x

75% of people globally want unbiased news (Pew Research) but are concerned they're not getting that.

Get balanced coverage with Symby. See how stories are covered across diverse outlets and spot when one side covers a story the other skips.

PODCAST

couples in focus

Thomas Westenholz and Michael Preston

Couples in Focus is a podcast for anyone wanting to improve their relationships. Hosted by Thomas and Michael, two relationship therapists from https://coupletherapy.earth/ and thesecurecouple.com, it offers expert insights, real-world advice, and answers to audience questions. They cover communication, intimacy, trust, and conflict, providing actionable tools and compassionate guidance. Each episode explores relatable challenges and offers practical strategies to help couples strengthen their

society & culture relationships

All Episodes

00:28:13

The Daily Habits of Thriving Relationships

couples in focus ·

2025/11/27

Even the strongest couples miss each other sometimes. A glance goes unnoticed, a comment gets brushed off, or one partner pulls away just when the other needs closeness. These are the moments where relationships either disconnect — or grow stronger.In this episode, we talk about bids for connection: the small signals we send every day asking for attention, affection, or understanding. You’ll learn how to spot these bids, what happens when they’re missed, and how repair builds trust and emotional

en

00:28:20

Why Some Couples Struggle — and Others Thrive

couples in focus ·

2025/11/13

Why do some couples seem to grow closer over time while others drift apart? In this episode, we explore the small, often unnoticed moments that make or break a relationship — the bids for connection.Every time you reach out — with a glance, a question, a joke, or a touch — you’re offering a bid. Thriving couples recognise these bids and turn toward them; struggling couples miss or dismiss them.We’ll unpack why these micro-moments matter so much, how to spot them, and what happens when they’re

en

00:18:55

Relating vs. Being Right — Understanding Their Map

couples in focus ·

2025/11/05

Why do so many conversations with people we care about spiral into arguments? Often it’s because we’re focused on being right instead of relating.In this episode of Couples in Focus, I unpack the difference between proving your point and stepping into someone else’s “map” — their inner world of experiences, feelings, and beliefs. You’ll hear real-life examples of how shifting from defensiveness to curiosity can transform conflicts into moments of connection, whether with a partner, friend, coworker,

en

00:25:42

The Curiosity Factor in Communication

couples in focus ·

2025/10/30

SummaryIn this conversation, Michael Preston discusses the importance of giving partners the benefit of the doubt in relationships. He emphasises how this shift in perspective can transform negative interactions into positive ones by fostering curiosity and understanding. Instead of reacting defensively to perceived slights, partners can approach each other with empathy and a desire to understand the other's experiences, leading to healthier communication and conflict resolution.TakeawaysGiving

en

00:28:01

Why Modern Mental Health Gets It Wrong — And How to...

couples in focus ·

2025/10/29

Modern mental health often promises quick fixes — usually in the form of medication. While antidepressants can help, they rarely touch the deeper roots of why so many of us are struggling.In this episode of Couples in Focus, I take a step back and ask: what if the crisis isn’t just chemical, but human? We’ll explore the four foundations of good mental health — nature, movement, social connection & meaning, and touch — and how losing these has left us unbalanced. I’ll also share the metaphor of

en

00:25:26

Why Love Was a Lie — The Truth About Real Love

couples in focus ·

2025/10/15

We’ve been sold a lie about love. Movies, books, and social media tell us it’s all about sparks, passion, and intensity — but that isn’t real love.In this episode of Couples in Focus, I delve into the truth about lasting love: why it feels calm rather than chaotic, why it develops gradually over time, and how attachment theory reveals what a genuine connection is built upon. You’ll hear stories that highlight the difference between intensity that fizzles out and the kind of steady, safe love that

en

00:24:24

Finding Your Way Back — The Inner Compass of Mental...

couples in focus ·

2025/10/01

Why do we so often feel lost in our mental health journey? In this episode of Couples in Focus, I introduce the metaphor of the inner compass — the signals of our thoughts, emotions, and body sensations that point us toward balance or warn us when we’re drifting off course.Through real stories, we’ll explore how ignoring small signals, such as tension, rumination, or sadness, only makes them grow louder, and how learning to listen helps us make small course corrections before they become crises

en

00:27:48

Attachment Styles and Compatibility — Who We Click...

couples in focus ·

2025/09/17

Why do some relationships feel easy while others leave us stuck in constant cycles of tension? A lot of the answer lies in attachment styles — the patterns we carry into love, intimacy, and connection.In this episode of Couples in Focus, I’ll break down the four main attachment styles, how they tend to pair up, and why certain combinations spark harmony while others create friction. You’ll hear real-life examples of anxious–avoidant push-pull dynamics, how secure partners bring balance, and what to

en

00:22:46

The Only Two Questions You Need on a Date

couples in focus ·

2025/09/03

On this episode of Couples in Focus, we cut through the noise of dating advice and boil it down to just two questions:Do I feel safe, relaxed, and like I can be myself?Do I feel accepted and seen?Through real stories, I’ll show how these two simple questions reveal more than any dating script ever could — helping you notice the difference between a date that drains you and one that feels energising and real.If you want to dive deeper into relationships and therapy, visit coupletherapy.earth.

en

00:43:41

Navigating Relationship Dynamics

couples in focus ·

2025/07/23

SummaryIn this conversation, Thomas Westenholz and Michael Preston explore the complexities of relationships, particularly the notion of keeping one's side of the street clean. They discuss the importance of understanding both individual and shared worlds in a relationship, the impact of emotional neglect, and the necessity of co-regulation. The dialogue emphasises that relationships are not merely transactional but require mutual support and emotional engagement. They highlight the significance

en

00:30:08

The Complexity of Desire in Long-Term Relationships

couples in focus ·

2025/07/09

SummaryIn this episode, Thomas Westenholz and Michael Preston explore the complexities of desire in long-term relationships, discussing how desire can diminish over time due to various factors such as overwhelm, emotional disconnect, and resentment. They emphasise the importance of maintaining physical touch, open communication, and addressing emotional needs to rebuild intimacy and connection. The conversation highlights the necessity of acknowledging the challenges couples face and the importance

en

00:30:14

The Three Pillars of Healthy Relationships

couples in focus ·

2025/05/07

SummaryIn this episode, Michael Preston and Thomas Westenholz discuss the three essential components of a healthy relationship: accessibility, responsiveness, and emotional engagement. They explore how these elements contribute to a secure attachment between partners, emphasizing the importance of being present, attuned, and emotionally connected. The conversation highlights practical examples and insights into how couples can foster these qualities to enhance their relationship dynamics.For more,

en

00:49:25

Collaborative Games: Winning Together in Relationships

couples in focus ·

2025/04/23

SummaryIn this conversation, Thomas Westenholz and Michael Preston explore the complexities of relationships, focusing on how couples can navigate challenges through effective communication and emotional regulation. They emphasize the importance of collaboration over competition, recognizing patterns of behavior that lead to conflict, and identifying personal triggers that can escalate disagreements. The discussion highlights the need for empathy and understanding in relationships, encouraging

en

00:46:58

Breaking the Cycle of Conflict

couples in focus ·

2025/04/09

summaryIn this episode of Couples in Focus, Thomas and Michael explore the dynamics of arguments in relationships, focusing on the need to be right and how it can lead to emotional disconnect. They discuss the behaviors of avoidant partners, the cycle of arguments, and the dangers of trying to win at the expense of the relationship. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding different models of the world and how they influence relationship dynamics, ultimately advocating for empathy

en

00:50:07

Healing After Betrayal: A Path to Trust

couples in focus ·

2025/03/26

SummaryIn this episode of Couples in Focus, Michael Preston and Thomas Westenholz delve into the complexities of emotional injuries in relationships, mainly focusing on infidelity and its impact on trust and healing. They discuss the nuances of emotional affairs, the importance of empathy in recovery, and the challenges couples face when navigating the aftermath of betrayal. The conversation emphasizes the need for open communication and vulnerability to rebuild trust and heal from relationship

en

00:50:14

Overcoming Blocks to Sexual Communication

couples in focus ·

2025/03/05

SummaryIn this episode of Couples in Focus, Thomas and Michael delve into the complexities of discussing sexuality within relationships. They explore the vulnerabilities involved in these conversations, the common blocks that prevent open dialogue, and the importance of teamwork in navigating sexual intimacy. The discussion emphasizes the detrimental effects of silence, criticism, and shame on sexual relationships while advocating for ongoing communication and understanding between partners. In this

en

00:41:34

Navigating Withdrawal in Sex

couples in focus ·

2025/02/25

SummaryThis conversation delves into the complexities of emotional and sexual dynamics in relationships, particularly focusing on the experiences of avoidant and anxious partners. It explores themes of withdrawal, insecurities, silent suffering, and the breakdown of communication, emphasizing the importance of trust and vulnerability. The speakers discuss how these dynamics can lead to misunderstandings and emotional pain, and they offer insights into how couples can begin to open up conversations

en

00:46:48

Navigating Sexual Intimacy in Relationships

couples in focus ·

2025/02/19

SummaryIn this episode of Couples in Focus, Thomas Westenholz and Michael Preston delve into the often-ignored topic of sexual intimacy in relationships. They discuss the challenges couples face regarding sexual connection, the dynamics of emotional intimacy, and the common issues that lead to a sexless marriage. The conversation highlights the importance of communication, emotional responsiveness, and understanding the different needs of partners to foster a healthy sexual relationship. They

en

00:46:43

Falling Back in Love: Is It Possible?

couples in focus ·

2025/02/12

SummaryIn this conversation, Michael Preston and Thomas Westenholz explore the complexities of relationships, particularly focusing on the theme of drifting apart and the hope of reconnecting. They discuss the importance of willingness from both partners, the emotional dynamics at play, and the necessity of safety in love. Through various analogies, including the concept of love as a parachute, they emphasize that while falling back in love is possible, it requires a shift in understanding and

en

00:44:49

Balancing Needs in Relationships

couples in focus ·

2025/02/05

SummaryIn this episode of Couples in Focus, Michael Preston and Thomas Westenholz explore the complexities of meeting emotional needs in relationships. They discuss the challenges couples face when trying to balance their individual needs, the importance of communication, and the impact of attachment styles on relationship dynamics. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of regular check-ins and understanding each partner's emotional state to foster a healthier relationship. In this

en

26 results

Similar Podcasts

Voices of Life

APG Mannheim

Promo Estereo Podcast

Promo Estereo

Talking Timelines Podcast

Talkingtimelines

גיקונומי

ראם שרמן ודורון ניר

Drømmefanger

Drømmefanger