203 - Why Your Relationships Aren’t Working (And How Hard Conversations Can Help)

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With 1 in 4 people estranged from a family member, it’s clear there’s a crisis in connection—one we don’t talk about enough.

What happens when communication breaks down, when misunderstandings pile up, and when silence becomes the only way we know how to cope? It’s time to talk about the elephant in the room: how do we have the hard conversations that help us heal, reconnect, and grow stronger together?

The answer isn’t always cutting someone off. In fact, many relationships can be repaired—not by avoiding conflict—but by learning how to navigate it with compassion, honesty, and patience. In this episode, we’re diving into the tools and strategies that helped us through a real and recent conflict, offering you a front-row seat to the messiness and beauty of working things out.

As a mother-daughter duo, we each bring a different lens to these conversations. Barb shares hard-won wisdom for parents who want to bridge the gap with their adult children, and Michelle opens up about what it takes to stay connected with a parent—even when it’s uncomfortable or emotional.

Here’s what you can expect from today’s episode:

Every relationship hits rough patches—but how you handle them can make all the difference. In this episode, you’ll learn how to show up with courage, clarity, and compassion—no matter how hard the conversation.

💗 Stop Avoiding the Tough Conversations

Avoiding conflict only feeds resentment. Vulnerability may feel uncomfortable, but when you open up honestly—even if it’s messy—you create space for healing, boundaries, and real connection.

💗 Identify Your Core Relationship Values

When things get rocky, return to the foundation. Even in disagreement, love, respect, and care can still be the ground you stand on.

💗 Take Accountability

When hurt happens, don’t deflect or avoid responsibility. Acknowledge your part, offer a sincere apology, and commit to doing better. Taking responsibility, apologizing sincerely, and choosing to grow builds trust that lasts.

💗 Lead with Grace

We’re all human—and we all mess up. What matters most is giving ourselves and others room to grow. Relationships take work, but with patience, kindness, and a little grace, we can keep showing up better every day.

We’re so grateful to have you with us! As a mother-daughter duo, we’re passionate about sharing the lessons we’ve learned through our own journeys, with the hope of inspiring you to live your best life, no matter what challenges come your way.

Join us next Tuesday for another episode of Life Happens with Barb Michelle! 💕

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