66: Is Your Relationship Holding You Back from Better Health?

The Primal Shift

When you commit to improving your health — whether it’s through diet, exercise, or lifestyle changes — you often find yourself at odds with the people closest to you. For example, when I made the switch to paleo over a decade ago, it put a serious strain on my relationship with my wife. I cut out entire food groups overnight, convinced it was the best way forward for our health. But without explaining my reasons or considering her perspective, it nearly pushed us to the brink.

In this episode of the Primal Shift Podcast, I sit down with relationship coach Bates to discuss the often-overlooked impact that health and lifestyle changes can have on relationships. Bates shares similar stories from his clients and his own life, revealing how making drastic changes (even with the best of intentions) can create unexpected friction with those you love.

During our conversation, we talk about the importance of setting boundaries, how being overly accommodating to your partner can lead to a buildup of resentment, and why it’s critical that you refrain from imposing your beliefs on the people around you.

Whether you’re dealing with disagreements over food choices with a partner, managing family expectations, or struggling to maintain your health goals amid social pressures, this episode is filled with practical tips and insights on how to navigate those tensions while staying true to your values. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion on the intersection of health and relationships and how to maintain balance in both.

In this episode:

00:00 - Intro

03:40 - Health goals vs. relationship friction

06:00 - Personal story: Paleo diet and relationship challenges

07:45 - How over-agreeableness can damage relationships

10:00 - Navigating family dynamics when lifestyles clash

12:55 - How setting boundaries strengthens relationships

15:00 - Men and women filling the same roles in modern relationships

17:00 - Balancing career, health, and relationship priorities

22:00 - The challenge of dating while health-conscious

28:00 - Why experimentation leads to truth in health choices

34:20 - Flexibility vs. rigidity in relationships

40:00 - Wrap-up and final thoughts

53:17 - Next episode’s preview

Learn more:

Episode #59: Paleo, Keto, Carnivore [Navigating Dietary Changes as a Family]: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/59-paleo-keto-carnivore-navigating-dietary-changes-as-a-family/

Episode #31: From Vegan to Carnivore: A Deep Dive into Diet and Lifestyle with Bates: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/from-vegan-to-carnivore-a-deep-dive-into-diet-and-lifestyle-with-bates/

How to Live a Healthy Lifestyle (8 Core Principles): https://michaelkummer.com/healthy-lifestyle-guide/

Use the code YOUTUBE10 to get 10% off your order of Grass-Fed Beef Liver supplements at https://shop.michaelkummer.com

Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, Peluva!

Peluva makes minimalist shoes to support optimal foot, back and joint health. I started wearing Peluvas several months ago, and I haven’t worn regular shoes since. I encourage you to consider trading your sneakers or training shoes for a pair of Peluvas, and then watch the health of your feet and lower back improve while reducing your risk of injury.

To learn more about why I love Peluva barefoot shoes, check out my in-depth review and use code KUMMER to get 15% off your first pair.

Learn more from Bates: Coach, Small Business Owner, & Author Email: [e-mail] Instagram: https://instagram.com/animalbates

Find me on social media for more health and wellness content:

• Website: https://michaelkummer.com/

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKummer

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast/

• Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/michaelkummer/

• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michaelkummer/

• Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer/

[Medical Disclaimer]

The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health.

[Affiliate Disclaimer]

I earn affiliate commissions from some of the brands and products I review on this channel. While that doesn't change my editorial integrity, it helps make this channel happen. If you’d like to support me, please use my affiliate links or discount code.

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