When a mom reaches out on her daughter’s behalf, an old family dynamic comes into focus. A woman finds herself caught between her two divorced parents, still playing the role of mediator and emotional caretaker. As she speaks with Esther, she starts to question what really belongs to her and what it has cost her to carry stories that were never hers to hold. ... Show More
Yesterday
I Gave Him an Ultimatum. Now What?
A person gives their partner an ultimatum, and they fail to meet it. What happens then to the relationship? This couple comes to Esther with that question, wondering what future, if any, might be possible for them. A painful misalignment lies at the center of their polyamorous re ... Show More
58m 14s
Apr 27
How To Start (Even When You Don't Know Where You're Going)
As work becomes the place we look for identity, stability, and meaning, the stakes feel higher than ever. Esther invites you in for a live conversation between friends, New York Times journalist Jodi Kantor and facilitator and author Priya Parker. A question echoes through the ro ... Show More
54m 32s
Nov 2023
Bridging the Gap: Age Differences and Marital Challenges with Gary Lipovetsky
A harmonious marriage is like a perfectly tuned melody, where two people find joy and comfort in each other's company. It's the beauty of shared laughter, mutual understanding, and a sense of belonging. In this special episode, Gary joins Valeria for an honest and open conversati ... Show More
1h 8m
Aug 2024
What “I’m Not Ready For a Relationship” Really Means
<p>So many of us who grew up with trauma live as “divided selves” – longing for real love, but playing along to keep people around who DON’T want that – not with us, anyway – but who are happy to soak all our attention and time Iand of course, sex). Your ability to believe you ca ... Show More
24m 53s
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A lot of times in our relationships, it’s easy to look at our partner and notice all the things they could be doing better. “It’s you, not me.”</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">What’s not-so-easy is taking the time to understand how ... Show More
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In this episode, I talk with Kimberley Quinlan, LMFT, about 5 relationship rules that changed her life. She’s been married for 20 years and has so much wisdom to share.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Here’s a sneak p ... Show More
<p data-start="75" data-end="419">Welcome to the very first episode of our brand-new series, <em data-start="134" data-end="150">The In Between</em>! In this episode, we’re diving into one of the biggest questions—how do you make friends as an adult? And not just any ... Show More
