Ever felt pressured by societal norms in relationships? In this episode of the "Crown Yourself" podcast, hosted by Kimberly Spencer, the discussion centers on relationships, communication, and the journey of marriage later in life. Author & speaker, Laurie Handlers shares a unique marriage proposal story, emphasizing the importance of self-love, clear communication, and understanding gender differences in relationships. The conversation explores the challenges successful women face in balancing career and personal life, the significance of setting boundaries, and the need for practical relationship skills. The episode encourages listeners to embrace new experiences, prioritize self-awareness, and foster deeper connections with their partners, regardless of age. Enjoy, sovereigns! Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or your favorite podcast listening platform. You can also watch the episode on YouTube. Moments of Note: Dating Your Species (00:00:00) Advice on dating within your own relationship style, whether monogamous or polyamorous. Podcast Introduction (00:00:25) Kimberly Spencer welcomes listeners and outlines the podcast's purpose for personal and professional growth. Marriage Decision at 75 (00:01:08) Discussion about the speaker's choice to marry at 75 and the significance of the decision. The Unique Proposal (00:01:23) A humorous recount of the speaker's unexpected marriage proposal in a porta potty. Taking Marriage Seriously (00:03:27) The speaker reflects on how they initially didn't take the proposal seriously until later. Setting New Precedents (00:04:20) Emphasizing that new experiences can be embraced at any age, including marriage. Challenges in Relationships (00:05:29) Discussion on how societal expectations affect couples and their communication. Lack of Communication Skills (00:06:34) Critique of education systems for not teaching essential communication skills for relationships. Fear of Seeking Help (00:07:10) Exploration of why couples hesitate to seek help for relationship issues due to shame. Difference in Approaches (00:07:46) Comparison between traditional therapy and the speaker's unique approach to relationship coaching. Focus on Self-Love (00:08:46) Highlighting the importance of self-love as a foundation for loving others effectively. Fearless Communication Techniques (00:10:03) Introduction to communication strategies that enhance connection and understanding in relationships. Understanding Gender Dynamics (00:11:15) Discussion on the biological differences in how men and women experience intimacy and connection. Unraveling Misconceptions (00:12:23) Addressing common misconceptions about gender behavior in relationships. Radical Honesty in Relationships (00:14:20) Laurie shares their experience of building a relationship based on radical honesty and openness. Two Categories of Couples (00:15:22) Identifying two types of couples: those seeking help after many years and those starting fresh. Saying the Unsayable (00:16:35) Teaching couples how to communicate difficult feelings and thoughts openly. Authenticity in New Relationships (00:17:35) Encouraging authenticity from the beginning of a relationship to foster true connection. Setting Boundaries Early (00:18:42) The importance of establishing boundaries in relationships to build trust and understanding. Boundaries in Relationships (00:19:44) Discussion on the importance of boundaries in relationships, especially regarding family planning. Dating Your Species (00:20:37) Emphasis on finding compatible partners based on relationship styles and preferences. Desires and Boundaries Ritual (00:21:41) Sharing personal experiences about discussing desires and boundaries before becoming intimate. Communication in Relationships (00:23:17) Highlighting the significance of open communication and consent in establishing relationship dynamics. Common Relationship Conflicts (00:24:26) Exploring typical arguments couples face and the need for conscious relationship skills. Truth and Sexual Expression (00:25:30) Connecting the ability to speak one's truth with enhancing sexual intimacy and creativity. Sex Education Gaps (00:27:28) Critique of traditional sex education and the need for better communication about sexual health. Generational Shifts in Relationships (00:30:46) Observations on how relationship dynamics and expectations differ across generations. Permission to Speak Truth (00:32:44) Discussion on how older generations feel freer to express desires and boundaries. Shifts in Tantra Classes (00:35:02) Changes in participants' motivations for attending tantra classes over time, focusing on trauma healing. Navigating Trauma in Practice (00:37:25) The importance of understanding trauma responses during bodywork and breathwork practices. Pleasure and Aging (00:39:06) Exploring how permission for ...
