The Learning Love Podcast

Dr. Mark A. Hicks
  • 5.0 (2)
  • RELATIONSHIPS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Peace of mind, health, and happiness all come from healthy relationships. Connections with family, friends, co-workers, and spouse or partner lead to personal and professional success. Dr. Mark A. Hicks, author of the book 'Learning Love,' provides tangible, real-life insights on how to build healthy, happy, thriving relationships, even if you come from a dysfunctional family background, have been through a divorce, or struggled with relationships in the past. Love isn't about fate. Love is a skill set, and this is the place to learn that skill set as we spend some time learning love. Brought to you by The Learning Love Foundation: https://www.learninglovefoundation.com/ Order "Learning Love: Building a Life that Matters and Healthy Relationships that Last": https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/learning-love-mark-a-hicks/1146412363?ean=9781636985954 Visit Dr. Mark A. Hicks online: https://www.markahicks.com/

  1. 2D AGO

    Living an Audacious Life with the REBUILD Strategy feat. Audley Stephenson

    Takeaways Rebuilding starts with self-awareness: reflection and evaluation help you understand what brought you here and what needs to change.Belief fuels movement: confidence isn’t optional when you’re starting over—it’s the engine that helps you keep going.Audacity is already in you: you don’t need permission to take a small courageous step—practice builds momentum.In this episode of The Learning Love Podcast, Dr. Mark A. Hicks talks with Audley Stephenson (host of The Audacious Living Podcast) about how to rebuild your life when hardship hits—whether it’s trauma, career loss, divorce, depression, or a season of starting over. Audley shares his personal journey from basketball media and leadership to a pandemic-triggered loss of identity—and how he rebuilt by pivoting back to purpose-driven podcasting. Together, they unpack Audley’s REBUILD Strategy and the truth that audacity and love are capacities we already have, but must learn to practice. Key Topics Covered: Why life rarely turns out exactly as planned—and why rebuilding is part of the human experienceAudley’s pivot from basketball commissioner to purpose-driven creator after the pandemicThe REBUILD Strategy: Reflect, Evaluate, Believe, Understand, Innovate, Learn, DevelopWhy people try to skip reflection—and how self-awareness supports real changeAudacity myths (it’s not just for extroverts or “big” risks) and how small steps build courageHills and valleys: how to experience hardship without making it your homeDr. Mark A. Hicks, author of the book 'Learning Love,' provides tangible, real-life insights on how to build healthy, happy, thriving relationships, even if you come from a dysfunctional family background, have been through a divorce, or struggled with relationships in the past. Love isn't about fate. Love is a skill set, and this is the place to learn that skill set as we spend some time learning love. Order "Learning Love: Building a Life that Matters and Healthy Relationships that Last": https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/learning-love-mark-a-hicks/1146412363?ean=9781636985954 Visit Dr. Mark A. Hicks online: https://www.markahicks.com/

    25 min

  2. FEB 16

    What to Do When You’re Not Being Heard in Your Relationship (Without Yelling)

    Takeaways If you feel unheard, move from casual comments to clear, calm, eye-to-eye communication.Use a simple tool to confirm understanding: ask your partner to repeat back what they heard.Avoid the escalation trap—yelling or manipulation may ‘work,’ but it costs connection.Discern the issue: negotiable irritation vs. moral/ethical boundary vs. safety concern.Sometimes love means: “I don’t like this, but I love you—and I can live with it” (when it’s healthy to do so).Dr. Mark A. Hicks explores what to do when you’re not being heard in a relationship—especially in marriage or long-term partnership. He emphasizes that being unheard doesn’t always mean a relationship is broken; often life is busy and communication gets lost. The solution starts with intentional timing and calm clarity: sit down, make eye contact, and name the problem without blame. He recommends using reflective listening—asking your partner to repeat back the idea of what you said—to confirm the message landed. If the issue persists, Dr. Hicks warns against a common temptation: escalating volume or using manipulation. While it can create short-term compliance, it typically leads to resentment and shutdown. Finally, he encourages discernment: some issues are non-negotiable (safety, moral or ethical boundaries), but many frustrations are not worth damaging the relationship over. Healthy relationships don’t have to be perfect—they need to be healthy, connected, and grounded in love. Key Topics Covered: Feeling unheard in marriage and romantic partnershipsClear, calm communication vs. casual commentsTiming, attention, and “eye-to-eye” conversationsReflective listening: repeating back what was heardThe escalation trap: yelling, wrath, and manipulationChoosing battles: letting go vs. drawing boundariesCore personality traits and realistic expectationsWhen counseling or therapy may be neededHealthy relationships: imperfect but emotionally safe and thriving Dr. Mark A. Hicks, author of the book 'Learning Love,' provides tangible, real-life insights on how to build healthy, happy, thriving relationships, even if you come from a dysfunctional family background, have been through a divorce, or struggled with relationships in the past. Love isn't about fate. Love is a skill set, and this is the place to learn that skill set as we spend some time learning love. Order "Learning Love: Building a Life that Matters and Healthy Relationships that Last": https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/learning-love-mark-a-hicks/1146412363?ean=9781636985954 Visit Dr. Mark A. Hicks online: https://www.markahicks.com/

    19 min

  3. FEB 9

    From Combat Medic to Healer: Bee Doyle’s Journey of Trauma & Transformation

    Takeaways Trauma is not only psychological—it’s stored in the body.Traditional therapy doesn’t always reach the root of trauma.Healing begins by finding safety in your body and nervous system.In this eye-opening episode of The Learning Love Podcast, Dr. Mark Hicks speaks with Bee Doyle, a former combat medic and now spiritual guide, about her journey through PTSD, addiction, and deep healing. Bee opens up about the limitations of traditional therapy and how modalities like breathwork, yoga, and acupuncture helped her reconnect with her body and spirit. This episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling with unresolved trauma or looking for holistic approaches to emotional wellness. Key Topics Covered: Bee’s experience in Afghanistan as a combat medicThe disconnect between external achievements and internal sufferingWhy talk therapy sometimes fails trauma survivorsThe importance of somatic healing and nervous system regulationBreathwork and yoga as entry points for healingAncestral trauma and generational healingHow motherhood deepened Bee’s commitment to healingBee's upcoming book Keepers of the Light Dr. Mark A. Hicks, author of the book 'Learning Love,' provides tangible, real-life insights on how to build healthy, happy, thriving relationships, even if you come from a dysfunctional family background, have been through a divorce, or struggled with relationships in the past. Love isn't about fate. Love is a skill set, and this is the place to learn that skill set as we spend some time learning love. Order "Learning Love: Building a Life that Matters and Healthy Relationships that Last": https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/learning-love-mark-a-hicks/1146412363?ean=9781636985954 Visit Dr. Mark A. Hicks online: https://www.markahicks.com/

    24 min

  4. FEB 2

    Love Is Not Mind Reading: Communicating Your Needs in Marriage

    In this conversation, Mark Hicks explores the essential role of love in building meaningful relationships. He discusses common myths surrounding romantic partnerships, particularly the unrealistic expectation that partners should be mind readers. Hicks emphasizes the importance of communication, appreciation, and gratitude in navigating the complexities of relationships as life evolves. He encourages listeners to articulate their needs and celebrate their partner's efforts, fostering a deeper connection and understanding. Takeaways Love is the answer to building relationships.We must learn to apply love in our lives.Expecting partners to read minds is unrealistic.Compatibility can change over time.Life's complexities require open communication.Expressing needs is crucial in relationships.Gratitude enhances relationship dynamics.Celebrate your partner's efforts, even if imperfect.Assumptions can lead to misunderstandings.Continuous communication strengthens relationships. Dr. Mark A. Hicks, author of the book 'Learning Love,' provides tangible, real-life insights on how to build healthy, happy, thriving relationships, even if you come from a dysfunctional family background, have been through a divorce, or struggled with relationships in the past. Love isn't about fate. Love is a skill set, and this is the place to learn that skill set as we spend some time learning love. Order "Learning Love: Building a Life that Matters and Healthy Relationships that Last": https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/learning-love-mark-a-hicks/1146412363?ean=9781636985954 Visit Dr. Mark A. Hicks online: https://www.markahicks.com/

    16 min

  5. JAN 26

    The Platinum Rule in Grief: Lessons on Love from Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen

    Pre-order Liz's book: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/flowers-bloom-anyway-a-memoir-liz-fiedler-mergen/1148638651?ean=9781636989273 In this deeply moving episode of The Learning Love Podcast, host Dr. Mark A. Hicks sits down with Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen—nurse practitioner, flower farmer, podcast host, and author—for an unforgettable conversation on love, loss, grief, and resilience. Just four months into her career as a nurse practitioner, Liz's life was turned upside down when her husband passed away suddenly from a heart attack. She was pregnant with their second child. What followed was a journey through unimaginable grief, single parenthood, and ultimately, the rebuilding of a life she never planned—but one she now loves. In this episode, you’ll hear: How Liz turned a small flower stand into a thriving flower farm and event spaceWhy anger is a natural (and often overlooked) stage of griefThe difference between the Golden Rule and the Platinum Rule in supporting others through lossHow community, practical support, and honest conversations carried her through her darkest daysThe emotional challenges and beauty of finding love again and blending familiesBehind-the-scenes stories from her upcoming memoir, Flowers Bloom Anyway: Rebuilding a Life You Didn’t Choose Dr. Mark A. Hicks, author of the book 'Learning Love,' provides tangible, real-life insights on how to build healthy, happy, thriving relationships, even if you come from a dysfunctional family background, have been through a divorce, or struggled with relationships in the past. Love isn't about fate. Love is a skill set, and this is the place to learn that skill set as we spend some time learning love. Order "Learning Love: Building a Life that Matters and Healthy Relationships that Last": https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/learning-love-mark-a-hicks/1146412363?ean=9781636985954 Visit Dr. Mark A. Hicks online: https://www.markahicks.com/

    28 min

  6. JAN 19

    Why Love Can't Thrive Without Relaxation: Practical Tools for Peaceful Relationships

    In this episode, Mark Hicks delves into the profound concept that 'love is the answer' and emphasizes the importance of creating a peaceful environment for love to flourish. He discusses how stress and tension can hinder emotional connections in relationships, whether with partners, family, or friends. Mark highlights the necessity of learning to relax, as many individuals struggle to unwind even when there are no immediate crises. He explains that relaxation is a skill that requires practice and cannot simply be forced through willpower or logic. Mark provides practical strategies for achieving relaxation, such as engaging in active relaxation techniques, deep breathing, and reassuring oneself of safety. He stresses that relaxation is not about demanding it from oneself but rather about earning it through acknowledgment of one’s efforts and achievements. By practicing these techniques, individuals can improve their emotional connections and overall well-being, leading to healthier relationships. The episode concludes with a reminder that learning to relax is a journey that can significantly enhance the quality of our interactions with loved ones. Takeaways Love is the answer; we must explore the questions.Relaxation is a skill that needs to be learned.You cannot force yourself to relax; it requires practice.Reassuring yourself that you are safe can help your nervous system.Active relaxation techniques can aid in unwinding. Dr. Mark A. Hicks, author of the book 'Learning Love,' provides tangible, real-life insights on how to build healthy, happy, thriving relationships, even if you come from a dysfunctional family background, have been through a divorce, or struggled with relationships in the past. Love isn't about fate. Love is a skill set, and this is the place to learn that skill set as we spend some time learning love. Order "Learning Love: Building a Life that Matters and Healthy Relationships that Last": https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/learning-love-mark-a-hicks/1146412363?ean=9781636985954 Visit Dr. Mark A. Hicks online: https://www.markahicks.com/

    14 min

  7. JAN 12

    The Hidden Power of Sadness in Building Stronger Relationships

    In this conversation, Mark Hicks delves into the multifaceted nature of love, emphasizing the importance of emotions, particularly sadness, in fostering healthy relationships. He argues that society has largely replaced sadness with anger, leading to a culture that values toughness over vulnerability. Hicks advocates for the reintroduction of sadness as a necessary emotion for healing and compassion, suggesting that acknowledging our feelings can lead to healthier interactions in families, workplaces, and communities. Takeaways Love is the answer, but we must explore the questions.Emotion is a vital component of love.Sadness is an emotion we need to bring back.Society often replaces sadness with anger.Anger is a stereotype for strength, especially in men.Women also face pressure to appear strong and tough.Sadness is often dismissed as weakness.Our nervous system reacts differently to anger and sadness.Sadness calls us to healing and compassion.We need to practice sadness to improve our relationships. Chapters 00:00 The Three Phases of Starting Over 03:35 The Dismissal of Feelings in Business and Family 06:10 The Replacement of Sadness with Anger 10:03 Understanding Anger and Sadness 12:26 The Importance of Compassion and Healing Dr. Mark A. Hicks, author of the book 'Learning Love,' provides tangible, real-life insights on how to build healthy, happy, thriving relationships, even if you come from a dysfunctional family background, have been through a divorce, or struggled with relationships in the past. Love isn't about fate. Love is a skill set, and this is the place to learn that skill set as we spend some time learning love. Order "Learning Love: Building a Life that Matters and Healthy Relationships that Last": https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/learning-love-mark-a-hicks/1146412363?ean=9781636985954 Visit Dr. Mark A. Hicks online: https://www.markahicks.com/

    13 min

  8. JAN 5

    The Power of Love in Starting Over and Moving Forward

    In this conversation, Mark Hicks explores the concept of starting over in life, emphasizing that love is the answer to many of life's challenges. He discusses the importance of recognizing when it's time to make a change, the fantasy of erasing the past, and the necessity of going through a grief process to heal. Hicks highlights the significance of mutual agreement in relationships, the unpredictability of life, and the importance of learning from past experiences without creating villains. He also addresses the need for a strategic approach to professional changes and outlines three essential phases for starting over: grief, honesty, and taking small steps. Takeaways Love is the answer to life's challenges.You are never truly stuck in life.Starting over requires a realistic approach, not fantasy.Grief is essential for healing and moving forward.Emotional scars can coexist with a fulfilling life.New patterns must replace old ones for true change.Life's unpredictability means you don't need a clear vision.Learning from past relationships is crucial for growth.Avoid creating villains in your personal narratives.Take small, actionable steps towards change.Chapters 00:00 The Power of Love and Starting Over 02:05 Facing the Fantasy of Starting Over 04:45 The Process of Healing and Grief 08:44 Building New Patterns in Relationships 12:48 Starting Over Alone: Lessons Learned 16:19 Navigating Career Changes and Professional Growth 21:08 The Three Phases of Starting Over Dr. Mark A. Hicks, author of the book 'Learning Love,' provides tangible, real-life insights on how to build healthy, happy, thriving relationships, even if you come from a dysfunctional family background, have been through a divorce, or struggled with relationships in the past. Love isn't about fate. Love is a skill set, and this is the place to learn that skill set as we spend some time learning love. Order "Learning Love: Building a Life that Matters and Healthy Relationships that Last": https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/learning-love-mark-a-hicks/1146412363?ean=9781636985954 Visit Dr. Mark A. Hicks online: https://www.markahicks.com/

    23 min
See All (71)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Peace of mind, health, and happiness all come from healthy relationships. Connections with family, friends, co-workers, and spouse or partner lead to personal and professional success. Dr. Mark A. Hicks, author of the book 'Learning Love,' provides tangible, real-life insights on how to build healthy, happy, thriving relationships, even if you come from a dysfunctional family background, have been through a divorce, or struggled with relationships in the past. Love isn't about fate. Love is a skill set, and this is the place to learn that skill set as we spend some time learning love. Brought to you by The Learning Love Foundation: https://www.learninglovefoundation.com/ Order "Learning Love: Building a Life that Matters and Healthy Relationships that Last": https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/learning-love-mark-a-hicks/1146412363?ean=9781636985954 Visit Dr. Mark A. Hicks online: https://www.markahicks.com/

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Mark A. Hicks
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    71
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Dr. Mark A. Hicks 2024
  • Show Website
    The Learning Love Podcast