In this episode, titled "How to Overcome Tension in Your Marriage" Ed and Erica address a letter from an anonymous couple struggling with triggers from past relationships. They discuss the importance of identifying triggers, setting communication ground rules, and building supportive habits. Tune in as they share practical advice and personal anecdotes, offering a candid and unapologetic journey through the ups and downs of marriage.

Here are a few "takeaways" from this episode:

• Understanding Triggers and Their Impact - Past toxic behaviors and communication patterns can leave individuals with insecurities and fears that may trickle into their current relationships. Couples must identify these triggers and understand the emotions underlying them. By examining the root causes and the resulting feelings, individuals can gain clarity on how these triggers are influencing their behavior within the relationship.
• Journaling for Clarity and Insight - Couples can document the specific triggers, the circumstances that cause them, and the emotions they evoke. By examining these elements, individuals can cultivate a deeper understanding of their emotional responses and contributions to the relationship dynamics. 
• Seeking Professional Support - Professional support can provide the tools and insights necessary for individuals to address and heal from their past experiences, fostering healthier interactions within their current relationships.
• Effective Communication Strategies - When it comes to communication within a relationship, open-ended questions can foster constructive dialogue, allowing partners to express their thoughts and perspectives without creating defensiveness or tension. This approach aligns with the principles outlined in the book "Never Split the Difference" by Chris Voss, emphasizing the power of asking questions to gain a deeper understanding of one another's viewpoints.
• Building Supportive Relationship Habits - A key recommendation shared in the podcast is the importance of building new, supportive habits within the relationship. This includes setting and aligning on common goals, fostering healthy associations, and creating a safe space for open communication. By defining ground rules for communication and engaging in activities that support the relationship's growth, couples can cultivate an environment that nurtures mutual understanding and connection.
• Defining Communication Ground Rules - Establishing communication ground rules is vital for creating a safe and supportive environment for open dialogue. Couples are encouraged to agree on specific principles that promote respectful, effective communication. This might include rules around the use of electronic devices during conversations, employing a 'safe word' to pause discussions during escalating moments, and designating private spaces for discussing relationship struggles. 

Have a relationship/marriage question or concern you'd like for us to address on a future episode of the "Couple's Catalyst" podcast? Submit your questions and concerns anonymously here.