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The Difference Between Being Loved and Being Liked with Jonathan Van Viegen

October 12, 2026 · 57 min

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Can a marriage survive when love remains, but genuine likability has eroded?


In this episode, marriage and family therapist and author Jonathan Van Viegen joins us to explore why restoring mutual likability matters far more than obsessing over chore division or endless interrogation. We unpack how shifting from scarcity-driven "needs" to open "wants"—and balancing radical maturity with forgiveness—can transform relational injuries into lasting connection.


Main Talking Points:

  • Loving Versus Liking

  • Curiosity Over Resentment

  • Radical Behavioral Maturity

  • Navigating Forgiveness Journeys

  • Eliminating "Why" Interrogations

  • Reframing Needs To Wants

Rebuilding a thriving partnership isn't about perfection or scorekeeping; it's about showing up with the willingness to choose each other every day. Real connection unfolds when you trade defensive interrogation for curiosity and work together toward mutual abundance.


Connect with Jonathan Van Viegen:


Jonathan Van Viegen’s Book: Choosing Us https://jonathanvanviegen.com/book


Jonathan Van Viegen's Website: https://jonathanvanviegen.com


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