Relational Skills in Real Life

Automatic Negative Thoughts (ANTs) can take over our minds, influence our emotions, and shape the way we respond to the people and situations around us. But how do we recognize when an ANT is simply a thought that needs to be challenged—and when it may be pointing to a deeper root issue that needs attention? In this extended episode, we will identify different ANTs we may be struggling with and re...

Knowing relational skills is one thing—having them become a natural part of who we are is another. Practice is what turns our knowledge into awareness and capacity, helping healthy relational habits become automatic rather than forced. That’s what we want with relational skills: to practice them until they become part of our character and naturally show up in our everyday lives and relationships....

At a time when stories of moral failure and unhealthy leadership in churches and ministries seem all too common, how can we know whether the communities we’re part of are truly healthy and safe? In this episode, Chris tackles this difficult but important topic by exploring what happens when people in positions of authority are operating beyond their maturity or capacity. He shares warning signs to...

This episode explores the power of storytelling as a tool for transformation. Stories engage the whole brain, helping us connect ideas, emotions, experiences, and relationships in meaningful ways. Storytelling is a powerful relational brain skill that can help us learn new skills, make sense of our experiences, and create new connections in our minds. When we tell and hear stories, we aren’t just...

Part 2 of our series explores the brain’s “Verbal Logical Explainer” and how past pain can distort the way we see ourselves, others, and reality. Identity wounds and the lies we believe about ourselves can be some of the most toxic—and hardest to recognize on our own. In this episode, we explore how spiritual warfare can help us recognize and confront those lies, while turning to God and trusted p...

Have you ever wondered how your brain makes sense of your feelings and the world around you? Meet your Verbal Logical Explainer, aka: VLE.  In this episode, we unpack how this internal mechanism dictates your perception of life and relationships—and what happens when it gets hijacked by past pain. Learn how to spot the lies your VLE tells you when you're hurting, break free from negative ment...

Dismissing your emotions can have lasting consequences—but emotions are meant to be felt, understood, and shared. When we express what we're feeling in safe, supportive relationships, it becomes easier to calm our minds, regulate our emotions, and process our experiences. Emotions play a vital role in our growth, relationships, and overall well-being.  Tune in to discover whether you've...

At THRIVEtoday, we describe relational skills as emotional intelligence put into practice through an attachment-based, Christ-centered framework. While emotional intelligence helps us understand emotions, relational skills help us stay connected—to God, to ourselves, and to others—especially in the midst of life's challenges. 🔗 Check out our online course, "Tools for Navigating Emotions...

Why can't learning relational skills be a one-and-done experience?  In this episode, we explore how God designed our brains to grow and change through repeated, meaningful relationships. Discover why lasting transformation happens through consistent, positive experiences rather than a single moment of insight. We'll also discuss practical ways to joyfully connect with others, build healt...

Most marriages don’t drift apart because of a major crisis, but because they lose their daily rhythm of connection. In this episode, discover six practical ways relational skills help couples sustain joy, navigate conflict, and protect their marriage from emotional drifting. Tune in to discover how small, everyday interactions build lasting resilience, and stick around for a simple connection exer...

We spend months planning a wedding, but how much time do we invest in preparing our brains for a lifetime of connection?  This episode explores how newlywed couples can build rock-solid emotional habits right from the start. You’ll discover why becoming a "repair expert" matters far more than avoiding conflict entirely, and how practicing joy when life is easy protects your bond when the...

Some relationships feel natural, while others can be challenging. By learning to read the signals people communicate, we can better understand others, build meaningful connections, and offer the gift of being truly seen. Join us as we explore a practical path toward fulfilling the commandment to love our neighbors. 🔗 Learn more Thrive Premier Training: https://thrivetoday.org/premier-training Tha...

The evidence is clear: loneliness is on the rise, and the loss of meaningful social connection is taking a toll on both our mental and physical well-being. But it doesn’t have to stay that way. Join us as we discuss how we can push back against this cultural trend and equip ourselves—and the next generation—with the skills needed for healthy, thriving relationships. At THRIVEtoday, we help people...

Summer can pass in a blur of activities, leaving little room for meaningful connection with the people who matter most. In this episode, Chris shares practical ways to slow down, savor the moments, strengthen relationships, and keep joy at the center of your summer. 🔗 Take the 28-Day Joy Challenge: https://4habits.org 🔗 Check out the 4 Habit book series: https://thrivetoday.org/4-habits-series...

Have you ever wondered why reading a "how-to" book doesn't instantly make you an expert on that subject? Information alone doesn't equal transformation.  In this episode, we go on a deep dive into brain science to uncover the mechanics of how our brains actually change, develop skills, and build habits. Join us as we explore the neurological bridge between knowing what to do an...

Is focusing on relational skills actually Biblical, or is it just modern psychology? In this episode, Chris dives into the crucial difference between simply pursuing Bible knowledge and actually living out those truths in our daily interactions. Listen in as we explore the vital role relational skills play in our faith, and how mastering them allows us to truly reflect the character of God to a wo...

In a world that often pits logic against emotion, we are frequently taught that our feelings cannot be trusted. Many faith circles suggest that the ultimate fix for emotional struggle is to suppress our anxiety or sadness and simply declare biblical truth over ourselves. But is that how our minds—or our faith—were actually designed to function? Today we'll explore how emotions and truth work...

Experiencing a breach of trust from someone close to us can cause profound emotional pain. Navigating the road to healing and rebuilding relationships is challenging but possible. Our friend Wendy shares her personal journey through a betrayal situation. Discover how she connected with God to process her emotions, maintain healthy relationships, and move forward with wholeness. 🔗 Dive deeper into...

Why do mental health professionals consider the ability to quiet ourselves a key predictor of lifelong mental health? In this episode, Chris explores the importance of learning to rest and quiet ourselves, and why this practice is emphasized so often at THRIVEtoday. He also highlights a resource from Life Model Works designed to help us assess how well we truly rest and quiet ourselves—and recogni...

Did you know it’s possible to measure not only your level of joy, but even signs of “false joy”? While you can pay thousands of dollars for a brain scans, in this episode we’re sharing a free joy assessment resource you can use to get started as well as simple, practical ways to begin intentional strengthening your joy levels today. Understanding your current level of joy can help you identify whe...

On the heels of our event "The Pain of Disappointment: When Leaders Let us Down", this episode talks about how we can grow and become leaders who tenderly care for the people we shepherd. All leaders will make mistakes, but there are key skills and areas of growth we can pursue to become more like Jesus and lead with His heart. 🔗 Read the Rare Leadership book: https://www.amazon.com/Rar...

Tune in to hear our friend Steve tell about his journey to becoming a mature, safe elder for his children and grandchildren. He reminds us that it’s never too late to grow and become the person God created us to be! 🔗 Our 5-day in-person training is the most immersive experience we offer — designed to strengthen your skills through live practice in an intentional, joy-filled environment. Learn mo...

Chris explores how people have understood and dealt with human emotions throughout history, highlighting how different philosophies have shaped both hearts and lives. Turning to the Bible, he examines healthy ways to respond to strong emotions and gently guides us through an interaction with Immanuel, helping us process our own deep feelings in a meaningful way. 🔗 Tools for Navigating Emotions pr...

Chris and Jen explore moments when they—or the people they’re engaging with—slip into “enemy mode” during conflict. They discuss what it feels like, how it shapes our thinking, how to recognize it in others, and practical ways to shift back into a more relational, compassionate mindset. 🔗 LIVE on May 7th: "The Pain of Disappointment: When Leaders Let Us Down" Join Chris Coursey for a 3...

How can practicing relational skills enhance your everyday interactions? What impact might they have on evangelism and representing Jesus to others? In this episode, Chris and one of our Thrive missionary friends share personal stories highlighting the transformative difference these skills have made as they integrate them into both daily life and ministry. 🔗 Our 5-day in-person training is the m...