Day 1 —How to Handle Stress Without Taking It Out on Each Other

Today’s episode kicks off our 5-day series with a raw, honest conversation about why December brings out the best and the worst in all of us—and how couples can stay connected even when everything around them feels chaotic.We start with personal stories (including our Thanksgiving week meltdown moment), break down why the holidays activate old patterns, and share the simple tool that helped us rebuild respect, soften with each other, and stop turning on each other when stress hits.Inside this episode, we cover:• Why the holiday season is uniquely triggering for couples• The personal story that showed us what we don’t want to repeat• The #1 communication tool we now use to avoid spiraling• The “Tell Me What You Heard Me Say” method — and why it works• When to apply this tool (trust us, it matters)• The mindset shift that makes December feel less chaotic and more connected• What we’re personally doing to prepare for family, boundaries, and holiday dynamicsThis episode is part relationship reset, part hilarious family confession, and part toolkit you can use today to stay on the same team—no matter what this month brings. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bykristenlee.substack.com