Deciding to Love

SummaryIn this interview, Nathan Holritz speaks with Steve and Shannon about their long-term relationship, exploring themes of romance, curiosity, and personal growth. They discuss the importance of maintaining curiosity in relationships, the challenges Shannon and Steve faced in their relationship, and how they navigated through difficult times. The couple shares insights on the significance of presence and mindfulness, the dynamics of new relationship energy, and the impact of inner child work on their partnership. Their journey highlights the importance of self-awareness, communication, and emotional health in sustaining a loving relationship. Nathan, Shannon, and Steve explore the complexities of trauma, emotional processing, the importance of somatic release, and the significance of of sovereignty and emotional independence for the sake of a healthy, long-term romantic relationship. The discussion also touches on the unconventional choice of sleeping in separate beds and how it can positively impact relationships by allowing for personal space and emotional clarity.......ResourcesLiving Untethered, Michael Singer - https://link.deciding2.love/yhtwmwvwMating in Captivity, Esther Perel - https://link.deciding2.love/2p9dv4s8Shannon Hammaker on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/shannonhamaker/Check out the website at decidingtolove.com, and if you're interested in being a guest on the show, go to decidingtolove.com/share-your-story to learn more and apply to be on the show! You can also follow Deciding to Love for short clips and inspiration from the show: https://www.instagram.com/decidingtolovexo https://www.facebook.com/decidingtolovexo https://www.tiktok.com/@decidingtolovexo

Host Nathan Holritz reconnects with Paul and Sarah, a couple together for 20 years, to explore the foundations of their lasting relationship. They reflect on how they met, the role of spiritual connection, and the lessons they’ve carried forward from past experiences.The conversation centers on emotional intelligence, communication, and personal responsibility—highlighting the importance of respect, ease, and independence. They discuss how self-awareness, emotional regulation, and clear expectations shape healthier dynamics, emphasizing that strong relationships are built through intentionality, open dialogue, and a grounded sense of self.

SummaryIn this conversation, Nathan Holritz engages with Field and Karie, exploring the depths of love, respect, and communication in relationships. They discuss the importance of love and respect, the impact of honesty on trust, and the necessity of navigating uncomfortable discussions. Field and Karie share their personal experiences and insights on how to maintain a loving and respectful relationship over time, emphasizing the need for intentionality and understanding in their interactions.ResourcesThe Five Love Languages - https://link.deciding2.love/4w8jrhmhLove and Respect - https://link.deciding2.love/mr2w7cpz

SummaryIn this episode, Nathan Holritz hosts Mark and Sarah, a couple with over 30 years of relationship experience. They share their backstory, discussing how they met and the initial attraction that sparked their long-lasting relationship. The conversation delves into the importance of faith, communication, and intentionality in maintaining a healthy relationship. They emphasize the significance of self-care, navigating challenges together, and the role of humor and fun in their marriage. Mark and Sarah also discuss the importance of never going to bed angry and the need for security in a relationship, ultimately highlighting the choice to like and love each other through the ups and downs of life.

SummaryIn this conversation, Nathan Holritz engages with Joe and Denise to explore the complexities of romantic relationships, emphasizing themes of unconditional acceptance, personal responsibility, and the importance of open communication. They discuss the societal pressures to present an ideal self, the significance of freedom within relationships, and the need for individual growth. The dialogue highlights the distinction between happiness and love, advocating for a deeper understanding of relationships as opportunities for personal evolution rather than mere sources of happiness.ResourcesNew Paradigm of Love - https://link.deciding2.love/bpasbrey......Deciding to Love is a podcast exploring how to create enjoyable, long-term romantic relationships we actually want to be in! The podcast is hosted by Nathan Holritz, long-time entrepreneur and podcast host - and a romantic at heart. Check out the website at decidingtolove.com, and if you're interested in being a guest on the show, go to decidingtolove.com/share-your-story to learn more and apply to be on the show! You can also follow Nathan Holritz for short clips and inspiration from the show: https://www.instagram.com/nathanholritz https://www.facebook.com/nathanholritzhttps://www.tiktok.com/@nathanholritz

SummaryIn this conversation, Nathan Holritz speaks with Jim and Laura about their 27-year relationship, exploring themes of commitment, emotional readiness, attraction, leadership, and the importance of respect and trust in marriage. They discuss their backstory, the challenges of navigating commitment, and the significance of personal responsibility and growth in maintaining a healthy relationship. Jim and Lara share insights on creating a safe space for communication and the concept of alliance in relationships, emphasizing the need for teamwork and mutual support. In this conversation, Jim and Lara discuss the complexities of maintaining a healthy marriage, emphasizing the importance of emotional support, personal responsibility, and effective communication. They share their journey through challenges, the significance of commitment, and the necessity of addressing annoyances in a constructive manner. Jim and Lara highlight the concept of covenant in marriage, advocating for a mindset that prioritizes partnership and mutual growth over individual grievances.Resources: Hold Me Tight, by Dr. Sue Johnson - https://bit.ly/4rT8Dg3 Love and Respect, by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs - https://bit.ly/3Opj5xs Jordan Peterson Marriage Series - https://get.dailywire.com/jordan-b-peterson/marriage-subscribe

Show NotesCooperation vs competition, being more considerate of your partner's perspective, and intentionally addressing anything that is creating a divide in your relationship - big topics on today's episode highlighting Kim and Chris!Resources:I Said This, You Heard That, by Kathleen EdelmanWebsiteBookYouTube

SummaryIn this episode of Deciding to Love, Nathan Holritz discusses the critical role of honesty in building long-term romantic relationships. He explores the necessity of self-honesty for personal growth and the importance of being honest with partners to foster trust and intimacy. The conversation delves into the nature of dishonesty, often stemming from fear, and emphasizes the need for open communication to enhance relationship dynamics.

SummaryIn this heartfelt conversation, Nathan Holritz interviews his Grandfather, who shares his remarkable love story with his late wife, Grandma. The discussion covers their initial meeting, the challenges they faced, and the deep love that sustained their 66-year marriage. Key themes include the importance of communication, empathy, and the commitment to continually choose love in a relationship. The Grandfather's wisdom and experiences provide valuable insights into building and maintaining a lasting romantic relationship.

SummaryIn this episode of Deciding to Love, Nathan Holritz introduces the podcast's themes of commitment and personal responsibility in romantic relationships. He emphasizes the importance of deciding to love, even when faced with challenges, and shares his personal journey and motivations for creating the show. Nathan discusses the significance of self-awareness and emotional health, particularly in the context of attachment styles, and encourages listeners to engage with the content and share their thoughts.

SummaryIn this episode of Deciding to Love, host Nathan Holritz shares insights from an interview with his Grandfather about love, empathy, and commitment in long-term relationships. Through the lens of his Grandparents' 66-year marriage, he emphasizes the importance of empathy, the choice to love consistently, and practical steps to nurture romantic relationships, especially as the new year begins.

Deciding to Love is a new podcast coming January 1, 2026! Long-term romantic relationships tend to fade with time. The relationship that used to bring excitement, adventure, and a deep sense of connection and fulfillment to your life now leaves you feeling annoyed and frustrated. Most couples accept a relationship that feels like half of what it used to be, learning to put up with their partner begrudgingly.But we don't think it has to be that way.At the Deciding to Love podcast, we're going to explore and share the building blocks that help create and sustain happy, enjoyable, long-term romantic relationships - so that your relationship can be something you're excited about again!