The Couplespeak™ Relationship Forum

Life, for the most part, doesn't just happen to us. We make thousands of choices, large and small, obvious and seemingly invisible, that color all our experiences. People in happy marriages didn't just happen to be "on the right line at the right time," but generally make more conscious choices about how to treat their spouses and themselves in ways which generate happiness. This is not only about having fun and pleasure together, but also about how and when to manage expectations, when to let go of grievances, when to forgive, when to be kinder and more generous. In this episode I'll share my insights about this topic from both my personal and professional experiences, as well as tools I've developed to cultivate intentionality in your marriage and closest relationships. Stay tuned for the live webcast on Friday, June 16th at 5 PM EST at The Couplespeak™ Relationship Forum. This 20 minute show could change your whole sense of possibilities! Best regards,                                                                                                                                                                                       Susan

Susan reveals how a dog generally impacts individuals and families, amplifying connection, empathy, vitality, and yes, work and cost as well. She also discusses the importance of rescue for not only dogs, but their humans as well.

Gaslighting is unfortunately a fairly common abusive relationship dynamic predicated on manipulative power and control. In this brief episode Susan explores some of the underpinnings, tactics, dynamics, and strategies for coping and "holding onto oneself" for the victims, whose sense of self trust and even sanity often gets eroded in this process. If you are in a partnership with someone you think may be gaslighting you, then call into the studio live at 877-497-9046 with your concerns and questions. If you can't make the live podcast on Wednesday, 5/5 at 8:30 PM EST you can stream it anytime afterward from: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager

In this 20 minute episode Susan discusses the process of losing traction and determination around comittments, why it happens, when it may be a positive thing, and when it may signal some personal or relational shortcomings. At the time of this writing we're all hearing about thousands of people giving up their diligence about Covid safety measures, tired of all the constraints and hassles, going back into restaurants, gyms, and planes with resignation or denial about the possible outcome. Susan explores how this behavior may be emblematic of other forms of giving up, and in this episode invites you to look at where and why you may quit things, vs. when you may be letting go in some healthy ways. Join the conversation with questions or comments by calling into the studio at 877-497-9046. If you can't make the live show you can stream it anytime at www.BlogtalkRadio.com/SusanLager.

In this 20 minute episode Susan discusses differences and dynamics in relationships which clearly signal the probability of failure. Couples often wrestle with the issue of when efforts may be futile to reconcile or find more happiness and peace with each other. When is it time to let go, to accept that maybe you cannot get for yourselves and from each other what you need? This issue is particularly striking at this time when political stances alone often get experienced as irreconcilable differences, polarizing friends, family and couples. Join the live broadcast on Thursday, January 21st at noon by calling into the studio at 877-497-9046 with your questions or comments. If you can't make the live podcast you can stream it anytime at www.BlogTalkRadio.com/Susanlager

In a previous episode Susan delved into some strategies for living more fully amidst the Covid 19 pandemic. She  discussed the physical and emotional challenges everyone faces, as well as the symptoms people were experiencing only a few months into the crisis. In this subsequent episode Susan goes deeper with her ideas for how to be more intentional with attitudes and behaviors which she observes are helping her friends, family, clients, and herself to stay afloat emotionally, even feel happy and connected amidst this pandemic. Tune in at 7 PM EST on Thursday, October 29th live at www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager to hear about 7 key tools to help you and those you love thrive, even with all the uncertainty and loss associated with Covid 19. Feel free to join in live by phone toll-free at 1(800)-497-9047 with questions or concerns. If you can't make the live podcast you can stream it anytime on BlogTalk Radio.

In this 20 minute episode Susan explores some of the most pressing issues most of us must face "hiding from death" in the Covid19 pandemic. She discusses the seemingly mundane, like the etiquette of mask wearing in public, to the heart-wrenching choices we're all faced with regarding uncertain income, and social distancing from not only our close friends, but our most precious loved ones. Susan also helps her listeners face their coping strategies and reslilience, or lack of it, during a worlwide crisis that pushes us each to stretch beyond anything familiar. Join the podcast live with questions or comments by calling into the studio at 877-497-9046.  If you can't join the live show you can stream it anytime at www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager. One way or the other, don't miss this vital podcast!

In this 15 minute episode Susan discusses the issue of how we set the stage for certain outcomes with our inaction, avoidance, procrastination and denial in much the same way we shape outcomes with overt choices. These passive choices often accompany a "victim story" about things that people sometimes believe just happened to them through bad luck or circumstance. In this podcast Susan gives some examples of passive choices, as well as some simple tips for changing this mindset and these behaviors, and living more intentionally. If you, with any frequency, have been puzzled by how you ended up in certain situations, then this podcast is for you! Call in live with questions or comments at 877-497-9046. Or stream the podcast anytime at your convenience at: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager.  

In this 20 minute episode Susan shares her insights about some of the common sources of holiday related anxiety and stress, and how being proactive and intentional can transform the season. If you have a history of some really negative experiences related to the holidays, and struggle with how to make it all more managable, even magical, then this episode is for you. Susan will help you see how some simple planning, realism, and clear boundaries can make all the difference! You'll see how you alone, or you and your spouse may have the power to turn it all around to meaning, connection and joy. Call in live with questions or comments at 877-497-9046. If you can't make this (first ever) Sunday night podcast while it's happening, you can stream it at your convenience anytime at www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager.

In this 15 minute episode Susan discusses different coping strategies, and invites listeners to look at the origins of their tools, and how well these tools serve their purpose. The episode focuses on the importance of being more conscious and intentional when dealing with frustrating or painful experiences and feelings so that coping strategies don't become part of the problem! Tune in live on Wednesday, October 23rd at 8:30 PM by calling 877-497-9046 so you can join the conversation with questions or comments. If you can't join the live episode feel free to listen to the podcast anytime at: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager.

In this 15 minute episode Susan shares her insights around some financial issues couples experience, how spouses can avoid criticism, control and financial unfairness, and move toward more respectful, equitable agreements in their marriages. Call 877-497-9046 to join in live with questions or comments or stream the podcast whenever you'd like at www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager. Couples who feel the need to have mediated help with this issue can contact Susan at her Portsmouth office at 603-431-7131 to schedule an appointment.  

In this 15 minute episode Susan explores the issue of a perfectionistic "all or nothing" attitude in marriage and life, and how it limits possibilities for connection, conflict resolution, and productivity, among other things. Tune into this brief episode for some insights and ideas about how practicing "Grey" and "Some" can relieve pressure, and help you and your partner get to the things most important to you both. Susan will be sharing some examples from her own life, so you'll know you're not alone with this challenge! Call into the studio live with questions or comments at 877-497-9046 at 8:30 PM EST on Wednesday, May 29th.  If you can't join the live show you can stream the podcast anytime afterward at www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager

How do you get yourself to honor your legitimate "Shoulds"? How do you motivate yourself to do the right thing, taking care of the not-so-fun parts of your life which require attention? How do you attend to your connections and responsibilities to your friends and family when doing so may be tiring, and not very glamorous or convenient? In this 15 minute podcast Susan shares some useful tips to avoid avoidance! These tried and true tactics have not only been instrumental in helping Susan get the tough stuff done herself, but also for countless clients who have suffered shame and damaged self-trust related to their avoidance and procrastination tactics around the less fun responsibilities of life. Come on the air with questions or comments by calling into the studio live at 877-497-9046 on Wednesday, April 3rd at 8:30 PM EST. If you can't make the live podcast you can stream it anytime afterward at: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager

In this 30 minute episode Susan explores the effects of 4 particular ways of handling conflict in marriage which tend to destroy respect and trust, and often lead to divorce. She also discusses alternative communication strategies which open up more positive results.

In this 30 minute episode Susan explores the frequently experienced issue of standoffs or impasses in marriage - those times when couples get "locked in" to a negative sequence when nobody feels heard or acknowledged, and nothing gets resolved. These "lock-in's" can be about critical issues of importance or minor things, but the feelings of frustration, anger, and helplessness generally feel quite awful for each spouse. Tune in to get some handy tools this couples therapist can teach you to interrupt the impasses, manage yourself more calmly, and move forward with your spouse in a more conciliatory manner. Join Susan and have the option to be live on the air with questions or comments by calling toll-free 877-497-9046. If you can't make the live podcast you can stream it anytime at: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager.

"You'll never finish that project!" "You're a loser!" "You're too fat and nobody will find you attractive!" "Nothing Will Ever Work Out for You!" "You're mean and selfish!"   Chances are, at one point or another in time you've heard that noise in your head - the oppressive voices of self doubt and self denigration. You've probably also experienced the toxic impact this self talk can have, stopping you from effective action, isolating you, exhausting or overwhelming you. If you relate to this, then I'd recommend that you tune into this next half hour BlogTalk Radio podcast on Wednesday, November 28th at 8:30 PM EST or anytime afterward at your convenience at www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager If you'd prefer you can call live into the studio with questions or comments at toll-free 877-497-9046. I'll be discussing this topic, sharing key tools for quieting the noise in your head, such as naming The Voice and understanding the setup ingredients, among others. You don't want to miss this podcast! It could help you lower anxiety, self doubt and your stress response! I hope you can join me!  

In this 30 minute episode Susan sheds light on the growing epidemic of cell phone addiction. She shares with listeners key signs and symptoms of addiction, and offers a self-test for those questioning if their own use is problematic. Susan also discusses some useful strategies to cope with the problem for anyone concerned about their own, or a loved one's phone behavior. Call into the studio at 8:30 PM EST to have the option of coming onto the air with questions or comments. Call toll-free: 877-497-9046.  If you can't tune in live, catch the show on www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager anytime.  

In this twenty minute episode Susan reveals the issues around our "minefields" - areas of vulnerability created by past experiences and relationships. The podcast will help you learn to identify the nature of your "mines," how to manage yourself more effectively around them, and how to best bring your spouse or partner into the loop of empathy and responsiveness around those triggers. Call 877-497-9046 to hear the podcast live and be able to join in with questions or comments. Or, you can stream the episode live from BlogTalk Radio. If you can't make the live episode you can listen to the recording anytime afterward at www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager or go to Susan's website www.SusanLager.com and listen from the Webplayer at the bottom of the home page. One way or the other, you won't want to miss this vital podcast!

In this 45 minute Couplespeak™ podcast Susan meets with Lisa McNally, a mother of three who has 20+ years of experience working with divorcing individuals, couples and families in all aspects of family law matters including divorce, separation, child custody, co-parenting and parental rights. Lisa is also a co-author of the Amazon best selling book Divorce: Taking the High Road: Simple Strategies for Creating a Healthy Divorce As a Divorce Coach, Lisa supports and guides individuals experiencing divorce one-on-one, helping them navigate the often lengthy, stressful and convoluted process in a dignified way. Her clients benefit by having her by their side to help them make the best possible decisions for themselves and their children based on their unique interests, needs, concerns, and goals.  Tune into the podcast and learn: - What Divorce Coaching is - How it works - The benefits to clients (support, guidance, cost savings, better outcomes, etc.) - The benefits to attorneys - How To Pursue it Don't miss this vital podcast! You can call in live with questions or comments at 877-497-9046 at 8:30 PM EST or listen to the recording at your convenience at: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager  

In this half hour episode Susan explores the issues involved with being either a clueless spouse / partner, or one who has healthy, loving partnership skills. This episode taps into emotional intelligence, how highly you would rate yourself when examining your attitudes, knowledge and practices in your primary relationship, and identifying areas where you may need to improve to avoid misery, and to create more satisfaction for you and your partner / spouse. Tune in and take the 20 question test to get a better read on how the experts might score you, also to get a better sense of where you might be headed for avoidable trouble! To join the conversation live with questions or comments call toll-free 877-497-9046.  If you can't make the live show you can hear the recording anytime afterward at: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager

In this 20 minute Couplespeak™ episode Susan Lager shares some connection tools from her many years of working with couples. In this bried podcast you will learn how you can, with minimal time and energy amidst what is often a whirlwind of busyness, build in a fun sense of "we-ness" with your spouse or partner. Join in live at 8:30 PM EST with your questions, comments, or your own ideas at 877-497-9046. If you can't make the live podcast you can hear the recording anytime afterward at: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager

In this 15 minute Couplespeak™ podcast Susan Lager shares her insights and experiences with the issue of cheap forgiveness - what it is, and how and when it may be adaptive as the best possible "solution" to emotional injury, vs. what the costs may be to the person bestowing it and to the relationship. Lager gives a mini "life lesson" on the larger issue of forgiveness and what the options may be when an offender isn't repentant or available to a process of true repair around an emotional injury. To join the episode live call 877-497-9046 to come on the air with your questions, comments or story.  If you can't make the live podcast you can listen to the recording afterward anytime at: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager  However you tune in, don't miss this important episode!  

In my work as a psychotherapist and in my private life I have encountered an issue which generally causes a great deal of anguish and uncertainty. It’s the process of an adult child who has married, often now has a child of his or her own, and is attempting to form a new family separate from the family of origin. This is a normal developmental stage of growth and maturity all around, but often comes with a lot of pain, conflict and confusion for not only the adult child, but also his or her parents. In this 20 minute episode I help listeners to understand the issues around this process, and provide ideas and tools to navigate this often painful, confusing stage of growth. To join the conversation with questions or comments, call 877-497-9046.  If you'd prefer to hear the episode live streaming or the recording afterward, go to www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager However you tune in, don't miss this Wednesday, October 4th episode!

In this 20 minute Couplespeak™ episode Susan Lager, a psychotherapist and relationship coach, discusses 3 major manifestations of unfairness in close relationships which come up with some regularity in her work with individuals and couples. Unfairness acts like a cancer in relationships, so Susan provides tools to notice it's presence, and how to correct the problem. Call into the studio live with your questions or comments at 877-497-9046 and join the conversation! Then enjoy happier relationships

In this 20 to 30 minute episode Susan Lager shares her experiences as a psychotherapist witnessing common communication blunders clients often make. Whether you're trying to communicate with a spouse, partner, friend or family member there are predictable and avoidable pitfalls you need to know about. You'll learn about simple techniques to avoid these communication problems, be clearer about your message, and be heard and understood in a way which greatly improves relationships. Using her popular book "I'm Talking! Are You Listening?" as a guide, Susan will empower listeners to communicate with almost anyone more effectively about anything. Call 877-497-9046 to join the live conversation with questions or comments. If you can't make the live episode tune into www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager to listen to the recording anytime afterward.

In this 30-40 minute episode Susan co-hosts with a unique relationship mentor, Valerie Greene, at www.CoachValerieGreene.com, who help couples to stop fighting and fall in love again, and who helps women inspire their husbands or partners into deeper love and intimacy. Providing a highly successful alternative to relationship therapy, Valerie helps women and couples move beyond problem-solving and communication skills to create a secure emotional CONNECTION. Tune into this special episode to learn more from Valerie about how to transform relationship conflict into deeper intimacy. Join us live with your questions or comments by calling into the studio at: 877-497-9046. If you can't make the live show simply go to BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager to hear the recording afterward.    

Whether you're in your 30's or 40's and have recently been married, or are in your 50's or 60's, and have been married for many years, you may have been in a traditional marriage where your spouse has provided and controlled the income, and you have managed the household and children. If you haven't been part of decision making or knowledge about financial matters, but have blindly entrusted them to your spouse, then you may be in a very vulnerable situation of misplaced financial trust as you face a divorce. Tune into this next 40 minute BlogTalk Radio episode on Wednesday, May 17th at 8:30 PM EST about this topic, "Misplaceed Financial Trust Before and During a Divorce", featuring my guest, Irina Andreasen, MBA, a financial planner with Andreasen Financial in Hampton, NH. We'll be discussing what this problem is, how to spot it, and what you can do to avert some really bad financial decisions you may ultimately regret in an upcoming divorce. Join us live with your questions or comments at 877-497-9046 or catch the recording of the episode anytime afterward here at: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager

In this 20 minute episode Susan Lager shares her knowledge and clinical experience regarding the effects of repetition, not only for individuals in solidifying good or bad habits, but also in fostering skill proficiency. What many people don't realize is that repetition can also be the driver of either good will or deep resentments and feelings of despair, particularly in close relationships. Tune into this brief episode on Wednesday, April 19th at 8:30 PM EST and learn how you can make repetition an ally in your life, not a liability! Call 877-497-9046 to join Susan on the air with your questions or comments. If you can't make the live show you can hear the recording afterward at: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager    

In this 45 minute episode join my guest, Carthage Buckley and me for an important lesson on the seven aspects of developing a problem-solving mindset, something vital in everyone's life challenges. Carthage Buckley is an experienced and enthusiastic learning and development professional with extensive coaching, mentoring and motivational skills, and a proven ability to empower others, enabling them to achieve their full potential. He has worked in Training & Development and Coaching in numerous countries including Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. No matter what the problem may be that you're trying to solve you'll need the right attitude and skillset, and tuning into this episode will help you get there! Join us live on Wednesday, March 15th at 2:00 EDT USA by calling into the studio at 877-497-9046 with your questions or comments for this expert. If you can't make the live podcast you can listen to the recording anytime afterward at: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager    

In this 45 minute episode Susan co-hosts with Cindy Giovagnoli, a photographer and writer who believes in curiosity, enthusiasm, meditation and mistakes, and who is constantly delighted by the never-ending lessons offered by the varied people and experiences of this world. She shares that delight through her writing and images as well as through workshops and retreats focused on developing the art of noticing in our lives.  Listeners will gain an understanding of what real 'noticing' is, how it can be practiced, and how that practice can be a transformative force for more centeredness, calm, presence, and joy. Call into the show live with questions or comments at 877-497-9046 on Wednesday, February 15th at 8:30 PM EST.  If you can't make the live podcast tune in anytime afterward at: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager  

In this brief episode, Susan Lager gives an update on her  "Discernment Counseling" work, a special form of treatment for couples who are on the brink of a divorce, where one spouse has lost hope for a better marriage and is not particularly motivated to try to work on reconciling, while the other spouse feels more hopeful, and wants to stay married. In this 15 minute episode Susan shares her perspective gained from more than two years of practice about how this form of treatment is uniquely geared toward couples in this situation, and how this type of counseling may be the best hope for a possible reconciliation. If you and your spouse are divided about the future of your marriage, and feel you're at a standoff, then don't miss this episode! Call in toll-free at 877-497-9046 with your questions or comments.         

Don't miss my next 25 minute BlogTalk Radio episode on Wednesday, December 14th at 8:30 PM EST If you've been telling yourself a story about all the stresses, expenses, difficult relatives, ridiculous gifts, cards to send, the hassles of putting up and decorating the tree, Chanukah forgotten, cleaning the house, making flights on time, too much eating and drinking, getting too fat, cleaning up the house, no time for anything, then this episode is for you! I'll give you 5 sure methods to make all the negative spin come true, individually, and as a couple. Enough chirpy info about how to do better! Let's look at how you can SABOTAGE any fun, joy or meaning! Tune into www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager for live streaming, or for the recorded episode afterward, OR to join me live on the air with your own Grinch stories or ideas call into the studio at: 877-497-9046  I'd love to make it a conversation!

In this 45 minute episode Susan Lager co-hosts with Jill Fischer,of www.PositiveCouples.com, a top New England EFT trainer, and Naomi Rather, a therapist at www.RatherCounseling.com doing this work with amazing success. The three couples therapists discuss what EFT is, how it's different from traditional forms of couples work, how and why it's been so effective, and what kinds of couples issues can be dealt with in a transformational way through this brief treatment. Call 877-497-9046 on Wednesday, November 16th at 8:30 PM EDT to join the live conversation with questions or comments, which are welcomed!    

In this thirty minute episode Susan Lager co-hosts with Dr. Laura Louis, author of the popular book, "Marital Peace," which is a valuable resource for supporting couples throughout the challenges of marriage. Dr. Louis has specialized in helping distant couples heal after infidelity, and in the program discusses some of the ways she recommends rebuilding trust, rekindling intimacy and enhancing communication. Her therapeutic approach has been influenced through trainings in Brazil, Mexice, London and Haiti, as well as hundreds of transformative seminars all over the world. Don't miss this vital program if you and your spouse have endured or feel at risk for an affair! Learn some key tools to not only help to avoid infidelity, but to restore trust, build forgiveness, and promote growth after infidelity. You too can achieve marital peace after this traumatic development. Call in live with questions or comments at 877-497-9046, or if you can't make the live show you can listen to the podcast afterward at: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager  

In this 30 minute episode Susan Lager shares tips from her popular book "Become Relationship Smart Without a Lifetime of Therapy" about the key role of curiosity as a connector in all meaningful relationships, especially in marriage. For people not familiar with this concept, Lager reveals some key conversation openers demonstrating curiosity and interest in a partner, facilitating empathy, sharing and feeling "seen," a shot in the arm especially for marriages suffering from boredom or disconnection. To join the live conversation with questions or comments call toll-free 877-497-9046 at 8:30 PM EST. If you can't make the live show you can listen to the recording afterward at: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager

In this 30 minute episode Susan Lager discusses an important frame for how to live with more joy and meaning. She shares what she's learned from her many years as a psychotherapist about the eight key practices conducive to the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment. You will find out about why and how these basic practices and attitudes can maximize your potential for a more joyful, connected life. At the end of the episode Susan offers listeners a free download for daily reminders about these "joy" practices.  Join the program live with questions or comments by calling in Wednesday, 4/13/16 at 8:30 PM EDT toll-free 877-497-9046. If you can't make the live show you can hear the recorded podcast afterward at:www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager

Modern technology has brought us all a mixed bag of useful tools as well as potentially boundary and trust violating capability through smartphones, iPads and laptops. The practice of creating or maintaining independent, private outside relationships via texting has become a hugh challenge to spouses wanting to balance the "we" and the "me" in their marriages. In this 30 minute episode Susan Lager explores the issues related to boundaries, trust, intimacy and independence, which can get very blurred in this arena. She invites listeners to define where they may draw the line between "personal space" and "cheating"  regarding outside relationships maintained through texts. Lager also shares some tips from her work with couples about how spouses can harness that same power of texts, emails and voicemails to create more excitement and stimulation within their marriages. To join the episode live with questions or comments call 877-497-9046. If you can't make the live broadcast you can hear the recording anytime afterward at www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager      

In this 45 minute episode, Susan's guest, Heather Brountas CFP, a popular financial advisor at Ameriprise Financial Services, shares key information about how we all need to manage the four major aspects of our financial lives. Heather is returning for another episode after her "Divorce and Money" show last year got such a huge listenership, so you don't want to miss this one! People generally expect to pay big bucks for this kind of professional advice, so tune in and get 45 minutes of it for FREE and you'll be on your way to realizing your goals for financial health and peace of mind! Join the live conversation with questions or comments by calling 877-497-9046 on Wednesday, February 17th at 8:30 PM EST. Can't make the live show? Catch the recording here at The Couplespeak™ Relationship Forum anytime afterward.    

In this 45 minute episode Susan Lager and Ashley Davis Bush discuss the process of grieving - the realities and the myths, as well as tools for coping, from her latest book, "Hope and Healing for Transcending Loss." Ashley's book is filled with small lifelines and glimpses of hope for coping with the death of a loved one. Included are daily meditations offering comfort and tools for how to move on, living with gratitude, compassion and meaning. Ashley Davis Bush LCSW, is the internationally bestselling author of six self-help books, including the classic "Transcending Loss." She is a compelling and wise presenter, having appeared on the Diane Rehm Show, MSNBC, Fox News, The Iyanla Show, and countless radio programs, including past episodes of this program, The Couplespeak™ Relationship Forum. So, you DON'T want to miss the live airing of this episode! Call 877-497-9046 on Monday, January 18th at 7PM EST to listen, make comments or ask questions. You'll be glad you did!   

If you've ever wondered if you're a shopaholic, then the holidays could be very difficult, even disastrous for you! Don't go it alone without help!                                            Tune into this 30 minute spisode, "Are You a Shopaholic? Take the Test Before the Holidays" on Wednesday, November 18th at 8:30 PM EST. Get vital information about this issue, take the test to see if you just really like to shop or if you may have Compulsive Buying Disorder, a serious problem needing attention. Get key tips for how to manage around the holidays.                                                                    Call toll-free 877-497-9046 to join me on the air with questions or comments. If you can't make the live show, then you can listen to the recording afterward at: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager                                                                 One way or another, I hope you can tune in! Happy (less compulsive) Holidays!  

In this 30 minute episode Susan Lager teaches you a simple but very effective exercise which will help you to communicate better with anyone about important issues, especially loaded subjects which might involve or create conflict. In 30 minutes you'll have a new tool in your toolbox for better communication, better listening, better clarity and better understanding, all key ingredients in feeling closer with people who matter to you, moving you toward better solutions with them. Learn a critical couples therapy technique you can use anywhere, anytime! Tune in Wednesday, October 21st at 8:30 PM EST. Call toll-free 877-497-9046 to come on the air live with questions or comments. If you can't make the live show, catch the recording anytime at www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager. If you want some individual or couples coaching in this arena, feel free to contact me at my private psychotherapy practice, The Couples Center, at 603-431-7131. I'd be glad to help. *You can also learn lots more about this subject in my first "Couplespeak Series" book: "I'm Talking! Are You Listening?" available through my website www.SusanLager.com or on Amazon.  

In this 45 minute episode Susan Lager, a psychotherapist and coach at The Couples Center and Couplespeak™ in Portsmouth, NH, talks with Pattie Porter, The Texas Conflict Coach, about workplace conflict, why people are so frightened by it, how employees and managers avoid dealing with it, the consequences of avoidance, and tips for managing conflicts on the job more effectively. Pattie Porter LCSW, is a subject-matter expert in the field of conflict resolution, having worked as a senior mediator, team facilitator, senior trainer, and conflict management and abrasive leader coach in companies large and small throughout the United States. She has been the host of her own BlogTalk Radio program, The Texas Conflict Coach for the past six years, having aired more than 250 programs, with a listenership of more than 250,00 people throughout the world. Call 877-497-9046 to come on the air with comments or questions. You've probably faced this problem more than once in your lifetime, so talk to an expert!

In this 45 minute episode Susan Lager, a psychotherapist specializing in couples work, co-hosts with Dr. Charles Rawlings, outspoked author of "It Really Is That Complicated - The Myths That Exist About Male-Female Relationships," a book about his views regarding the challenges of coupling in modern times. Together they explore some of his controversial stances about relationships, and how, in his opinion, they center around control, manipulation and bartering. Lager, a strong proponent of the power of collaboration, mutual healing and growth, looks for the hope in his message. Call 877-497-9046 to join in the conversation with questions or comments, or to just listen, tune in any time at www.BlogTalkRadio.com

In this episode Susan Lager co-hosts with psychologist Amy Wood, author of this prize-winning, vital book which provides a compelling approach on how to manage the constant "Go! Do! Be Better" stresses of 21st century American life. Get some important insights on how you can use your instincts and intuition to find balance and confidence, and how to move more intentionally toward a happier, more fulfilling life. Call toll-free 877-497-9046 to come on the air with questions or comments, or to just listen and benefit from the conversation about such an important topic. Can't make the live podcast? Catch the recording afterward at: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager

When one partner in a couple lacks much interest or desire for sex it can wreak havoc on the partnership. Often, women over 40 experience a significant loss of libido related to not only hormonal changes, but also circumstances surrounding their relationships. Husbands tend to feel rejected, frutrated, and controlled by their wives' sexual indifference. Wives experience a great deal of pressure, resulting in much stress on the marriage, disconnection, and sometimes divorce. In this 45 minute episode Susan Lager co-hosts with Dr. Terri Vanderlinde, a Board Certified OB-GYN for more than 25 years, and the owner of a solo integrative GYN and sex counseling practice, My Friend's Gynecologist, in Dover, NH.  Dr. Vanderlinde is passionate about empowering women and their partners to have healthy, satisfying sex at any age. This episode will teach you about the myths and realities surrounding an issue which plagues so many couples. You will find out what you need to know about the causes of low libido around menopause, as well as what you and your partner can do to move toward meaningful change. Call toll-free 877-497-9046 to listen in or come on the air with questions or comments. If you can't make the live show, catch the recording at The Couplespeak Relationship Forum anytime.  

In this half hour episode Susan Lager draws on her observations on remorse and forgivessness (or lack of it), from many years of working with thousands of couples. Tune in to learn about the four key parts to an effective apology, the importance of timing, and the predictable impact of a good apology on one's own self esteem, on a partner's heart, and on the relationship. Call toll-free 877-497-9046 to join the conversation live with questions or comments. If you can't make the live show go to www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager  to listen to the recorded show at your convenience. Whatever you do, don't miss this vital episode if you're in any relationship which at some point hits a rough patch and requires an apology for regrettable behavior!    

In this thirty minute episode Susan Lager co-hosts with Meredith Richardson, a mediator and conflict coach who knows all too well how people, especially when in conflict, can be totally blind to their own emotional blind spots. When we refuse to acknowledge aspects of our personalities or behavior which may be obvious to others we live in a state of denial, ultimately cutting ourselves off from better choices in life. Tune into this episode to learn about a simple test which can tell you whether you may have blind spots running the show, and to develop some strategies for "seeing the emotional light" more clearly. You'll be amazed at how these tools can open up your life to new possibilities! Join us live with questions or comments by calling toll-free: 877-497-9046. If you can't make the live show catch the recording at www.BlogTalkRadio.com/SusanLager    

In this 45 minute episode Susan Lager hosts a special guest, Lisa Boldin, a graduate of the Kripalu School of Ayurveda, and specialist in Trauma Sensitive Yoga. Together they discuss the unique advantages of this form of Yoga for anyone who is struggling with anxiety, emotional stress, or trauma related to experiences such as sexual assault, military combat, or domestic violence. Call in toll-free at 877-497-9046 to share comments or ask questions about this form of Yoga. Or, listen, live streaming, or afterward to the recorded episode where you will learn more about how and why this practice offers unique benefits for coping with PTSD. You won't want to miss this show!      

Susan Lager, a psychotherapist and relationship coach at The Couples Center in Portsmouth, NH, explores the difference between making a mistake and making a bad decision, and why people make bad decisions which can ruin their lives. In this episode she discusses key behaviors and attitudes which either help to create or avoid bad decisions, including one simple exercise anyone can use to make better decisions in 2015.  Call toll-free 877-497-9046 to join the show live with questions or comments!    

In this half hour episode, Susan Lager addresses an issue so common to millions of people. Tune in and find out about key tools you can use to protect yourself from the "emotional vampires" who have the potential to undermine your feelings of peace and joy during the holiday season. Learn some key strategies to ward off negative social energy, be true to yourself, and be freed up to focus on all the other people who bring love to your life. Why get caught without a plan? Be smart, and have wonderful holidays in spite of the difficult people who will be sitting at the table with you. Call in toll-free 877-497-9046, or if the lines are busy, call in on the regular number at 760-542-4114. Join the conversation with questions, comments, or ideas of your own!