Lasting Marriage 101: What Happens After the Honeymoon Phase | Jessica Myers Adams

On this episode of the Journey to Purpose Podcast, relationship expert Jessica Myers-Adams digs into the real work of lasting love — what happens after the honeymoon ends, and how couples can build deeper connection through better communication, curiosity, and self-awareness. Jessica explores the predictable stages couples move through and why so many get stuck in patterns that create distance rather than intimacy. She introduces the idea of curiosity as a relationship superpower — the antidote to assumption and blame — and explains how self-reflection, not fault-finding, is where real relational growth begins. The conversation gets practical too, tackling thorny topics like money conversations and emotional needs, while offering a reframe: what would it look like to lead with appreciation rather than complaint? Key Topics • Relationship stages: understanding the natural arc of a relationship beyond the honeymoon phase — and why so many couples stall• Communication as a two-way system: why being a good sender isn't enough and how to become a better receiver• Curiosity over assumption: how genuine interest in your partner's inner world transforms conflict and creates connection• Navigating difficult conversations: practical tools for discussing finances, emotional needs, and other charged topics with less friction• Appreciation vs. complaints: shifting focus from what's wrong to what's working — and the profound impact that has on intimacy About Jessica Myers-AdamsJessica Myers-Adams is a relationship expert and communication specialist who helps couples navigate the challenges of long-term partnership. She specialises in the communication patterns, emotional dynamics, and self-awareness work that transform relationships from stuck to thriving, guiding individuals and couples toward deeper understanding, intimacy, and lasting connection. Journey to Purpose Podcast | relationship expert | Jessica Myers-Adams | communication in relationships | lasting connection | relationship stages | curiosity in relationships | couples communication | emotional intimacy | self-reflection | relationship advice🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/...📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phil...🌐 Website: https://philippabagley.com/Journey to Purpose is a personal transformation podcast featuring real conversations about mindset, trauma recovery, self-worth, spiritual awakening, resilience, and finding your life’s purpose. New episodes every week. 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Of0Na1qWovS8Aw2X2FU8M 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philippa.bagley/ 🌐 Website: https://philippabagley.com/ Subscribe and leave a review — it helps others find the show.About your hostPippa Bagley is a clinical hypnotherapist specialising in burnout and sleep, and the host of Journey to Purpose. Based in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, she is passionate about helping people reconnect with what truly matters — and build lives and careers that feel genuinely sustainable. Pippa is also studying for an MSc in the Neuroscience and Psychology of Mental Health at King’s College London. Find out more at philippabagley.com