Podcast Episode
Ep. 52 Why People Stop Being Honest With You
Relating with Jen Funk: Getting Honest About the Relationships that Matter Most··8 September 2026·12 min

About this episode
We all like to believe the people closest to us can tell us anything. But what happens when they actually tell us something we don’t want to hear?In this episode, I’m talking about how our reactions can unintentionally teach our spouse, kids, friends, and other people we love what feels safe to bring to us - and what they’re better off keeping to themselves.We’ll talk about why people stop bringing up the “little things,” how defensiveness can shut down honesty, and why creating a safe space for the truth doesn’t mean there are no boundaries, consequences, or disagreements.I’ll also share a few simple ways to respond differently when someone tells you something difficult - including how to watch your first reaction, stop arguing someone out of their feelings, and separate honesty from approval.Because the question isn’t just, “Are the people in my life honest with me?”The better question may be: What happens when they are?For more relationship support and free resources, visit jenfunkcoaching.com.Download Jen’s free guide, 5 Simple Habits to Improve Your Relationship Today, at https://www.jenfunkcoaching.com/5simplehabitsOr sign up to receive Jen's weekly newsletter filled with relationship tips and tools at https://www.jenfunkcoaching.com/newsletterYou can also check out Jen on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@jenfunkcoaching