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Topic: Conflict

Articles

Roommate HORROR Stories!

April 9, 2025 — Chris Grace, Alisa Grace

Think your roommate situation is rough? You haven’t heard anything yet. From disappearing makeup bags and surprise overnight guests to passive-aggressive notes and boundary violations, Chris and Alisa Grace dive into real college roommate horror stories—and what we can all learn from them. Tune in for practical advice on communication, setting healthy boundaries, and maintaining peace in shared spaces. You’ll laugh, cringe, and walk away better equipped to handle the people you live with (or might live with someday).

Boundaries vs. Ultimatums with Willa Williams

March 27, 2025 — Willa Williams, Alisa Grace

In this episode, Alisa Grace sits down with licensed marriage and family therapist Willa Williams to unpack the often-confused concepts of boundaries and ultimatums. They explore the difference between making a request, setting a boundary, and issuing an ultimatum—highlighting how tone, intention, and personal responsibility can either build connection or create division in your relationships.

End the Stalemate with Guests Sean McDowell & Tim Muehlhoff — pt. 1

November 6, 2024 — Tim Muehlhoff, Chris Grace, Sean McDowell

In this episode, Chris Grace sits down with special guests Sean McDowell and Tim Muehlhoff, co-authors of End the Stalemate, to explore the art of having difficult conversations in today's polarized world. They discuss how to navigate disagreements, the role of contempt in damaging relationships, and the importance of empathy and perspective-taking. Providing practical tips, they help listeners communicate more effectively and maintain healthy relationships, even when faced with differing opinions.

Top 6 Relationship Killers with Guest Willa Williams

October 30, 2024 — Willa Williams, Alisa Grace

In this episode, Alisa Grace and special guest Willa Williams, a licensed marriage and family therapist, discuss the “Top 6 Relationship Killers” that often hinder our closest connections. They explore common destructive habits, such as taking things personally, assuming the worst, and failing to show empathy, offering practical insights to help listeners build stronger, healthier relationships. Whether you're navigating friendships, family dynamics, or romantic partnerships, this episode provides valuable advice to transform your interactions.

Small Moments, Big Impact: How to Keep Your Relationship Thriving

October 16, 2024 — Alisa Grace, Chris Grace

In this episode, Chris and Alisa Grace explore bids for attention—small interactions that can significantly impact the strength of a relationship. They discuss how recognizing and responding to these bids can prevent couples from drifting apart, drawing on research from Drs. John and Julie Gottman. The Grace's provide practical insights and tips to help you stay connected with your partner, emphasizing the power of intentional time together. Whether you're navigating life with a significant other, friends, or even colleagues, this episode offers valuable advice to improve your relationships.

a man looking at a woman

Pick Your Pain: Choosing the Path of Growth in Relationships

October 2, 2024 — Willa Williams

Avoiding conflict and emotional discomfort may seem like the easiest route, but it often leads to greater loneliness, bitterness, and regret. In this article, we explore why there is no pain-free option in relationships and how choosing the right kind of pain—like confronting tough conversations or seeking reconciliation—can lead to deeper connection, freedom, and personal growth.

a young man and woman holding hands and laughing

3 Must-Haves for a Healthy Relationship

September 25, 2024 — Willa Williams

Relationships can be complicated, but having a "map" for navigating them makes a world of difference. This article explores three foundational principles—being kind, descriptive, and curious—that are essential for building and maintaining healthy, fulfilling relationships. By focusing on these, you can better understand and connect with others while minimizing conflict

Does Intent Matter?

February 28, 2024 — Alisa Grace, Chris Grace

In this week's episode CMR Co-Directors Dr. Chris and Alisa Grace discuss the role of intent in communication and offer practical ways to assess and adapt not only what we say but why we say it and the impact it has on our relationships.

What's a Bid for Connection and Why You Need to Know

January 10, 2024 — Alisa Grace, Chris Grace

In this week's podcast, CMR Co-Directors Chris and Alisa Grace teach listeners how to recognize and respond to others' bids for connection and the relational damage it causes when we ignore them.

Not So Merry Christmas? Try This!

December 20, 2023 — Alisa Grace, Chris Grace

In this week's podcast, CMR Co-Directors Dr. Chris and Alisa Grace address the not-so-glamorous realities that can come with the holiday season and offer practical tips for how to center your family on each other and Christ this Christmas.

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