In this episode, we welcome intimacy and relationship specialist Lottie Passell-Syms. We discuss the importance of communication in relationships, the changing landscape of dating, and the need for empathy and connection. Lottie shares insights from her twenty years of experience in the field, emphasizing the significance of understanding each other's needs and expectations. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of power in relationships and the balance between personal independence and partnership. We delve into the complexities of relationships, exploring themes such as generational stereotypes, the dynamics of relationship roles, and the impact of childhood scripts on adult behaviour. We discuss the importance of communication in sexual relationships, emphasizing the need for openness and consent. The conversation highlights the significance of anticipation and playfulness in sexual intimacy, while addressing the often-taboo subject of masturbation andself-exploration, as well the stages of love, the importance of communication, and the necessity of forgiveness. Additionally, we explore the concept of limerence, the power struggle that often arises in relationships, and the ideaof conscious uncoupling as a means to navigate breakups with kindness. The discussion emphasises the significance of maintaining an open heart and the little gestures that can strengthen intimacy between partners. Overall, the discussion provides valuable insights into fostering healthier relationships and understanding individual needs.

Chapters

00:00

Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

00:53

Understanding Intimacy and Relationships

03:09

Changing Landscape of Dating and Relationships

05:58

Communication in Relationships

11:49

Expectations and Needs in Relationships

18:11

The Role of Empathy and Connection

24:01

Navigating Power Dynamics in Relationships

35:22

Redefining Generational Stereotypes in Relationships

39:06

The Dynamics of Relationship Roles

43:33

Navigating Childhood Scripts in Adult Relationships

49:11

Exploring the Importance of Sexual Communication

55:12

The Role of Anticipation and Playfulness in Sex

01:01:32

Breaking Taboos: The Conversation Around Masturbation

01:05:53

Understanding Limerence and Love

01:11:52

The Power Struggle in Relationships

01:17:20

Forgiveness and Conscious Uncoupling

01:23:22

Communication and Relationship Maintenance

01:29:00

Keeping Your Heart Open After Breakups

Keywords

intimacy, relationships, dating, communication, empathy,expectations, needs, power dynamics, connection, sex, relationships, communication, intimacy, therapy, sexual health, gender roles, emotional safety, childhood scripts, sexual exploration, consent, limerence, love, relationships, forgiveness, communication, conscious uncoupling, emotional health, couples therapy, intimacy, personal growth

In this episode, we explore and answer questions from you, our lovely listeners, on varying themes surrounding mental health, personal growth, and relationships. We discuss the ability to change one's mindset, the impact of our environment on personal development, and the importance of openness in relationships. We share our personal preferences regarding intimacy; our culinary preferences for a ‘last meal on Earth’; our chosen dinner party guests for a fictional dinner party; and Sam reveals his personal 'ick' list that highlights what he finds off-putting in relationships.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

02:56 Mindset and Personal Growth

05:54 The Power of Change and Neuroplasticity

09:13 The Role of Environment in Shaping Mindset

11:58 Personal Experiences and Influences

14:47 Exploring Intimacy and Relationships

18:00 Influences in Life and Relationships

20:49 Death Row Meal: A Light-hearted Question

30:22 Culinary Delights: A Last Meal on Earth

36:56 Dinner Party Guests: Living, Dead, and Fictional

54:21 The ick List: What Turns Us Off

01:00:04 Closing Thoughts and Future Connections

In this episode, we discuss the challenges of transitioning into the season of winter and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset. We briefly discuss SAD and we talk about the concept of the 'Winter Arc,' a trending self-development initiative that encourages individuals to set personal goals and focus on self-improvement during the winter months. We discuss the importance of personal accountability, the psychology behind goal setting, and the challenges faced during the holiday season, particularly regarding fitness and personal choices. We delve into the complexities of holiday food traditions and the societal pressures surrounding New Year's resolutions. We talk about the nature of change, the impact of hitting rock bottom, and the statistics behind NY resolutions. We also discuss practical tips for maintaining well-being during the winter months and the significance of embracing change.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Initial Banter

06:01 Winter Mindset and Seasonal Changes

11:54 Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder

17:21 Setting Goals and Personal Accountability

24:52 Navigating the Holiday Season: Accountability and Choices

28:12 The Challenge of Holiday Indulgence

32:58 The Psychological Impact of Winter

36:47 Finding Joy Amidst Winter Blues

40:53 Holiday Traditions: The Pigs in Blankets Debate

41:57 The Psychology of New Year's Resolutions

42:49 The Importance of Change Anytime

43:46 Hitting Rock Bottom and Making Changes

44:41 The Statistics Behind Resolutions

45:52 Themes vs. Resolutions

46:52 The Concept of a New Year's Theme

47:51 Experiences Over Resolutions

48:41 Philosophy Shift in Goal Setting

49:51 Mitigating Failure in Goal Setting

50:57 Control Over Achievements