The research says the key to a happy life is happy relationships. But how exactly do you make your relationships better? That’s what this show is all about.
I’m Dr. Abby Medcalf, psychologist, best-selling author, TEDx speaker, and (according to my kids) the bossy Jewish mom you didn’t know you needed. With decades of experience and millions of listeners in over 180 countries, I give you the no-fluff, research-backed strategies to make all your relationships better: with your partner, your family, your friends, and (most importantly) yourself.
Every week on the Relationships Made Easy podcast, I mix straight talk, humor, and science to help you communicate effectively, set healthy boundaries, and stop second-guessing yourself. Because great relationships aren’t built in a day. Great relationships are built daily.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The research says the key to a happy life is happy relationships. But how exactly do you make your relationships better? That’s what this show is all about.
I’m Dr. Abby Medcalf, psychologist, best-selling author, TEDx speaker, and (according to my kids) the bossy Jewish mom you didn’t know you needed. With decades of experience and millions of listeners in over 180 countries, I give you the no-fluff, research-backed strategies to make all your relationships better: with your partner, your family, your friends, and (most importantly) yourself.
Every week on the Relationships Made Easy podcast, I mix straight talk, humor, and science to help you communicate effectively, set healthy boundaries, and stop second-guessing yourself. Because great relationships aren’t built in a day. Great relationships are built daily.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
You didn’t forget the milk, cause the delay, or ruin the weekend plans. But here you are, somehow the one being blamed. Again. Whether it’s a partner, friend, or parent, being on the receiving end of blame is frustrating, confusing, and downright crazy-making. It’s like they’ve outsourced their emotional homework to you and you’re the one getting detention. Today we’ll unpack why some people love to point the finger, how it warps your relationships, and what you can do about it without turning into the jerk they accuse you of being.
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👉 Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/why-is-everything-my-fault
👉 Free Download: “Blame-Proof Boundaries: 10 Scripts to Use When Someone’s Pointing the Finger.” Grab the exact language that stops blame in its tracks, without escalating the conflict: https://abbymedcalf.com/blame-scripts
👉 Join my online community, One Love Collective, on Substack: https://abbymedcalf.com/substack.
You'll get...
✨ Early drops + ad-free podcast episodes
✨ Worksheets, journal prompts, downloads, and guided visualizations
✨ Community chats and live Q&A calls with Abby
_________
👉 Subscribe to the Love Letter and get my little messages each week!
https://abbymedcalf.com/loveletter-opt-in/
👉 Pick up a copy of my new book, Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, Easy and Joy: https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries
👉 Pick up The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier to use as a companion to the book or as a standalone masterclass: https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries-workbook
👉 Buy my #1 bestselling book on Amazon, Be Happily Married: Even If Your Partner Won’t Do a Thing: https://abbymedcalf.com/book
____________________________
Looking for past episodes of the Relationships Made Easy Podcast? Head over to https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast-the-archives where you’ll find past episodes.
Ready to dig deeper? Take one of my online courses (some are FREE!) or grab a workbook: https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
Say hello on social:
Substack: https://substack.com/@abbymedcalfphd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbymedcalfthriving
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/abbymedcalfthriving
YouTube: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What if the healthiest thing for your relationship… was your own front door? Living Apart Together (LAT) is a growing trend where committed couples choose to maintain separate households while staying emotionally and romantically connected. It flies in the face of the cultural script that says love means living under one roof, sharing a fridge, and arguing about thermostat settings. But LAT isn’t about avoiding intimacy or commitment. It’s about redefining what commitment looks like. In this episode, we’re digging into the psychology, the science, and the very real benefits of LAT relationships and how to tell if this unconventional setup might be right for you.
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Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/living-apart-together-relationships
Take the Quiz and Get the Scripts: Is LAT Right for You?” Self-Assessment Quiz + Conversation Starter Scripts: https://abbymedcalf.com/lat-quiz
Join my online community, One Love Collective, on Substack: https://abbymedcalf.com/substack.
You'll get...
✨ Early drops + ad-free podcast episodes
✨ Worksheets, journal prompts, downloads, and guided visualizations
✨ Community chats and live Q&A calls with Abby
_________
Subscribe to the Love Letter and get my little messages each week!
https://abbymedcalf.com/loveletter-opt-in/
👉 Pick up a copy of my new book, Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, Easy and Joy: https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries
👉 Pick up The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier to use as a companion to the book or as a standalone masterclass: https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries-workbook
👉 Buy my #1 bestselling book on Amazon, Be Happily Married: Even If Your Partner Won’t Do a Thing: https://abbymedcalf.com/book
____________________________
Looking for past episodes of the Relationships Made Easy Podcast? Head over to https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast-the-archives where you’ll find past episodes.
Ready to dig deeper? Take one of my online courses (some are FREE!) or grab a workbook: https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
Say hello on social:
Substack: https://substack.com/@abbymedcalfphd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbymedcalfthriving
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/abbymedcalfthriving
YouTube: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Let’s be real. AI is everywhere, and it’s not just writing grocery lists or your kid’s English essay anymore, it’s sliding into the therapist’s chair. Whether you’ve toyed with ChatGPT as your late-night sounding board or downloaded an AI mental health app, it’s tempting to think: “Maybe I don’t need to pay someone $200 an hour when I’ve got free therapy in my pocket.” But is that really therapy or is it just tech playing dress-up? Today we’re diving into whether AI can actually replace a human therapist, what’s helpful about it, what’s missing, and why your blind spots might be the biggest deal of all.
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Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/ai-vs-therapy-should-you-talk-to-a-chatbot-or-a-human
Get the 10-Question Therapy Reality Check: Is It AI Advice or Real Therapy?10 Questions to Ask Before You Ditch Your Therapist: https://abbymedcalf.com/ai-therapy
Join my online community, One Love Collective, on Substack: https://abbymedcalf.com/substack.
You'll get...
✨ Early drops + ad-free podcast episodes
✨ Worksheets, journal prompts, downloads, and guided visualizations
✨ Community chats and live Q&A calls with Abby
_________
Subscribe to the Love Letter and get my little messages each week!
https://abbymedcalf.com/loveletter-opt-in/
👉 Pick up a copy of my new book, Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, Easy and Joy: https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries
👉 Pick up The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier to use as a companion to the book or as a standalone masterclass: https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries-workbook
👉 Buy my #1 bestselling book on Amazon, Be Happily Married: Even If Your Partner Won’t Do a Thing: https://abbymedcalf.com/book
____________________________
Looking for past episodes of the Relationships Made Easy Podcast? Head over to https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast-the-archives where you’ll find past episodes.
A great idea to stay motivated and keep your head in a positive direction is to buy some of my fabulous, inspirational merchandise. Get yourself a t-shirt, mug, tote bag or notebook with that daily reminder that you’ve got this! https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
Say hello on social:
Substack: https://substack.com/@abbymedcalfphd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbymedcalfthriving
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/abbymedcalfthriving
YouTube: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ever wonder why love makes you overlook the obvious red flags? 🛑 Your brain is literally on a chemical high. In this episode, Dr. Abby Medcalf reveals the neuroscience of why love is blind, how dopamine and oxytocin hijack your judgment, and what you can do to see the truth before it’s too late. This isn’t about blaming yourself for missing the signs. It’s about owning your power and learning how to love with your eyes wide open.
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Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/love-goggles-why-you-ignore-red-flags-when-youre-falling-for-someone
Red Flag Reality Check Worksheet, Take the Quiz! https://abbymedcalf.com/redflag-quiz
Join my online community, One Love Collective, on Substack: https://abbymedcalf.com/substack
You'll get...
✨ Early drops + ad-free podcast episodes
✨ Worksheets, journal prompts, downloads, and guided visualizations
✨ Community chats and live Q&A calls with Abby
_________
Subscribe to the Love Letter and get my little messages each week!
https://abbymedcalf.com/loveletter-opt-in/
👉 Pick up a copy of my new book, Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, Easy and Joy: https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries
👉 Pick up The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier to use as a companion to the book or as a standalone masterclass: https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries-workbook
👉 Buy my #1 bestselling book on Amazon, Be Happily Married: Even If Your Partner Won’t Do a Thing: https://abbymedcalf.com/book
____________________________
Looking for past episodes of the Relationships Made Easy Podcast? Head over to https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast-the-archives where you’ll find past episodes.
Ready to dig deeper? Take one of my online courses (some are FREE!) or grab a workbook: https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
A great idea to stay motivated and keep your head in a positive direction is to buy some of my fabulous, inspirational merchandise. Get yourself a t-shirt, mug, tote bag or notebook with that daily reminder that you’ve got this! https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
Say hello on social:
Substack: https://substack.com/@abbymedcalfphd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbymedcalfthriving
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/abbymedcalfthriving
YouTube: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Learn why your partner defends others instead of validating you, why it hurts so much, how this breaks the goodwill pillar of trust, and exactly how to change this dynamic with actionable scripts and research-backed tools.
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Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/partner-takes-other-peoples-side
Grab 5 Scripts to Get the Emotional Support You Need (Without a Fight): https://abbymedcalf.com/emotional-support-scripts
Join my online community, One Love Collective, on Substack: https://abbymedcalf.com/substack.
You'll get...
✨ Early drops + ad-free podcast episodes
✨ Worksheets, journal prompts, downloads, and guided visualizations
✨ Community chats and live Q&A calls with Abby
_________
Subscribe to the Love Letter and get my little messages each week!
https://abbymedcalf.com/loveletter-opt-in/
👉 Pick up a copy of my new book, Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, Easy and Joy: https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries
👉 Pick up The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier to use as a companion to the book or as a standalone masterclass: https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries-workbook
👉 Buy my #1 bestselling book on Amazon, Be Happily Married: Even If Your Partner Won’t Do a Thing: https://abbymedcalf.com/book
____________________________
Looking for past episodes of the Relationships Made Easy Podcast? Head over to https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast-the-archives where you’ll find past episodes.
Ready to dig deeper? Take one of my online courses (some are FREE!) or grab a workbook: https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
A great idea to stay motivated and keep your head in a positive direction is to buy some of my fabulous, inspirational merchandise. Get yourself a t-shirt, mug, tote bag or notebook with that daily reminder that you’ve got this! https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
Say hello on social:
Substack: https://substack.com/@abbymedcalfphd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbymedcalfthriving
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/abbymedcalfthriving
YouTube: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
You know the relationship isn’t healthy. Your friends see it. You feel it. So why can’t you let go?
Maybe you’ve said something like:
Today we’re diving deep into the neuroscience of trauma bonding: why your brain gets hooked on the highs and lows, what it’s trying to protect you from, and how to break free from cycles that feel like love but aren’t.
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Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/why-you-stay-the-brain-science-of-trauma-bonding-and-how-to-break-free
Try this Self-Assessment Quiz and Reflection Guide: Is It Love or a Trauma Bond? https://abbymedcalf.com/trauma-bonding-assessment
Get Therapy-to-Go bundle! Join Abby's One Love Collective: https://abbymedcalf.com/substack or purchase it here.
Learn how to create and hold healthy, loving boundaries with my book Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, Ease and Joy https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries or The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries-workbook
Want to feel happier and more connected in your relationship? Buy my #1 bestselling book on Amazon, Be Happily Married: Even If Your Partner Won’t Do a Thing: https://abbymedcalf.com/book
____________________________
Looking for past episodes of the Relationships Made Easy Podcast? Head over to https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast-the-archives where you’ll find past episodes.
Subscribe today to get my love letter to you! This biweekly reminder will keep you on the path to creating connected, happy relationships (especially the one with yourself!). https://abbymedcalf.com
A great idea to stay motivated and keep your head in a positive direction is to buy some of my fabulous, inspirational merchandise. Get yourself a t-shirt, mug, tote bag or notebook with that daily reminder that you’ve got this! https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
Say hello on social:
Substack: https://substack.com/@abbymedcalfphd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbymedcalfthriving
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/abbymedcalfthriving
YouTube: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We’re taught that forgiveness is a mutual thing. That it’s about making amends, talking it through, hugging it out. But the truth, the freeing and maybe painful truth, is that forgiveness isn’t a two-person process. It never has been. Today you’ll learn all about reclaiming forgiveness as something you do for you. You’ll learn the big mistake you’re making when you’re trying to forgive (it’s why it’s been so hard to do before) and my five steps to practice forgiveness as a one-person process.
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Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/forgiveness-is-a-one-person-job-why-you-dont-need-them-to-feel-better
Take the Forgiveness Finder Self-Assessment: https://abbymedcalf.com/forgiveness-finder
Join Abby’s One Love Community on Substack and get ad-free podcast episodes, Live Q&As with Abby, and Therapy-to-Go Bundles for each episode! https://abbymedcalf.com/substack
Learn how to create and hold healthy, loving boundaries with my book Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, Ease and Joy https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries or The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries-workbook
Want to feel happier and more connected in your relationship? Buy my #1 bestselling book on Amazon, Be Happily Married: Even If Your Partner Won’t Do a Thing: https://abbymedcalf.com/book
____________________________
Looking for past episodes of the Relationships Made Easy Podcast? Head over to https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast-the-archives where you’ll find past episodes.
Subscribe today to get my love letter to you! This biweekly reminder will keep you on the path to creating connected, happy relationships (especially the one with yourself!). https://abbymedcalf.com
For more quick tips, subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Ready to dig deeper? Take one of my online courses (some are FREE!) or grab a workbook: https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
Say hello on social:
Substack: https://substack.com/@abbymedcalfphd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbymedcalfthriving
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/abbymedcalfthriving
YouTube: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this teaser for Season 8, Abby shares a quick update on what’s changing and what’s staying the same on the Relationships Made Easy podcast. You’ll hear about the exciting launch of her second podcast (Workplace Therapy) and how you can help shape Season 8 by sending in your questions and topic suggestions.
Want to dive deeper? Join Abby’s private online community, The One Love Collective, now on Substack at https://abbymedcalf.com/substack
____________________________
Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/season-8-relationships-made-easy-preview
Learn how to create and hold healthy, loving boundaries with my book Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, Ease and Joy https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries or The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries-workbook
Want to feel happier and more connected in your relationship? Buy my #1 bestselling book on Amazon, Be Happily Married: Even If Your Partner Won’t Do a Thing: https://abbymedcalf.com/book
____________________________
Looking for past episodes of the Relationships Made Easy Podcast? Head over to https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast and https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast-the-archives, where you’ll find past episodes.
Subscribe today to get my love letter to you! This biweekly reminder will keep you on the path to creating connected, happy relationships (especially the one with yourself!). https://abbymedcalf.com
For more quick tips, subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Ready to dig deeper? Take one of my online courses (some are FREE!) or grab a workbook: https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
A great idea to stay motivated and keep your head in a positive direction is to buy some of my fabulous, inspirational merchandise. Get yourself a t-shirt, mug, tote bag or notebook with that daily reminder that you’ve got this! https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
Say hello on social:
Substack: https://substack.com/@abbymedcalfphd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbymedcalfthriving
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/abbymedcalfthriving
YouTube: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
If you’ve been wondering whether dating is harder than it used to be, I’m here to tell you: yes. You’re not imagining things. It’s not just that you’re older, pickier, or doomed to attract commitment-phobes. The truth is, dating today has a unique set of challenges, most of which are designed to keep you swiping, second-guessing, and emotionally confused. But don’t panic. Today we’re going to break down why dating feels so hard right now (it’s not just you), what emotional availability really means, and what you can do to shift how you date so you stop wasting time.
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Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/why-is-dating-so-damn-hard-right-now-and-how-to-spot-real-emotional-availability
Take this quick quiz to see how emotionally available you and your partner really are: https://abbymedcalf.com/emotional-available-assessment
Learn how to create and hold healthy, loving boundaries with my book Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, Ease and Joy https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries or The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries-workbook
Want to feel happier and more connected in your relationship? Buy my #1 bestselling book on Amazon, Be Happily Married: Even If Your Partner Won’t Do a Thing: https://abbymedcalf.com/book
____________________________
Looking for past episodes of the Relationships Made Easy Podcast? Head over to https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast and https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast-the-archives where you’ll find past episodes.
Subscribe today to get my love letter to you! This biweekly reminder will keep you on the path to creating connected, happy relationships (especially the one with yourself!). https://abbymedcalf.com
Ready to dig deeper? Take one of my online courses (some are FREE!) or grab a workbook: https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
A great idea to stay motivated and keep your head in a positive direction is to buy some of my fabulous, inspirational merchandise. Get yourself a t-shirt, mug, tote bag or notebook with that daily reminder that you’ve got this! https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
Say hello on social:
Substack: https://substack.com/@abbymedcalfphd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbymedcalfthriving
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/abbymedcalfthriving
YouTube: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
You know those moments that make you pause and think, “Wait, am I being ridiculous right now?” You feel off, but you can’t quite explain why. The conversation wasn’t overtly mean. You weren’t screamed at. But still… something felt wrong. Well, you might be experiencing micro-gaslighting. We already know that gaslighting is a form of emotional manipulation meant to distort your sense of reality. But micro-gaslighting is sneakier. It hides behind sarcasm, “jokes,” and well-meaning comments that, over time, make you question yourself in small, cumulative ways. Today we’ll discuss the differences between gaslighting and micro-gaslighting, why it happens, whether you might be doing it yourself and, as always, my top six action steps to move forward.
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Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/micro-gaslighting-the-tiny-cuts-that-undermine-you
Get the Relationship Inventory: Emotional Safety Check-In Worksheet: https://abbymedcalf.com/relationship-inventory
Learn how to create and hold healthy, loving boundaries with my book Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, Ease and Joy https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries or The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries-workbook
Want to feel happier and more connected in your relationship? Buy my #1 bestselling book on Amazon, Be Happily Married: Even If Your Partner Won’t Do a Thing: https://abbymedcalf.com/book
____________________________
Subscribe today to get my love letter to you! This biweekly reminder will keep you on the path to creating connected, happy relationships (especially the one with yourself!). https://abbymedcalf.com
Ready to dig deeper? Take one of my online courses (some are FREE!) or grab a workbook: https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
A great idea to stay motivated and keep your head in a positive direction is to buy some of my fabulous, inspirational merchandise. Get yourself a t-shirt, mug, tote bag or notebook with that daily reminder that you’ve got this! https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
Say hello on social:
Substack: https://substack.com/@abbymedcalfphd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbymedcalfthriving
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/abbymedcalfthriving
YouTube: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I doing enough?” at work, in your relationships, as a parent, or just as a person, you’re not alone. So many of my clients feel like they have to prove their value through performance, productivity, or being “good enough” for someone to love or respect them. Today we’ll explore the difference between self-worth and self-esteem, the signs that your sense of worth has become transactional, and five practical ways to break this pattern and start living from a place of grounded, unconditional self-worth. Today you’ll learn why love should never be a job interview.
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Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/https://abbymedcalf.com/you-dont-have-to-earn-it-breaking-free-from-transactional-self-worth
Take the Self-Worth Assessment: Are You Living Transactionally?: https://abbymedcalf.com/self-worth-assessment
Learn how to create and hold healthy, loving boundaries with my book Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, Ease and Joy https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries or The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries-workbook
Want to feel happier and more connected in your relationship? Buy my #1 bestselling book on Amazon, Be Happily Married: Even If Your Partner Won’t Do a Thing: https://abbymedcalf.com/book
____________________________
Looking for past episodes of the Relationships Made Easy Podcast? Head over to https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast and https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast-the-archives where you’ll find past episodes.
Subscribe today to get my love letter to you! This biweekly reminder will keep you on the path to creating connected, happy relationships (especially the one with yourself!). https://abbymedcalf.com
A great idea to stay motivated and keep your head in a positive direction is to buy some of my fabulous, inspirational merchandise. Get yourself a t-shirt, mug, tote bag or notebook with that daily reminder that you’ve got this! https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
Say hello on social:
Substack: https://substack.com/@abbymedcalfphd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbymedcalfthriving
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/abbymedcalfthriving
YouTube: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nothing makes your stomach drop quite like that moment when you realize your partner isn’t telling you the truth. Whether it's an outright lie, a carefully omitted detail, or that uneasy feeling that they're sidestepping around something important, suspecting deception in your relationship is gut-wrenching. And when gaslighting enters the picture? That's when you start questioning not just them, but your own reality. But here's the good news: you're not powerless, you're not crazy, and there are concrete, research-backed ways to handle this situation. Today I’m talking about everything, including types of deception, why people lie, some misconceptions about deception, whether it’s possible to rebuild trust, when to walk away, and my five-step plan for how to deal with deception in your relationship.
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Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/when-your-partner-is-being-evasive-withholding-information-or-lying-a-guide-to-navigating-relationship-deception
Are you being manipulated? Take the Gaslighting Assessment: https://abbymedcalf.com/gaslighting
Learn how to create and hold healthy, loving boundaries with my book Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, Ease and Joy https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries or The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries-workbook
Want to feel happier and more connected in your relationship? Buy my #1 bestselling book on Amazon, Be Happily Married: Even If Your Partner Won’t Do a Thing: https://abbymedcalf.com/book
____________________________
Looking for past episodes of the Relationships Made Easy Podcast? Head over to https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast and https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast-the-archives, where you’ll find past episodes.
Subscribe today to get my love letter to you! This biweekly reminder will keep you on the path to creating connected, happy relationships (especially the one with yourself!). https://abbymedcalf.com
Ready to dig deeper? Take one of my online courses (some are FREE!) or grab a workbook: https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
Say hello on social:
Substack: https://substack.com/@abbymedcalfphd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbymedcalfthriving
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/abbymedcalfthriving
YouTube: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
While judgment can be a natural human response, being judgmental can erode your relationships and seriously hinder your personal growth. Yes, judgment feels good at first. It gives you a hit of certainty, a sense of superiority, and the illusion of control. But over time, it poisons your perspective and isolates you from the very connection you crave. Today we’ll talk about why you judge, the problems it causes, and my 8 steps to help you become less judgmental.
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Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/judgment-detox-8-steps-to-be-less-critical-and-more-connected
Grab my FREE Mindfulness Starter Kit: https://abbymedcalf.com/product/mindfulness-starter-kit/
Learn how to create and hold healthy, loving boundaries with my book Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, Ease and Joy https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries or The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries-workbook
Want to feel happier and more connected in your relationship? Buy my #1 bestselling book on Amazon, Be Happily Married: Even If Your Partner Won’t Do a Thing: https://abbymedcalf.com/book
____________________________
Looking for past episodes of the Relationships Made Easy Podcast? Head over to https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast and https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast-the-archives, where you’ll find past episodes.
Subscribe today to get my love letter to you! This biweekly reminder will keep you on the path to creating connected, happy relationships (especially the one with yourself!). https://abbymedcalf.com
For more quick tips, subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Ready to dig deeper? Take one of my online courses (some are FREE!) or grab a workbook: https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
A great idea to stay motivated and keep your head in a positive direction is to buy some of my fabulous, inspirational merchandise. Get yourself a t-shirt, mug, tote bag or notebook with that daily reminder that you’ve got this! https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
Say hello on social:
Substack: https://substack.com/@abbymedcalfphd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbymedcalfthriving
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/abbymedcalfthriving
YouTube: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
You break up with someone and suddenly, every memory is framed as proof that they never really cared. You get into an argument with your mom, and you leave convinced, once again, that she just doesn’t get you. You walk into a work meeting with the story that your boss doesn’t respect you, and now every glance or tone of voice becomes more “evidence.” Sound familiar? That’s confirmation bias, and it’s working hand-in-hand with a set of mental strategies called defense mechanisms. Together, they keep you feeling justified and self-protected. But they also keep you stuck and locked inside the same limiting beliefs about yourself and everyone around you. Today I’ll explain what confirmation bias really is, how your defense mechanisms support it, and my top five research-backed steps to interrupt your confirmation bias so you can create connected, joyful relationships.
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Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/why-you-keep-proving-yourself-right-even-when-youre-miserable-the-psychology-of-confirmation-bias-and-defense-mechanisms
Take the Quiz! What’s Your Go-To Defense Mechanism: https://abbymedcalf.com/defense-mechanism-quiz
Learn how to create and hold healthy, loving boundaries with my book Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, Ease and Joy https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries or The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries-workbook
Want to feel happier and more connected in your relationship? Buy my #1 bestselling book on Amazon, Be Happily Married: Even If Your Partner Won’t Do a Thing: https://abbymedcalf.com/book
____________________________
Looking for past episodes of the Relationships Made Easy Podcast? Head over to https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast and https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast-the-archives where you’ll find past episodes.
For more quick tips, subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Ready to dig deeper? Take one of my online courses (some are FREE!) or grab a workbook: https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
Say hello on social:
Substack: https://substack.com/@abbymedcalfphd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbymedcalfthriving
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/abbymedcalfthriving
YouTube: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
It’s not hard to stay calm and open when someone is complimenting your outfit or thanking you for dinner. But when they’re disappointed in you? Hurt by something you said? Frustrated by a mistake you made? That’s when your brain shifts into protect mode. And suddenly, instead of listening, you’re defending, explaining, or withdrawing. Defensiveness is one of the biggest barriers to connection, whether it’s with your partner, your boss, your best friend, or your teenager. But if you can learn to manage your internal response to criticism, or even perceived criticism, you can show up differently in every relationship you care about. Today we’ll talk about why you get defensive; you’ll be able to take a quiz to identify your defense style and, of course, I’ll share my five steps to listen without getting defensive.
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Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/how-to-stop-taking-it-personally-5-steps-to-listen-without-getting-defensive
Take the What’s Your Defense Style Quiz: https://abbymedcalf.com/defense-quiz
Learn how to create and hold healthy, loving boundaries with my book Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, Ease and Joy, https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries or The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries-workbook
Want to feel happier and more connected in your relationship? Buy my #1 bestselling book on Amazon, Be Happily Married: Even If Your Partner Won’t Do a Thing: https://abbymedcalf.com/book
____________________________
Looking for past episodes of the Relationships Made Easy Podcast? Head over to https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast and https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast-the-archives, where you’ll find past episodes.
Subscribe today to get my love letter to you! This biweekly reminder will keep you on the path to creating connected, happy relationships (especially the one with yourself!). https://abbymedcalf.com
A great idea to stay motivated and keep your head in a positive direction is to buy some of my fabulous, inspirational merchandise. Get yourself a t-shirt, mug, tote bag or notebook with that daily reminder that you’ve got this! https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
Say hello on social:
Substack: https://substack.com/@abbymedcalfphd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbymedcalfthriving
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/abbymedcalfthriving
YouTube: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We talk a lot about loneliness these days, but we don’t talk enough about why being alone triggers such deep fear for so many of us. Is it just about relationships? Or is there something deeper, hard-wired into our biology and psychology? Spoiler: it's both. And understanding the roots of this fear is the first step to changing it. If you’ve ever felt that pit in your stomach at the thought of an empty weekend, or stayed in a relationship far too long just to avoid solitude, you know exactly what I mean. The fear of being alone is deeply human. While part of it is hard-wired for survival, much of it is learned and reinforced by the world around us. The good news? Once we understand the roots of this fear, we can start to unlearn it, and even come to appreciate alone time as a source of strength, not weakness. Today we’ll discuss the biology, the psychology, and my top five research-backed action steps to reduce your fear of being alone.
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Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/why-were-so-afraid-to-be-alone-and-the-five-steps-to-feel-at-ease-with-yourself
Get the worksheet Create Your Own Script for Moments of Loneliness: https://abbymedcalf.com/loneliness
Learn how to create and hold healthy, loving boundaries with my book Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, Ease and Joy https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries or The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries-workbook
Want to feel happier and more connected in your relationship? Buy my #1 bestselling book on Amazon, Be Happily Married: Even If Your Partner Won’t Do a Thing: https://abbymedcalf.com/book
____________________________
Looking for past episodes of the Relationships Made Easy Podcast? Head over to https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast and https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast-the-archives, where you’ll find past episodes.
Subscribe today to get my love letter to you! This biweekly reminder will keep you on the path to creating connected, happy relationships (especially the one with yourself!). https://abbymedcalf.com
Ready to dig deeper? Take one of my online courses (some are FREE!) or grab a workbook: https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
Say hello on social:
Substack: https://substack.com/@abbymedcalfphd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbymedcalfthriving
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/abbymedcalfthriving
YouTube: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Let’s start with a hard truth wrapped in a soft blanket: Yes, food addiction is real, and if you’re struggling with it, you’re not broken, lazy, or weak. You’re human. You’re living in a world where the food industry spends billions engineering snacks to hijack your brain, and your biology is just doing its thing, trying to survive. Today we’ll cover all the research and the “why” of food addiction, and then I’ll give you my five actionable steps to start healing your food addiction.
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Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/is-food-addiction-real-heres-the-truth
Take the 5-Day Dopamine Reset Challenge! https://abbymedcalf.com/challenge
Learn how to create and hold healthy, loving boundaries with my book Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, Ease and Joy https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries or The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries-workbook
Want to feel happier and more connected in your relationship? Buy my #1 bestselling book on Amazon, Be Happily Married: Even If Your Partner Won’t Do a Thing: https://abbymedcalf.com/book
____________________________
Looking for past episodes of the Relationships Made Easy Podcast? Head over to https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast and https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast-the-archives, where you’ll find past episodes.
Subscribe today to get my love letter to you! This biweekly reminder will keep you on the path to creating connected, happy relationships (especially the one with yourself!). https://abbymedcalf.com
For more quick tips, subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Ready to dig deeper? Take one of my online courses (some are FREE!) or grab a workbook: https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
A great idea to stay motivated and keep your head in a positive direction is to buy some of my fabulous, inspirational merchandise. Get yourself a t-shirt, mug, tote bag or notebook with that daily reminder that you’ve got this! https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
Say hello on social:
Substack: https://substack.com/@abbymedcalfphd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbymedcalfthriving
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/abbymedcalfthriving
YouTube: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
“I’m just putting myself first, is that narcissistic?” “Am I being selfish or setting a boundary?” “I think I might be a narcissist.” Sound familiar? If you’ve asked yourself any of these questions, take a deep breath. You’re probably not a narcissist. But the fact that you're even wondering is worth unpacking, because somewhere between healthy self-love and full-blown Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), things get murky. So let’s clear it up. Today we’re digging into the difference between being self-focused (a good thing), being selfish (sometimes good, sometimes not), and having narcissistic traits or full-blown NPD (not great). Then, you’ll learn my five action steps for building healthy self-love without going overboard.
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Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/are-you-a-narcissist-and-dont-know-it-the-truth-about-healthy-selfishness-vs-narcissistic-personality-disorder
Take the Quiz! Self-Love or Narcissism? https://abbymedcalf.com/narcissism-quiz
Learn how to create and hold healthy, loving boundaries with my book Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, Ease and Joy https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries or The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries-workbook
Want to feel happier and more connected in your relationship? Buy my #1 bestselling book on Amazon, Be Happily Married: Even If Your Partner Won’t Do a Thing: https://abbymedcalf.com/book
____________________________
Looking for past episodes of the Relationships Made Easy Podcast? Head over to https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast and https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast-the-archives where you’ll find past episodes.
Subscribe today to get my love letter to you! This biweekly reminder will keep you on the path to creating connected, happy relationships (especially the one with yourself!). https://abbymedcalf.com
Ready to dig deeper? Take one of my online courses (some are FREE!) or grab a workbook: https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
Say hello on social:
Facebook: https://substack.com/@abbymedcalfphd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbymedcalfthriving
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/abbymedcalfthriving
YouTube: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In today's fast-paced digital world, the concept of "dopamine detoxing" has gained traction as a method to reset our brains from constant stimulation. But what exactly is dopamine detoxing, and does it hold any scientific merit? Today, we'll delve into the science behind dopamine, debunk the myths surrounding dopamine detoxing, explore how modern motivations hijack your brain's reward system, and then I’ll give you actionable strategies to recalibrate your relationship with dopamine and your world so you can feel more peaceful, serene, and content.
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Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/dopamine-detoxing-is-a-scam-but-you-should-still-do-it
Grab my FREE Mindfulness Starter Kit: https://abbymedcalf.com/product/mindfulness-starter-kit/
Learn how to create and hold healthy, loving boundaries with my book Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, Ease and Joy https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries or The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries-workbook
Want to feel happier and more connected in your relationship? Buy my #1 bestselling book on Amazon, Be Happily Married: Even If Your Partner Won’t Do a Thing: https://abbymedcalf.com/book
____________________________
Looking for past episodes of the Relationships Made Easy Podcast? Head over to https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast and https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast-the-archives, where you’ll find past episodes.
Subscribe today to get my love letter to you! This biweekly reminder will keep you on the path to creating connected, happy relationships (especially the one with yourself!). https://abbymedcalf.com
Ready to dig deeper? Take one of my online courses (some are FREE!) or grab a workbook: https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
A great idea to stay motivated and keep your head in a positive direction is to buy some of my fabulous, inspirational merchandise. Get yourself a t-shirt, mug, tote bag or notebook with that daily reminder that you’ve got this! https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
Say hello on social:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abbymedcalf
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbymedcalfthriving
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/abbymedcalfthriving
YouTube: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
If you’ve ever felt like your partner shuts down when you ask, “How are you feeling?” or you find yourself saying, “I don’t know what I’m feeling; I just feel off,” you might be dealing with something deeper than emotional avoidance. You might be dealing with alexithymia. No, it’s not a disease. Nobody’s broken. But it’s real, and it affects your relationships, your mental health, and your ability to connect with yourself. Because if you don’t know how to identify or express your emotions, it’s going to be hard to have the connections and relationships you want. Today you’ll learn exactly what alexithymia is, the science behind it, and my six-step plan to build the skill of knowing what you’re feeling so you can create more connection, ease, and joy.
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Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/why-you-or-your-partner-struggle-to-talk-about-feelings-understanding-alexithymia
Grab my Feelings List: https://abbymedcalf.com/feelingslist
Learn how to create and hold healthy, loving boundaries with my book Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, Ease and Joy https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries or The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries-workbook
Want to feel happier and more connected in your relationship? Buy my #1 bestselling book on Amazon, Be Happily Married: Even If Your Partner Won’t Do a Thing: https://abbymedcalf.com/book
____________________________
Looking for past episodes of the Relationships Made Easy Podcast? Head over to https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast and https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast-the-archives, where you’ll find past episodes.
Subscribe today to get my love letter to you! This biweekly reminder will keep you on the path to creating connected, happy relationships (especially the one with yourself!). https://abbymedcalf.com
For more quick tips, subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
A great idea to stay motivated and keep your head in a positive direction is to buy some of my fabulous, inspirational merchandise. Get yourself a t-shirt, mug, tote bag or notebook with that daily reminder that you’ve got this! https://abbymedcalf.com/shop
Say hello on social:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abbymedcalf
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbymedcalfthriving
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/abbymedcalfthriving
YouTube: https://abbymedcalf.com/youtube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
