The Psychology of Relationships

Relationship Self-Sabotage: Why We Push Away the Love We Actually Want w/ Dr. Raquel Peel

September 3, 2026·42 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

Sometimes the things we do to protect ourselves from getting hurt are the very things that create distance in our relationships. Julie & Yue are joined by psychologist and relationship researcher Dr. Raquel Peel to explore why we sometimes sabotage healthy relationships, from pulling away when things get serious to criticizing, becoming defensive, or shutting down when we feel vulnerable. Together, they unpack the Four Horsemen and how greater self-awareness can help us respond differently before protective patterns become relationship-ending habits. In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why we sometimes sabotage relationships that are actually healthy - How fear and self-protection can create relationship problems - What the Four Horsemen reveal about relationship conflict - How to recognize your own self-sabotaging patterns - Ways to respond with more vulnerability and intention To learn more about Dr. Raquel Peel, visit https://www.raquelpeel.com Want to feel more connected to your partner? Download Brick and get 10% off at https://www.getbrick.app/PORSHOW Our Sponsors: * Omaha Steaks: Try the Burger Perfection Flight at OmahaSteaks.com today. That’s 20 premium steak burgers for just $79.99. Plus, get $35 off with promo code BEEF. * Quince: Download the Quince App for app-exclusive offers and get free shipping and 365 day returns at https://quince.com/por * Talkiatry: Complete the short assessment and get matched with an in-network psychiatrist in just a few minutes at talkiatry.com/por * The Dare: Go get the book wherever books are sold or through https://www.kensingtonbooks.com * The Throne of Broken Gods: Go get the book wherever books are sold or through https://www.kensingtonbooks.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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