• 49 | My Partner Shuts Down in Conflict and I Feel Lost
    Sep 25 2025

    Understanding Stonewalling in Relationships: Strategies for Change and Growth

    In this episode of 'Date Night Confessions,' co-hosts Zak and Michele discuss the common issue of one partner shutting down during conflicts, also known as stonewalling. They announce their upcoming group program, Healthy Love 101, which launches on October 7th and aims to help participants build secure, confident, and connected relationships. The episode explores the causes and consequences of stonewalling, offering practical strategies such as using soft startups, I statements, regulating oneself, and making positive requests instead of complaints. They also touch upon the importance of recognizing one's role in relationship dynamics and when it might be necessary to leave a relationship. The discussion includes insights on how changing one's behavior can impact the relationship dynamic and the importance of self-healing and self-worth in the context of relational challenges.

    00:00 Introduction and Upcoming Program Announcement

    01:32 Welcome to Date Night Confessions

    02:21 Common Relationship Issues: Partner Shutdowns

    03:07 Understanding Emotional Flooding and Stonewalling

    06:50 Taking Responsibility and Changing Dynamics

    15:15 Effective Communication Strategies

    22:37 When to Consider Leaving Your Partner

    28:40 Conclusion and Program Enrollment Information

    Follow us on socials-

    Instagram: @datenightconfessionspod

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    Threads: @datenightconfessionspod

    Send us emails and screenshots of reviews at datenightconfessionspod@gmail.com

    Use discount code DATENIGHTCONFESSIONS to receive 10% off plus free shipping on all products and orders at ⁠⁠⁠⁠wearedaytrip.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠


    FREE Relationship Guide:

    https://datenightconfessionspod.kit.com/5dcbc02b46


    Healthy Love 101 Registration:

    https://datenightconfessions.thrivecart.com/healthy-love-101/

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    30 mins
  • 48 | How to Do "The Work"
    Sep 18 2025

    Unlocking Deeper Connections: Healing Through Inner Work

    In this episode of Date Night Confessions, co-hosts Zak and Michele announce their upcoming group program, Healthy Love 101, launching on October 7th. This eight-week course aims to help individuals create secure, confident, and connected relationships through modules on managing triggers, healing childhood wounds, and effective communication. The hosts discuss their personal experiences and insights into making everyday moments special and navigating life's routines with joy. The episode dives deep into the concept of 'doing the work' in relationships, emphasizing the importance of nervous system regulation, inner child healing, and understanding deeper desires. Practical tips and personal anecdotes make for an engaging discussion on how to move beyond surface-level awareness to achieve true embodiment and transformation in love and life. Listeners are invited to join the program's waitlist for an exclusive discount.

    00:00 Introduction and Upcoming Program Announcement

    01:34 Welcome to Date Night Confessions

    02:12 Celebrating Life's Moments

    04:23 Romanticizing the Everyday

    10:44 The Concept of 'Doing the Work'

    13:45 Understanding the Iceberg of Personal Growth

    19:09 Going Beyond Awareness

    22:34 Therapy and Its Limitations

    24:32 The Power of Embodiment

    25:31 Nervous System Regulation Techniques

    35:45 Inner Child Healing

    39:31 Understanding Protector Parts

    44:51 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    Follow us on socials-

    Instagram: @datenightconfessionspod

    TikTok: @datenightconfessionspod

    Threads: @datenightconfessionspod

    Send us emails and screenshots of reviews at datenightconfessionspod@gmail.com

    Use discount code DATENIGHTCONFESSIONS to receive 10% off plus free shipping on all products and orders at ⁠⁠⁠⁠wearedaytrip.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠


    FREE Relationship Guide:

    https://datenightconfessionspod.kit.com/5dcbc02b46


    Healthy Love 101 Registration:

    https://datenightconfessions.thrivecart.com/healthy-love-101/

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    50 mins
  • 47 | How Your Partner Can Heal You
    Sep 11 2025

    Healing in Relationships: Why You Don't Need to Be Fully Healed Before Finding Love

    In this episode of Date Night Confessions, co-hosts Zak and Michele announce their upcoming group program 'Healthy Love 101' launching on October 7th, which is designed to help individuals transition from anxious relationship patterns to secure and confident connections. The course includes modules on managing conflict, communicating effectively, and healing childhood wounds. During the episode, Zak and Michele debunk the myth that one must be fully healed before entering a relationship. They explain how relationships can actually serve as a catalyst for healing, by providing safety and support. They delve into five common emotional wounds, such as fear of abandonment and feeling 'too much,' and how healing through relationships and self-regulation can occur. They also discuss practical steps for building inner safety and self-parenting. If you're interested in going deeper into this work, details about the 'Healthy Love 101' program and how to join the waitlist are shared.

    00:00 Introduction and Upcoming Program Announcement

    01:33 Welcome to Date Night Confessions

    02:07 Debunking the Myth: You Must Be Fully Healed for Love

    03:33 Healing in Relationships: Personal Stories and Insights

    12:44 Understanding Core Wounds and Healing Moments

    28:30 Building Safety Within Yourself

    38:35 Conclusion and Program Invitation

    41:46 Closing Remarks and Listener Engagement

    Follow us on socials-

    Instagram: @datenightconfessionspod

    TikTok: @datenightconfessionspod

    Threads: @datenightconfessionspod

    Send us emails and screenshots of reviews at datenightconfessionspod@gmail.com

    Use discount code DATENIGHTCONFESSIONS to receive 10% off plus free shipping on all products and orders at ⁠⁠⁠⁠wearedaytrip.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠


    FREE Relationship Guide:

    https://datenightconfessionspod.kit.com/5dcbc02b46


    Healthy Love 101 Waitlist:

    https://datenightconfessionspod.kit.com/a19fd86911

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    42 mins
  • 46 | Why Who You Marry Matters
    Sep 4 2025

    The Crucial Role of Emotional Support in Long-term Relationships

    In this episode of Date Night Confessions, Zak and Michele discuss the often-overlooked aspect of emotional support in choosing a long-term partner or spouse. The hosts emphasize the importance of being emotionally attuned to each other, particularly during life's challenging moments. They draw on research from relationship experts like the Gottmans to highlight the concept of 'bids for connection' and how small, everyday gestures can significantly impact the trust in a relationship. Through personal stories and practical advice, they encourage listeners to evaluate how their partners respond to emotional needs and provide tips for fostering a more supportive and emotionally resilient relationship.

    00:00 Welcome to Date Night Confessions

    00:25 Choosing a Long-Term Partner: Beyond Looks and Jobs

    01:56 Facing Life's Hard Moments Together

    03:35 The Importance of Emotional Support

    04:50 Understanding Bids for Connection

    10:45 Personal Experiences and Reflections

    17:09 Navigating Emotional Presence in Relationships

    26:33 The Role of Emotional Maturity

    28:33 Understanding Relationship Dynamics

    28:58 Dealing with Partner's Emotions

    30:00 The Importance of Emotional Attunement

    35:23 Red Flags in Relationships

    37:13 Green Flags in Relationships

    40:46 Reflecting on Relationship Needs

    45:14 Preparing for Hard Moments

    47:02 Weekly Relationship Challenge


    Follow us on socials-

    Instagram: @datenightconfessionspod

    TikTok: @datenightconfessionspod

    Threads: @datenightconfessionspod

    Send us emails and screenshots of reviews at datenightconfessionspod@gmail.com

    Use discount code DATENIGHTCONFESSIONS to receive 10% off plus free shipping on all products and orders at ⁠⁠⁠⁠wearedaytrip.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠


    Join the Waitlist for Healthy Love 101:

    https://datenightconfessionspod.kit.com/a19fd86911

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    54 mins
  • 45 | 8 Secrets to Transform Your Love Life
    Aug 28 2025

    Transforming Relationships: Insights on Commitment, Growth, and Mentorship

    In this episode of Date Night Confessions, hosts Zak and Michele introduce their free guide 'From Conflict to Connection' and share details about their upcoming group program aimed at helping individuals and couples work through their relationship challenges. They delve into various strategies for improving relationships, drawing on key lessons from a recent women's entrepreneurial conference. Topics covered include the importance of fully committing, embodying the identity of who you want to become, and recognizing external realities as reflections of internal stories. They also emphasize the significance of mentorship, adopting the 70% rule for decision-making, not taking things personally, regulating the nervous system, and celebrating wins. Throughout the episode, Zach and Michelle offer practical advice and personal anecdotes to help listeners move toward a more fulfilling and conscious partnership.

    00:00 Introduction and Free Resource Announcement

    00:48 Welcome to Date Night Confessions

    01:29 Podcast Inspiration and Energy

    02:13 Business Strategies and Relationship Dynamics

    05:24 Top Takeaways from the Women's Entrepreneurial Conference

    06:19 Allow It to Be Good

    08:22 Embody the Identity of Who You're Becoming

    13:36 Your External Reality Reflects Your Internal Stories

    17:43 What Becomes Possible When You Fully Commit

    21:51 The 70% Rule

    27:07 Action is the Antidote

    28:07 Don't Take It Personally

    35:30 Get Your Nervous System on Board

    42:13 Seek Mentorship

    49:35 Conclusion and Next Steps

    Follow us on socials-

    Instagram: @datenightconfessionspod

    TikTok: @datenightconfessionspod

    Threads: @datenightconfessionspod

    Send us emails and screenshots of reviews at datenightconfessionspod@gmail.com

    Use discount code DATENIGHTCONFESSIONS to receive 10% off plus free shipping on all products and orders at ⁠⁠⁠⁠wearedaytrip.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠


    FREE Relationship Guide:

    https://datenightconfessionspod.kit.com/5dcbc02b46

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    52 mins
  • 44 | Is Toxic Masculinity Holding Your Relationship Hostage?
    Aug 21 2025

    Unmasking Masculinity: Understanding Insecure Traits and Cultivating Healthy Dynamics

    In this episode of the Date Night Confessions podcast, hosts Zak and Michele delve into the complexities of masculinity, particularly focusing on the differences between toxic (or insecure) and healthy masculinity. Broadcasting from a hotel room in Arizona, they explore how insecure masculine traits often manifest in relationships and discuss practical ways to cultivate self-awareness, emotional openness, and nervous system regulation. They emphasize the importance of balancing masculine and feminine energies for both men and women, aiming to create a more secure, integrated approach to life and relationships. The episode also provides resources for partners experiencing toxic behaviors and encourages ongoing dialogue to foster healthier dynamics.

    00:00 Introduction and Free Resource Announcement

    00:48 Welcome to Date Night Confessions

    01:19 On the Road in Arizona

    03:28 Exploring Masculinity

    04:47 Understanding Masculine and Feminine Energies

    07:07 Toxic vs. Secure Masculinity

    08:32 Personal Reflections on Manhood

    12:43 Balancing Masculine and Feminine Traits

    26:00 Insecure Masculine Traits

    29:03 Aggression and Insecurity in Men

    29:32 Dominance vs. Leadership

    29:47 Early Signs and External Validation

    31:30 Secure Masculinity Traits

    32:24 Impact of Masculine Energy in the Home

    36:02 Toxic Traits in Relationships

    40:37 Healing and Self-Awareness

    44:27 Practical Steps for Change

    47:14 Nervous System Regulation

    51:03 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    Follow us on socials-

    Instagram: @datenightconfessionspod

    TikTok: @datenightconfessionspod

    Threads: @datenightconfessionspod

    Send us emails and screenshots of reviews at datenightconfessionspod@gmail.com

    Use discount code DATENIGHTCONFESSIONS to receive 10% off plus free shipping on all products and orders at ⁠⁠⁠⁠wearedaytrip.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠


    FREE Relationship Guide:

    https://datenightconfessionspod.kit.com/5dcbc02b46

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    54 mins
  • 43 | Powerful Hacks to End Toxic Patterns
    Aug 14 2025

    From Conflict to Connection: Transforming Relationships through Habit-Building and Subconscious Shifts

    In this episode of Date Night Confessions, hosts Zak and Michele introduce their free guide 'From Conflict to Connection,' designed to help individuals understand and process triggers and improve communication within their relationships. They share their personal experiences from a recent family vacation, reflecting on the importance of intentional parenting and relationship values. The episode delves into three hacks for creating sustainable change: habit stacking, subconscious reprogramming, and identity shifting. They discuss the significance of building small, consistent habits, using somatic and subconscious work to reprogram limiting beliefs, and embodying the qualities of the partner you desire to be. The hosts emphasize the value of inner work and discipline in transforming both personal and relational dynamics. Listeners are encouraged to take actionable steps and utilize the free guide provided.

    00:00 Introduction and Free Resource Announcement

    00:48 Welcome to Date Night Confessions

    01:48 Family Vacation Reflections

    02:47 The Importance of Reflection in Relationships

    08:17 Back to School and Fall Plans

    11:24 Creating Sustainable Change

    13:58 Understanding the Subconscious Mind

    17:47 Generational Trauma and Epigenetics

    26:56 The Power of Habits

    29:01 Creating New Neural Pathways

    30:56 Breaking Out of Autopilot

    31:41 Habit Stacking for Deeper Connections

    33:30 The Science of Habit Formation

    35:37 Consistency Over Motivation

    39:00 Subconscious Reprogramming

    47:39 Identity Shifting

    53:39 Practical Exercises and Journal Prompts

    58:54 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

    Follow us on socials-

    Instagram: @datenightconfessionspod

    TikTok: @datenightconfessionspod

    Threads: @datenightconfessionspod

    Send us emails and screenshots of reviews at datenightconfessionspod@gmail.com

    Use discount code DATENIGHTCONFESSIONS to receive 10% off plus free shipping on all products and orders at ⁠⁠⁠⁠wearedaytrip.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠


    FREE Relationship Guide:

    https://datenightconfessionspod.kit.com/5dcbc02b46

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • 42 | Do You Even Like Your Partner?
    Aug 7 2025

    Embracing Differences: Navigating Relationship Dynamics and Triggers

    In this episode of Date Night Confessions, hosts Zak and Michele explore the complexities of romantic relationships, particularly focusing on understanding and managing differences between partners. They introduce a free resource, 'From Conflict to Connection,' which aims to help individuals understand and process their triggers and communicate effectively with their partners. The episode delves into societal and cultural influences on the concept of the 'perfect partner,' the importance of cherishing and appreciating one's partner, and the impact of small negative interactions. The hosts emphasize the significance of doing inner work to fulfill one's needs autonomously, rather than projecting these needs onto a partner. They also discuss strategies to positively reinforce desired behaviors and reduce critical attitudes. The episode wraps up with actionable invitations for listeners to identify and reflect on moments where they might be policing or controlling their partner’s behavior, and to work on healing their own triggers.

    00:00 Introduction and Free Resource Announcement

    00:47 Welcome to Date Night Confessions

    01:29 Reflecting on Summer Memories

    01:56 Transitioning to Fall

    02:43 Summer Camp Traditions

    04:01 The Importance of Savoring Moments

    07:12 The Myth of the Perfect Partner

    16:13 Societal Conditioning and Relationship Expectations

    31:17 Navigating Relationship Compromises

    32:20 Embracing Differences in Relationships

    33:35 The Importance of Cherishing Your Partner

    35:10 Understanding and Accepting Your Partner's Shadow

    42:22 Positive Reinforcement in Relationships

    54:31 Repairing and Rebuilding Trust

    58:49 Final Thoughts and Invitations for Reflection

    01:01:02 Outro and Gratitude

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    1 hr and 1 min