ERP 482: Naming What Matters: How Couples Can Align On Priorities — An Interview with Nick Brancato

About this Episode Ever feel like you and your partner are speaking different languages when it comes to what truly matters? Maybe that seemingly minor argument about weekend plans or household chores is actually a sign of deeper, hidden misalignments. In many relationships, conflicts arise not just because of surface-level disagreements, but also because we haven’t taken the time—or found the right language—to name and share our genuine priorities. In this episode, you’ll discover practical tools and insightful strategies to help couples identify, understand, and communicate their individual and shared priorities. By exploring the difference between values and priorities, introducing a simple method to measure alignment, and breaking down actionable steps for regular check-ins, this conversation is packed with guidance for strengthening your partnership. Whether you’re seeking more harmony in daily life or aiming for lasting intimacy, this episode provides a roadmap for aligning on what matters most, together. Nick Brancato is a seasoned personal development coach and educator with over 25 years of experience helping individuals and couples connect, communicate, and thrive. With a master’s degree in education and a background as a Microsoft systems engineer, Nick blends practical tools with data-driven frameworks to guide clients through life’s challenges, including career shifts, financial pressures, and personal growth. Nick’s holistic process incorporates meditation, guided visualization, and hypnotherapy, emphasizing both emotional insight and actionable steps. By fostering deeper connections and mental clarity, Nick empowers couples to transform tension into trust and misalignment into mutual success, creating lasting, meaningful change in their relationships. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. Episode Highlights  03:09 Nick Brancato’s journey to relationship coaching and the origins of "Prioritize Us". 06:50 The power of priority alignment and differentiating priorities from values. 10:35 Navigating conflict by understanding differences and looking beyond surface issues. 13:52 Practical tools for identifying, ranking, and comparing priorities in relationships. 17:14 How to use the Total Difference Score (TDS) and the ten core life priorities. 21:01 The importance of individual assessment before sharing priorities with your partner. 27:45 Shifting priorities together and supporting each other’s growth and change. 35:57 Fostering positive daily connection through small, medium, and large relationship check-ins. 39:01 Overcoming overwhelm with decision-making, clarity, and relationship scorekeeping. 43:08 The Swiss Cheese principle. 47:47 Key takeaways and available resources for couples. Mentioned Prioritize Us (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) ERP 243: How To Skillfully Engage In A Conversation To Overcome Conflict In Relationships – An Interview With Kenneth Cloke Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love Connect with Nick Brancato Websites: nickbrancato.com Instagram: instagram.com/personaldevcoach Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like it to be discussed, please contact us by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.