So many of us grow up believing that love means fixing, managing, or predicting other people. It feels safer to silence our needs than risk being "too much." But what if that survival strategy is actually what keeps us disconnected?

In part two of this three part series, Justin and Abi continue their conversation on codependency, sharing how growing up in chaotic homes taught them to avoid vulnerability and chase the illusion of peace. They unpack what happens when we don't know our own needs, why denial keeps us stuck, and how self-awareness becomes the key to real connection. Along the way, they explore how faith often reinforced control and what it looks like to reframe love through trust, autonomy, and compassion.

If you've ever felt like your very existence is a burden, or you're exhausted from controlling people in the name of care, this episode will help you find freedom and breathe again.

You can WATCH us at https://www.justinandabi.com/theconnectedlife

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So many of us confuse codependency with love—believing that fixing, managing, or rescuing others is the way to feel safe and connected. But what if that "care" is really control in disguise?

In part one of this three part series, Justin and Abi get personal about how childhood instability, unprocessed grief, and toxic empathy shaped their patterns of over-responsibility. They unpack how codependency forms as a survival strategy, why hyper-vigilance can feel like compassion, and the hidden cost of carrying emotions that aren't yours. From childhood memories to marriage struggles, they share what it took to untangle those dynamics and begin choosing connection without control.

If you've ever felt exhausted from fixing everyone else, wondered why you can't stay out of someone's emotions, or longed for healthier boundaries, this conversation is for you!

You can WATCH us at https://www.justinandabi.com/theconnectedlife

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Most of us want to be emotionally mature—calm in conflict, clear about our needs, and kind even when we're hurting. But no one really teaches us how to get there.

In this episode, Justin, Abi, and Rachel unpack one of the most overlooked skills of emotional maturity: distress tolerance. They explore how learning to stay present with uncomfortable feelings—like shame, rejection, or fear—can completely shift the way we handle conflict, communicate needs, and repair in relationships. You'll hear honest stories about moments when they wanted to escape, react, or fix things fast—and how they learned to stay grounded instead.

If you've ever been accused of overreacting… or felt powerless to stop yourself from shutting down, blaming, or spiraling in conflict, this conversation offers a compassionate pathway to building inner strength. Don't miss out!

You can WATCH us at https://www.justinandabi.com/theconnectedlife

Don't forget to RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!