Have you ever genuinely asked yourself, “Would a different sexual model work better for me?”
Dan Savage, an author, sex-advice columnist, podcaster, and public speaker, suggests that we should all regularly pose these questions to ourselves. Dan and his husband have chosen what they call a “monogamish” relationship. They’ve acknowledged that it’s impossible to fulfill all of your partner’s needs, and that’s a message from which we can all learn.
While we typically focus on monogamous long-term relationships, in this episode, we’ll explore how various types of relationships can be successful. Tune in and prepare for some introspection into your own sexual expression.
Jayson and Ellen discuss conflict, communication, and problem-solving versus understanding. What’s the issue with being a conflict-avoidant couple? When is it appropriate to problem-solve and offer advice to a long-term partner? Can excessive understanding become problematic? Tune in to hear Ellen and Jayson offer a few simple strategies that you can use to resolve your communication issues.
Jayson coaches the couple, Anya and Bodhi. The last time this couple appeared on the podcast was in episode #364 when they were in the midst of deciding whether to stay together or break up. Since their last appearance, they have grown into a strong and stable couple. In this episode, they discuss the turning point in their relationship that led to them staying together. They also work through current tensions in their relationship related to conflicting schedules and navigating a small living space. You won’t want to miss this insightful conversation.
Timestamps:
5:17 – Anya & Bodhi’s turning point
13:23 – Individual growth
20:00 – Getting to the root of relationship tension
33:34 – Feeling trapped by a lack of connectedness
39:05 – Spontaneity vs. responsibility
43:00 – Different schedules
47:00 – Helping your partner feel less judged
1:00:30 – Being true to yourself vs. being considerate
Jayson is joined by his son Lucian for a conversation about the unique challenges of being a teenager in high school. What are the challenges of being from a relationally focused family? What kinds of stereotypes do teens face? Why do so many parents over-parent their kids? You won’t want to miss this candid father-son conversation.
Is it possible to truly love someone while you’re still infatuated with them? In this episode, Jayson and Ellen talk about the trap of falling in love and why it’s important to learn to live with the reality of who your partner actually is instead of projecting your fantasies onto them. How can you make your partner your priority every day? What should your relationship boundaries be? It’s time to take a deep dive into the world of love after infatuation.
Jayson talks about dealing with division in the world, digital minimalism and getting unstuck in your relationship. Can solving division in the home help make the world a better place? How do you know when you’re stuck as a couple? What should you do if you’re stuck? Would you like to be the next guest on The Relationship School Podcast? Listen in to find out more!
Timestamps:
4:01 – Couples, how do you know when you’re stuck?
