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101. Gray Divorce: Navigating Relationships After 50
Manage episode 481814002 series 2854751
What happens to long-term relationships when the kids leave home? In this candid conversation, relationship coach Dr. Marie Murphy shares her insightful and judgment-free perspective on the growing phenomenon of gray divorce—the trend of couples separating after the age of 50.
With her PhD in sociology of sexuality, Dr. Murphy challenges conventional views on infidelity and relationship transitions. She emphasizes the importance of being honest with ourselves about what we truly want: “Do you want to reconnect, or do you just think you should want to reconnect?” This distinction lies at the heart of our discussion and leads to deeper explorations of relationship dynamics during midlife.
Highlights:
- Understanding gray divorce: 40% of divorces now occur after age 50, often linked to infidelity.
- The role of intentional curiosity in revitalizing relationships and fostering deeper connections.
- The dilemma of feeling responsible for others' emotions and how it conflicts with cultural ideas of individualism.
- Empowering thoughts that help you navigate your relationship choices without guilt or shame.
Key Takeaways:
- Approaching infidelity with a non-judgmental mindset allows for clearer decision-making.
- The sociology of sexuality focuses on understanding actual behaviors in relationships rather than adhering to societal norms.
- Making relationship choices often involves balancing competing desires rather than straightforward right or wrong decisions.
Marie Murphy's Bio
Dr. Marie Murphy is a non-judgmental infidelity coach, and the host of the podcast Your Secret is Safe with Me. Much of the so-called advice out there for people who are engaging in infidelity is little more than thinly veiled judgment, but that's not what Marie provides. Marie offers guidance and support that respects the fullness of your humanity, and the complexity of your situation - no matter what you're doing in the infidelity department. To learn more about Marie and her coaching services, go to https://www.mariemurphyphd.com.
Find Marie Online: Instagram, Facebook
FREE WORKBOOK
3 Steps to Loving Your Empty Nest Life
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Don’t miss an episode, subscribe via Apple Podcasts or follow on Spotify and many more.
LOVE THE SHOW?
Get your THIS EMPTY NEST LIFE swag
Review us on Love the Podcast, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify -- reviews and ratings help others find us and we’d appreciate your support greatly.
CONNECT WITH JAY
Email, LinkedIn, Instagram, or TikTok
Chapters
1. Honesty About Reconnection Desires (00:00:00)
2. Understanding Gray Divorce (00:00:56)
3. A Non-Judgmental Approach to Infidelity (00:02:30)
4. Beyond Good and Bad Thinking (00:05:45)
5. What People Seek in Relationship Coaching (00:09:06)
6. Reigniting Connection With Your Partner (00:12:30)
7. Midlife Crisis or Life Reexamination? (00:18:10)
8. Taking Responsibility for Your Choices (00:31:24)
9. Final Thoughts and Closing (00:36:15)
102 episodes
Manage episode 481814002 series 2854751
What happens to long-term relationships when the kids leave home? In this candid conversation, relationship coach Dr. Marie Murphy shares her insightful and judgment-free perspective on the growing phenomenon of gray divorce—the trend of couples separating after the age of 50.
With her PhD in sociology of sexuality, Dr. Murphy challenges conventional views on infidelity and relationship transitions. She emphasizes the importance of being honest with ourselves about what we truly want: “Do you want to reconnect, or do you just think you should want to reconnect?” This distinction lies at the heart of our discussion and leads to deeper explorations of relationship dynamics during midlife.
Highlights:
- Understanding gray divorce: 40% of divorces now occur after age 50, often linked to infidelity.
- The role of intentional curiosity in revitalizing relationships and fostering deeper connections.
- The dilemma of feeling responsible for others' emotions and how it conflicts with cultural ideas of individualism.
- Empowering thoughts that help you navigate your relationship choices without guilt or shame.
Key Takeaways:
- Approaching infidelity with a non-judgmental mindset allows for clearer decision-making.
- The sociology of sexuality focuses on understanding actual behaviors in relationships rather than adhering to societal norms.
- Making relationship choices often involves balancing competing desires rather than straightforward right or wrong decisions.
Marie Murphy's Bio
Dr. Marie Murphy is a non-judgmental infidelity coach, and the host of the podcast Your Secret is Safe with Me. Much of the so-called advice out there for people who are engaging in infidelity is little more than thinly veiled judgment, but that's not what Marie provides. Marie offers guidance and support that respects the fullness of your humanity, and the complexity of your situation - no matter what you're doing in the infidelity department. To learn more about Marie and her coaching services, go to https://www.mariemurphyphd.com.
Find Marie Online: Instagram, Facebook
FREE WORKBOOK
3 Steps to Loving Your Empty Nest Life
ENJOY THE SHOW?
Don’t miss an episode, subscribe via Apple Podcasts or follow on Spotify and many more.
LOVE THE SHOW?
Get your THIS EMPTY NEST LIFE swag
Review us on Love the Podcast, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify -- reviews and ratings help others find us and we’d appreciate your support greatly.
CONNECT WITH JAY
Email, LinkedIn, Instagram, or TikTok
Chapters
1. Honesty About Reconnection Desires (00:00:00)
2. Understanding Gray Divorce (00:00:56)
3. A Non-Judgmental Approach to Infidelity (00:02:30)
4. Beyond Good and Bad Thinking (00:05:45)
5. What People Seek in Relationship Coaching (00:09:06)
6. Reigniting Connection With Your Partner (00:12:30)
7. Midlife Crisis or Life Reexamination? (00:18:10)
8. Taking Responsibility for Your Choices (00:31:24)
9. Final Thoughts and Closing (00:36:15)
102 episodes
All episodes
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