynamics faced by military couples. Chloe, renowned for her expertise in the field, discusses the common challenges and misconceptions surrounding intimacy, emphasizing the crucial distinction between intimacy and sex and the need for emotional closeness for a fulfilling intimate life.

Throughout the episode, Chloe offers a wealth of practical tips and strategies to help couples reignite the spark in their relationships, even when faced with hectic schedules and stress. They explore the impact of individual and external factors like stress and body image on intimacy and offer insights into building a positive, connected partnership. Chloe also highlights the power of mindful communication and the transformative effects of simple habits, such as scheduled quality time and thoughtful gestures, in fostering deeper connections.

Listeners will gain valuable advice on strengthening their relationships, ensuring intimacy is not only maintained but thrives amidst life's challenges. Whether you're a military couple navigating deployment separations or simply looking to enhance your relationship, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you and your partner connect more deeply. Tune in to discover how to create a more intimate and connected relationship that withstands the test of time.

>>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.

• You can sign up for Elizabeth's FREE 10-week relationship email course here.
• Read the show notes for this episode here.

Welcome to Episode 060 of The Communicate & Connect Podcast! I'm your host, Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky, and today we have an enlightening conversation with the incredible Kristal Desantis, a licensed marriage and family therapist based in Austin, Texas. In this episode, we delve into the often-overlooked dynamics of men in relationships and the societal expectations that shape their roles and behaviors.

Kristal shares her insights on the shifting roles of men, particularly the challenge of being valued for performance over personhood. We'll unpack the powerful metaphor of "lipstick on a pig" to illustrate the ways we sometimes mask relationship issues, and we'll discuss the knight-in-shining-armor stereotype that many men grapple with.

One of the highlights of our discussion is Kristal's book, "Strong: A Relationship Field Guide for the Modern Man," and her innovative STRONG acronym—Safety, Trust, Respect, Openness, Nurturing, and Generosity—that serves as a comprehensive guide to building resilient and loving relationships. We'll touch on practical advice for military couples, the importance of vulnerability, and the impact of societal myths on male sexual readiness and desire.

You'll also learn about the fun and transformative Bonding Boot Camps that Kristal and her husband run in Texas, offering couples a chance to reconnect and build better communication skills. Plus, you'll get a sneak peek at Kristal's online courses and in-person sessions designed to strengthen relationships.

So, tune in for an episode packed with valuable insights and actionable advice to help make your relationship stronger than ever. Don’t forget to check the show notes for links to Kristal’s book, courses, and more!

>>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.

• You can sign up for Elizabeth's FREE 10-week relationship email course here.
• Read the show notes for this episode here.

Welcome to Episode 59 of the Communicate & Connect Podcast!

I'm your host, Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky, and today we have a deeply insightful conversation lined up with our special guest, Leigh Conant, a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in the military community.

In this episode, we dive into the emotional and logistical complexities of military spouse relocation. Leigh shares her personal experience moving from a well-established community in New Orleans to Camp Lejeune in North Carolina, detailing the mix of excitement and profound grief that comes with leaving friends and cherished homes behind.

We explore the hidden stresses of planning and the unique emotional burdens military spouses face during these transitions, including the phenomenon of delayed grief and somatic experiences linked to unprocessed emotions.

Listen in as we discuss practical tips for managing these challenging relocations—embracing the full spectrum of complex emotions, fostering clear communication within families, and maintaining meaningful long-distance friendships.

We'll also share insights on how busy lives can overshadow our emotional awareness and how embracing the richness of our experiences can bring deeper connection in relationships.

Whether you're a military spouse navigating a move or anyone dealing with significant life changes, this episode is packed with valuable advice and heartfelt stories that resonate deeply. So, stay tuned, and let's embark on this journey together!

>>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.

• You can sign up for Elizabeth's FREE 10-week relationship email course here.
• Read the show notes for this episode here.

Welcome to The Communicate & Connect Podcast with your host, Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky. In today's episode, titled "Coping with PCS Stress with Michelle Farmer," we dive deep into the unique challenges faced by military families during Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves. Joining us is Michelle Farmer, a true expert in navigating military life, having experienced it from multiple perspectives—as an army brat, a service member, a military spouse, and a member of the reserves.

Michelle and Dr. Polinsky explore a range of topics, from the complexities of communication within families and fostering open, vulnerable dialogues, to practical and emotional coping strategies during relocations. We'll discuss the importance of building a resilient family culture where difficult emotions can be addressed and understood, and share real-life experiences and tips for managing PCS stress, such as using "I" statements for couple communication, organizing essential documents, and leveraging community resources.

Tune in as Michelle shares her personal stories of moving, making new friends, and the profound impact of support networks. We'll also delve into the powerful concepts of cognitive restructuring, reframing stressors, and balancing the scales between eustress and distress. Whether you're a military family or looking to improve communication and connection within your own home, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement. Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe to our podcast, and check out our free ten-week relationship email course to enhance your communication and connection skills!

>>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.

• You can sign up for Elizabeth's FREE 10-week relationship email course here.
• Read the show notes for this episode here.

Welcome to The Communicate & Connect Podcast! I'm your host, Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky. In today's episode, we're diving into the unique challenges and enriching experiences that come with living overseas and navigating OCONUS military life. Our special guest, Brianna Mendoza, brings her wealth of experience as a military spouse and graduate student in marriage and family therapy, specifically focusing on military therapy.

Brianna will share her journey of moving to Japan post-COVID, highlighting her adventures in nature hikes, traditional onsen visits, and connecting with locals through a dog café. We'll discuss the critical importance of communication and coping mechanisms within relationships during such transitions, and how these experiences can strengthen family dynamics. Brianna also offers practical tips for military spouses, from preparation and research before the move to celebrating the unique opportunities of living abroad.

We'll explore the logistical hurdles, such as housing adjustments, pet limitations, and strategic planning for overseas assignments, as well as stress management and support networks. Finally, we wrap up with reflections on personal growth and the profound impact of these experiences on relationships and family life.

Stay tuned for an insightful conversation packed with valuable advice and heartwarming encouragement for those embarking on their own OCONUS journeys. Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe to our podcast, and check out our free ten-week relationship email course to enhance your communication and connection skills!

>>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.

• You can sign up for Elizabeth's FREE 10-week relationship email course here.
• Read the show notes for this episode here.

Welcome to The Communicate & Connect Podcast with your host, Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky. In today's episode, we're delving into the unique challenges and triumphs of military marriages with our special guests, Darrell and Veronica Williams. With an impressive 26-year marriage behind them, Darrell and Veronica share their journey from high school sweethearts to long-distance partners, offering invaluable insights into navigating military life together.

Dr. Polinsky wraps up this heartfelt conversation by expressing gratitude for the wisdom and mentorship shared by the Williamses, and reminding listeners that there are helpful resources available in the show notes, including a link to Darrell and Veronica's coaching website and a free ten-week relationship email course.

From the significance of clear communication and shared decision-making to building trust and balancing military and home life, this episode is packed with practical tips and inspirational stories. Darrell and Veronica emphasize viewing marriage as a commitment that transcends individual needs, rooted in faith, friendship, and mutual support.

So, whether you're part of a military couple or seeking to strengthen your relationship, this episode is designed to help you thrive together. Stay tuned for a conversation filled with love, dedication, and actionable advice. And don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe to the podcast!

>>>Make sure to like, review, and subscribe to get all the future episodes and help the podcast be found by others who would benefit the most.

• You can sign up for Elizabeth's FREE 10-week relationship email course here.
• Read the show notes for this episode here.