009 | GR Masters: "18 Communication & Connection Lessons from 31 Years of Marriage" with my friend Cathy Domoney

In this episode of 'The RelateGREAT! Podcast with Jonathan Sherman and Friends,' Jonathan, a marriage and family therapist, engages in an insightful conversation with Cathy Domoney, founder of the Backyard Peace Project, about lessons she and her husband have learned from 31 years of marriage.They discuss the challenges people face in seeking advice in social media groups and the importance of getting support from trusted experts. Kathy shares her mission to create a safe community for authentic connection and support. The discussion delves into effective communication strategies, managing conflict, and maintaining intimacy in relationships. Kathy's personal stories about her 31-year marriage to Ian offer real-life examples of creating peace at home, emphasizing radical communication, humor, and appreciating each other. The episode closes with advice on maintaining kindness and joy in relationships and a reminder to visit the Backyard Peace Project for more inspiration. A must-listen for anyone seeking to strengthen their relationships and find peace and joy in their daily lives.00:00 Introduction and Stuff08:05 Lesson 1: The Two Layers of Communication - What vs. How08:47 Lesson 2: Softened Startup - Enlisting Your Ally, Not Attacking Your Enemy11:33 Lesson 3: Receiving Well - Preparing to Accept Influence13:47 Lesson 4: Radical Honesty - Sharing the Meaning Behind the Surface Issue15:32 Lesson 5: Attunement - Reading Between the Lines17:01 Lesson 6: Taking Time to Learn Another Human20:08 Lesson 7: Multiple Love Stories - Falling In and Out of Love Intentionally20:48 Lesson 8: Continually Learning New Steps - Adapting as You Grow28:49 Lesson 9: Looking for Reasons to Love Each Other29:30 Lesson 10: Caring About Each Other's Experience31:00 Lesson 11: Regular Check-Ins - Editing and Auditing Your Relationship38:42 Lesson 12: Vulnerability - Being Soft with Your Person40:10 Lesson 13: Being Teachers and Students to Each Other41:17 Lesson 14: Being Together While Apart43:45 Lesson 15: Choosing Your Timing - Honoring Readiness to Receive47:54 Lesson 16: The Power of Laughter and Play54:13 Lesson 17: Lightening the Load - Finding Perspective59:03 Lesson 18: Little Things Matter - Daily Acts of Care01:01:04 Closing Thoughts - Peace Begins at Home