Episode #429: Sandra Beck on Fighting Fair—How to Argue Without Damaging Your Relationship with Dr. Mark Borg

Sandra Beck of Motherhood Talk Radio speaks with psychoanalyst and author Mark B. Borg Jr. about one of the most common—and most mishandled—parts of any relationship: conflict. Dr. Borg, author of Making Your Crazy Work for You and Don't Be a Dick!, explains why most arguments aren’t really about the issue at hand. Instead, they’re driven by deeper emotional patterns that, if left unchecked, turn small disagreements into recurring battles. In this episode, he breaks down what it actually means to “fight fair.” That includes recognizing your emotional triggers, avoiding escalation traps, and learning how to communicate in a way that leads to resolution instead of resentment. The goal isn’t to eliminate conflict—it’s to handle it in a way that strengthens the relationship instead of eroding it. If you find yourself having the same arguments over and over—or walking away from conversations feeling worse instead of better—this episode offers a more effective approach grounded in awareness, accountability, and better communication. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/motherhoodtalk to get 10% off your first month. Listeners can also get 50% off their first month plus free shipping on any crate line from KiwiCo at kiwico.com/motherhoodtalk. Motherhood Talk Radio is also available on Audible, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, Stitcher, Player FM, and Podcast Addict.