In this episode of Intimacy Evolution, we’re diving into one of the most common challenges couples face: staying connected during the holidays. Between family expectations, overloaded schedules, childhood programming, and unspoken obligations, the holiday season can easily create distance between partners. In fact, research shows that stress, increased responsibilities, and family dynamics contribute to a spike in relationship conflict during November and December.

We explore the difference between obligation energy and choice energy—and how operating from obligation often leads to resentment, overwhelm, and emotional shutdown. You’ll hear how to shift into choice-based decision-making that supports intimacy, teamwork, and grounded connection.

Inside this conversation, we unpack:

• How childhood traditions shape your current holiday expectations
• Why visiting family can trigger anxiety or old identity patterns
• How to create shared traditions instead of defaulting to what you “should” do
• Practical ways to reduce stress, overstimulation, and schedule overload
• A simple reflection process to identify what actually feels nourishing
• Our “scale system” for navigating events, in-law dynamics, and overstimulation
• How to support each other when one partner feels overwhelmed
• Why so many couples argue—or feel disconnected—during the holidays
• How to prioritize emotional closeness and partnership even during busy seasons

Whether you’re navigating family expectations, figuring out boundaries, or trying to prevent holiday burnout, this episode will give you the clarity and language to stay connected as a team.

You’re not alone in this—holiday challenges are incredibly common. This episode will help you move through the season with more intention, compassion, and connection.

Send us a text

Join us for our free webinar all about staying connected through the holidays! Thursday, December 18th at 7pm CST

Connect with Bri:
Instagram: @_brianna_carey_

Connect with Mark:
Instagram: @mark_carey_

Website: IntimacyEvolution.com

Get cozy with 10% off your Love Blanket!

Code: Intimacy10

Newsletter: Click here to enjoy weekly newsletter with juicy tips we can't share on social media. Plus be the first to know when we launch new events & programs!

Ever felt the weight of sexual pressure — even when your partner isn’t saying a word? You’re not alone. In this honest episode, Brianna and Mark unpack where pressure in intimacy really comes from, how to tell if it’s internal or external, and what you can do to release it without disconnecting from your partner.

We’re talking mismatched desire, mom guilt, dad expectations, and the silent stories that shape our sex lives. Tune in for practical tools, real talk, and gentle reminders that intimacy should never feel like obligation.

Learn more about our couples programs and resources at www.intimacyevolution.com

Send us a text

Join us for our free webinar all about staying connected through the holidays! Thursday, December 18th at 7pm CST

Connect with Bri:
Instagram: @_brianna_carey_

Connect with Mark:
Instagram: @mark_carey_

Website: IntimacyEvolution.com

Get cozy with 10% off your Love Blanket!

Code: Intimacy10

Newsletter: Click here to enjoy weekly newsletter with juicy tips we can't share on social media. Plus be the first to know when we launch new events & programs!

What was supposed to be a simple trip down memory lane turned into a night we’ll never forget.

In this episode, we share the full story of attending Bri’s 20-year high school reunion — the nostalgia, the unexpected emotions that came rushing in, and the wild twist that ended with us asking… “Babe, where’s our car?”

Beyond the chaos, this night brought up some surprisingly deep reflections about identity, growth, and partnership. We talk about:

✨ The emotional rollercoaster of revisiting your past and seeing how far you’ve come
✨ How nostalgia can stir up old versions of yourself — and what to do when that happens
✨ Staying grounded as a couple when life throws curveballs (or your car disappears)
✨ Turning stressful moments into connection instead of conflict
✨ Finding humor and gratitude in the middle of absolute mayhem

This one’s got it all — laughs, life lessons, and a good dose of “are you kidding me?!” energy.

So buckle up (because apparently, we didn’t that night 🤦‍♀️) and join us for a story about how even the most chaotic moments can bring you closer — if you let them.

Mentioned in this episode:

Get cozy with 10% off your Love Blanket!

Code: Intimacy10

Send us a text

Join us for our free webinar all about staying connected through the holidays! Thursday, December 18th at 7pm CST

Connect with Bri:
Instagram: @_brianna_carey_

Connect with Mark:
Instagram: @mark_carey_

Website: IntimacyEvolution.com

Get cozy with 10% off your Love Blanket!

Code: Intimacy10

Newsletter: Click here to enjoy weekly newsletter with juicy tips we can't share on social media. Plus be the first to know when we launch new events & programs!