What if you had a simple language for emotions that lets you defuse conflict, feel safer, and actually change outcomes—in your marriage, at work, and even in a heated sports match? In this episode, pastoral counselor and author Myke Merrill explains “Reality Intelligence”—a practical framework that turns vague feelings into clear choices. If you’ve ever stumbled for the right words in a tough conversation, shut down around big emotions, or watched a disagreement escalate, this episode gives you handles to understand what you’re perceiving, what you’re feeling, and how to respond (not just react) so you can get the result you actually want. You'll discover the five core emotional systems—Acceptance (love), Exposure (fear), Empowerment (anger), Depletion (sadness), and Celebration (joy)—and how intensity shifts the words you choose and the actions you take. You'll learn real-world de-escalation tools: stand up/sit down resets, three deep breaths, and the three magic words “Tell me more,” plus how body position and movement signal (and balance) power. You'll get a repeatable loop—Perceptions → Emotions → Motivations → Behaviors—to map any heated moment (from partner talks to workplace flare-ups to sports) and choose a response that changes the outcome. Press play now to master Reality Intelligence and walk away with scripts and moves you can use today to turn conflict into clarity and connection.