How to Strengthen Your Relationship After Becoming Parents: Tips from Sharon Costanzo
Ep. 73 on the All Figured Out Podcast
Navigating the transition to parenthood is a big adjustment, not just for individuals but for relationships too. Sharon Costanzo, relationship coach and host of the Respected & Connected podcast, knows this all too well. In our conversation, Sharon shares practical strategies for fostering connection and collaboration in your partnership after becoming parents.
Sharon’s journey began in the LDS community, where traditional gender roles and expectations were the norm. But she chose a different path—prioritizing education and independence over the pressure to conform. This experience shaped her approach to relationships, one that focuses on mutual respect, communication, and teamwork.
Here are the key takeaways from our conversation:
1. Communication is the Foundation of Any Relationship
Miscommunication and unspoken expectations often lead to resentment. Sharon emphasizes the importance of regular, honest conversations to ensure both partners feel seen and heard.
2. Heal Resentment Through Collaborative Problem-Solving
Resentment doesn’t heal on its own. Sharon shares tools for working through conflict by addressing underlying issues and creating a plan that works for both partners.
3. Break Free from Traditional Roles
Sharon’s story is a testament to the power of forging your own path. By challenging traditional roles, couples can build relationships that reflect their shared values rather than societal expectations.
4. Prioritize Teamwork in Parenting
Parenthood isn’t a one-person job. Sharon encourages couples to adopt a teamwork mindset, where both partners contribute to childcare, household responsibilities, and decision-making.
5. Seek Support When Needed
Sometimes, a little help from a coach or therapist can make all the difference. Sharon’s work focuses on giving couples the tools they need to overcome challenges and build stronger connections.
Summary
Parenthood changes everything—including your relationship. But with the right tools and mindset, it’s possible to grow closer and build a partnership rooted in respect and collaboration. Listen to my full conversation with Sharon Costanzo on the All Figured Out podcast to hear more about her journey and tips for creating a happy, healthy relationship.
In This Episode We Discuss:
How Sharon’s upbringing in the LDS community shaped her approach to relationships and independence
Common relationship challenges couples face after becoming parents
Communication strategies to break down barriers and heal resentment
Sharon’s personal journey to building a stronger marriage
Tips for fostering teamwork and collaboration in parenting
Time-stamps:
03:15 – Sharon’s story: Growing up LDS and forging her own path
10:30 – Common relationship challenges when transitioning to parenthood
18:50 – Communication strategies for breaking down barriers and healing resentment
27:40 – Sharon’s personal journey to a stronger marriage
35:10 – Tips for creating teamwork and collaboration in your relationship
About Sharon Costanzo:
Sharon Costanzo is a relationship coach and host of the Respected & Connected podcast. As a Gottman Seven Principles Educator and Relational Life Therapy practitioner, Sharon specializes in helping couples work through communication struggles, heal resentment, and create stronger partnerships. With over five years of experience, she’s helped countless couples build more meaningful, fulfilling relationships.
Website: respectedandconnected.com
Instagram: @respected_and_connected
Offer for All Figured Out listeners:
Free Quiz: Healthy Marriage Checkup.
Related episodes:
Ep. 4: Ann Visser on figuring out how to build stronger relationships and communication tools as parents – Spotify or Apple
Ep. 20: Valerie Recore on figuring out how to distribute household tasks more evenly at home – Spotify or Apple
Ep. 25: Wellbeing and efficiency: how hiring experts can help you figure out your life – Spotify or Apple
About Andrea Barr, host of All Figured Out:
Andrea is a certified career and life coach for parents. Through her coaching, she supports parents in finding better work-life rhythms so they can continue to grow personally and professionally without sacrificing family time.
Connect with Andrea via Instagram here or her website here.
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