Yearning Heart Podcast

About Yearning Heart Podcast

The Yearning Heart Podcast is a soulful space where real people share journeys through love, heartbreak, and healing. Hosted by Jennifer Lehr, LMFT, each episode dives into relationship dynamics, emotional intelligence, attachment styles, and self-love. Whether you’re navigating a breakup, deepening intimacy, or breaking old patterns, you’ll find honest stories and therapist insights to help you create secure, lasting love. Tune in for real stories and expert guidance to help you transform your relationships. Topics: self-love, attachment styles and more.

Publisher

Jennifer J Lehr, LMFT

Category

health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

6 Nov 2024

Latest episode

24 Oct 2025

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   24 Oct 2025

   Parenting Neurodivergent Children & The Work of Marriage | Dr. Nicole Dolan

   Parenting sensitive, neurodivergent children can be both sacred and overwhelming. In this heartfelt conversation, Jennifer J. Lehr, LMFT, speaks with Dr. Nicole Dolan—depth psychologist, author, and mother of three—about the profound challenges and transformations that come with parenting complex children and sustaining a conscious marriage. Together, they reveal how healing our own emotional imprints allows us to show up more consciously for our children and partners. They explore how nervous-system imprints shape our relationships, how marriage becomes a crucible for growth, and how conscious parenting invites both partners into deeper healing. ✨ In this episode: • Parenting and marriage under pressure • Understanding nervous-system imprints • The dynamics of self-sacrifice and resentment • Co-parenting and teamwork • The spiritual and ancestral layers of family healing 💜 A powerful conversation about the art of chaos, the work of love, and finding renewal as both a parent and partner. 🔗 Connect: Dr. Nicole Dolan — https://drnicoledolan.com (https://drnicoledolan.com) Jennifer J. Lehr, LMFT & Author — https://jenniferlehrmft.com (https://jenniferlehrmft.com) 💗 If this episode resonated, please follow The Yearning Heart Podcast and share it with someone who’s on their own healing journey. 00:00 Introduction to Parenting Challenges 03:18 Navigating Neurodiversity in Children 06:15 The Impact of Parenting on Marriage 09:58 Understanding Marital Dynamics and Personal Growth 12:56 The Work of Marriage and Emotional Imprints 17:41 Finding Balance in Relationships 20:29 Individual Responsibility in Partnerships 27:52 The Dynamics of Self-Sacrifice in Relationships 30:40 Navigating Narcissism and Martyrdom 31:52 The Soul’s Journey and Ancestral Influence 33:20 Marriage as a Crucible for Growth 36:07 Deciding to Stay or Leave: The Inner Conflict 38:09 Transformation Through Conscious Work 40:08 Co-Parenting Dynamics and Teamwork 42:34 The Unique Journey of Parenting a Special Child 49:00 The Call for Conscious Parenting Tags: parenting, autism, marriage, relationships, depth psychology, sensitive children, co-parenting, nervous system, trauma healing, personal growth, Jennifer J. Lehr, LMFT, Dr. Nicole Dolan, The Yearning Heart Podcast

2. 

   25 Sept 2025

   Healing The Mother Wound - Episode 16

   In this episode (16) of The Yearning Heart Podcast, Jennifer J. Lehr, LMFT, speaks with Willow Light, an esthetician, herbalist, and intuitive healer, about her powerful journey of healing from childhood trauma and toxic relationships. Willow shares openly about growing up in foster care, the impact of her mother’s mental illness, and how these wounds shaped her choices in love. From a stable but spiritually mismatched marriage, to a painful six-year relationship with a narcissistic alcoholic, to the deep healing that followed—including psilocybin journeys and therapy—her story is one of resilience, courage, and transformation. Now, Willow is in a spiritually aligned relationship with someone she’s known since childhood. Her journey shows how our deepest wounds can lead us toward growth, self-love, and hope. ✨ Topics in this episode: The “mother wound” and “father wound” in relationships Why we sometimes attract toxic partners The seductive pull of narcissistic love Nature, meditation, and psilocybin as healing tools Moving from dependency → toxic entanglement → interdependent love 💜 A story of descent, healing, and renewal—proof that even our most painful chapters can open the way to love. For more information or to read the full transcript for this episode go to https://weconcile.com/yearning-heart-podcast. Chapters 00:00 Healing Through Relationships: Willow's Journey 01:04 Willow's Relationship Overview 02:36 Introduction to Willow's Journey 04:24 The Impact of Early Trauma 07:01 Finding Strength in Adversity 09:53 Seeking Stability: The First Marriage 10:59 Not Chosen - A Wound 14:23 The Shift in Spiritual Connection 17:39 Co-Parenting and Collaboration Post-Divorce 20:58 The Guilt and Shame 22:31 Dreams and Intuition 23:37 Voice of Sabotage 27:11 The New Relationship and the Hook 29:40 Red Flags 30:27 Navigating Alcohol and Relationships 33:57 Alcoholism/ Narcissism/Mother Wound 37:02 Beginning to Leave 41:13 Co-Dependent 41:50 Breaking Free from Toxic Patterns 44:23 Psilocybin Journey 49:52 Choosing to Heal 51:12 New Relationship 59:35 Finding a Healthy Connection 01:02:01 Interdependence 01:02:37 Willow's Relational Arc 01:04:58 Thank You 01:05:49 Connect with Willow 01:06:10 More about Jennifer Lehr LMFT

3. 

   10 Sept 2025

   Therapist Insights: Mindfulness, Attachment Styles & Core Values in Love

   In this episode (15) of the Yearning Heart podcast, Jennifer J. Lehr, LMFT delves into the insights shared by Dennis regarding mindfulness, relationships, and personal growth. She emphasizes the importance of mindfulness in therapy,how it can be used to enhance self-awareness and emotional regulation, and the potential pitfalls of using mindfulness defensively. She also explores how mindfulness can heal anxious and avoidant attachment styles, deepen self-awareness, and strengthen relationships.explores the significance of attachment styles in relationships, the necessityvof growth and shared core values between partners, and the importance of focusing on what works in a relationship to foster connection and understanding. Takeaways Mindfulness helps strengthen the witness within us. Being mindful allows us to notice our experiences withoutmerging with them. Mindfulness can be misused as a defense mechanism. It's essential to engage with our feelings rather than avoidthem. Attachment styles influence how we can best use mindfulness in relationships. Growth in relationships requires both partners to be willingto evolve. Core values must align for a relationship to thrive. Focusing on what works in a relationship fosters positivity. Communication must be safe and compassionate for effective engagement. Differentiation is key to understanding and relating to apartner. Chapters 00:00 Exploring Mindfulness: A Deep Dive 06:06 Mindfulness Red Flags 07:11 What Do The Feelings Want? 07:43 Mindfulness and Attachment Styles 09:02 Mindfulness as a Cognitive Strength 11:37 When It is Time to Leave a Relationship 15:22 Core Values and Relationship Compatibility 16:50 I Can Only Control Myself 19:32 Engagement in the Process: Detaching from Outcomes 20:50 Focus On What Works Keywords mindfulness, self-awareness, relationships, attachmentstyles, emotional intelligence, personal growth, communication, core values,emotional connection, therapy

4. 

   28 Aug 2025

   From Shame to Mindful Love: Dr. Dennis Merritt Jones on 32 Years of Conscious Relationship

   What does it take to create a 32-year relationship grounded in deep presence, personal growth, and unwavering commitment? In this powerful conversation, Jennifer J. Lehr, LMFT welcomes renowned author and spiritual teacher Dr. Dennis Merritt Jones to share the inner journey behind his long-term marriage and the mindfulness tools that helped himtransform a shame-based upbringing into a conscious, loving partnership. Find his books on Amazon by searching for Dennnis Merritt Jones.

5. 

   1 Aug 2025

   Therapist Insights: Falling Out of Love, Codependency, and Rekindling Connection

   In this Therapist Insights episode of The Yearning Heart Podcast, Jennifer Lehr, LMFT, unpacks the deeper emotional themes from Episode 12, where Samantha shared her story of reconnection after separation. Jennifer explores the emotional and psychological dynamics of falling out of love, the role of postpartum depression in creating disconnection, and how couples can rekindle intimacy by learning to communicate, express needs, and take responsibility for their relational patterns. This episode also dives into attachment styles, codependency, and the importance of character in sustaining long-term love. 💗 If you’ve ever felt lost in your relationship, struggled with emotional disconnect, or wondered how to rebuild after crisis — this episode offers both clarity and compassionate tools. 💬 Topics We Explore: Why couples fall out of love (and how to reconnect) How postpartum depression affects intimacy and attachment Communication as a bridge to deeper connection Attachment styles and how they show up in conflict Codependency vs. interdependence The role of character, responsibility, and emotional regulation Understanding the roots of infidelity Healing family-of-origin wounds that influence love Growing individually and together 🎯 Keywords: falling out of love, emotional disconnection in marriage, codependency in relationships, postpartum depression and intimacy, secure attachment in love, how to communicate in marriage, healing infidelity, rekindling love 📲 Hashtags: #TherapistInsights #RelationshipHealing #EmotionalConnection #PostpartumDepression #FallingOutOfLove #Codependency #AttachmentStyles #CouplesTherapy #TheYearningHeartPodcast

6. 

   6 Jun 2025

   How We Saved Our Marriage after Divorce

   Life coach Samantha Shoemaker recounts her journey through postpartum depression and marital struggles with host Jennifer Lehr, highlighting communication and therapy's role in rebuilding her relationship after separation in this interview.

7. 

   14 Mar 2025

   Tools and Knowledge for Anxious Attachment Style

   This podcast episode delves into the complexities of anxious attachment styles in relationships, emphasizing the importance of self-regulation, communication, and understanding personal triggers. The discussion highlights the need for compassion and accountability between partners, the significance of differentiation in relationships, and the impact of negative self-talk. Listeners are encouraged to listen to their intuition and recognize red flags in their relationships, aiming for healthier, more secure connections. Anxious attachment styles can lead to specific relationship challenges. Self-regulation is crucial for anxious partners when avoidant partners withdraw. Understanding personal triggers and past wounds is essential for healing. Effective communication requires timing and calmness. Compassion and accountability are foundational for healthy relationships. Differentiation allows partners to respect each other's individuality. Negative self-talk can hinder personal growth and relationship health. Listening to one's intuition can help identify red flags in relationships. Healthy relationships should foster security and connection. Asking for needs clearly is vital for relationship success. Chapters 00:00Introduction to Relationship Dynamics 00:53Understanding Partner Needs and Differences 01:50Anxiety and Avoidance03:46Curiosity and Compassion in Relationships 04:53Wounds 06:03 The Anxious Avoidant Struggle 07:53 The Negative Cycle 09:44 The Importance of Self-Regulation 12:04 Communication Examples 13:20 Communication and Asking for Needs 15:08 Impact of Parents and Survival Strategies 17:22 Secure Relationships 17:55 Recognizing Red Flags in Relationships 18:35 Friendship, Compassion, Curiosity, Attunement 18:58 Differentiation 21:09 Developing Healthy Communication Skills 23:45 Listening to Our Bodies 25:11 Self Talk 26:28 Parent's Communication 27:16 Inner Voice 28:07 Listening to Intuition and Red Flags 29:28 Closing

8. 

   21 Feb 2025

   Understanding Your Need for Validation and Compassion in Relationships

   In this conversation, Kristina shares her relationship journey, emphasizing the importance of compassion, communication,and understanding triggers. She reflects on her early experiences with relationships, the challenges of being heard, and the impact of generational patterns on her emotional development. Kristina also discusses recognizingnarcissistic traits in partners and highlights the foundation of mutual care in her current relationship. The conversation underscores the complexities of intimate relationships and the ongoing process of personal growth and self-compassion. Compassion is key in relationships.  Realistic expectations are crucial for healthy connections.Understanding your triggers helps navigate relationships. Communication is a two-way street.Breathing techniques can help manage anxiety in relationships. Intimate relationships are opportunities for learning.Generational patterns influence relationship dynamics.Recognizing narcissism can prevent emotional harm.Mutual care is the foundation of a healthy relationship.Self-compassion is essential for personal growth. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Relationships: A Journey of Growth 06:03 Navigating Triggers and Communication 11:35 The Importance of Timing in Conversations 17:37 Generational Influences on Relationship Skills 22:30 Recognizing Narcissism in Relationships 26:48 The Foundation of a Healthy Relationship 29:26 Introduction to the Podcast and Its Purpose

9. 

   7 Feb 2025

   I Put Up With Emotional Abuse Because I Grew up With Alcoholic Parents

   In this episode, Jennifer and Janet discuss the profoundimpact of growing up in an alcoholic family, exploring themes of childhood trauma, emotional healing, and the journey towards self-discovery. Janet shares her personal experiences and insights on how these early experiences shaped her relationships and self-perception. The conversation delves into the importance of body awareness, emotional intelligence, and the role of therapy in healing.They also touch on generational trauma and the challenges of navigating truth in relationships, ultimately emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and personal growth. Growing up in an alcoholic family can deeply impactself-esteem. Healing requires focusing on oneself and personal growth. Body awareness is crucial for emotional healing. Telling one's truth can be challenging but necessary. Generational trauma affects relationships andself-perception. Recognizing patterns in relationships is key to healing. Emotional intelligence plays a significant role in personalgrowth. Therapy can help integrate traumatic experiences. Self-acceptance is essential for moving forward. Opening up to new possibilities can lead to personaltransformation.

10. 

    16 Jan 2025

    How To Heal From Childhood Trauma

    Elaine shares her courageous journey from childhood trauma to healing, highlighting the importance of self-discovery and community support for building healthy relationships.

11. 

    1 Jan 2025

    Healing the Past: From Anxious Attachment to A Secure Love

    In this conversation, Wynn Austin (founder of Wynn's Kitchen https://wynnskitchen.com/) shares her journey through difficult childhood experiences, a failed marriage, and her path to finding a secure and nurturing relationship. She discusses the impact of her upbringing on her attachment styles, the importance of healing from past wounds, and the lessons learned from her relationships. Wynn emphasizes the significance of communication, conflict resolution, and personal growth in building a strong partnership. As she prepares for marriage, she reflects on the importance of nurturing both her relationship and her own individual growth. takeaways · Wynn's childhood experiences shaped her relationship choices. · Attachment styles play a crucial role in relationship dynamics. · Healing from past wounds is essential for future relationships. · Coping mechanisms can hinder emotional connection. · Recognizing patterns in relationships is key to change. · Communication is vital for a healthy relationship. · Conflict is normal and can be managed effectively. · Taking time for self-reflection is important post-divorce. · Finding a secure partner can aid in personal healing. · Building a strong relationship container is essential for growth. Chapters 00:00Wyn's Childhood and Its Impact 47:44Understanding Emotional Needs in Relationships 50:10Healing Attachment Wounds 52:37Coping Strategies and Survival Mechanisms 55:11Navigating New Relationships After Divorce 57:29The Importance of Communication and Reassurance 59:36Daily Practices for Relationship Growth 01:02:33Creating a Strong Relationship Container

12. 

    17 Dec 2024

    People Pleasing, Self-Love and Family History

    This episode goes deeper into the issues that Kirsten discussed in episode 3. In this podcast episode, Jennifer Lehr explores the profound lessons that relationships teach us, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, self-love, and understanding our childhood influences. She discusses the dynamics of people-pleasing, the significance of choosing the right partner, and the impact of family history on our relationship patterns. The conversation also delves into healing from childhood wounds, the steps necessary for recovering from unhealthy relationship cycles, and the role of self-talk in fostering emotional health. Ultimately, the episode encourages listeners to confront their fears and prioritize their own needs in relationships. #yearningheartpodcast #relationshiphelp #relationships #love #peoplepleasers #peoplepleasing #partnerselection #familyhistory #boundaries #personalgrowth

13. 

    8 Dec 2024

    The Role of Personal History in Love

    Yearning Heart Podcast host explores the profound impact of personal history on love, revealing how understanding family patterns and past relationships can transform trust and self-worth.

14. 

    3 Dec 2024

    Notes on Episode 1 (Miette)

    Host Miette delves into Attachment Wounds, Self Soothing, Emotional Safety, Trust, and Addiction, offering practical insights for navigating Blended Families with emotional intelligence.

15. 

    30 Nov 2024

    Trailer for The Yearning Heart Podcast

    The Yearning Heart Podcast host reveals how sharing personal stories of love and relationships can offer valuable insights and support to others on their own journeys.

16. 

    22 Nov 2024

    Divorce's Impact and Developing Self Love

    Kirsten shares her personal journey from divorce to developing self-love and empowerment.

17. 

    11 Nov 2024

    Moving From Drama Equals Love To A Secure Marriage

    In this episode, Janice talks about the impact her parents' marriage had on her, the move from believing drama equals love, to a secure marriage.

18. 

    6 Nov 2024

    The Challenges and Gifts of Blended Families

    Jennifer J Lehr, LMFT talks with Miette, a 22-year old woman, about love, life and the challenges and gifts of growing up in a blended family.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

48,930

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Podcast Authority Score: 38 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

46

Social presence

0

YouTube

76

Engagement

0

Contact Yearning Heart Podcast

Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.