You can declutter every drawer, color-code every pantry shelf, and label every bin… but if your nervous system braces every time your in-laws walk through the door, your home will never truly feel peaceful.

In today's powerful conversation, clinical psychologist and bestselling author Dr. Tracy Dalgleish returns to the show to unpack one of the most common sources of emotional clutter and holiday stress: in-law dynamics — especially between daughters-in-law and mothers-in-law.

If you've ever felt squeezed between your partner and their parent, felt like you were "keeping the peace" at the cost of your own wellbeing, or wondered why family visits leave you emotionally wiped… this episode will bring so much clarity, permission, and grounding.

Dr. Tracy breaks down the family patterns we inherit, the roles we unconsciously step into, why your nervous system reacts the way it does, and her powerful VAULT Method that helps couples set healthier boundaries together with compassion, not conflict.

Grab your tea (or your cold Americano 😉) — this one is validating, eye-opening, and deeply empowering.

1️⃣ Why your nervous system reacts to family the way it does (and why in-law interactions can hijack your fight/flight/fawn response)

2️⃣ The hidden family patterns you bring into your marriage — and how they shape your expectations, emotional triggers, and boundaries.

3️⃣ The most common mistakes couples make when dealing with in-laws (like attacking the mother-in-law instead of asking for what you need)

4️⃣ Why your partner may struggle to set boundaries with their parent — and why it's not because they don't care about you.

5️⃣ A deep dive into Dr. Tracy's VAULT Method:

• V — Values: Build a united foundation as a couple

• A — Aspirations: Align on what you want your family life to actually look like

• U — Understanding Your Triangle: Recognize the dynamics you're pulled into

• L — Limits & Boundaries: Create boundaries as a united front

• T — Take Action: Put your plan into practice with clarity and compassion

6️⃣ How to respond when a boundary isn't respected (hint: it's not about arguing — it's about empathy + holding the line)

7️⃣ What to do when your mother-in-law brings clutter into your home — childhood trophies, boxes of stuff, unwanted gifts… all of it.

This episode pairs beautifully with my DASH Method for physical clutter. If your home feels heavy and you want guided support applying DASH step-by-step:

👉 Join Clutter Cure Club (CCC) for the DASH Masterclass + monthly coaching https://www.katyjoywells.com/cluttercureclub-page

If this episode made you feel seen or validated (and I bet it did), share it with a friend who's navigating tough family dynamics — especially with the holidays approaching.

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