Amy is chatting with Blake Blankenbecler, psychodynamic therapist by day and friendship expert by night! They discuss the different dynamics of a friendship, including how to approach conflict resolution, how to evaluate the friendship’s impact on you, as well as giving yourself grace when you drop the ball (there is no perfect friend!) and they close out with '4 Things Gratitude' (journals linked in case you want to try practicing gratitude at home!)

Friendship Fact: The average friendship lasts 7 years and we typically have 5 close meaningful relationships at any given time. These friendships have the biggest indicators on our health.

Ever wonder how to re-initiate conversation with an old friend you haven't talked with in a while? Blake shares the best way to reach out to a long-lost friend with courage and transparency. Amy even shares her experience with rekindling an old friendship with a college roommate!

How do we approach conflict resolution with a friend? “Don’t be afraid to lean in and ask the hard questions! Be brave!”

Blake has some expert advice to help us determine whether or not we should continue to nourish a friendship or if it’s time to let it go. Listen to your body! Here are some questions you can ask yourself:

How do you feel BEFORE hanging out with this friend?

How do you feel DURING hanging out with this friend?

How do you feel AFTER hanging out with this friend?

If you are looking for a different way to nurture relationships and deepen connection check out www.thefriendshipdeck.com!

Blake’s Book Recommendation: BFF: A Memoir of Friendship Lost and Found By Christie Tate

Blake’s Instagram Follow Recommendation: @jordandann

HOST: Amy Brown // RadioAmy.com // @RadioAmy

GUEST: Blake Blankenbecler // blakeblankenbecler.com // @blakeblankenbecler

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