#17 Struggling to Be Heard? How to Improve Communication in Love + Life with Erin Darden
Why is it so damn hard to ask for what you need in relationships?
In this episode of Not Your Therapist, I sit down with former attorney turned emotional intelligence coach Erin Darden to unpack exactly that. From people-pleasing and fear of rejection to guilt that’s been baked in since childhood, we explore the deep (and often invisible) blocks that stop women from speaking up.
Erin delivers practical, powerful tools—including her magic sentence formula—to help you advocate for your needs without sounding aggressive, selfish, or apologetic. If you’ve ever walked away from a conversation thinking “I should’ve said something…” this episode is your wake-up call.
💬 What We Cover:
Why women struggle to express their needs (and how society plays a role)
The difference between assertiveness and aggression
Erin’s “magic sentence” formula to transform tough conversations
Why processing your emotions before you speak is key
How to stop expecting others to read your mind
The hardware store analogy that will shift how you think about unmet needs
What to do when your needs are consistently dismissed
Whether you’re navigating marriage, friendships, or family drama, this episode is packed with the emotional intelligence tools you need to start speaking up with clarity and confidence—no guilt required.
🎧 Tune in now and take one small step toward healthier, more honest relationships.
About Erin Darden
Erin’s website https://www.eqforlove.com/
Check Erin out on her favorite platform, TikTok
Connect with Kayla:
Instagram: @NotYourTherapist.Kayla
Podcast: Subscribe to Not Your Therapist on Spotify , Apple Podcasts or Amazon Music.
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