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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

Breaking up with someone you care about might be one of the hardest things you’ll ever do.

Hi, I’m Dr. Margaret Cochran, and in this episode of The Relationship Doctor, we’re diving into how to end a relationship with honesty, compassion, and integrity. It’s never easy to look someone in the eye and say, “This isn’t working anymore,” especially when you still care deeply about them. But avoiding that conversation only creates more confusion and pain—for both of you.

In this episode, I’ll walk you through how to approach a breakup in a way that honors your truth and respects your partner’s feelings. We’ll talk about how to find the right words, why delaying the inevitable rarely helps, and how clarity—though painful at first—can ultimately be the kindest act of love you can give.

If you’re struggling with guilt, fear, or uncertainty about ending a relationship, this conversation will help you navigate it with courage, empathy, and self-respect. Let’s talk about what it really means to end things with love and move forward with grace.

Quotes:

"When you end a relationship, do your best to make it an act of love for everyone involved."- Dr. Margaret Cochran

"Not talking about your sadness, loneliness, and hurt is what leads to affairs… If you're unhappy, talk to your partner about what's bothering you."- Dr. Margaret Cochran

Key Takeaways:

Speak Up, Don’t Bottle Up
Affairs and Avoidance Add Pain
Endings Should Be Kind and Clear
No Blame, No Excuses
Protect Your Healing Space
Respect the Ripple Effects
End with Integrity, Heal with Hope

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

We all want lasting love—but sometimes, the way we go about finding it sets us up for heartache.

Hi, I’m Dr. Margaret Cochran, and in this episode of The Relationship Doctor, I’m diving into what I call the “7 Deadly Relationship Sins”—the most common and destructive mistakes people make when choosing a romantic partner. From picking someone out of fear of being alone, to mistaking drama for passion, to ignoring communication and sexual compatibility, these patterns quietly sabotage even our best intentions.

Together, we’ll unpack why the most important relationship you’ll ever have is the one with yourself, and how understanding your own needs and boundaries can transform the way you love. I’ll share practical insights to help you spot red flags early, break free from toxic cycles, and choose connection over chaos.

If you’re ready to stop repeating old patterns and start building a truly healthy, happy partnership, this episode is for you.

Quotes:

"The most important relationship in your life is the one you have with yourself."- Dr. Margaret Cochran

"Kindly remember: feelings are not facts. Relationships happen when they happen, and you can’t force them."- Dr. Margaret Cochran

"Boring can be the new exciting when it means being loved, respected, and truly cared for."- Dr. Margaret Cochran

Key Takeaways:

Love Yourself First
Perfectly Imperfect Partners
No Deadlines for Love
Face the Fear of Love
Break the Cycle of Chaos
Sexual Connection Matters
Master the Art of Communication

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

Arguments are inevitable—but fighting the right way can make all the difference.

Hi, I’m Dr. Margaret Cochran, and in this episode of The Relationship Doctor, I’m talking about one of the hardest (and most important) skills in any relationship: how to argue constructively. If you’ve ever walked away from a disagreement thinking, “That could’ve gone so much better,” you’re not alone.

Together, we’ll explore what I call the three big “bozo no-no’s” of conflict—arguing while you’re angry, using sweeping statements like “you always” or “you never,” and trying to resolve issues through texts or social media. I’ll explain why these patterns don’t work and show you how to communicate with clarity, compassion, and calm instead.

Whether you’re navigating small disagreements or deep emotional rifts, this episode will help you turn conflict into connection—and learn how love can grow even through tough conversations.

Quotes:

"If you're in it to win it, then you're in it to communicate with love. The conversation you want to have is about making things better, not about being right."- Dr. Margaret Cochran

"A state of calm will allow you to approach whatever discussion you need to have without intense rancor. Practices like these help us gain clarity."- Dr. Margaret Cochran

"When it comes to something as important as love, be sure to use all the healthy tools at your disposal."- Dr. Margaret Cochran

Key Takeaways:

Don’t Argue When You’re Really Mad
Ditch the Broad Statements
Never Argue by Text, Email, or Social Media
Aim for Connection, Not Correction

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

Have you ever wondered why some relationships feel healing while others leave us drained? The secret often comes down to one word: empathy.

Hi, I’m Dr. Margaret Cochran, and in this episode of The Relationship Doctor, I’m diving into the real meaning of empathy—what it is, what it isn’t, and why it has the power to transform not just our closest relationships, but entire communities.

I’ll share a moving story from my early days as a psychotherapist that opened my eyes to empathy’s ability to break painful cycles and even help both victims and perpetrators find new, healthier paths. Along the way, I’ll unpack the difference between empathy and sympathy (hint: they’re not the same), the challenges of staying empathic in our fast-paced, digital world, and simple ways you can begin cultivating deeper empathy right where you are—at home, at work, and in society.

If you’ve ever longed for stronger connections, more understanding, or even a kinder world, this conversation is for you. Let’s explore how empathy isn’t just an emotion—it’s a superpower we all have the ability to strengthen.

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction
00:10 - "Emergency Comfort for Abused Child"
04:15 - System Failure: Child Protection Crisis
08:08 - The Power of Empathy
10:58 - Empathy vs. Sympathy Explained
13:48 - "Teach Empathy, Transform Society"
16:13 - Outro

Quotes:

“Empathy is our greatest superpower: it disarms anger, halts fear, and makes all things possible.”- Dr. Margaret Cochran

Key Takeaways:

The Superpower We All Need - Empathy
Empathy Versus Sympathy: Let’s Not Confuse the Two
From Trauma to Healing: The Power to Interrupt Patterns
Empathy in Action: Real Stories, Real Impact
Empathy Benefits Everyone
Empathy Can Be Taught—And Must Be Modeled
Empathy Heals—and Builds a Better World

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

Let’s be honest, some of the habits that damage our relationships the most are the ones we barely notice.

Hi, I’m Dr. Margaret Cochran, and in this episode of The Relationship Doctor, I’m taking a closer look at the quiet patterns that can slowly chip away at intimacy, even in the most loving partnerships. It’s not always the big blowouts that create distance, it’s the little things we do out of fear, discomfort, or the desire to keep the peace.

In this episode, I’ll walk you through why tension in relationships isn’t something to fear, rather it’s actually a doorway to deeper intimacy if you know how to navigate it. We’ll talk about healthy conflict, emotional honesty, and how choosing your partner (instead of outsourcing your pain) builds trust that lasts.

So if you’re ready to grow closer instead of drifting apart, stay with me. Let’s get real about the habits that help, or hurt, the love we’re building.

Key Takeaways:

Embrace Relationship Tension, It’s Not All Bad!
Don’t Fear Conflict, Face It Together
The Hidden Dangers of Confiding Outside Your Relationship
Talk to Each Other, Not Everyone Else
Choose Growth Over Avoidance

Quotes:

"Every time you face problems and work through them, you get closer and your bond is stronger."- Dr. Margaret Cochran

"Tension in your relationship is not your enemy—it’s a powerful tool for growth and intimacy."- Dr. Margaret Cochran

Connect with Dr Margaret

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorcochran
Website: https://drcochrancoaching.com/

Here’s a question that might ruffle some feathers: What if being selfish could actually save your relationship?

I’m Dr. Margaret Cochran, and in this episode of The Relationship Doctor, I’m talking about something we’re usually told to avoid, selfishness. We’ve been taught, especially as women, to equate love with self-sacrifice. To put others first. To stay quiet, stretch thin, and smile through it. But what if that script is all wrong?

This episode, titled “Selfish,” is about flipping the narrative. I’ll walk you through why tending to your own needs first isn’t only healthy, it’s essential for authentic intimacy and lasting emotional connection. There’s a world of difference between being selfish and being self-centered, and once you learn it, everything changes.

Let’s rethink what self-care really means in love, and why the most giving relationships often start with a little healthy selfishness.

Key Takeaways:

Selfishness Isn’t a Dirty Word
Put Your Mask On First
Selfish vs. Self-Centered
Fuel Your Emotional Engine
Practice Makes Perfect

Quotes:

"Being selfish is vital in creating intimacy, when your needs are met, you can love and support others with true joy in your heart."- Dr. Margaret Cochran

"When you care for yourself, you create space for deeper, more meaningful connections."- Dr. Margaret Cochran

Connect with Dr Margaret

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorcochran
Website: https://drcochrancoaching.com/

Ever feel like you're saying all the right things, but still not getting through?

Hi, I’m Dr. Margaret Cochran, and in this episode of The Relationship Doctor, I’m pulling back the curtain on something that impacts every relationship you have, romantic or otherwise: the words you choose.

Turns out, lasting love isn’t just about chemistry or compatibility, it’s about communication. Real, intentional, everyday language. And I don’t just mean what you say to your partner, but also the way you talk to yourself. Drawing from neuroscience and years of clinical experience, I’ll show you how the language we use shapes trust, connection, and emotional safety, and how it can just as easily create distance or conflict if we’re not careful.

If you’ve ever wondered why small comments turn into big arguments, or how to build deeper intimacy without hours of therapy, this episode is for you. Let’s talk about how thoughtful communication can quietly transform your love life, one word at a time.

Key Takeaways:

Lasting Love Isn’t About Looks, Money, or Chemistry
Language Is the True Secret
Science Says: Words Change Your Brain
Your Self-Talk Matters Most
You Have the Power to Choose

Quotes:

"Language creates reality, and the words you choose will shape the love and joy in your life. Choose wisely, your world depends on it."- Dr. Margaret Cochran

"The words you use, whether spoken or repeated inside your head, will shape your life and the relationships you have, romantic and otherwise."- Dr Margaret Cochran

Connect with Dr Margaret

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorcochran
Website: https://drcochrancoaching.com/

What if the secret to romantic love isn’t about finding the “right” person, but about seeing yourself more clearly?

Hi, I’m Dr. Margaret Cochran, and in this episode of The Relationship Doctor, I’m diving into something we don’t talk about enough: how much our relationships reflect who we are inside. It’s easy to think love is about shared hobbies or background, but the real magic happens when we understand ourselves, and recognize that in our partners.

In just a few minutes, I’ll walk you through why chemistry truly matters, why the old “opposites attract” idea doesn’t always hold up, and why self-awareness is the foundation for deep, lasting connection.

If you’ve ever wondered why love sometimes feels just out of reach, or how to create a more meaningful bond, this one’s for you. Let’s take a closer look at how loving yourself might just be the first step to finding the love you’ve been looking for.

Key Takeaways:

Chemistry is Key
You Fall in Love with Yourself
Self-Knowledge Comes First
The Myth of Opposites
Shared Energies, Different Approaches
True Connection Requires Depth

Quotes:

"To create a really wonderful, fulfilling, romantic relationship, you have to know and understand yourself. You have to love and respect yourself."- Dr Margaret Cochran

"When you look at your love interest, you're looking right into your own eyes, your own heart, your own soul."- Dr Margaret Cochran

Connect with Dr Margaret

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorcochran
Website: https://drcochrancoaching.com/

What if I told you that luck has nothing to do with love?

Hi, I’m Dr. Margaret Cochran, and in this episode of The Relationship Doctor, I’m diving into something I hear all the time: “You’re so lucky to have a good relationship.” But is it really luck? Or is there something deeper at play?

Inspired by Tina Turner’s classic line, “What’s love got to do with it?”, I flipped the question: What’s luck got to do with it? Spoiler alert, not much. In this episode, “Lucky in Love,” I get personal. I share my own experiences and unpack how so many of us, especially women, are led to believe that finding a healthy, lasting relationship is a roll of the dice.

The truth? It’s not luck. It’s self-awareness. It’s setting clear boundaries. It’s open, honest communication and making conscious choices about who, and how we love. And yes, all of that is completely within your power.

So if you’ve ever felt unlucky in love or wondered why real connection feels so out of reach, this one’s for you. Tune in and let’s rewrite the love story, no luck required.

Key Takeaways:

Skill Difference Makes the Difference
Luck Has Nothing to Do With It
Balanced Effort, Not Gendered Expectations
Choose, Communicate, Expect Respect
Love is Active, Not Accidental

Quotes:

"Love isn't luck—your choices and communication create your happiness."- Dr. Margaret Cochran

"Choose love and respect—never settle for anything less."- Dr. Margaret Cochran

Connect with Dr Margaret

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorcochran
Website: https://drcochrancoaching.com/

Ever wonder what really keeps love going strong, long after the honeymoon phase?

Hi, I’m Dr. Margaret Cochran, and in this episode of The Relationship Doctor, I’m sharing nine of my favorite secrets for making “happily ever after” more than just a fairytale. These aren’t grand gestures or complicated rules. They’re the small, everyday moments that help couples not just stay together, but thrive together.

If you’ve been looking for simple, meaningful ways to feel more connected in your relationship, this one’s for you. I’m talking about the kind of habits that quietly strengthen love over time, without needing hours of work or dramatic change.

Whether you're just starting out or decades in, there's always room to grow closer. Tune in and let’s explore how to keep love alive, one small moment at a time.

Key Takeaways:

Daily Check-Ins Matter
Compliments Go a Long Way
Surprise with Kindness
Generosity Without Scorekeeping
Open, Honest Conversations
Nurture with Food
Show Love Through Actions
Never Forget to Say “Thank You”
Say “I Love You”—And Mean It

Quotes:

"Happily ever after can take some effort, but making your partner feel appreciated, respected, and loved is always worth it."- Dr. Margaret Cochran

"In the happiest of relationships, both partners say ‘I love you’ unprompted, and they mean it every single time."- Dr. Margaret Cochran

Connect with Dr Margaret

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorcochran
Website: https://drcochrancoaching.com/

Welcome to The Relationship Doctor, hosted by the vibrant and deeply experienced Dr. Margaret Cochran — a licensed psychotherapist with over 25 years of clinical work under her belt. With a colorful background spanning medicine, metaphysics, hypnosis, law, and multiple schools of psychology, Dr. Cochran blends science with soul to tackle one of life’s greatest challenges: relationships.
 
Whether it’s with your partner, your family, your coworkers, or — most crucially — yourself, this show is your guide to understanding how connection, compassion, empathy, and boundaries can shape the life you truly want. Dr. Cochran brings you a “foolproof recipe” for love that integrates neuroscience, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence, topped with just a dash of passion.
 
Heartfelt, smart, and packed with practical wisdom, The Relationship Doctor isn’t just about fixing what’s broken — it’s about helping you build relationships that last. Tune in, and discover how to give and receive love in a way that transforms everything.
 
Because in the end, what really matters is who you’ve loved — and who’s loved you.