How to Befriend your Anger To Find New Ways to Work with It with Zach Brittle

Why do you keep reacting the same way in conflict, even after all the work you've done? You've been to therapy. You've read the books. You know what a healthy relationship is supposed to look like. And still, when things get tense, you snap, shut down, or give in. If that's you, this conversation is for you. My guest is Zach Brittle, a certified Gottman therapist, Relational Life Therapist, host of *Marriage Therapy Radio*, and author of two relationship guides. We talk about the Gottman predictors of divorce, where Terry Real's Relational Life Therapy (RLT) picks up, and what sobriety and relationships taught Zach about anger in marriage.  In this episode, you'll learn: - The question Zach asks himself when anger takes over, and how it shifts the story from the inside out (think parts work) - Why getting sober didn't end his anger and resentment, and what recovery turned out to be about - The difference between emotional sobriety and white-knuckling it, and why the same test applies to your relationships - The Four Horsemen (criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling) and how to tell when they're working against you - Why contempt is the single biggest predictor of divorce - How defensiveness in relationships becomes useful once you check whether the threat is real - The Brussels sprouts lesson that turns criticism into a request your partner can actually hear - What Zach advises when a defensive partner can't or won't show up as an adult - Why kids need healthy parents more than parents who stay together, and what staying in an unhappy marriage teaches them Whether you're working on your marriage or healing from one, this conversation will help you understand your reactions and choose new ones. Much love and freedom, Laurie Free Resources Click here to schedule a FREE inquiry call with me. Click here for my FREE “Beginner’s Guide to Somatic Healing” Click here for my FREE Core Values Exercise Want to try somatic work for free? Download my somatic exercises on Insight Timer and start reconnecting with your body today. Connect with me: Click here to purchase my “Nervous System Regulation Starter Kit” it’s $29.99 Click here to purchase my book: Sandwiched: A Memoir of Holding On and Letting Go Website Instagram Substack Connect with Zach: Website Substack Instagram Please leave me feedback. I cannot respond so if you'd like me to respond, please leave your email \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\** DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL, MEDICAL OR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED THERAPIST IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING SUICIDAL THOUGHTS. YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL WITH RESPECT TO ANY MEDICAL ISSUE OR PROBLEM.