Deciding to Love

Ep 12: How to Encourage Greater Honesty - Judy Herman

In this conversation, Nathan Holritz interviews Judy Herman, a licensed therapist, about her journey into therapy, the simplicity of love, and the complexities of relationships. They discuss the importance of awareness, responsibility, and authenticity in romantic partnerships, emphasizing that while relationships can be simple, they often require effort and understanding to navigate challenges. Judy shares insights from her own experiences and her books, highlighting the significance of communication and personal growth in fostering healthy relationships. Nathan and Judy emphasize the importance of taking ownership, understanding the authentic self, and the critical role of honesty and vulnerability in fostering intimacy. They explore how curiosity can mitigate conflict and create a safe space for open communication, ultimately leading to healthier and more fulfilling relationships. Resources Judy's Website: https://www.judycounselor.com/ Judy’s Books: Resources Relationships with Purpose: Secrets to Better Relationships and A Better Life, Judy Herman - https://link.deciding2.love/47wckn5d Beyond Messy Relationships: Diving Invitations to Your Authentic Self, Judy Herman - https://link.deciding2.love/59rty63k Judy’s Podcast: Better Relationships, Better Life - On Apple, https://link.deciding2.love/kjvfz4rj and on Spotify, https://link.deciding2.love/ymkuyt9jDeciding to Love is a podcast exploring how to create enjoyable, long-term romantic relationships we actually want to be in! The podcast is hosted by Nathan Holritz, long-time entrepreneur and podcast host - and a romantic at heart. Check out the website at decidingtolove.com, and if you're interested in being a guest on the show, go to decidingtolove.com/share-your-story to learn more and apply to be on the show! Check out the website at decidingtolove.com, and if you're interested in being a guest on the show, go to decidingtolove.com/share-your-story to learn more and apply to be on the show! You can also follow Deciding to Love for short clips and inspiration from the show: https://www.instagram.com/decidingtolovexo https://www.facebook.com/decidingtolovexohttps://www.tiktok.com/@decidingtolovexo

Ep 11: Creating Independence - Steve and Shannon

Summary In this interview, Nathan Holritz speaks with Steve and Shannon about their long-term relationship, exploring themes of romance, curiosity, and personal growth. They discuss the importance of maintaining curiosity in relationships, the challenges Shannon and Steve faced in their relationship, and how they navigated through difficult times. The couple shares insights on the significance of presence and mindfulness, the dynamics of new relationship energy, and the impact of inner child work on their partnership. Their journey highlights the importance of self-awareness, communication, and emotional health in sustaining a loving relationship. Nathan, Shannon, and Steve explore the complexities of trauma, emotional processing, the importance of somatic release, and the significance of of sovereignty and emotional independence for the sake of a healthy, long-term romantic relationship. The discussion also touches on the unconventional choice of sleeping in separate beds and how it can positively impact relationships by allowing for personal space and emotional clarity. ...... Resources Living Untethered, Michael Singer - https://link.deciding2.love/yhtwmwvw [https://link.deciding2.love/yhtwmwvw] Mating in Captivity, Esther Perel - https://link.deciding2.love/2p9dv4s8 [https://link.deciding2.love/2p9dv4s8] Shannon Hammaker on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/shannonhamaker/ [https://www.instagram.com/shannonhamaker/] Check out the website at decidingtolove.com [decidingtolove.com], and if you're interested in being a guest on the show, go to decidingtolove.com/share-your-story [decidingtolove.com/share-your-story] to learn more and apply to be on the show! You can also follow Deciding to Love for short clips and inspiration from the show: https://www.instagram.com/decidingtolovexo [https://www.instagram.com/decidingtolovexo] https://www.facebook.com/decidingtolovexo [https://www.facebook.com/decidingtolovexo] https://www.tiktok.com/@decidingtolovexo [https://www.tiktok.com/@decidingtolovexo]

Ep 10: Learning From Past Mistakes - Paul and Sarah

Host Nathan Holritz reconnects with Paul and Sarah, a couple together for 20 years, to explore the foundations of their lasting relationship. They reflect on how they met, the role of spiritual connection, and the lessons they’ve carried forward from past experiences. The conversation centers on emotional intelligence, communication, and personal responsibility—highlighting the importance of respect, ease, and independence. They discuss how self-awareness, emotional regulation, and clear expectations shape healthier dynamics, emphasizing that strong relationships are built through intentionality, open dialogue, and a grounded sense of self.

Ep 9: Uncomfortable Conversations - Field and Karie

Summary In this conversation, Nathan Holritz engages with Field and Karie, exploring the depths of love, respect, and communication in relationships. They discuss the importance of love and respect, the impact of honesty on trust, and the necessity of navigating uncomfortable discussions. Field and Karie share their personal experiences and insights on how to maintain a loving and respectful relationship over time, emphasizing the need for intentionality and understanding in their interactions. Resources The Five Love Languages - https://link.deciding2.love/4w8jrhmh [https://link.deciding2.love/4w8jrhmh] Love and Respect - https://link.deciding2.love/mr2w7cpz [https://link.deciding2.love/mr2w7cpz]

Ep 8: Never Go to Bed Angry - Mark and Sarah

Summary In this episode, Nathan Holritz hosts Mark and Sarah, a couple with over 30 years of relationship experience. They share their backstory, discussing how they met and the initial attraction that sparked their long-lasting relationship. The conversation delves into the importance of faith, communication, and intentionality in maintaining a healthy relationship. They emphasize the significance of self-care, navigating challenges together, and the role of humor and fun in their marriage. Mark and Sarah also discuss the importance of never going to bed angry and the need for security in a relationship, ultimately highlighting the choice to like and love each other through the ups and downs of life.