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It seems the news on almost every front is dispiriting these days.  Everywhere we turn there is negativity and it can get you down, turning a positive attitude negative in short order.  In this episode, Alvean and Doug discuss the ways one can find the positive energy in a negative environment and how couples can help one another achieve an affirming relationship. For a complete transcript, click here: LL38-Staying Positive in a Negative World

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Getting what you want without coercion, manipulation or worse is all about the art of persuasion.  Couples need to learn how to achieve their individual and mutual relationship goals in a manner that leaves them both satisfied.  In this episode, Alvean and Doug discuss the persuasion rules and tools for negotiation that engender mutual respect and  win/win solutions.  For a full transcript, click here: LL37-The Art of Persuasion

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Listening is one of the most important skills in relationship building.  Really hearing what the other person has to say–rather than simply acknowledging with half attention is not only a courtesy it is a profound sign of engagement and investment.  In this episode, Alvean and Doug talk about the art of tuning in to what others have to say and the downside of tuning out when you are into yourself or just not into what your SO has to say.  For a full transcript, click here: LL36-Listening-Tune in or Tune out

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We love them both but sometimes kids or pets become an issue in a relationship.  Navigating the sensitivities that attach to our children and pets can be extremely trying.  Fortunately, Alvean and Doug have some counsel for ways to skillfully avoid contention and ensure you are all on the same page.  For a full transcript of this episode, click here: LL35-When Kids or Pets are in the way

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Couples that pray together stay together, or so the saying goes.  Is there any truth to this?  In this episode Alvean and Doug explore the question of faith in relationships and whether it is truly a force that binds or a source of friction.  For a full transcript, click here:LL34-Couples That Pray Together

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In this episode, Alvean and Doug explore the reasons that people in relationships quarrel.  It may not be too serious, or it can be a sign of underlying issues that need to be resolved, and soon.  To find out which and ways to resolve differences in a healthy and loving manner you can listen and read the attached transcript: LL29-Why Do Couples Quarrel?

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Couples argue about many things, but money is a very common issue.  In this episode Alvean and Doug take on the question of why this is a contentious issue, and how to avoid making it into one that can wreck and otherwise healthy relationship.  For a full transcript, click here: LL32-Why Do couples Quarrel About Money?

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Flirting can be fun and add some needed spice in your life and be a very positive experience for others but it also can be dangerous to you and your relationships.  Learn how and when to flirt in this episode as Alvean and Doug unpack the art of flirtation. For a complete transcript click here: LL31-Why Men and Women Flirt

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Is it really Mars and Venus or are the differences between men and women that significant?  In this episode Alvean and Doug put a spotlight on the real divide–and it may surprise you.  For more listen to the episode and read the attached transcript in full: LL30-How Men and Women Differ

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Has the steam gone out of your relationship?  Are you mourning for the past?  In this episode, Alvean and Doug help you find you way back to what you once had, a passionate and engaged relationship with your significant other.  For a full transcript, click here; LL33-How to Bring Passion Back?