Optimal Relationships Daily - Dating, Marriage and Parenting

3036: Invalidating Feelings? Try a Stress-reducing Conversation! by Dr. Kathy McMahon of Couples Therapy Inc on Healthy Conversations

June 10, 2026·10 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3036: Dr. Kathy McMahon explores how emotional invalidation quietly damages trust, intimacy, and self-esteem in relationships. Drawing on the Gottmans’ stress-reducing conversation technique, she explains how small daily conversations can help couples feel emotionally safe, heard, and supported while revealing deeper unhealthy communication patterns that may need professional attention. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.couplestherapyinc.com/invalidating-feelings-try-a-stress-reducing-conversation/ Quotes to ponder: "The listener doesn't have to solve the problem. They simply need to be present, pay attention, and try to understand and empathize." "Feelings are invalidated when they are deemed worthless, or unimportant." "The goal is to provide an opportunity to practice supportive and encouraging talks." Episode references: The Gottman Institute: https://www.gottman.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Podzilla Summary coming soon

Sign up to get notified when the full AI-powered summary is ready.

Get Free Summaries →

Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.

Listen to This Episode

Get summaries like this every morning.

Free AI-powered recaps of Optimal Relationships Daily - Dating, Marriage and Parenting and your other favorite podcasts, delivered to your inbox.

Get Free Summaries →

Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.