Love Isn’t the Issue

Jul 2

Episode 17: Love Isn’t the Issue: Prioritize Us

WITH GUEST NICK BRANCATO
Is love enough to make a relationship last? Or is there something more powerful at play? This week, I sit down with Nick Brancato, author of Prioritize Us: Unlock Lasting Love with One Simple, Proven Test. Nick brings a refreshing blend of logic and emotional insight to the complex world of relationships. With a background in education, systems engineering, and coaching (including coaching World Poker Tour players!), he applies his skills in analysis and design to help couples build meaningful, resilient partnerships.

We explore Nick’s central idea that it’s not a lack of love that causes most relationships to falter, it’s misalignment. And once we know where we’re out of sync, we can take concrete steps to reconnect and grow stronger together.

Key Themes from the Episode:

Why misalignment, not lack of love, is the real relationship killer
Nick explains how even the strongest emotional bonds can suffer when partners aren't on the same page about priorities or don’t understand the “why” behind the priorities. He also gets us straight on the difference between “values” and “priorities.”
The Total Difference Score (TDS)
A simple, but powerful tool developed by Nick to help couples measure and track where they’re aligned – and where they’re not – across different areas of life.
The connection between life transitions and relationship breakdowns
Big events like career changes, starting a family, or losing a parent can expose hidden misalignments. We talk about how to navigate these moments with more clarity and compassion.
How to realign with your partner
From simple exercises to deep conversations, Nick offers practical tips for getting back in sync, even if your partner isn’t eager to jump in.
Rituals and habits that support connection
We talk about intentional check-ins, the role of negotiation, and ways to keep your relationship growing while still honoring individual paths.
Maintaining romance and spontaneity in a framework-driven approach
Can structure and love coexist? Nick shares how intention can actually enhance emotional connection, not replace it.