In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Rabbi Shlomo Slatkin, licensed couples therapist and Imago therapy specialist, to explore why we unconsciously choose partners who mirror our childhood wounds—and how this is actually the path to healing.

What You'll Learn:✨ Why we're attracted to partners who can't easily give us what we need most✨ How childhood wounds shape our adult relationships✨ The real reason behind communication breakdowns in marriage✨ Why safety (not love) is the foundation of lasting relationships✨ The 5 steps to create a happy and healthy marriage✨ When a marriage is truly "too far gone" (and when it's not)✨ How political and social tensions are affecting modern relationships

Key Timestamps:0:00 - Introduction1:14 - Shlomo's personal journey into couples therapy4:16 - The biggest problem couples face6:06 - How childhood wounds impact communication8:36 - Why we choose partners who trigger us14:38 - The Imago dialogue communication technique19:14 - The 5 steps to a happy marriage26:08 - When is a marriage too far gone?30:37 - 3 things couples can do right now37:12 - How modern tensions affect relationships43:48 - Why intensive therapy works better49:09 - Where to find Shlomo

About Shlomo Slatkin:Rabbi Shlomo Slatkin is a licensed therapist specializing in Imago Relationship Therapy with nearly 25 years of marriage experience. He offers private intensives, group workshops, and online courses through The Marriage Restoration Project.

Connect with Shlomo:🌐 Website: themarriagerestorationproject.com

Resources Mentioned:📚 Five Steps to a Happy and Healthy Marriage (book & online program)

www.maurodaviddi.com

What if I told you the worst time to talk about your relationship problems is when you're actually upset?

My guest today, Raffi Bilek from Baltimore Therapy Centre, completely changed how I think about communication. He shares the exact framework he uses with couples - the LOVE method - that transforms arguments into connection.

We dive deep into:

• Why waiting to talk is actually the smartest move
• The 3 most important words in marriage (game-changer!)
• How to handle gridlock when you're both stuck
• Breaking the "never go to bed angry" myth
• Real talk about intimacy, parenting conflicts, and in-law drama

Raffi brings 15 years of experience and his book "The Couples Communication Handbook" to give you practical tools you can use today. No fluff - just real strategies that work.

This conversation reminded me why I love this work. Every relationship has friction - we're two different brains trying to share one life. But with the right skills? Magic happens.

Progress over perfection, always.

Can a marriage really be saved after years of disconnection, affairs, or contemplating divorce? Relationship counselor Mauro Daviddi says absolutely yes.

Join host Leigh in this deeply practical conversation with Perth-based couples therapist Mauro Daviddi, who shares the Gottman Method principles and attachment theory strategies that have transformed hundreds of relationships.

What You'll Learn:

• The Four Horsemen that predict divorce with 90% accuracy
• Why most couples wait 6 YEARS before seeking help (don't be one of them)
• The simple daily practice that rebuilds intimacy
• How childhood experiences shape your relationship patterns
• Real techniques: I-statements, gentle startup, and strategic breaks during conflict
• Success stories of couples going from "roommates" to passionate partners

About Mauro Daviddi:Italian-Australian relationship counselor specializing in Gottman Method and attachment-based therapy. After witnessing his parents' chaotic marriage and divorce, Mauro dedicated his life to understanding what makes relationships work. He's helped countless couples rebuild friendship, trust, and passion—even after affairs and years of disconnection.

Perfect for: Anyone in a relationship, married couples, those considering separation, or anyone who wants to understand relationship dynamics better.

"The grass isn't greener on the other side—it's browner. We're far stronger together than apart."

Podcast: Progress Over Perfection | Website: maurodaviddi.com