In this extended episode of the I Shower After Work Podcast, Jason and John sit down with licensed professional counselor Amber Marie for a raw, honest conversation about mental health, relationships, divorce, communication, trauma, intimacy, and therapy — especially through a blue-collar lens.

No buzzwords. No judgment. Just real talk about what we carry, why it shows up in our bodies and relationships, and how honest conversations can change everything.

00:00 Introduction and Icebreaker

01:29 Meet Amber Marie: Licensed Professional Counselor

02:37 Amber's Background and Journey

03:42 The Roller Rink Era

05:50 Family and Parenting Insights

10:53 From Educator to Counselor

27:27 Navigating Relationships and Therapy

34:48 Fixing the Situation: Men's Instinct to Solve Problems

35:19 Different Languages: Men vs. Women Communication

35:29 Intimacy and Connection in Relationships

36:03 Communicating Needs and Desires

38:40 Avoidance and Anxious Attachment

39:39 Triggers and Relationship Patterns

39:57 Direct Communication vs. Passive Aggressiveness

42:18 Long-Distance Relationships and Communication

43:54 Intentional Communication and Boundaries

49:00 Dealing with Relationship Challenges

58:10 The Impact of Kids on Marriage

01:02:02 Coping with Grief and Relationship Transitions

01:09:18 Therapy and Relationship Counseling

01:11:09 The Importance of Genuine Effort in Relationships

01:12:00 Valuing Therapy and Setting Boundaries

01:12:44 Navigating Relationship Challenges and Grief

01:15:31 The Role of Empathy and Compassion in Therapy

01:17:04 Creating a Comfortable Therapy Environment

01:17:30 The Impact of Unhealthy Relationships on Physical Health

01:19:39 Understanding Sex Positive Therapy

01:22:45 Encouraging Open Communication in Relationships

01:33:57 The Influence of Technology on Therapy

01:44:00 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Therapy

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Viewer Question:

What’s one conversation you’ve been avoiding — and why?