What to do when your partner shuts down. Are you trying to have a relationship with a partner who avoids, defends or worse... won't talk at all? Few things are as frustrating, or as hurtful. It's hard NOT to get upset and angry when you're feeling rejected, unloved, or uncared for. The problem is that many people who clam up as a defensive strategy when thin ... Show More
Yesterday
Why You Snap at the People You Love Most (And How to Respond Differently) | Happiness | E543
Sometimes, the people you love most can push your nervous system past its breaking point. Nervous system regulation is what helps you stay grounded, communicate clearly, and respond instead of react. And when you don’t have it, you snap. You shut down. You get flooded, overwhelme ... Show More
55m 37s
Sep 2025
#65: How to have difficult conversation with a partner that easily shuts down or gets defensive?
Do you find yourself dreading hard conversations with your partner because they either shut down, get defensive, or turn it back on you? You’re definitely not alone!In this episode, I’ll break down why some partners withdraw, stonewall, or get reactive in conflict - and how it’s ... Show More
55m 28s
Aug 2025
Dealing With An Avoidant's Silent Treatment - What To Do
I dive deep into the silent treatment often used by avoidant partners—and what it really means. I share why this behavior isn't always intentional, how it impacts you emotionally, and what practical steps you can take to respond in a grounded, respectful way. As someone who used ... Show More
19m 53s
Sep 2023
116. Why is my partner defensive and how to change it
Have you tried to raise an issue to your partner and rather than hear you, they whine, make excuses, or worse – they turn the issue on you? Maybe you are the person who responds in these ways, and you don’t know why you do this. In this podcast I will cover the common reasons peo ... Show More
18m 22s
Mar 2024
3 Tips To Fix Communication In Your Marriage TODAY
Is your marriage suffering from silent treatment and misunderstandings? Communication problems are common, but don't despair! Kimberly Beam Holmes, CEO of Marriage Helper, shares how to rebuild connection and bring back intimacy in marriage with 3 essential tips. In this video, y ... Show More
13m 19s