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This is an Encore Presentation, this podcast originally aired in June of 2017. 

Hello and welcome to The Couples Expert Podcast with Stuart Fensterheim.  We have an unusual topic this week; first responders and the importance keeping your connection strong. If you have a first responder in your family, are married to one or have a friend who is, take a listen to the podcast today. First responders are those brave individuals who run towards danger when everyone else is running away. It takes a special kind of grit and purpose to do that kind of work. It also takes a special kind of person to be in a relationship or be married to a first responder. It can be a chaotic, sometimes lonely kind of life. Stuart talks about some of the special challenges associated with being in a relationship with a first responder. Whether they be armed forces, reserve military, police, fire or other emergency services, these special individuals give a lot of themselves to the job. The partners, families and spouses of first responders are some of the most compassionate and flexible people in the world. Listen as Stuart discusses life with a first responder partner and how to keep your relationship close and connected.

What you’ll learn from today’s podcast:

  • How religion can bridge the gap between cultures and the Jewish holiday of Shavuot at  0:57
  • Some of the unique challenges for first responder partners at 4:29
  • What’s needed to have a connected relationship with your first responder 7:35
  • How high stress affects first responders at 9:07
  • Why checking in is important at 11:43
  • Small things that you can do to stay connected at 13:20
  • Flexibility is important at 15:20

[spp-tweet tweet=”Navigating the stress and problem solving are two of the most important skills for couples.“]

Thank you to all the first responders out there and to the partners that love them! You help make the world a safer place for all of us.

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Additional Points

Another suggestion is to learn the lingo and the terminology surrounding your first responder partner’s occupation. This enables you to communicate more effectively and to have a deeper understanding of what your partner goes through in their daily job. This also makes them more inclined to discuss their work with you.

Reassure your partner that they mean more to you than merely a paycheck or a life insurance policy. Yes, you worry about them when they’re on the job, and are always so happy to have them home safely, but they also need to feel that they’re valued in other aspects of their relationship with you as well.

For 1st responders: The family is affected by all you do. They’re proud of you, they worry about you. It’s very important that you communicate to your family, and reassuring children that you’re working hard to keep safe. That you look forward to coming home to them and think of them when you’re away at your job.

Think about activities that you and your partner can do as a couple; a hobby or activity that allows you to spend time together enjoying each other. Schedule fun times together that help you look forward to being with your partner. Romantic times are crucial to keeping your bond strong. Take couples vacations. You CAN have a strong and connected relationship with your first responder. Take the time to learn about what they go through in their work. Sharing and communicating what each of you need to feel loved and important to each other. To have a strong family bond and you can be proud of each other.

“The Muse” tool for relaxation and meditation.  http://www.choosemuse.com/muse/

How to Talk About the Hard Stuff

Connecting with your partner isn’t always easy. Here are tips on How to Talk About the Hard Stuff.

Click here to Access the Free Giveaway

Next Week on The Couples Expert Podcast

Join us next week when Stuart talks about loving yourself despite betrayal in a relationship. This topic includes a wide array of betrayal topics.

Until then, stay connected!

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

My favorite part of doing these podcasts is participating in the conversations they provoke. Each week I present one question, and this week, here is our focus: Question: What is most challenging for you being in a relationship with a first responder?

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Ask Me a Question

If you have a question, comment, thought, or concern, feel free to comment below. We’d love to hear from you!