EP 32 Honesty in Relationships: When to Speak Up, When to Hold Back, and How to Build Trust

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Dr. Nikki and Jarrod tackle one of the most important yet nuanced topics in relationships: honesty. They dive into how honesty shapes trust, strengthens communication, and sometimes challenges boundaries. From exploring the impact of personal experiences to discussing how therapy has helped them navigate tricky conversations, they share a heartfelt and relatable discussion about what it means to communicate openly without causing harm.

The couple reflects on how emotional intelligence and childhood experiences influence their perspectives on honesty. They also examine the fine line between radical honesty and unnecessary bluntness, offering actionable tips on how to approach honesty in a way that deepens trust and connection.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why honesty in relationships is more complex than "just telling the truth."

• The importance of balancing honesty with consideration for your partner's feelings.

• How dietary and lifestyle habits can unintentionally affect relationship dynamics.

• The role of therapy in improving communication and navigating honesty.

• How childhood experiences shape our understanding of honesty.

• The value of asking for permission before sharing difficult truths.

• When radical honesty helps—and when it harms.

Key Takeaways:

• Honesty is a skill that evolves over time and requires emotional intelligence.

• Trust is foundational for honest communication.

• Not every thought needs to be shared—filtering can be an act of kindness.

• Asking for permission to share sensitive topics can create a safer space for dialogue.

• Therapy can provide tools to navigate challenging conversations.

Quotes from the Episode:

• "Honesty isn't just about saying what you think; it's about deciding how and when to say it." – Dr. Nikki

• "Sometimes honesty is about trust, but it's also about knowing your partner well enough to protect their heart." – Jarrod

Resources Mentioned:

• Radical Honesty: How to Transform Your Life by Telling the Truth

• Therapy tools for couples: Gottman Institute

• www.oakandhiveconsulting.com/whatnikknowsblog

Connect with Us:

• Follow on Instagram: @OverDinnerPodcast

• Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Call to Action:

Enjoyed this episode? Share it with your partner or a friend who could use a fresh perspective on honesty. Don’t forget to leave us a review to let us know what resonated most with you!