The Power of Connection & Communication
Episode #116 -In this heart-centered episode of The Awakened Heart Podcast, I’m joined by Relationship and Communications Expert Tamika Carlton for a powerful conversation about the role relationships play in our overall happiness and well-being.
We explore the often-overlooked art of listening, the importance of emotional intelligence, and how vulnerability becomes a gateway to deeper human connection.
Tamika shares her personal journey—from navigating profound loss and bullying to founding Couples Experience and the Tamika Carlton Collective, where she helps others build emotional wealth and meaningful partnerships.
We also dive into why so many people feel disconnected in today’s hyper-connected world—and what we can do to foster real intimacy and belonging.
Whether you're seeking to deepen your romantic relationship, build stronger community ties, or reconnect with yourself, this episode offers soulful reminders and practical wisdom to help you lead with love.
Takeaways
- Only 14% of Americans report being very happy.
- Quality relationships are essential for happiness and well-being.
- Listening and being present are crucial in conversations.
- Many people struggle with connecting due to digital distractions.
- Vulnerability is key to building deeper connections.
- Misconceptions about relationships often lead to misunderstandings.
- Emotional intelligence plays a significant role in relationships.
- Acceptance of what is can lead to greater happiness.
- Building relationships takes time and effort.
- Traveling together can strengthen bonds between couples.
Sound Bites
"Listening and being present are crucial."
"Traveling together can strengthen bonds."
"Emotional intelligence is monumental."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and First Impressions
02:55 The Importance of Quality Relationships
05:59 Listening and Communication in Relationships
08:52 Navigating Conversations and Boundaries
11:55 Personal Journey and Its Impact on Relationships
14:46 The Role of Loss and Grief in Connection
17:43 The Dynamics of Romantic Relationships
20:46 Creating Meaningful Couples Experiences
23:46 Future Retreats and Travel Plans
26:14 The Importance of Quality Relationships
28:51 Fostering Authentic Connections
30:44 Emotional Intelligence in Relationships
32:19 Understanding Happiness and Loneliness
34:27 The Power of Acceptance
36:44 Transformative Experiences in Relationships
43:33 Practical Relationship Building Exercises
Connect with Tamika:
Podcast Host | Connection Activist | Speaker
Bridging humanity through authentic relationships.
The Real Connect Podcast
tamikacarlton.com
Let’s Connect!
Keywords
happiness, relationships, emotional intelligence, connection, couples retreats, communication, personal growth, vulnerability, listening, acceptance
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Ruthie's Table 4
For more than 30 years The River Cafe in London, has been the home-from-home of artists, architects, designers, actors, collectors, writers, activists, and politicians. Michael Caine, Glenn Close, JJ Abrams, Steve McQueen, Victoria and David Beckham, and Lily Allen, are just some of the people who love to call The River Cafe home. On River Cafe Table 4, Rogers sits down with her customers—who have become friends—to talk about food memories. Table 4 explores how food impacts every aspect of our lives. “Foods is politics, food is cultural, food is how you express love, food is about your heritage, it defines who you and who you want to be,” says Rogers. Each week, Rogers invites her guest to reminisce about family suppers and first dates, what they cook, how they eat when performing, the restaurants they choose, and what food they seek when they need comfort. And to punctuate each episode of Table 4, guests such as Ralph Fiennes, Emily Blunt, and Alfonso Cuarón, read their favourite recipe from one of the best-selling River Cafe cookbooks. Table 4 itself, is situated near The River Cafe’s open kitchen, close to the bright pink wood-fired oven and next to the glossy yellow pass, where Ruthie oversees the restaurant. You are invited to take a seat at this intimate table and join the conversation. For more information, recipes, and ingredients, go to https://shoptherivercafe.co.uk/ Web: https://rivercafe.co.uk/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/therivercafelondon/ Facebook: https://en-gb.facebook.com/therivercafelondon/ For more podcasts from iHeartRadio, visit the iheartradio app, apple podcasts, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com
The Joe Rogan Experience
The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.