When couples say, “We just need to communicate better,” they’re often talking about nonviolent communication—whether they realize it or not.

In this episode of Build to Love, Alexa Gelles sits down with David Ring, long-time student and practitioner of nonviolent communication, founder of the Empathease app, and author of Unclog Your Happiness. David shares what nonviolent communication really is, how it can shift the way we show up in our relationships, and why the key to connection often starts with dropping blame and tuning into your own needs.

Together, Alexa and David explore:

• What nonviolent communication looks like in practice
• How to speak in a way that reduces defensiveness and builds trust
• Why letting go of “right” and “wrong” can open the door to real connection
• Practical steps to start applying NVC in your relationship today

Whether you’re navigating recurring conflicts or simply want to feel closer to your partner, this conversation offers tangible tools and a fresh perspective on what it means to truly listen—and be heard.

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empatheaseapp/
• Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@empy871
• Book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00YTUBDJE/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@empatheasetalks?si=p5xXqfXcXmGufiVs

Wedding season is all about the dress, the venue, and the perfect playlist—but what about life after the big day? In this episode, I’m joined by Colleen Marcoux, a wedding officiant and relationship therapist (and the newest member of Alexa Gelles Counselling) who has seen couples at their highest and lowest moments.

We talk about:

• The surprising overlap between officiating weddings and counselling couples
• How to prepare for marriage beyond the guest list and flower arrangements
• Why elopements are becoming more popular—and more meaningful
• The conversations every couple should have before saying “I do”

Whether you’re planning your wedding, recently married, or simply want to strengthen your relationship, this conversation offers insight, practical tools, and inspiration for building lasting love long after the honeymoon ends.

Colleen’s Instagram @marriedbymarcoux

Websites: https://alexagelles.com/meet-the-team https://www.marcouxandco.com/

You can have all the communication tools in the world—but if your mindset isn’t right, they won’t stick.

In this episode, Alexa shares the 7 most powerful mindset shifts she teaches couples to get unstuck and build a lasting future together.

You’ll learn how to:

• Break free from blame and start focusing on what you can control
• Reframe arguments and setbacks as opportunities for growth
• See your partner as a your teammate
• Bring intentional effort and intimacy back into long-term love
• Embrace the stretch of discomfort that leads to real connection

These aren’t quick fixes—they are game-changers. Whether you’re stuck in the same old patterns or want to feel more connected and supported, this episode will help you shift how you think about your relationship—and how you show up in it.

🎧 Tune in, take notes, and pick one shift to focus on this week. You’ll be amazed at what changes when you lead with the right mindset!

Mentioned in this episode:

→ Ready for support before things feel hard? ⁠Reach out for 1:1 coaching⁠

→ Want to stay in the loop? ⁠Join my email list⁠ and be the first to know when my program Built to Last opens

→ DM me on Instagram ⁠@alexagelles⁠ and tell me: What’s the worst relationship advice you’ve ever heard?

Enjoyed this episode?

Make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this. Your support helps this community—and your relationship—grow.

Let’s keep building love, one conversation at a time.