Summary:

Welcome to part two of our series on Divorce Season and how to avoid it. January is often called "divorce season," and we’re dedicating this month to helping you avoid becoming a statistic. In this episode, we tackle a crucial aspect of maintaining a thriving relationship: passion. We’ll explore the "Other Four Horsemen" that quietly erode intimacy and connection in relationships and, most importantly, how to overcome them. These hidden dynamics—Neediness, Childlike Behavior, Apathy, and Transactionalism—may be undermining your relationship more than you realize. Learn to identify these behaviors and take actionable steps to build a deeper, more meaningful connection with your partner.

Part 1: Understanding the Other Four Horsemen

• Overview of "The Other Four Horsemen": Neediness, Childlike Behavior, Apathy, and Transactionalism.
• Why these unconscious behaviors erode intimacy and create distance in relationships.

Part 2: Breaking Down Each Horseman

1. Neediness: Seeking constant validation and reassurance, which can exhaust your partner and kill attraction.

• Examples: Constant reassurance, clinginess, and overreacting to mistakes.
• Solution: Notice when you’re doing it, pause, and focus on meeting your own needs.

1. Childlike Behavior: Failing to live up to the expectations of adult partnership.

• Examples: Leaving messes, weaponized helplessness, and acting immaturely.
• Solution: Read the room, take responsibility for key tasks, and emulate adult role models.

1. Apathy: Neglecting to put effort into the relationship.

• Examples: Not being present, retiring romance, and losing empathy.
• Solution: Reconnect with gratitude, act with intention, and shift your perspective.

1. Transactionalism: Treating the relationship as a series of quid pro quo exchanges.

• Examples: Conditional love, keeping score, and using gifts as leverage.
• Solution: Shift your focus from what you’re getting to what you’re giving, and communicate intentions openly.

Part 3: Tools for Transformation

• Recognizing these patterns is the first step toward change.
• Small, intentional actions can have a big impact on reigniting passion and connection.
• Recommendations for additional insights:

Episode 7: Master Date Nights to Refuel Your Relationship.

Episode 23: Build A Bonfire: Steps to Reignite Your Relationship.

Episode 24: A Modern Hero’s Guide to Making More Love.

Episode 25: How to Make Your Partner Feel Loved and Get More Love in Return.

• The "Other Four Horsemen" are subtle but powerful barriers to intimacy.
• Identifying and addressing these behaviors can transform your relationship.
• Reigniting passion doesn’t require grand gestures—small, consistent actions matter most.

If you’re ready to dive deeper, book a free Relationship Reset Call at

In this episode of The Make More Love Show, Ellen explores why January is often called "Divorce Season" and reframes it as the perfect time for a Relationship Wake-Up Call. She introduces the concept of the "Recommitment Season" and explores the reasons why this time of year is critical for relationships. Ellen discusses the warning signs of relationship trouble, the costs of divorce, and how gaining clarity can empower you to take control of your future.

Ellen outlines the four key reasons January is known for a spike in divorces: the holiday letdown, business stress, financial reviews, and resolutions for fresh starts. These factors combine to make January a turning point for many couples.

Using the analogy of wine, vodka, or fish, Ellen helps listeners evaluate their relationship's current state. Is it improving, stagnant, or deteriorating? She explains how each state ties to the risks of divorce and what action steps might be appropriate.

Ellen emphasizes the devastating impact divorce can have emotionally, socially, and financially, particularly for business owners. She explains how the financial toll often starts years before divorce papers are filed, with overspending, poor financial decisions, and the stress of a deteriorating relationship.

1. January is a pivotal month—use it to reflect on your relationship.
2. Assess whether your relationship is like wine, vodka, or fish to understand where you stand.
3. Gaining clarity about your options can help you make better decisions and take control of your future.

If you’re considering divorce or feeling stuck in your relationship, take advantage of Ellen’s free Relationship Reset Call. This 15–20 minute session gives you a chance to brainstorm options and gain a fresh perspective. Schedule your call at relationshipresetcall.com.

"January doesn’t have to be Divorce Season—it can be your Recommitment Season. Whether you’re ready to rebuild your relationship or simply gain clarity about your options, I’m here to help you take the next step."

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.

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

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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 Generosity

• Ellen 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 Generosity

• Emotional 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 Reflections

• Ellen 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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

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.

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...