"I Thought Providing Was Love"

Most men don't lose their relationship overnight. It happens slowly. Long work hours. Emotional avoidance. Constant stress. Feeling like roommates instead of partners. One person asking for connection while the other thinks, "I'm doing all of this for us… why isn't it enough?" In this episode, Marcus opens up about the collapse of his six-year relationship, discovering his partner was emotionally involved with someone else, and the spiral of shame, grief, panic, and self-blame that followed. But this conversation goes deeper than cheating or heartbreak. We unpack how childhood trauma, nervous system survival responses, overworking, emotional shutdown, conflict avoidance, and people-pleasing quietly shape adult relationships… especially for men who were never taught emotional regulation in the first place. Inside this episode: Why overworking is often emotional avoidance in disguise The difference between guilt and shame Fight, flight, freeze, and fawn responses in relationships Why some people move on quickly after relationships end How childhood abandonment wounds show up in adult intimacy Why many men outsource their self-worth to being chosen What emotional safety actually looks like in a relationship The hidden cost of living in survival mode for years How nervous system work and breathwork help process grief and emotional overwhelm This one is raw. Honest. Messy. Human. And if you've ever thought: "I know better… but I still keep reacting the same way." You'll probably see yourself somewhere in this conversation. If you're ready to stop living in survival mode and learn how to lead yourself differently in relationships, you can learn more about Healthy Men-tality here: JOIN MY FREE TRAINING HERE __________________________________________________________________________________ Interested in Nervous System Regulation tools? Join my healing community for breathwork + tools: unblockyourbs.com/saa Men on a Healing Journey - Learn More and apply to join me inside of our 12 week group program just for men called Healthy Men-tality: unblockyourbs.com/healthymen    Connect with Tara: Follow @unblockyourbs on Instagram @unblockyourbs on TikTok   Watch the episodes on YouTube Book a 1:1 call with Tara Get the Nervous System Reset Toolkit Submit a question for an upcoming Podcast or LIVE   __________________________________________________________________________________   Disclaimer: The content shared in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional medical, mental health, or legal advice. I am not a licensed mental health professional or medical provider and cannot diagnose, treat, or prescribe medication for any condition. If you or someone you know is struggling, please ask for support from a licensed professional or contact a trusted organization in your area. In cases of crisis or emergency, please contact local authorities or a crisis hotline immediately. The views expressed in this podcast are my personal opinions and those of my guests. They are not intended to replace professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Thank you for listening responsibly.