In Episode 104 of the Thoughts From the Couch podcast, host Justine Carino sits down with TEDx speaker and lovescaping founder Irene Greaves for a grounded and practical conversation about where we first learn how to love, and how those early lessons shape our adult relationships.

This episode explores the powerful question, “Where did you learn to love?” and unpacks how family of origin, culture, and early experiences quietly form our blueprint for connection. Justine and Irene discuss how love is often misunderstood as a feeling rather than a skill, and how mismatched definitions of love can create conflict in romantic relationships, friendships, and even workplace dynamics.

Through clinical insight and real-life examples, Justine connects Irene’s 15 pillars of lovescaping, including humility, empathy, communication, trust, and boundaries, to the patterns she sees in therapy every day. The conversation highlights how a lack of self-awareness, difficulty identifying needs, and struggles with boundaries often stem from early conditioning, not personal failure.

Listeners will walk away with a fresh perspective on love as an intentional practice rather than a passive experience. The episode offers tangible tools for building self-respect, strengthening communication, leading with empathy, and creating healthier dynamics at home and at work.

Connect with Irene Greaves:

Instagram: @lovescaping

Website: www.lovescaping.org

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lovescaping/

Promotion:

Two Moons (use code Justine30): https://twomoonshealth.co/

The guide every couple needs: https://www.eliweinsteinlcsw.com/book

Learn more about Balanced Boss Coaching: https://www.justinecarino.com/the-balanced-boss

Take the Balanced Boss Burnout Assessment: https://www.justinecarino.com/the-balanced-boss-burnout-assessment