Make More Love

Ellen Dorian

Are you a male business leader who wants a hot and healthy marriage but feels consumed by the relentless demands of growing your company? Welcome! Make More Love is the podcast for high-performing male business leaders who want to achieve the business of their dreams—without losing the love of their life. Join host Ellen Dorian, veteran relationship expert and business coach, as she reveals practical strategies to maintain connection and intimate intensity in committed relationships. The show is a space for straight-up, judgment-free conversations about how listeners can be extraordinary in every way that matters—from handling the complexities of business to creating a deeply passionate relationship with their life partner without losing sight of what makes them uniquely themselves. Ellen brings her extensive expertise to challenge obsolete notions of masculinity, transactional thinking, false hierarchies, and the “work-life balance” myth—all of which can get in the way of building passionate, fulfilling life partnerships. This isn’t therapy. Traditional marriage counseling doesn’t resonate with everyone, so this show delivers practical, relatable advice that leverages the skills business leaders have already mastered in their work to strengthen their relationships. Tune in weekly for actionable ideas tailored to the unique relationship challenges male business leaders face. The segments are short, so you can listen whenever you have a few minutes—in the car, at the gym, or on the john. Ellen's insights and guest conversations with men who’ve been where you are will resonate and inspire. Plus, with captioned episodes, you can engage anytime, anywhere, with or without sound. Make More Love gives you a strategic advantage in cultivating a partnership built on mutual respect, appreciation, and true intimacy. Prepare to hear transformative ideas that deliver fast and lasting results. It’s time to focus on what matters most and Make More Love—in Your Life and With Your Wife. Notes: Intended for Adult Audiences: The Make More Love podcast is intended for adult audiences age 18+ only and contains content related to adult life issues. Some material may be considered "not safe for work." Please exercise discretion about where and with whom you listen to the show. Disclaimer: The Make More Love podcast is for informational purposes only. None of the information provided by the host or guests should be interpreted as a substitute for professional legal, financial, medical, or therapeutic advice or care. Always seek the guidance of a qualified professional with any questions or concerns about your specific situation. Rights and Permissions: By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that the entire contents are the property of the Ellen Dorian Group/Passionate Partners Project (Ellen Dorian) or used by Ellen Dorian with permission and are protected under U.S. and international copyright laws.

  1. 78: Blame, Judgment, and Avoidance — The Hidden Cost of Staying Stuck

    APR 9

    78: Blame, Judgment, and Avoidance — The Hidden Cost of Staying Stuck

    Ellen continues her conversation with Bill Storm — Peak Performance Strategist and veteran of both the Tony Robbins organization and the John Maxwell Leadership Team — diving into three things that keep high-performing business owners from having the conversations that matter most. Part 1: Blame Blame isn't one thing — it's three. Ellen breaks down fair blame, unfair blame, and self-blame, and gives you a practical strategy for handling each one. The goal isn't to avoid blame altogether. It's to stop letting it run your life. Part 2: Judgment Judgment hits differently than blame because it goes after your identity — not what you did, but who you are. Ellen and Bill talk about why high-performing men are particularly vulnerable to this, and why the best strategy is simpler than you think. Part 3: Avoidance If blame and judgment are the stimulus, avoidance is the response. Ellen makes the case that most of us undersell ourselves when it comes to dealing with hard situations — and that the skills you need to have this conversation are skills you already have. You just haven't applied them here yet. Key Takeaways:Blame has three forms — fair, unfair, and self-blame — and each one has a strategyYou can't control whether people judge you. You can control whether you let it drive your behaviorThe skills you need to have the hard conversation are skills you already use every day in your businessYou don't have to solve the problem. You just have to identify it. That's where it starts. Call to Action: If you take the advice in this episode and it goes sideways — or if you just want a second pair of eyes on your specific situation — book a free Relationship Reset Call at relationshipresetcall.com. It's quick, private, and free. Closing Thoughts: Quote from Tony Robbins: "The quality of your life is the quality of your relationships." That's the reason this work matters. Next episode we're getting into the five-step Relationship Operating System — the same key strategies that drive success in business, applied to your relationship. Support & Resources: Ellen invites listeners to share their thoughts, either in the P3 Insider's Community or directly with her via email. For one-on-one brainstorming on a specific situation, listeners can set up a time on Ellen's calendar for a free Relationship Reset Call. For immediate insights, take the Relationship Dynamics Scorecard: A fast, free quiz to pinpoint relationship strengths and stressors, and identify priorities that need your attention. Find it at: MakeMoreLove.show/quiz All links can be found below. Share the Love: If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might benefit. Leave a Review for Make More Love: https://www.makemorelove.show/reviews/new/ About the Host: Ellen Dorian is a relationship and business coach dedicated to helping high-performing business leaders truly create the business, relationship, and life that most entrepreneurs only dream of. Disclaimer: The Make More Love show is for information and entertainment purposes only, and reflects the personal opinions and experiences of the host and guests. It is not a substitute for professional advice or guidance in specific situations. "Love isn't something you just find. You have to make it. And that's my mission — to help you Make More Love, with Your Wife and In Your Life." — Ellen Dorian Make More Love Show Website: www.makemorelove.show Parent Company - The Passionate Partners Project: www.passionatepartnersproject.com Join Our Passionate Partners Insider Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/682764239165105 Contact Me Directly: Email: ellen@passionatepartnersproject.com Or direct message me via social media:Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ellen.dorian.7/ LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellendorian/ Take the free Relationship Dynamics Quiz: http://makemorelove.show/quiz Set up a Free Relationship Reset Call with me:http://relationshipresetcall.com

    16 min
  2. 77: Wake-Up Call--A No-BS Conversation with Bill Storm About Business and Marriage

    MAR 27

    77: Wake-Up Call--A No-BS Conversation with Bill Storm About Business and Marriage

    In this season opener, Ellen sits down with Bill Storm — Peak Performance Strategist and veteran of both the Tony Robbins organization and the John Maxwell Leadership Team — for a candid conversation about what really happens to your relationship when you're deep in the work of building a company. Bill opens up about his own 25-year marriage, and the conversation gets real—fast! Part 1: The Blind Spot Business owners are wired for optimism. It's what makes us great at building companies — and it's exactly what makes us miss the warning signs in our relationships. Ellen and Bill talk about the pattern they both see constantly: the erosion that happens while you're heads-down in the business, right up until it's not okay anymore. Part 2: How Do I Even Start? One question Ellen hears a lot from married business owners is not "how do I fix my relationship" — it's "how do I even begin that conversation?" Bill asks it too. Ellen walks him through a simple, business-minded approach to opening that dialogue with your spouse — without it turning into a fight. Part 3: The Relationship SWOT Ellen introduces the first step of the 5-Step Relationship Operating System — a SWOT analysis for your relationship. Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. Bill uses his own marriage as the live example, and the result is one of the most honest and relatable conversations you'll hear about what it's really like to be married and building a business at the same time. Key Takeaways:You can't just hang in and hope things work out — relationships need a plan just like your business doesThe ego hit of a struggling relationship is real, but it's only useful if it leads to actionYou and your partner showed up with completely different rule books — and nobody told either of you that going inYour spouse is probably hoping you'll start this conversation — it won't be met with the resistance you're expecting Call to Action: Ready to take stock of where your relationship stands? Book a free Relationship Reset Call at relationshipresetcall.com — it's quick, private and free. Closing Thoughts: If this episode hit close to home, you're exactly who this show is for. The good news is that the same skills that make you great at business can make you great at your relationship too. That's what this season is all about — and we're just getting started. Support & Resources: Ellen invites listeners to share their thoughts, either in the P3 Insider's Community or directly with her via email. Or, for one on one brainstorming on a specific situation, listeners can set up a time on Ellen's Calendar for a free Relationship Reset Call. For immediate insights, take the Relationship Dynamics Scorecard: A fast free quiz to pinpoint relationship strengths and stressors, and identify priorities that need your attention. Find it at: MakeMoreLove.show/quiz All links can be found below. Share the Love: If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might benefit. Leave a Review for Make More Love: https://www.makemorelove.show/reviews/new/ About the Host: Ellen Dorian is a relationship and business coach dedicated to helping high-performing business leaders truly create the business, relationship, and life that most entrepreneurs only dream of. Disclaimer: The Make More Love show is for information and entertainment purposes only, and reflects the personal opinions and experiences of the host and guests. It is not a substitute for professional advice or guidance in specific situations. "Love isn't something you just find. You have to make it. And that's my mission — to help you Make More Love, with Your Wife and In Your Life." — Ellen Dorian Make More Love Show Website: www.makemorelove.show Parent Company - The Passionate Partners Project: www.passionatepartnersproject.com Join Our Passionate Partners Insider Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/682764239165105 Contact Me Directly: Email: ellen@passionatepartnersproject.com Or direct message me via social media:Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ellen.dorian.7/ LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellendorian/ Take the free Relationship Dynamics Quiz: http://makemorelove.show/quiz Set up a Free Relationship Reset Call with me:http://relationshipresetcall.com

    17 min
  3. 76: Annual Special: Valentine’s Day—Hallmark Holiday or Passionate Power Play

    FEB 5

    76: Annual Special: Valentine’s Day—Hallmark Holiday or Passionate Power Play

    In this Valentine’s Day special episode, Ellen Dorian dives into the history, meaning, and modern-day pressures of the holiday. Whether listeners are diehard romantics or Valentine’s Day cynics, Ellen provides practical advice and creative ideas to help them plan a day that fits their relationship. From understanding their partner’s expectations to avoiding last-minute stress, this episode is packed with insights to make Valentine's Day a meaningful and stress-free experience. Part 1: Understanding Valentine's Day A look at the origins of the holiday, including its rebellious roots in ancient Rome.Why Valentine’s Day can feel commercialized and how shifting perspectives can help.The significance of aligning with or acknowledging a partner's attachment to the day. Part 2: Meeting Relationship Expectations The importance of understanding a partner’s expectations for Valentine's Day.The consequences of ignoring the holiday if it's important to one partner.Two options: setting clear boundaries or using the holiday to strengthen the relationship. Part 3: Planning a Personalized Valentine’s Day Strategies for different types of relationships: Partners who are indifferent to the holiday.Partners who want something special but aren’t tied to traditions.Traditionalists who expect classic Valentine’s Day elements (roses, chocolates, fancy dinner). Key Takeaways:Understanding how a partner feels about romantic gestures can prevent miscommunication and disappointment.Thoughtful, personalized efforts go a long way in building a stronger, more affectionate relationship.Planning ahead ensures less stress, fewer mistakes, and a better overall experience. Call to Action:Listeners can download the Ultimate Valentine’s Day Planning Kit to get a head start on their planning. The kit includes a timeline, curated gift ideas, and a planner to keep everything organized. Get our Ultimate Valentine's Day Planning Kit:Download it now Closing Thoughts:Ellen encourages listeners to take one small step to elevate their next Valentine’s Day, whether this year’s celebration is a hit or a lesson learned. Showing a partner that they are understood and appreciated strengthens intimacy, affection, and resilience in the relationship. Support & Resources:Ellen invites listeners to share their thoughts, either in the P3 Insider's Community or directly with her via email. Or, for one on one brainstorming on a specific situation, listeners can set up a time on Ellen's Calendar for a free Relationship Reset Call. All links can be found below. "Until next time, remember, 'What I want most in the world is for you to Make More Love with Your Wife and In Your Life.'" - Ellen DorianDisclaimer:The Make More Love show is for information and entertainment purposes only, and reflects the personal opinions and experiences of the host and guests. It is not a substitute for professional advice or guidance in specific situations. Make More Love Show Website: www.makemorelove.show Parent Company - The Passionate Partners Project: www.passionatepartnersproject.com Join Our Passionate Partners Insider Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/682764239165105 Contact Me Directly: Email: ellen@passionatepartnersproject.com Or direct message me via social media:Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ellen.dorian.7/ LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellendorian/ Take the free Relationship Dynamics Quiz: http://makemorelove.show/quiz Set up a Free Relationship Reset Call with me:http://relationshipresetcall.com

    16 min
  4. 75: Annual Christmas Episode:  The Spirit of Generosity in Relationships

    12/23/2025

    75: Annual Christmas Episode: The Spirit of Generosity in Relationships

    In this special holiday episode, Ellen Dorian reflects on the Spirit of Generosity, a concept she learned from her father and continues to embody in her coaching. Through heartfelt storytelling, she introduces the five aspects of generosity—emotional, relational, philosophical, action-oriented, and legacy-focused—and shares actionable ways to bring these into your relationships. This episode is a guide to creating deeper connections, fostering trust, and leaving a meaningful legacy for your loved ones. Part 1: A Holiday Story About GenerosityEllen shares a moving story about her father’s approach to Christmas and the lessons he imparted through the concept of Santa Claus as the embodiment of generosity.She recounts her dad’s final gift to her, The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry, and how it symbolizes selflessness, love, and sacrifice in relationships. Part 2: The Five Aspects of GenerosityEmotional Generosity: Giving time, attention, and love freely without expecting anything in return. Includes practical tips like using a “root cause analysis” approach to stay present during emotional conversations.Relational Generosity: Paying attention to your partner’s needs and stepping in to share the mental load. Features the “By The Clock” exercise to anticipate and address tasks proactively.Philosophical Generosity: Cultivating a mindset of abundance by focusing on gratitude and appreciation rather than scarcity or criticism.Action-Oriented Generosity: Doing what you say you’ll do, being reliable, and supporting your partner when it matters most, even when it’s inconvenient.Legacy of Generosity: Building a lasting impact through selflessness in relationships, modeled after her father’s example. Part 3: Holiday ReflectionsEllen encourages listeners to embrace the Spirit of Generosity during the holiday season and to pass it forward in their own lives.She reminds listeners that the greatest gift they can give their children is the example of a passionate and connected partnership. Key Takeaways:Generosity is More Than Money. True generosity lies in how you give your time, attention, and care to those you love. It’s about showing up fully and selflessly in ways that matter most.Emotional and Relational Generosity Build Connection.Trust and connection grow when you’re emotionally present and proactive in supporting your partner’s needs—whether by sharing the mental load or simply listening with focus and care.Your Legacy Begins in Your Relationships.The most impactful legacy you leave isn’t material; it’s the example you set in your relationships. Cultivating a passionate and connected partnership shapes how your children and loved ones approach their own connections. Call to Action:Feeling stuck in your relationship? Schedule a free 15-minute Relationship Reset Call with Ellen to identify key challenges and create a plan to move forward. Visit relationshipresetcall.com to book your spot. Closing Thoughts:Ellen closes with a heartfelt wish for joy, peace, and love during the holiday season. She invites listeners to embrace the Spirit of Generosity and leave a legacy their loved ones will treasure. Support & Resources:Ellen invites listeners to share their thoughts, either in the P3 Insider's Community or directly with her via email. Or, for one on one brainstorming on a specific situation, listeners can set up a time on Ellen's Calendar for a free Relationship Reset Call. All links can be found below. "Until next time, remember, 'What I want most in the world is for you to Make More Love With Your Wife and in Your Life.'" - Ellen DorianDisclaimer:The Make More Love show is for information and entertainment purposes only. It is not a substitute for the guidance of a qualified mental health or medical professional. Make More Love Show Website: www.makemorelove.show Parent Company - The Passionate Partners Project: www.passionatepartnersproject.com Join Our Passionate Partners Insider Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/682764239165105 Contact Me Directly: Email: ellen@passionatepartnersproject.com Or direct message me via social media:Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ellen.dorian.7/ LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellendorian/ Take the free Relationship Dynamics Quiz: http://makemorelove.show/quiz Set up a Free Relationship Reset Call with me:http://relationshipresetcall.com

    14 min
  5. 74: When Christmas Time is Hard

    12/18/2025

    74: When Christmas Time is Hard

    In this heartfelt bonus episode of the Make More Love Podcast, Ellen Dorian addresses the complex emotions that can arise during the Christmas season, especially for those who feel isolated, disconnected, or out-of-step with the festivities. Drawing from personal experiences and real client stories, Ellen offers compassionate strategies for coping with holiday loneliness, respecting individual traditions, and rebuilding meaningful connections—both with ourselves and those we love. Part 1: Navigating the Overwhelm and Outside Expectations Ellen opens the episode by acknowledging the saturation and pressures of the Christmas season, emphasizing that not everyone celebrates—and for many, the unrelenting holiday messaging can feel isolating or invalidating. She shares her own childhood memories of cross-cultural celebrations and discusses how differing traditions, loss, and changes in family dynamics can leave people feeling invisible or alone. Part 2: Reclaiming the Holidays Through Intention and Small Rituals After describing her personal struggles with grief and holiday disconnect, Ellen outlines how she slowly rebuilt her relationship with the season by honoring her feelings, embracing gratitude and generosity, and establishing new, personally meaningful holiday rituals—like joining a caroling group, creating her own movie traditions, or starting small annual rituals just for herself. Part 3: Connection, Grace, and Taking Action—For Yourself and Others Ellen addresses the unique isolation that successful business owners and those in disconnected relationships may experience. She offers a powerful exercise: identifying and fulfilling a childhood wish for yourself (and possibly your partner) to foster reconnection and healing. The episode closes with an appeal for listeners to reach out to those who might be alone, and a reminder that support is available—both through community (like Andy Grant’s virtual hangout) and professional crisis lines. Key Takeaways:Holiday loneliness is real, whether you celebrate or not, and your feelings are valid.Small, intentional changes—like creating a new tradition or reaching out to someone else—can slowly restore a sense of joy and belonging.Giving yourself (and your partner) a “lost” gift from childhood can be a surprisingly meaningful way to reconnect with the spirit of the season.You are not alone—resources, supportive communities, and professional help are available if the season feels overwhelming. Call to Action: Share your own strategies for making the holidays more meaningful with Ellen Dorian by email or in the P3 Insider’s Community. If you’re struggling, consider booking a free Relationship Reset Call for personalized support, or take the Relationship Dynamics Scorecard at MakeMoreLove.show/quiz for immediate insights. Closing Thoughts: Your presence truly is your gift. No matter your circumstances this season, remember that you matter and that reaching out (for support or to offer it) can make a world of difference. Ellen Dorian encourages everyone to take small steps toward building connection, meaning, and, ultimately, more love. Support & Resources: Ellen invites listeners to share their thoughts, either in the P3 Insider's Community or directly with her via email. Or, for one-on-one brainstorming on a specific situation, listeners can set up a time on Ellen's Calendar for a free Relationship Reset Call. For immediate insights, take the Relationship Dynamics Scorecard: A fast free quiz to pinpoint relationship strengths and stressors, and identify priorities that need your attention. Find it at: MakeMoreLove.show/quiz Get connected with Andy Grant's Christmas Day Virtual Hangout here: Realmenfeel.org/group U.S. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline You don't have to handle this alone. Help is available 24/7/365 Call or Text 988, or go to chat.988lifeline.org. All Other Links can be found below. Share the Love: If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might benefit. Leave a Review for Make More Love: https://www.makemorelove.show/reviews/new/ About the Host: Ellen Dorian is a relationship and business coach dedicated to helping high-performing business leaders truly create the business, relationship, and life that most entrepreneurs only dream of. Disclaimer: The Make More Love show is for information and entertainment purposes only, and reflects the personal opinions and experiences of the host and guests. It is not a substitute for professional advice or guidance in specific situations. "Love isn't something you find. You have to make it. And that's my mission-- to help you Make More Love, with Your Wife and In Your Life.'" – Ellen Dorian Make More Love Show Website: www.makemorelove.show Parent Company - The Passionate Partners Project: www.passionatepartnersproject.com Join Our Passionate Partners Insider Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/682764239165105 Contact Me Directly: Email: ellen@passionatepartnersproject.com Or direct message me via social media:Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ellen.dorian.7/ LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellendorian/ Take the free Relationship Dynamics Quiz: http://makemorelove.show/quiz Set up a Free Relationship Reset Call with me:http://relationshipresetcall.com

    18 min
  6. 73: Cut Holiday Relationship Stress Fast with 3 GGG Principles

    12/11/2025

    73: Cut Holiday Relationship Stress Fast with 3 GGG Principles

    The holiday season can transform what should be magical moments into stressful, pressure-filled events—especially for high-performing men balancing relationships, business demands, and personal fulfillment. In this insightful solo episode, host Ellen Dorian shares the practical "GGG Principles"—Gratitude, Generosity, and Grace—as anchors to help couples thrive and deepen connection through the holidays (and beyond). Part 1: The Reality of Holiday Expectations Ellen explores how holidays often shift from childlike excitement to a time burdened with overwhelming expectations, emotional baggage, and pressure to deliver for loved ones—particularly if the relationship is already strained. Part 2: The GGG Principles for Relationship Success: Gratitude: Move beyond obligatory platitudes. Ellen suggests a personal practice focused on recognizing what you genuinely value about your partner. She provides thoughtful questions to guide listeners through recognizing meaningful attributes and experiences, and encourages using this awareness to foster connection and reduce reactivity. Generosity: True generosity isn’t about sacrifice or guilt, but about giving from surplus—whether that's time, money, energy, skills, or flexibility. Practical examples are shared on how to proactively support your partner and lighten their holiday load, without resentment. Grace: The antidote to perfectionism. Ellen shares how practicing patience, compassion, and forgiveness—even when mistakes happen—can transform your relationship dynamic and foster lasting trust. Part 3: Applying GGG Principles Listeners are encouraged to develop gratitude statements, create weekly generosity plans, and let go of rigid expectations. These steps provide real relief and renewed intimacy, keeping stress in check and making space for true human connection. Action Steps for Listeners: Try the grounding gratitude exercise and observe how it shifts your perspective.Make a generosity plan: Choose two stress points and match them to the partner with the right surplus.Practice grace by forgiving imperfections and celebrating best intentions. Key Takeaways:The real win with gratitude comes from genuinely feeling it, not just saying it—let actions follow heartfelt awareness.Generosity works best when you give what you have in abundance, not from scarcity, to avoid burnout and build goodwill.Grace lets go of perfection and nurtures authentic connection; no one gets it right all the time, and accepting this opens the door to real intimacy. Call to Action:Ellen encourages listeners to take the Relationship Dynamics Scorecard: A free, quick quiz to pinpoint relationship strengths and stressors (find it at MakeMoreLove.show/quiz). Whenever you are ready, you can reach out for deeper support: Free Relationship Reset calls, workshops, private coaching, and an Insider Facebook community for ongoing connection and resources. Links are below. Closing Thoughts:You don’t need to create a perfect holiday—just show up with presence, forethought, and a little grace. Small shifts in mindset and action can profoundly change your holiday experience and your relationship. Stay Tuned:Next week, Ellen Dorian will be back with a bonus episode addressing holiday stress when Christmas isn’t your thing. Until then, take care of each other! Support & Resources:Ellen invites listeners to share their thoughts, either in the P3 Insider's Community or directly with her via email. Or, for one on one brainstorming on a specific situation, listeners can set up a time on Ellen's Calendar for a free Relationship Reset Call. All links can be found below. "Until next time, remember, 'What I want most in the world is for you to Make More Love with Your Wife and In Your Life.'" - Ellen DorianShare the Love:If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might benefit. Love isn’t just found—it’s made! About the Host:Ellen Dorian is a relationship and business coach dedicated to helping high-performing business leaders truly create the business, relationship, and life that most entrepreneurs only dream of. Disclaimer:The Make More Love show is for information and entertainment purposes only, and reflects the personal opinions and experiences of the host and guests. It is not a substitute for professional advice or guidance in specific situations.  Make More Love Show Website: www.makemorelove.show Parent Company - The Passionate Partners Project: www.passionatepartnersproject.com Join Our Passionate Partners Insider Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/682764239165105 Contact Me Directly: Email: ellen@passionatepartnersproject.com Or direct message me via social media:Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ellen.dorian.7/ LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellendorian/ Take the free Relationship Dynamics Quiz: http://makemorelove.show/quiz Set up a Free Relationship Reset Call with me:http://relationshipresetcall.com 0:00:00 – Introduction to the show, purpose, and host’s background 0:00:31 – The changing nature of the holidays, relationship pressures, and setting up the GGG principles 0:04:32 – First GGG: Gratitude – practical, impactful gratitude practices for relationships 0:09:54 – Second GGG: Generosity – redefining generosity in relationships, practical tips for giving from surplus 0:14:24 – Third GGG: Grace – letting go of perfection, how grace improves connection and lowers tension 0:17:47 – Recap of GGG anchors and how they help your relationship during the holidays 0:19:48 – Calls to action: scorecard, relationship reset call, community and show wrap-up

    21 min
  7. 72: Three Steps to Stop the Holidays From Derailing Your Relationship

    11/20/2025

    72: Three Steps to Stop the Holidays From Derailing Your Relationship

    Ellen Dorian addresses the stress and conflict that holidays bring to high-performing business leaders, particularly business owners facing Q4 pressures alongside personal obligations. She introduces a strategic planning approach to transform the holiday season from a source of tension into an opportunity for connection. Through the story of client Bill and his wife Gina, Ellen demonstrates how joint planning, clear boundaries, and shared ownership can prevent the annual cycle of holiday resentment that often leads to January's "divorce season." Part 1: Understanding Holiday Pressure Points - Recognition that holidays arrive during Q4 chaos for business owners. - Identification of competing demands: closing deals, managing budgets, and handling staff needs. - Acknowledgment of seasonality impacts—some businesses face their busiest period while others experience dead zones. - The compounding effect of personal demands from partners, family obligations, and social events. - Pressure to appear joyful despite mounting stress. Part 2: The Planning Framework - Starting with baseline questions about what worked, what didn't, what was missing, and what to change. - The necessity of partner buy-in rather than unilateral decision-making. - Bill and Gina's story as a case study in initiating the planning conversation. - Three core elements: planning together, setting limits, and taking ownership. - Two essential ground rules: everything is open for discussion, and protecting the couple comes first. - Establishing a gatekeeping script for external pressures. Part 3: Building Your Holiday Strategy - Two approaches: blue ocean brainstorming or process of elimination. - Using post-it notes to map out events, tasks, and obligations visually. - Three key decisions: enthusiastic yeses, emphatic nos, and the desired outcome. - Establishing boundaries around time, money, travel, work, and special circumstances. - The chocolate mousse rule and the three-hour family visit boundary as practical examples. - Assigning ownership by category rather than individual tasks. - Weekly check-ins to adjust and maintain alignment. Key Takeaways:- Holiday conflicts repeat annually because couples fail to plan or fear disrupting established patterns. - Joint planning creates clarity and protects relationships from external pressures. - Boundaries and clear ownership prevent resentment and energy drain. - Breaking with tradition is necessary when current patterns aren't working. - A united front in public with private discussion space helps manage family pushback. - Regular check-ins keep the plan flexible and responsive to changing circumstances. Call to Action:If the planning process becomes contentious or confusing, Ellen offers a Relationship Reset Call to help work through the challenges. She emphasizes not letting issues drop only to face worse circumstances in January. Listeners can book a free call at relationshipresetcall.com. Closing Thoughts:Ellen previews the next episode's focus on gratitude, generosity, and grace—the "GGG of the holidays"—as tools for managing seasonal chaos. She reflects on recent episodes addressing out-of-control situations and invites listeners experiencing this to reach out. The goal isn't perfection but creating the best opportunity to enjoy life and maintain connection despite competing demands. Support & Resources:Ellen invites listeners to share their thoughts, either in the P3 Insider's Community or directly with her via email. Or, for one on one brainstorming on a specific situation, listeners can set up a time on Ellen's Calendar for a free Relationship Reset Call. All links can be found below. "Until next time, remember, 'What I want most in the world is for you to Make More Love with Your Wife and in Your Life." - Ellen Dorian Disclaimer:The Make More Love show is for information and entertainment purposes only. It is not a substitute for the guidance of a qualified mental health or medical professional. All content reflects my own opinions, experience, and research and isn’t guaranteed to be complete or accurate, so please don’t treat it as professional advice of any kind. 0:00 Intro 1:00 Why Q4 Creates Perfect Storm for Couples 3:03 Setting Goals for Different Holiday Experience 5:05 Bill and Gina's Holiday Breaking Point 7:08 The Three-Part Planning Framework Explained 9:40 Three Key Decisions Every Couple Needs 12:14 Setting Boundaries Around Time and Money 14:46 Taking Ownership and Handling Family Pushback 17:19 Three Key Takeaways for Holiday Success 19:22 Spreading the Word About Make More Love Make More Love Show Website: www.makemorelove.show Parent Company - The Passionate Partners Project: www.passionatepartnersproject.com Join Our Passionate Partners Insider Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/682764239165105 Contact Me Directly: Email: ellen@passionatepartnersproject.com Or direct message me via social media:Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ellen.dorian.7/ LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellendorian/ Take the free Relationship Dynamics Quiz: http://makemorelove.show/quiz Set up a Free Relationship Reset Call with me:http://relationshipresetcall.com

    20 min
  8. 71: Co-Pilot or Passenger? How to Start Steering Your Relationship Together

    11/06/2025

    71: Co-Pilot or Passenger? How to Start Steering Your Relationship Together

    Ellen Dorian explores how business owners can strengthen their relationships by treating their partnership as the foundation that holds everything else together. Drawing from a Trevor Noah podcast quote about spending time with his father, she examines the cost of making unilateral business decisions without partner input. The episode provides a framework for integrating business and relationship priorities through structured communication, tiered decision-making, and weekly alignment meetings. Part 1: The Cost of Exclusion - Ellen shares a quote from Roy Wood Jr. about being along for the ride rather than truly included in his father's life. - Business owners often make rapid decisions without consulting partners who will be affected by the outcomes. - Top-down thinking creates resistance and undermines support, even when partners don't openly object. - Shared visions can drift apart over time, leaving couples working toward completely different outcomes. - The question "Are you running your business or is your business running you?" reveals a common trap. Part 2: The Juggling and Herding Problem - Most business owners have three competing priorities: work, family, and personal fulfillment. - Juggling means keeping balls in the air, but one is always falling—you can only hold two at a time. - Herding is attempting to control everything at once, like stuffing three cats in a bag. - Both approaches fail because they rely on one person being solely responsible for everything. - Business decisions directly impact partners whether they've agreed to them or not. Part 3: The Airplane Framework - Ellen introduces a new model: your relationship is the airplane, with two seats in the cockpit. - Everything else—business, kids, extended family, hobbies—belongs in the cabin as passengers. - Kids and business should not fly the plane or always come first. - Strong partnerships create the framework where everything else thrives. - Partners become copilots without becoming business partners. Part 4: Three Best Practices for Partnership Alignment #1 Weekly Business Review Meeting - Hold a short weekly meeting focused on decisions that touch shared life. - Cover four topics: what happened since last meeting, what's coming up, what needs joint decision, and what matters most this week. - Make it enjoyable with coffee, wine, or pancakes—call it whatever makes it fun. - Prevents the "I never heard that" or "you didn't tell me" conflicts. #2 Tiered Decision-Making Categories - Green zone: everyday decisions that don't impact shared life, just keep partner informed. - Yellow zone: give heads up and chance to weigh in, minimize surprises, maximize respect. - Red zone: decisions requiring full discussion before moving forward. #3 Red Zone Topics - Money: any shared resource at risk, new debt, contracts, personal guarantees, compensation changes. - Time: anything significantly changing availability, focus, or energy—major projects, expansion, increased travel. - People: hiring or firing key team members, bringing on investors, forming partnerships. - These decisions affect stress levels, time, and how you show up in the relationship. Key Takeaways:- Your relationship should be the context in which your business, family, and fulfillment exist, not just another competing priority. - The entrepreneur divorce rate sits above 60% because not everyone commits to this level of discipline and openness. - Your partner needs to be an important voice in your business without necessarily working in it. - Trying to control everything by yourself guarantees something will crash, taking everything else down with it. - Real work-life integration requires treating major business decisions as partnership decisions. Call to Action:Ellen encourages listeners to book a free Relationship Reset Call at relationshipresetcall.com to discuss their specific situation. She also invites them to join the Passionate Partners Insider community on Facebook for exclusive content and resources. Closing Thoughts:Ellen emphasizes that she doesn't believe in work-life balance but in integration. The episode provides a playbook for real work-life integration that makes life easier, more connected, and more enjoyable. She challenges listeners to make the mindset shift—whether independently or with her guidance—to transform their relationships and businesses. Support & Resources:Ellen invites listeners to share their thoughts, either in the P3 Insider's Community or directly with her via email. Or, for one on one brainstorming on a specific situation, listeners can set up a time on Ellen's Calendar for a free Relationship Reset Call. All links can be found below. "Until next time, remember, 'What I want most in the world is for you to Make More Love with Your Wife and in Your Life." - Ellen Dorian Disclaimer:The Make More Love show is for information and entertainment purposes only. It is not a substitute for the guidance of a qualified mental health or medical professional. Make More Love Show Website: www.makemorelove.show Parent Company - The Passionate Partners Project: www.passionatepartnersproject.com Join Our Passionate Partners Insider Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/682764239165105 Contact Me Directly: Email: ellen@passionatepartnersproject.com Or direct message me via social media:Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ellen.dorian.7/ LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellendorian/ Take the free Relationship Dynamics Quiz: http://makemorelove.show/quiz Set up a Free Relationship Reset Call with me:http://relationshipresetcall.com 0:00 Intro: The Cost of Exclusion 2:02 Is Your Business Running You? 4:06 Juggling vs. Herding: Two Failing Approaches 7:39 The Airplane Framework 9:11 Weekly Business Review Meeting 11:45 Green, Yellow, and Red Zone Decisions 14:18 The Three Critical Red Zone Topics 16:19 Key Takeaways & Closing Thoughts

    19 min

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About

Are you a male business leader who wants a hot and healthy marriage but feels consumed by the relentless demands of growing your company? Welcome! Make More Love is the podcast for high-performing male business leaders who want to achieve the business of their dreams—without losing the love of their life. Join host Ellen Dorian, veteran relationship expert and business coach, as she reveals practical strategies to maintain connection and intimate intensity in committed relationships. The show is a space for straight-up, judgment-free conversations about how listeners can be extraordinary in every way that matters—from handling the complexities of business to creating a deeply passionate relationship with their life partner without losing sight of what makes them uniquely themselves. Ellen brings her extensive expertise to challenge obsolete notions of masculinity, transactional thinking, false hierarchies, and the “work-life balance” myth—all of which can get in the way of building passionate, fulfilling life partnerships. This isn’t therapy. Traditional marriage counseling doesn’t resonate with everyone, so this show delivers practical, relatable advice that leverages the skills business leaders have already mastered in their work to strengthen their relationships. Tune in weekly for actionable ideas tailored to the unique relationship challenges male business leaders face. The segments are short, so you can listen whenever you have a few minutes—in the car, at the gym, or on the john. Ellen's insights and guest conversations with men who’ve been where you are will resonate and inspire. Plus, with captioned episodes, you can engage anytime, anywhere, with or without sound. Make More Love gives you a strategic advantage in cultivating a partnership built on mutual respect, appreciation, and true intimacy. Prepare to hear transformative ideas that deliver fast and lasting results. It’s time to focus on what matters most and Make More Love—in Your Life and With Your Wife. Notes: Intended for Adult Audiences: The Make More Love podcast is intended for adult audiences age 18+ only and contains content related to adult life issues. Some material may be considered "not safe for work." Please exercise discretion about where and with whom you listen to the show. Disclaimer: The Make More Love podcast is for informational purposes only. None of the information provided by the host or guests should be interpreted as a substitute for professional legal, financial, medical, or therapeutic advice or care. Always seek the guidance of a qualified professional with any questions or concerns about your specific situation. Rights and Permissions: By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that the entire contents are the property of the Ellen Dorian Group/Passionate Partners Project (Ellen Dorian) or used by Ellen Dorian with permission and are protected under U.S. and international copyright laws.