In this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, co-hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo discuss the impact of assumptions on relationships and provide practical tools to replace these assumptions with clarity. Through real-life examples, they explore how silent assumptions can fuel misunderstandings and share strategies for fostering open communication and trust. Learn how to avoid common pitfalls like judging intentions, predicting behavior based on past actions, and failing to communicate expectations. Discover the importance of asking clarifying questions and using Brene Brown's technique,”the story I'm telling myself,” to improve your relationships.

Music by epidemic sound.

SHOW NOTES:

Experts : Dr. Brene Brown, Esther Perel

Resources :

Dare to Lead by Dr. Brene Brown

https://brenebrown.com/hubs/dare-to-lead/

Esther Perel https://www.estherperel.com

In this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, co-hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo explore the art of giving feedback. Reflecting on the discomfort of receiving harsh feedback, they present two effective strategies for providing constructive criticism without triggering defensive reactions— the Positive Feedback Sandwich and the Situation-Behavior-Impact (SBI) technique. Alongside discussing research insights from Gottman and the Harvard Business Review, the hosts offer practical examples and scenarios to illustrate these strategies in action, aiming to improve communication and relationships.

Music by epidemic sound.

SHOW NOTES:

Experts : Dr. John Gottman

Resources : Harvard Business Review

Tools :

Positive Feedback Sandwich (Mary Kay Ash)

3-part formula:

1. Positive comment
2. Constructive feedback
3. Positive/supportive closing

SBI Tool - Situation, Behavior, Impact (Center for Creative Leadership)

• Situation – When/where the behavior happened.
• Behavior – What the person did (specific & observable).
• Impact – How it affected you or others.

In this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, co-hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo discuss the “Avoid Criticize Loop,” a destructive conflict pattern in relationships. They explain how indirect communication, passive-aggressive comments, and involving third parties escalate conflicts instead of resolving them. Through relatable examples, the hosts emphasize the importance of direct and vulnerable communication, recognizing and addressing one's role in the cycle, and setting boundaries to promote healthier interactions. Tune in for practical insights on improving your communication and relationship strategies.

Music by epidemic sound.

In this Father's Day special episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, co-hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo step aside and give the microphones over to their spouses, Pete, Tom, and Ralph. In this episode, they dive into personal stories, tips for self-care, managing work-from-home life, and the joys and struggles of parenting. Tune in for an insightful conversation peppered with heartfelt moments and practical advice that every dad (and mom) can relate to. Plus, a fun Father's Day quiz to keep things lively!

Music by epidemic sound.

SHOW NOTES:

Experts : Father’s Everywhere!

Resources : Previous Father’s Day Episodes

AFAF Episode #54 Father Knows Best! How to Foster Curiosity and Build Self-Confidence in Your Child

https://pod.link/afafwithtalkdoc/episode/25a4c29ea0c9724f21a6e527329d0a46

AFAF Episode #079 AFAF on the First Year of Fatherhood

https://pod.link/afafwithtalkdoc/episode/af7ed8332bcbdd686df18d1e09a7af0c

In this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, co-hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo dive into the topic of tit-for-tat arguing and its detrimental impact on relationships. They explore the concept of critical startup moments, blame shifting, and the risks of competitive retaliation. The hosts offer practical strategies for breaking these negative patterns, such as active listening, taking responsibility, and practicing empathy. Drawing on research from John Gottman, they discuss how mindful communication can prevent conflicts from escalating and help build trust and emotional connection. Whether you're facing relationship challenges or seeking to improve your communication skills, this episode provides valuable insights and actionable advice.

Music by epidemic sound.

SHOW NOTES:

Resources :

Dr. John Gottman - Gottman Institute

https://www.gottman.com/

Dr. Marc Brackett’s Book - Permission to Feel

https://marcbrackett.com/permission-to-feel/

Link:

AFAF Episode #031 - Leading Questions - How to Ask Neutral Questions

https://pod.link/afafwithtalkdoc/episode/b861b25d7ba33bf133fdc9cad3de2a9a

In this heartfelt episode, we welcome back Melissa Beck, President of Anonymous Philanthropy, to share her wisdom on balancing the multifaceted roles of being a mother, career woman, and spouse. From managing career expectations, unseen labor, and burnout, to the importance of boundaries and the emotional rollercoaster of motherhood, Melissa provides deep insights and practical advice. The episode also delves into Melissa's supportive 'mothership' group, her experiences raising three teenage boys, and the impactful work she does in philanthropy. Join us as we explore the strength, struggles, and triumphs of being a working mom.

Music by epidemic sound.

SHOW NOTES:

Experts : Melissa Beck and Mothers everywhere

Link to previous AFAF Episode with Melissa Beck on Generosity:

https://youtu.be/wEnzueUNT0E

In this enlightening episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, co-hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo delve into the complexities of maintaining cherished relationships. The episode addresses the common tendency to focus on differences rather than similarities and offers practical tools to bridge gaps and create connections. It highlights examples from everyday life, family gatherings, workplace dynamics, and even vacations to illustrate how emphasizing commonalities can lead to more harmonious interactions. Learn how shifting your language and mindset from 'me' vs. 'you' to 'we' and 'us' can transform the way you connect with others.

Music by epidemic sound.

SHOW NOTES:

Experts : Clark and Brennan - Common Ground Theory

Resources : McCorkle and Reese: Mediation Theory and Practice

Welcome back to Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, featuring hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo. In today's episode, we explore “reframing”—a powerful mental communication tool backed by research that helps cultivate resilience, clarity, and purpose. The discussion juxtaposes growth versus fixed mindsets and optimism versus pessimism, drawing on insights from Martin Seligman's “Learned Optimism” and Carol Dweck's “Mindset: The Psychology of Success.” Through personal anecdotes and practical examples, we delve into how shifting our perspectives can turn challenges into opportunities for growth. Whether it’s navigating relationship breakups or dealing with everyday inconveniences, reframing aids in approaching problems from new angles and adapting a growth-oriented mindset. Join us as we uncover ways to enhance your emotional well-being and relationship dynamics through the transformative power of reframing.

Music by epidemic sound.

SHOW NOTES:

Experts/Resources:

Martin Seligman - Learned Optimism

https://www.amazon.com/Learned-Optimism-Change-Your-Mind/dp/0671019112

Brene Brown - Rising Strong

https://brenebrown.com/book/rising-strong/

Carol Dweck - Mindset: The New Psychology of Success

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40745.Mindset

AFAF Links :

Episode #004: Birthday Mindset! How to Stay Positive

https://pod.link/afafwithtalkdoc/episode/655b369db039ba1eea98440837bb86d4