Your Intentions Aren't the Whole Story

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With Jeff and Terra Mattson and special guest Jason VanRuler

Ever wonder why the same conversation can leave two people feeling completely misunderstood? It may be that you're speaking different communication languages. Jeff and Terra Mattson sit down with therapist and executive coach Jason VanRuler to explore his PATHS framework, which identifies five communication styles: Peacemaker, Advocate, Thinker, Harbor, and Spark. Each has its own strengths, fears, and ways of seeking connection.

We explore how these differences affect marriage, parenting, and leadership, and why good intentions don't always translate into good communication. Jason shares practical ways to build connection, invite honest feedback, and learn to appreciate the way others are wired. Because better communication doesn't start with changing everyone else. It starts with understanding ourselves and learning to meet others with intention.

  • We all have a communication style. Understanding your own can help you recognize the strengths and blind spots you bring to relationships.

  • Different doesn't mean disconnected. Learning to appreciate someone else's communication style can turn frustration into connection.

  • Intentions don't guarantee impact. What we mean to communicate isn't always what someone else hears or experiences.

  • Ask, “How did that land?” Inviting honest feedback and listening without defensiveness can transform difficult conversations.

  • Better communication takes intention. Preparing for meaningful conversations and adapting how we communicate can strengthen relationships at home and at work.

Website: jasonvr.com

Instagram: @jason.vanruler

Facebook: @thejasonvanruler

TikTok: @jason.vanruler

Books: Discovering Your Communication Type and Get Past Your Past

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We LOVE that you’ve decided to join us this week for the Living Wholehearted Podcast. We hope you enjoyed the conversation, tips, and resources to help you transform every relationship that matters most to you. If you think this will help someone you know, make sure you send it their way or share on socials. Tag us @living_wholehearted and @terramattson! Don't forget to FOLLOW/SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss an episode and help spread the word by leaving us some stars on a review. Thanks for partnering with us to help more leaders, just like you, who want to live and lead with integrity at home, work and in the community. Go to livingwholehearted.com and sign up to receive our free leadership tips and updates delivered to you in our monthly newsletter. And, if you’re a girl mom, check out mycourageousgirls.com.  

Until next time, be the leader you would follow!

Grateful for you,

Jeff & Terra

To connect with Jeff & Terra Mattson and Living Wholehearted, go to:

INSTAGRAM

@TerraMattson

@Living_Wholehearted

@MyCourageousGirls

FACEBOOK

@WeAreLivingWholehearted

@MyCourageousGirls

WEBSITES

LivingWholehearted.com

TerraMattson.com 

MyCourageousGirls.com

RESOURCES

Shrinking the Integrity Gap 

Shrinking the Integrity Gap e-Course 

Courageous: Being Daughters Rooted in Grace

Dear Mattsons 

Helping Moms Raise Confident Daughters

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