Episodios

  • Cognitive Distortions: The Hidden Mind Traps That Shape Your Relationships and Reality

    Cognitive Distortions: The Hidden Mind Traps That Shape Your Relationships and Reality
    Nov 11 2025
    Welcome back to The Relationship Doctor! I’m Dr. Margaret Cochran, and today we’re tackling a topic that affects every one of us—whether we realize it or not: cognitive distortions. These sneaky, distorted ways of thinking can twist how we see ourselves, our relationships, and even the world around us—often leading to unnecessary pain, confusion, and conflict.

    I’ll walk you through some of the most common traps we fall into—like all-or-nothing thinking, catastrophizing, personalizing, and those pesky “shoulds” that quietly run the show in our heads. And don’t worry—it’s not all heavy stuff! With a little humor and a lot of compassion, I’ll help you recognize how these thoughts take hold and, more importantly, how to shift them toward something healthier and more freeing.

    By the end of this episode, you’ll have practical tools to challenge your inner critic, communicate more clearly, and bring more calm, clarity, and kindness into your relationships. So, if you’ve ever caught yourself spiraling or assuming the worst, this one’s for you. Let’s unpack the mind games we all play—and learn how to stop believing everything we think.

    Chapters:

    00:00 - Introduction
    00:10 - Understanding Cognitive Distortions
    05:45 - Fallacy of Unseen Reward
    07:30 - "Overcoming Cognitive Distortions"
    11:29 - Question Assumptions for Self-Growth
    13:24 - Wishing You Wisdom and Magic
    14:01 - Outro

    Quotes:

    “Separating fact from fiction allows you to determine which part of your thinking you need to change.”- Dr. Margaret Cochran

    “If the way you’re looking at people, events, and yourself is negative and limiting, you’re cheating yourself and those around you.”- Dr. Margaret Cochran

    Key Takeaways:

    Cognitive Distortions: The Root of Unnecessary Suffering
    The Greatest Hits of Distorted Thinking
    Relationship Roadblocks
    The Power of Awareness
    Tools for Transformation: Steps to Clearer Thinking
    Treat Yourself Like a Friend
    Lighten Up and Laugh
    Progress, Not Perfection

    Connect with Dr Margaret
    Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/doctorcochran
    Website: https://drcochrancoaching.com/
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    13 m
  • What You Tolerate in Love, You Multiply: Boundaries and Real Respect

    What You Tolerate in Love, You Multiply: Boundaries and Real Respect
    Nov 6 2025
    Have you ever caught yourself tolerating things in your relationship that deep down you know you don’t want—just to “keep the peace”?

    Hi, I’m Dr. Margaret Cochran, and in this episode of The Relationship Doctor, I’m taking a hard look at one habit that feels kind on the surface but often keeps us—especially women—trapped in unhappy relationships: putting up with behavior that chips away at our self-respect.

    We’re taught from an early age to nurture, forgive, and put others’ needs before our own. But when that turns into tolerating microaggressions or outright disrespect, love starts to lose its foundation. In this short but powerful conversation, I’ll share why setting boundaries isn’t selfish—it’s the most compassionate thing you can do, for yourself and for the people you care about.

    If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re accepting less than you deserve, this episode is for you. Let’s talk about how reclaiming your boundaries can open the door to the kind of relationship that’s rooted in true respect, kindness, and love.

    Quotes:

    "You will only get more of what you tolerate. If you want love and respect, then express it for yourself and tolerate nothing less."- Dr. Margaret Cochran

    Key Takeaways:

    The Trap of Tolerance in the Name of Love
    Boundaries Are Essential, Not Selfish
    You Get More of What You Tolerate
    Respect Starts With You
    Love Is Not Boundary-less

    Connect with Dr Margaret
    Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/doctorcochran
    Website:https://drcochrancoaching.com/
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    2 m
  • Rewire Your Brain with Gratitude: A Simple Daily Practice for Lasting Peace and Connection

    Rewire Your Brain with Gratitude: A Simple Daily Practice for Lasting Peace and Connection
    Nov 4 2025
    Do you ever feel like life is just happening to you—like you’re stuck reacting to other people, stress, or the constant noise of the world?

    Hi, I’m Dr. Margaret Cochran, and in this episode of The Relationship Doctor, I want to share one of the simplest practices I know—something so small it only takes a few minutes a day, yet powerful enough to completely shift how you show up in your relationships and your life.

    Here’s the truth: you’re not powerless. You don’t have to live in a cycle of stress, negativity, or reactivity. By building a daily gratitude practice, you can literally rewire your brain, regain control over your emotions, and bring more joy, calm, and connection into your closest relationships.

    This isn’t about adding more to your already full plate—it’s about choosing one small, mindful habit that can open the door to more love, more peace, and more resilience every single day.

    So join me for this short, practical episode and let’s explore how just one grateful thought at a time can transform the way you live and love.

    Quotes:

    “You can achieve a tremendous change in minutes a day. Really? Minutes a day?”- Dr. Margaret Cochran

    “When you practice gratitude, you take control, which can create new, more positive neural tracks that completely change how the world will look and feel to you.”- Dr. Margaret Cochran

    Key Takeaways:

    You Hold the Power
    The Brain’s Role in Relationships
    Break the Cycle of Negativity
    Gratitude Isn’t Just Good Manners—It Rewires Your Brain
    It’s Simple, Yet Life-Changing
    Transformation Starts With Minutes a Day
    You Deserve Peace, Joy, and Connection

    Connect with Dr Margaret
    Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/doctorcochran
    Website:https://drcochrancoaching.com/
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    5 m
  • Pursuing the Pull: Facing Fear, Finding Purpose, and Building the Life You Dream Of

    Pursuing the Pull: Facing Fear, Finding Purpose, and Building the Life You Dream Of
    Nov 3 2025
    Join us for an intriguing episode of The Relationship Doctor, where Dr. Margaret Cochran shifts the focus from interpersonal connections to a crucial internal one: your relationship with your dreams. Our guest, Stacey Bevan, is a seasoned entrepreneur and digital strategist who transformed her life by following a vision. With a wealth of experience in business and a commitment to helping others, Stacey's story of moving from corporate marketing to founding the Pursue the Pool community provides valuable insights.

    In this episode, Dr. Cochran and Stacey address the hurdles of entrepreneurship, tackling imposter syndrome, and overcoming fear. They discuss the significance of nurturing your dreams even when faced with skepticism. Stacey shares practical advice on navigating transitions, building supportive networks, and staying aligned with your goals. This conversation offers guidance for anyone seeking the confidence to pursue their passions.

    Discover strategies to silence external doubts, uncover your true purpose, and take meaningful steps toward the life and business you envision.

    Chapters:

    00:00 - Introduction
    00:10 - Entrepreneurship Struggles and Support
    03:32 - "Pursue the Pool Origins"
    08:59 - Fear, Change, and Social Pressure
    11:33 - Remove Distractions, Trust Yourself
    13:11 - "Evaluating Friendships for Success"
    17:51 - "Life Clarity Without Alcohol"
    20:44 - Overcoming Fear in Entrepreneurship
    25:01 - Facing Dragons, Women’s Challenges
    27:35 - Purpose, Passion, Overcoming Fear
    32:32 - Turning Passion Into Profit
    35:51 - Overcoming Limiting Beliefs
    37:47 - Entrepreneurial Transition Challenges
    42:26 - "Plan, Save, Adapt, Transition"
    45:51 - Entrepreneurial Resource Launch Soon
    47:45 - Pursue the Paul: Connect Everywhere
    49:41 - Outro

    Quotes:

    "Growth lies just beyond fear. Take one step beyond doubt, and possibilities unfold."- Stacey Bevan

    "Fear is either a teacher or a master—you decide. Listen to your own voice to find your true path."- Dr. Margaret Cochran

    Key Takeaways:

    Honoring the Pull of Your Dreams
    Imposter Syndrome: The Universal Dragon
    Choosing Your Circle Wisely
    The Power of Presence
    Embracing and Overcoming Fear
    Women and Motivation: Turning Passion into Purpose
    The Challenge of Transition
    Building for Longevity and Serving Others

    Connect with Stacey Bevan:
    Website: https://snbdigital.com/

    Connect with Dr Margaret
    Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/doctorcochran
    Website:https://drcochrancoaching.com/
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    50 m
  • Silence or Connection? How Honest Conversations Transform Relationships

    Silence or Connection? How Honest Conversations Transform Relationships
    Oct 30 2025
    Have you ever noticed how silence in a relationship can feel like both a comfort and a wall?

    Hi, I’m Dr. Margaret Cochran, and in this episode of The Relationship Doctor, I’m unpacking the surprising power of silence in our closest connections. Sometimes those quiet moments can draw us closer together, creating space for peace and understanding. But other times, silence becomes avoidance—and that kind of silence can slowly chip away at intimacy.

    Instead of slipping into meaningless chatter or burying issues under unspoken words, I’ll share how you can use honest, thoughtful conversations to deepen trust and strengthen your bond. I’ll also offer a few powerful questions you can bring to your partner—questions designed to open the door to healing, clarity, and genuine connection.

    If you’ve ever wondered whether your silence is helping or hurting your relationship, this episode is for you. Tune in and let’s explore how moving from silence to open dialogue can transform love into something stronger, deeper, and lasting.

    Quotes:

    “Silence can become a chasm—choose courageous conversation to deepen your bond.”– Dr. Margaret Cochran

    “Meet halfway with honest dialogue; balance brings love and connection.”– Dr. Margaret Cochran

    Key Takeaways:

    Silence Can Be Powerful—Or Dangerous
    Beware of Meaningless Chatter
    Striking a Healthy Balance
    Bridging the Gap with Honest Questions
    Create Safe Spaces for Dialogue
    Seek Help When You Need It
    Healing and Growth Start with Conversation

    Connect with Dr Margaret
    Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/doctorcochran
    Website:https://drcochrancoaching.com/
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    3 m
  • Love Doesn’t Have to Be Hard: The Truth About Healthy Relationships

    Love Doesn’t Have to Be Hard: The Truth About Healthy Relationships
    Oct 28 2025
    We’ve all heard it before: “Love is hard.” But what if that isn’t the whole truth?

    Hi, I’m Dr. Margaret Cochran, and in this episode of The Relationship Doctor, I want to challenge the idea that healthy relationships are supposed to be messy, dramatic, or painful. Movies and novels love to tell us that struggle equals passion—but real love doesn’t have to look that way.

    Instead, I’ll walk you through what a healthy relationship actually feels like in the early stages—things like steady communication, mutual respect, and clear boundaries. And just as importantly, I’ll share some of the red flags to look out for, from constant excuses to emotional manipulation, so you don’t lose yourself in the name of “love.”

    Here’s the truth: relationships take maturity and effort, yes—but they shouldn’t be a constant uphill battle. You deserve a connection that lifts you up, not one that tears you down. If you’ve ever questioned whether love should feel this hard, this conversation is for you. Tune in and let’s reframe what love can—and should—really be.

    Quotes:

    "Love takes work, compromise, and emotional maturity. But it doesn’t have to be hard—unless you make it so, or choose an abusive partner."- Dr. Margaret Cochran

    "You are powerful. You are competent. You are loving and desirable. You are a beautiful and necessary part of this universe."- Dr. Margaret Cochran

    Key Takeaways:

    Love doesn’t have to be complicated.
    Communication is a must.
    You shouldn’t have to walk on eggshells.
    Boundaries matter.
    You are powerful and worthy.

    Connect with Dr Margaret
    Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/doctorcochran
    Website:https://drcochrancoaching.com/
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    4 m
  • Escaping Shame-Based Families: Finding Freedom and Real Love

    Escaping Shame-Based Families: Finding Freedom and Real Love
    Oct 23 2025
    We all carry echoes of where we came from. And for many of us, that means growing up in families where love and shame were woven tightly together.

    Hi, I’m Dr. Margaret Cochran, and in this episode of The Relationship Doctor, I want to talk about how those early, shame-based dynamics shape the way we show up in our closest relationships. Maybe you’ve found yourself overachieving to prove your worth, people-pleasing to avoid rejection, or pulling away emotionally because intimacy feels unsafe. These are patterns I see often—and they can quietly keep us from the love and connection we truly deserve.

    But here’s the good news: your past does not have to define your future. Together, we’ll explore how to recognize your inherent worth, challenge the stories you were handed, and bravely face the pain that’s been holding you back. When you do, you open the door to relationships built on trust, respect, and genuine love.

    If you’ve ever felt trapped by old family patterns, this conversation offers both hope and practical steps to break free. Tune in and take the first step toward emotional freedom and deeper, healthier connections.

    Quotes:

    “Face your dragons—they only chase those who flee. Your courage unlocks freedom and boundless possibility.”- Dr. Margaret Cochran

    “Love isn’t defined by blood. You are inherently lovable—never stop seeking the truth and the love you deserve.”- Dr. Margaret Cochran

    Key Takeaways:

    Our Family Shapes Our Intimacy Skills
    The Burden of Shame is Heavy but Invisible
    Extreme Coping is Common—and Comes at a Cost
    True Healing Means Facing the Pain
    Blood Isn’t the Only Source of Love
    Never Give Up on Finding Love and Truth

    Connect with Dr Margaret
    Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/doctorcochran
    Website:https://drcochrancoaching.com/
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    5 m
  • Codependency Is Not Love: Breaking Free from Emotional Addiction

    Codependency Is Not Love: Breaking Free from Emotional Addiction
    Oct 21 2025
    Codependency—it’s a word we hear a lot, but do we really understand what it means?

    Hi, I’m Dr. Margaret Cochran, and in this episode of The Relationship Doctor, I’m unpacking one of the most misunderstood dynamics in relationships: codependency. It often disguises itself as care, devotion, or even loyalty, but in truth, it’s more about addiction than love. When we lose ourselves trying to fix, please, or rescue others, we slowly chip away at our own self-worth and boundaries—sometimes without even realizing it.

    In this conversation, I’ll help you recognize the subtle signs of codependent behavior, explore how culture and family patterns reinforce it, and share practical steps to begin healing. Whether you’ve struggled with codependency yourself or love someone who has, this episode offers insight, compassion, and a clear path toward healthier, more authentic connections.

    Let’s take this journey together—to rediscover what real love looks like when it’s free, balanced, and grounded in self-respect.

    Quotes:


    “Recognizing codependency is hard, but real love always finds a way.” - Dr. Margaret Cochran

    “Codependency isn’t love. Reach out, and step into genuine care for yourself and others.” - Dr. Margaret Cochran

    Key Takeaways:

    Codependency Isn’t Loyalty—It’s Addiction
    Codependency and Narcissism: Two Sides of a Destructive Coin
    Cultural Myths Can Hide Emotional Addiction
    The Brain on Codependency: Chemical and Behavioral Roots
    There Is Hope and Healing
    Codependency Is Not Love—Not for Others or for Yourself

    Connect with Dr Margaret
    Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/doctorcochran
    Website:https://drcochrancoaching.com/
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    5 m