Learning Love: The 5 Components That Build Relationships That Last with Dr. Mark A. Hicks

In this powerful episode of Vulnerability Muscle, host Reggie D. Ford sits down with Dr. Mark A. Hicks—author, counselor, ghostwriter, and relationship coach—to unpack one of life’s deepest questions: How do we truly learn to love?

Drawing from his groundbreaking book, Learning Love: Building a Life That Matters and Healthy Relationships That Last, Dr. Hicks reveals the five core components of love that can transform romantic partnerships, friendships, family dynamics, and workplace relationships: grief, emotion, practicality, acceptance, and passion. These insights blend wisdom from ancient biblical texts with modern psychology to offer a holistic, teachable path to deeper connection.

Listeners will hear:
Why grief is the foundation of love and a gateway to healing
How emotional safety and expression create lasting bonds
The role of practicality in avoiding relational breakdowns
Why self-acceptance is essential to loving others
How passion brings joy and meaning to everyday life
Real-life stories of toxic love, healing, and rediscovery
Lessons from the Book of Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs
Reflections on Brene Brown’s research and Maslow’s hierarchy of needs
Candid conversations about childhood trauma, conditional love, and emotional resilience

This episode is an invitation to unlearn dysfunctional relationship patterns and embrace love as a learnable skillset. Whether you’re navigating heartbreak, rebuilding trust, or seeking deeper emotional intimacy, this conversation will equip you with actionable wisdom.

Guest Contact:
Website: www.markahicks.com
Coaching, workshops, speaking inquiries, or to grab his free eBook: Use the contact form on his website
Book: Learning Love: Building a Life That Matters and Healthy Relationships That Last