Intimate & Honest Conversations with My Husband: Love & Valentine's Day

I am thrilled to share with you our latest podcast episode featuring the incredibly inspiring Cassandra Bodzak. In this episode, Cassandra opens up about her personal journey from a place of uncertainty in her marriage to the empowered decision to embark on a courageous love conversation.

During our conversation, we delve into Cassandra's experiences as an actress and manifestation coach, her profound spiritual awakening, and the transition from solo entrepreneurship to co-habitating and eventually tying the knot. We explore the realities of relationships beyond the limerence phase and discuss the essential steps towards building an open, honest, and deeply fulfilling marriage.

Listening to Cassandra's story is not only enlightening but also incredibly uplifting. Her journey resonates with the essence of growth, resilience, and the unwavering belief in the transformative power of love.

Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights into creating the marriage you desire and deserve. Whether you're seeking guidance on navigating the complexities of relationships or craving inspiration for your own journey, Cassandra's wisdom is sure to leave a lasting impact.

Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation! Ep 160: Courageous Love Conversations with Cassandra Bodzak

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CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving Relationship

Download my free Love Affirmations Mini-Course to help you to start thinking and feeling in a way that feels more like love.

More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/

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This week I'm talking about something that's been on my mind a lot lately, and it's a topic that I know resonates with many of us: household responsibilities in marriage. In this week's podcast episode 159: "Sharing the Load: Navigating Household Tasks in Your Marriage," I dive into a common theme that often arises in my coaching sessions and conversations.

In this episode that could be titled "Whose responsibility is it anyway?", you'll learn:

1. Understanding the Dynamics: I'll explore the common patterns that emerge when it comes to dividing household tasks and responsibilities in marriage.

2. Identifying Resentment: We'll discuss how unaddressed feelings of resentment can build up over time, affecting the dynamics of your relationship.

3. Healthy Communication Strategies: I'll share practical tips and strategies for initiating mature, emotionally regulated conversations about household responsibilities with your partner.

4. Creating Collaborative Solutions: Together, we'll explore ways to find balance, fairness, and mutual understanding in sharing the load of household chores.

By listening to this episode, you'll gain insights into your own relationship dynamics and discover practical tools to navigate and transform the way you and your partner approach household responsibilities.

If you've ever felt frustrated, overwhelmed, or stuck in the cycle of unspoken expectations and resentment when it comes to household chores, this episode is for you. It's about fostering open communication, empathy, and teamwork in your marriage.

Remember, you're not alone in navigating these challenges, and there are always opportunities for growth and positive change. I invite you to tune in to the latest episode of AwakenYou in Your Marriage and join me on this journey of self-discovery and transformation.

As always, I value your feedback and insights. Feel free to reach out with your thoughts, questions, or experiences related to this topic. Your stories inspire me and enrich our community in meaningful ways.

P.S. If you're not already on our mailing list and would like to receive updates and exclusive resources, scroll down in the show notes and click to subscribe!

CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving Relationship

Download my free Love Affirmations Mini-Course to help you to start thinking and feeling in a way that feels more like love.

More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/

Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings.

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I hope this email finds you well and ready for some insightful conversation! Today, I am thrilled to introduce you to one of my favorite coaches and mentors, Aimee Gianni, MS. Aimee is not only a Marriage & Family Therapist but also a Master Coach Instructor specializing in Love Relationships and my coach!

In my latest podcast episode 158: Untangling Marriages: Navigating Complexity with Aimee Gianni MS , Aimee and I delve into a topic that's close to many of our hearts: untangling marriages. Here's a sneak peek into what we discussed:

• Defining "Tangled" in Marriage: Aimee shares her expert insights on what it means for a marriage to be entangled and why it's crucial to recognize this state.
• Day-to-Day Examples: We explore real-life scenarios to help you identify entanglement in your own marriage.
• Starting the Untangling Process: Discover actionable steps individuals can take to initiate the untangling journey.
• Untangling Together: Aimee sheds light on how couples can work collaboratively to untangle their marriage dynamics.
• Taking Responsibility for Thoughts and Feelings: Learn why owning our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors is key to untangling, and what it truly means in practice.
• Understanding Behavior Patterns: Aimee explains the importance of understanding our behavioral patterns and how it influences the untangling process.
• The Power Grab and Typical Cycles: Gain insights into common dynamics like the "power grab" and the typical cycle couples may experience during the untangling journey.
  
  I am always personally inspired by Aimee's wisdom and practical advice, and I'm excited for you to hear our conversation!

Aimée Gianni, MS, is a Marriage & Family Therapist and a Master Coach Instructor specializing in Love Relationships. She teaches her clients The Art of Intimate Connection and helps them create strong, loving, joyful relationships and meaningful lives that they love, full of authenticity, connection, passion, fulfillment, and physical well-being. It’s her favorite thing to do! As a Master Coach Instructor she trains relationship coaches how to do this important work with their clients. You can learn more about her work at AimeeGianni.com and follow her on Instagram.  Sign up for her newsletter to stay updated on any programs/retreats she is offering.

CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving Relationship

Download my free Love Affirmations Mini-Course to help you to start thinking and feeling in a way that feels more like love.

More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/

Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings.

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I have a special treat this Valentine's Day week, a conversation about love with my husband Jeff, AND a bonus! After our conversation we will be talking about Valentine's Day and sharing some pretty awesome ideas of how to make it special.

Are you ready to celebrate love this week with your spouse? As Valentine's Day approaches, I find myself reflecting on the evolving nature of our celebrations over the years. From creatively elaborate gestures to simpler yet meaningful moments, the essence of love remains at the core.

In this week's episode of AwakenYou in Your Marriage podcast, Ep 157: "Intimate & Honest Conversations with my Husband: Love & Valentine's Day," we delve into the essence of love within the context of marriage and Valentine's Day celebrations.

Here are some highlights from the episode:

• Exploring the concept of love in marriage: Often, we profess love to our spouses, yet we may not fully understand what love truly means within the context of our relationships.
• Reflecting on past perceptions of love: Jeff and I share our perspectives on what we thought love should look like in marriage and how those perceptions have evolved over time.
• Drawing inspiration from 1 Corinthians 13: We discuss the biblical perspective on love and how it translates into practical actions within our marriage.
• Advice for couples: For those who feel disconnected or have stopped expressing love to each other, we offer practical advice and insights to reignite the flame of intimacy.
  
  As Valentine's Day approaches, I encourage you to engage in heartfelt conversations with your spouse about what love means to both of you. Whether it's a simple gesture or an elaborate expression, let your actions be a reflection of the love you share.
  
  To husbands: Consider the unique desires and preferences of your wives, and make intentional efforts to celebrate them in ways that resonate with their hearts.
  
  To wives: Communicate your desires openly and embrace the love and thoughtfulness your husbands extend to you, even in the simplest gestures.
  
  Remember, love is not merely a sentiment but an action that fosters deeper connection and intimacy within your marriage.
  
  Wishing you and your spouse a Valentine's Day filled with love, joy, and meaningful connection.

CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving Relationship

Download my free Love Affirmations Mini-Course to help you to start thinking and feeling in a way that feels more like love.

More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/

Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings.

Book your free Courageous Love Conversation here.

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As we delve deeper into the intricacies of intimacy within marriage, I'm excited to announce our upcoming AwakenYou in Your Marriage podcast episode, #156: Creating Safety and Trust: The Foundation of Intimacy in Marriage.

In this episode, we'll explore the fundamental aspects of safety and trust within marriage and how they lay the groundwork for genuine intimacy. Here's a sneak peek at what you'll discover by tuning in:

1. Understanding Safety and Trust: Learn how safety and trust are cultivated over time through genuine sharing and positive responses within the relationship.

2. Starting with Yourself: Discover the importance of building trust within yourself before extending it to your spouse, and explore personal anecdotes that shed light on this journey.

3. Practical Steps to Building Trust: Explore actionable steps you can take to foster trust within your marriage, from setting ground rules to acting in trustworthy ways in both big and small matters.

4. Destructive Patterns to Avoid: Identify behaviors and habits that erode safety and trust in your marriage, and learn how to steer clear of them to nurture a healthy relationship.

As you reflect on your own relationship dynamics, consider how you can contribute to creating a safe and trusting environment with your spouse. Remember, you are the love leader in your journey towards intimacy.

If you find yourself seeking guidance or support along the way, I invite you to schedule a Courageous Love Conversation with me. Let's work together to navigate the path towards stronger, more fulfilling relationships.

Don't miss out on this insightful episode as we pave the way towards deeper connection and intimacy in your marriage. Tune in and join the conversation!

CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving Relationship

Download my free Love Affirmations Mini-Course to help you to start thinking and feeling in a way that feels more like love.

More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/

Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings.

Book your free Courageous Love Conversation here.

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We're diving deep into nurturing intimacy in our marriages, and we're now on week 4 of our enlightening series. As we journey together, I've been moved by the responses I've received, particularly about the longing for intimacy in relationships. It's a shared desire: connection, belonging, and intimacy. However, nurturing intimacy starts by looking within ourselves, especially when distance creeps in between partners.

In this week's episode, we're exploring the profound connection between compassion and empathy, drawing from Brene Brown's Atlas of the Heart. Brown beautifully articulates how compassion is a daily practice, while empathy is a powerful tool within compassion. She highlights the significance of cognitive empathy in fostering meaningful connections, allowing us to understand and reflect on another person's emotions.

We'll delve into Theresa Wiseman's research on empathy, exploring the four attributes she assigned to empathy and incorporating a fifth attribute from Kristin Neff's work on self-compassion. From perspective-taking to practicing mindfulness, we'll uncover the essential elements of empathetic connection.

To bring these concepts to life, I'll share a vulnerable experience from my own life, offering insights into how empathy can transform conflicts into opportunities for deeper understanding and connection.

As we explore empathy, I invite you to pay attention to the riffs that arise in your relationships and embrace curiosity as a pathway to understanding. And if you find yourself grappling with empathy or facing challenges in your relationship, consider booking a Courageous Love Conversation with me. Together, we'll navigate through the complexities and discover actionable steps towards a more connected and fulfilling relationship.

Remember, struggles are not setbacks but opportunities for growth and deeper connection. Let's commit to taking steps forward, hand in hand, towards the intimacy we desire.

Tune in to Episode 155: Hearts Unveiled Pt 4: Nurturing Marital Intimacy with Empathy, and let's continue this transformative journey together.

With warmth and encouragement,
Christine

CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving Relationship

Download my free Love Affirmations Mini-Course to help you to start thinking and feeling in a way that feels more like love.

More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/

Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings.

Book your free Courageous Love Conversation here.

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Welcome back to another week of transformative conversations on AwakenYou in Your Marriage! This week, we're continuing our exploration of nurturing marital intimacy with the captivating theme "Hearts Unveiled Part 3: Nurturing Marital Intimacy with Curiosity."

In this episode, we delve into the power of curiosity, a key component highlighted by Brene Brown in her Atlas of the Heart. Discover how curiosity becomes an irreducible element of courageous leadership in the context of our marriages. Join me as we navigate the intricate dynamics of curiosity, vulnerability, and growth.

Here's a sneak peek of what you'll learn:
1. Curiosity as a Catalyst: Uncover why curiosity is essential for courageous leadership in your marriage.
2. Closing the Gap: Explore how curiosity bridges the knowledge gap about your partner's actions, fostering emotional and cognitive investment.
3. Choosing Vulnerability: Understand the courageous choice of being curious, surrendering to uncertainty, and asking questions that lead to growth.
4. Real-life Example: Join me as I share a recent, escalated exchange with Jeff, offering insights into applying curiosity to navigate conflicts and repair relationships.

Ready for an example? Last night when Jeff got home...

Remember, curiosity opens doors to understanding, compassion, and a new dynamic in your relationship. If you're ready to start the work of transforming your marriage, join me in a courageous love conversation. You can book your session by visiting the show notes below.

And as you gain insights, share the love! Take a moment to leave a 5-star rating and share a few words on your preferred podcast platform. Your words could inspire others on their journey to improving their marriages.

If you know someone who could use a dose of encouragement in their marriage, don't hesitate to share the podcast with them.

Until next week, let's keep showing up and changing—every day, until one day you don't recognize your old self.

With love and curiosity,
Christine 💖

CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving Relationship

Download my free Love Affirmations Mini-Course to help you to start thinking and feeling in a way that feels more like love.

More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/

Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings.

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As we dive into AwakenYou in Your Marriage episode 153: Nurturing Marital Intimacy through Vulnerability, I'm thrilled to share a piece of my personal journey with you. This year is all about vulnerability (my word of the year), and I'm excited to be on this open, honest, and transformative ride with each of you.

On a creative note, my book project is back in full swing. I've recommitted to transcribing, refining, and shaping its artistic foundation. It's a passionate endeavor, and though the final outcome is uncertain, the process itself is a beautiful journey of self-discovery.

Now, let's talk about vulnerability in marriage. In this episode, we'll explore what vulnerability is and why it's crucial for our relationships. Drawing insights from Brene Brown, we'll discuss emotional exposure, uncertainty, and risk.

We'll delve into the barriers that keep us from being vulnerable and how to lay the foundation in your marriage for openness. I'll share tips on noticing and warmly receiving your spouse's vulnerability, fostering a safe space for intimacy to thrive.

Remember, vulnerable shares start small as you strengthen your relationship with yourself. Recognize your spouse's responses and understand that your ability to expose yourself emotionally helps facilitate their vulnerability.

Building a safe place for each other is key. By practicing active listening, stepping into your spouse's shoes, maintaining confidentiality, and checking in with your own feelings, you create an environment where vulnerability can flourish.

As I've moved through these steps personally, I've witnessed profound changes in my relationship. Building self-confidence enhances my connection with myself and strengthens my openness to share, regardless of others' reactions.

If you're longing for deeper connection and intimacy in your relationship, know it's possible to re-connect. Join me for a Courageous Love Conversation, where we can explore your struggles, fears, and doubts and discuss the process of creating something extraordinary.

Here's to vulnerability, intimacy, and the transformative power of love.

XOX,
Christine 

CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving Relationship

Download my free Love Affirmations Mini-Course to help you to start thinking and feeling in a way that feels more like love.

More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/

Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings.

Book your free Courageous Love Conversation here.

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I hope this message finds you well and thriving as we embrace the possibilities of a brand new year! 

I wanted to share something truly special with you – the latest episode of the "AwakenYou in Your Marriage" podcast is out, and it's a deep dive into the theme of growth and transformation. In this episode, I open up about my personal journey over the past seven years, reflecting on the highs, lows, and the incredible transformations that come from committing to our own growth.

Episode Title: "From Tears to Triumph" - Embracing Growth in Your Marriage Journey

In this heartfelt episode, I share the pivotal moments that led me to take a leap into self-discovery and healing. From the challenges of vulnerability to the satisfaction that comes from staying true to our dreams, I explore the beauty of recognizing our own growth.

Listen in as I share a touching moment from this past Christmas, where the love, gratitude, and awe overwhelmed me, reinforcing the incredible impact of the growth journey. This is a journey of self-love, self-discovery, and building a relationship with yourself that lays the foundation for a thriving marriage.

Remember, personal development is a journey, not a destination. We can't always see the changes within ourselves like a remodeled space, but the impact becomes evident during moments like the holidays, where we can truly appreciate the progress we've made.

If you're feeling the nudge to make a change this year, I encourage you to tune in. Take that one step forward, commit to your growth, and let's make this year a celebration of vulnerability and triumph.

Thank you for being a part of this incredible community. I believe in each one of you and the transformative power within your own journey.

Sending love and light your way,
Christine 

P.S. If you resonate with the episode or have any thoughts to share, I'd love to hear from you! Drop me a message or connect with our community on Instagram & Facebook. Together, let's celebrate growth, love, and the journey towards our best lives. 

CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving Relationship

Download my free Love Affirmations Mini-Course to help you to start thinking and feeling in a way that feels more like love.

More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/

Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings.

Book your free Courageous Love Conversation here.

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I hope this message finds you well as we step into 2024 filled with opportunities for growth and connection. I'm excited to share a sneak peek of my upcoming podcast episode 151: "Hearts Unveiled: Nurturing Marital Intimacy," where we'll explore the key components to create deeper intimacy in your marriage.

In this episode, you will learn:

• Differentiation: Understand the importance of recognizing that you and your partner are unique individuals with separate thoughts and beliefs
• Curiosity: Dive into the core of building intimacy by asking questions and cultivating a genuine desire to understand and explore each other.
• Vulnerability: Learn how opening up allows your spouse to see into your core, fostering a profound connection.
• Empathy: Understand that sharing dreams, pains, and joys builds trust and strengthens intimacy. It's not about agreement but about understanding and reflecting back emotions.

As you embark on this journey to nurture marital intimacy, keep in mind that these components come together to build something truly amazing. While working on these aspects might not be feasible at the start, especially without going through the untangling process, the rewards are profound when both partners stand on their own feet, own their emotions, and work towards building a path back together.

To dive deeper into these components and explore what it takes to enhance intimacy in your marriage, don't miss this episode. Subscribe to AwakenYou in Your Marriage to catch all the follow-ups as we delve into the steps to amplify intimacy. If you're ready for the challenge and seeking a more intimate relationship, consider booking a Courageous Love Conversation. 

Let’s make this a year of growing closer to the one we’re with!

CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving Relationship

Download my free Love Affirmations Mini-Course to help you to start thinking and feeling in a way that feels more like love.

More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/

Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings.

Book your free Courageous Love Conversation here.

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