What if the real problem in love isn’t lack of effort, it’s following the wrong playbook? In this energizing, no-fluff conversation, host Pulkit Garg (Founder, Aanya Wellness) sits down with Monica Tanner—RLT-trained Relationship Coach and host of Secrets of Happily Ever After: to challenge the clichés that quietly drain intimacy and joy. Monica calls marriage a “people-growing machine”—powerful, a little scary, and absolutely worth it. Together, we unpack why popular advice like “compromise,” “never go to bed angry,” “happy wife, happy life,” and “find someone who completes you” can backfire, leading to scorekeeping, resentment, and distance. Instead, Monica lays out how to shift from compromise to collaboration: getting curious about each other’s positions, naming real needs, and co-creating solutions neither partner could reach alone. You’ll hear practical, compassionate guidance for: Stopping chronic compromise without guilt—by setting clear, loving boundaries.Breaking cycles of blame and defensiveness with emotional honesty and repair.Getting more of what you truly want—even when it feels vulnerable to ask.Navigating modern myths shaped by media, patriarchy, and “perfect match” fantasies.Talking about sexual compatibility—what to discuss, and how to create a safe container (with or without premarital intimacy). Whether you’re dating, newly married, or decades in, this episode offers mindset shifts and simple scripts to replace roommate syndrome with real connection. Expect humor, real-world examples, and a fresh vision of partnership where two whole people build a life that feels expansive—together. Guest bio: Monica Tanner is an RLT-trained Relationship Coach and author of Bad Marriage Advice. Through her podcast, coaching, and vibrant community, she helps couples ditch resentment and rebuild communication, connection, conflict resolution, and commitment. Subscribe to "We Are Listening" for an enriching conversation that unveils the transformative potential of conscious breathing. Join us as we learn, listen, and breathe our way to holistic well-being. Are you also looking to share your knowledge with the world? If yes, please schedule an introductory call with our team: https://calendly.com/aanya-wellness/explore-synergies We run a community of wellness experts, where we help foster more meaningful relationships and value adds for our members. Join the community by sharing your interest here: https://forms.gle/fQLDZt8u2sTEVSoL6 Also, we run a free initiative to help you with your mental health struggles. Vent out all you want today: https://facebook.com/wearelisteningaw Be a part of the Aanya Wellness wellness community: https://forms.gle/4ABZspqs1a1CSXEW7
