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In this episode, Drew and Melissa share the challenges they faced during a 10-hour road trip to a family beach vacation with their three kids. Surrounded by 30 family members, they found themselves under constant scrutiny. While trying to ensure their kids had a good time, they also struggled with unsolicited comments that made them question their parenting skills.
Melissa felt the sting of disconnection when Drew chose to escape the stressful situation by spending time with less challenging family members. This left her feeling unsupported, leading her to question her worth and effectiveness as a parent. The couple grappled with why they cared so much about the opinions of others and how they could have better navigated the situation.
Julie offers insightful feedback, emphasizing that their struggle in this case isn't about their parenting but rather how they respond to challenges together. She highlights the importance of coming together as a team, even briefly, to get on the same page in difficult moments. The episode underscores the value of choosing connection over avoidance and the power of being present with your partner, especially when facing external pressures.
Julie Menanno, MA is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and Relationship Coach. She earned her Master’s degree in Psychology from Phillips Graduate Institute in Los Angeles, CA. Julie operates a clinical therapy practice in Bozeman, Montana, and leads a global relationship coaching practice with a team of trained coaches. She is an expert in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for Couples and specializes in attachment issues within relationships.
Julie is the author of the best-selling book Secure Love, published by Simon and Schuster in January 2024. She provides relationship insights to nearly 1 million Instagram followers and hosts The Secure Love Podcast, where she shares real-time couples coaching sessions to help listeners navigate relational challenges. Julie also hosts a bi-weekly discussion group on relationship and self-help topics. A sought-after public speaker and podcast guest, Julie is dedicated to helping individuals and couples foster secure, fulfilling relationships.
Julie lives in Bozeman, Montana, with her husband of 22 years, their six children, and their beloved dog. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, skiing, Pilates, reading psychology books, and studying Italian.