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Program Info

The Heart of the Matter

| with Rev. George Whitton | Wednesdays at 1 p.m. CT
The Heart of the Matter

Program Overview

Unfortunately, over half of marriages end in divorce. Rather than become another unhappy statistic, there is an alternative. We can learn to create healthy relationships not just by happenstance but by learning the skills to keep our relationships healthy, loving and fun. Each week on “The Heart of the Matter,” Rev. George will be joined by his co-hosts Tom and Joyce DeVoge, relationship specialists, taking calls and exploring ways to keep relationships alive, fresh and loving.

Program Archives
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  • Episode: Expressing Gratitude Using Velcro Appreciations
    Original air date: Wednesday, January 20, 2010
    Episode Description:
    Appreciation is the atomic structure of affection. When we express our appreciation, we enjoy the benefits of feeling and sending gratitude.
  • Episode: Understanding Friendship
    Original air date: Wednesday, January 13, 2010
    Episode Description:
    Most of us want rewarding, satisfying relationships, those that are mutually pleasurable. A deeper understanding of the element of friendship can guide us toward this goal.
  • Episode: Talking Back to January
    Original air date: Wednesday, January 06, 2010
    Episode Description:
    The fun is over; the bills are due. This is a likely time to feel sad--unless you take charge of January.
  • Episode: Do Your Part--No Matter What
    Original air date: Wednesday, December 16, 2009
    Episode Description:
    So often we think that if our partner does their part in being responsible in our relationship, then we'll do ours. This show stress the importance of doing our part to support the relationship no matter what our partner is contributing or not contributing.
  • Episode: Six Do's and Don'ts for Promoting Intimacy
    Original air date: Wednesday, December 09, 2009
    Episode Description:
    All of us want to feel close and connected to our partner but how do we do that? This show covers six important behaviors to avoid that undermine intimacy. Additionally, there we discuss six types of behavior that promoted couples feeling close and connected.
  • Episode: Enjoying the Holidays
    Original air date: Wednesday, December 02, 2009
    Episode Description:
    We tend to think of the holidays as fun and pleasant events. But why are they so stressful? This program covers the challenges of the holiday season and how to effectively deal with them.
  • Episode: Just Don't Fight
    Original air date: Wednesday, November 18, 2009
    Episode Description:
    Fighting is costly and unproductive. We describe and recommend alternatives.
  • Episode: The Platinum Rule
    Original air date: Wednesday, November 11, 2009
    Episode Description:
    In conjunction with the Golden Rule, this rule guides us to better meet our partner's needs.
  • Episode: Affection and Health
    Original air date: Wednesday, November 04, 2009
    Episode Description:
    A wide variety of health issues have been linked to affection. We explore this rich and informative research.
  • Episode: Steps to Healing a Betrayal
    Original air date: Wednesday, October 28, 2009
    Episode Description:
    There are concrete steps one can take to rebuild trust and affect after a betrayal and we'll be exploring those possibilities.
  • Episode: Maintaining Daily Connection
    Original air date: Wednesday, October 07, 2009
    Episode Description:
    Intimacy is a process, not a destination. We recommend daily rituals and tools to sustain connection.
  • Episode: Ten Rules for Healthy Friendships
    Original air date: Wednesday, September 30, 2009
    Episode Description:
    To maintain a healthy relationship, both people have to play by the same set of rules. We'll offer up ten rules that work.
  • Episode: The Fable of the Scorpion and the Frog
    Original air date: Wednesday, September 23, 2009
    Episode Description:
    A discussion of the qualities to look for in deciding who will likely make a good friend and who will not.
  • Episode: Four Fundamentals of Healthy Sexuality
    Original air date: Wednesday, September 16, 2009
    Episode Description:
    Nonsexual, low-tech suggestions for physically intimate partners.
  • Episode: Varieties of Love
    Original air date: Wednesday, September 09, 2009
    Episode Description:
    The English language is limited to one term for love. We will discuss different kinds of loving relationships.
  • Episode: The Importance of Asking
    Original air date: Wednesday, September 02, 2009
    Episode Description:
    Intimate relationships function better when people ask clearly for what they want.
  • Episode: Tips for Effective Parenting
    Original air date: Wednesday, August 26, 2009
    Episode Description:
    The parenting relationship is a complex and special one that requires the parent to assume a dominant and loving attitude.
  • Episode: Emptying the Emotional Jug
    Original air date: Wednesday, August 19, 2009
    Episode Description:
    Listen in for a communication took for relieving stresses external to our relationships.
  • Episode: Your Emotional Roots
    Original air date: Wednesday, July 15, 2009
    Episode Description:
    We are emotional beings. Understanding our emotions and how to recognize and control them is necessary in keeping love alive.
  • Episode: Letting Go of Grudges
    Original air date: Wednesday, July 08, 2009
    Episode Description:
    Individuals in relationships can develop resentments and grudges that can last long periods of time. Intimacy cannot be restored until the grudges are released. We’ll talk about ways to release, let go, and get back to the love.
  • Episode: Levels of Emotional Maturity
    Original air date: Wednesday, June 24, 2009
    Episode Description:
    We’re supposed to mature with age. In the arena of relationships, we may not know what emotional maturity looks like. We’ll give examples of both mature and immature emotional behaviors.
  • Episode: Gender Differences in Intimacy
    Original air date: Wednesday, June 17, 2009
    Episode Description:
    Men and women approach intimacy in different ways. What appeals to a man may not appeal to a woman. We’ll discuss the common differences and how to address them.
  • Episode: The Art of De-Stressing
    Original air date: Wednesday, June 03, 2009
    Episode Description:
    Stress is prevalent just about everywhere in our fast-paced society. We’ll discuss ways to chill out so that you can warm up your primary relationship.
  • Episode: How to Improve Your Self-Esteem
    Original air date: Wednesday, May 27, 2009
    Episode Description:
    How we feel about ourselves affects how successful we’ll be in our primary relationship. We provide tips for improving self-esteem so that your relationship isn’t hampered by a history of self-criticism.
  • Episode: Healing After a Betrayal
    Original air date: Wednesday, May 20, 2009
    Episode Description:
    The pain of betrayal is often the most difficult relationship challenges to heal. We’ll talk about the steps necessary for healing and renewed trust.
  • Episode: Relationship in the Workplace
    Original air date: Wednesday, May 13, 2009
    Episode Description:
    Relationships in the workplace can cross boundaries that place your primary relationship in jeopardy. We’ll talk about the most common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
  • Episode: Relationship Triangles and Jealousy
    Original air date: Wednesday, May 06, 2009
    Episode Description:
    Relationship triangles and jealousy - it is easy to get caught in triangulation with members of the opposite sex. This episode explores warning signs and suggests ways to maintain your integrity and your relationship.
  • Episode: Relationship Triangles and Jealousy
    Original air date: Wednesday, April 29, 2009
    Episode Description:
    Join Rev. George today for a discussion on jealousy in relationships and how to deal with it.
  • Episode: Creative Celebration
    Original air date: Wednesday, April 22, 2009
    Episode Description:
    Join Rev. George today for thoughts on celebrating relationships, creatively.
  • Episode: A Communication Power Tool: The Daily Temperature Reading
    Original air date: Wednesday, April 15, 2009
    Episode Description:
    We can learn to create healthy relationships not just by happenstance but by learning the skills to keep our relationships healthy, loving and fun. Join Rev. George on The Heart of the Matter this week to explore communication tools and how to read one another.
  • Episode: Our Triune Brain: One Head, Three Brains
    Original air date: Wednesday, April 08, 2009
    Episode Description:
    Join in for today’s discussion on the three-part brain and what it means in terms of relationships.
  • Episode: Adult Bonding and Physical Closeness
    Original air date: Wednesday, March 25, 2009
    Episode Description:
    Tune in for today’s discussion with Rev. George Whitton on healthy relationships and creating bonds and developing closeness.
  • Episode: The Art of Negotiating
    Original air date: Wednesday, March 11, 2009
    Episode Description:
    Join in today’s discussion on creating healthy relationships: achieving resolution through the art of negotiating.
  • Episode: Essential Communication Skills: Listening and Responsible Complaining
    Original air date: Wednesday, March 04, 2009
    Episode Description:
    Tune in for today’s discussion on essential communication skills for healthy relationships.
  • Episode: Conflict
    Original air date: Wednesday, February 25, 2009
    Episode Description:
    Differences attract us in the beginning of a relationship but they can become sources of conflict after commitment and marriage. This show explores how we can successfully handle our differences.
  • Episode: Anger Management
    Original air date: Wednesday, February 18, 2009
    Episode Description:
    Anger is part of the human experience. However, feelings of love and friendship depend on gentleness. We cannot afford to be very angry very often.
  • Episode: The Five G’s
    Original air date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009
    Episode Description:
    The Five G’s—Gentleness, Generosity, Graciousness, Gratitude, and Goodwill—are essential attitudes and forms of conduct that support the caring part of a friendship.
  • Episode: Guest Rev. Suzanne and Matt Carter
    Original air date: Wednesday, February 04, 2009
    Episode Description:
    Join Rev. George Whitton and guests Rev. Suzanne and Matt Carter for a discussion on ways to keep relationships alive, fresh, and loving.
  • Episode: Velcro Appreciations
    Original air date: Wednesday, January 21, 2009
    Episode Description:
    This program focuses on using appreciation to assist in solidifying the foundation of our love and friendship of another.
  • Episode: Friendship Skills
    Original air date: Wednesday, January 14, 2009
    Episode Description:
    This often neglected part of the relationship can be used to make a relationship seem more warmer, safer, and inviting.
  • Episode: Rebuilding Trust
    Original air date: Wednesday, December 17, 2008
    Episode Description:
    Trust is the foundation of committed relationship. What can you do to rebuild it if the foundation cracks? Join host George Whitton to find out ways to repair and heal.
  • Episode: Do’s and Don'ts of Intimacy
    Original air date: Wednesday, December 10, 2008
    Episode Description:
    Six Do's and Six Don'ts to Deepen Intimacy.
  • Episode: Creating Healthy Relationships
    Original air date: Wednesday, December 03, 2008
    Episode Description:
    Join in the discussion to find out the important role self-esteem plays in intimacy.
  • Episode: Doing your part no matter what!
    Original air date: Wednesday, November 19, 2008
    Episode Description:
    We can learn to maintain caring and friendliness no matter how our partner is behaving.
  • Episode: The Platinum Rule
    Original air date: Wednesday, November 12, 2008
    Episode Description:
    In conjunction with the Golden Rule, this rule guides us to better meet our partner’s needs.
  • Episode: Just Don’t Fight
    Original air date: Wednesday, October 29, 2008
    Episode Description:
    Fighting is costly and unproductive. We describe and recommend alternatives.
  • Episode: Loving What Is
    Original air date: Wednesday, October 15, 2008
    Episode Description:
    Rev. George welcomes Loving What Is expert Rev. Martha Creek. They will discuss how using the Loving What Is technique can be used to strengthen relationships.
  • Episode: Maintaining Daily Connection
    Original air date: Wednesday, October 08, 2008
    Episode Description:
    Intimacy is a process, not a destination. We recommend daily rituals and tools to sustain connection.
  • Episode: The Fable of the Scorpion and the Frog
    Original air date: Wednesday, September 24, 2008
    Episode Description:
    A discussion of the qualities to look for in deciding who will likely make a good friend and who will not.
  • Episode: Four Fundamentals of Healthy Sexuality
    Original air date: Wednesday, September 17, 2008
    Episode Description:
    Nonsexual, low-tech suggestions for physically intimate partners.
  • Episode: Tips for Effective Parenting
    Original air date: Wednesday, September 03, 2008
    Episode Description:
    The parenting relationship is a complex and special one that requires the parent to assume a dominant and loving attitude.
  • Episode: Emptying the Emotional Jug
    Original air date: Wednesday, August 27, 2008
    Episode Description:
    Description and demonstration of a communication tool for relieving stresses external to the relationship.
  • Episode: Tracing Your Emotional Roots
    Original air date: Wednesday, August 20, 2008
    Episode Description:
    Not all of our inheritance is physical or material. Some of our inheritance from family concerns patterns and styles of relating to our intimate partners. We'll discuss how our social inheritance affects us.
  • Episode: Letting Go of Grudges
    Original air date: Wednesday, August 13, 2008
    Episode Description:
    We can be unaware that we're holding a grudge with our partner. This discussion will focus on becoming aware of a grudge and how to move toward forgiveness.
  • Episode: Coping with Bullies
    Original air date: Wednesday, July 23, 2008
    Episode Description:
    Life often presents us with challenging personalities. Most of us can appreciate help in identifying and dealing with these individuals.
  • Episode: Emotional Maturity
    Original air date: Wednesday, July 16, 2008
    Episode Description:
    What does it mean to be emotionally mature? This program will explore ways to demonstrate emotional maturity and how we can manifest this state of effective healthy consciousness.
  • Episode: Gender Differences in Intimate Relationships: Understanding Venus and Mars
    Original air date: Wednesday, July 09, 2008
    Episode Description:
    We often are under the illusion that what we want in our intimate relationship is the same thing our partner wants. We’ll explore the healthy differences that exist between the sexes and how to use them to our advantage.
  • Episode: The Ways We Avoid Intimacy
    Original air date: Wednesday, July 02, 2008
    Episode Description:
    We are often disappointed when we look to and insist others to give us what we need. We’ll talk about numerous ways to take care of ourselves under conditions of stress.
  • Episode: The Art of Self Soothing
    Original air date: Wednesday, June 25, 2008
    Episode Description:
    Our nature is one of love. Yet we get into states of consciousness that work against our nature. We’ll explore how we avoid intimacy and how we can get back to the love.
  • Episode: Ten Rules of Friendship
    Original air date: Wednesday, June 04, 2008
    Episode Description:
    Learn the ten rules for creating a healthy and supportive friendship. To maintain a healthy relationship, both people have to play by the same rules. We’ll offer up ten rules that work.
  • Episode: Improving and maintaining your own self-esteem.
    Original air date: Wednesday, May 28, 2008
    Episode Description:
    Adequate self-esteem is an essential ingredient in having and maintaining a healthy intimate relationship. We’ll talk about how to create and maintain at fit self image.
  • Episode: The Ritual of Celebration
    Original air date: Wednesday, April 30, 2008
    Episode Description:
    Rituals play important roles in committed relationships. Developing meaningful celebration rituals deepens our experience of friendship and pleasure.
  • Episode: Work and Play Balance: Cleaning the Barn vs. Riding the Pony.
    Original air date: Wednesday, April 23, 2008
    Episode Description:
    Healthy relationships have a balance between work time and play time. We’ll elaborate on essential differences between work and play and their unique contributions to our relationships.
  • Episode: Discovering the Three Parts of the Triune Brain.
    Original air date: Wednesday, April 16, 2008
    Episode Description:
    Our brains consist of three independent parts working together. Knowledge of these parts is useful in becoming more competent in our relationships.
  • Episode: Adult Bonding and Physical Closeness
    Original air date: Wednesday, April 09, 2008
    Episode Description:
    A basic element of intimacy is being close and feeling comfortable with your partner. This means learning how to be a source of physical pleasure for you partner.
  • Episode: Listening and Responsible Complaining
    Original air date: Wednesday, March 19, 2008
    Episode Description:
    Two positive gifts to the process of ironing out differences in a friendly way are listening and responsible complaining. We will describe safe and effective ways to perform each of these skills.
  • Episode: Time Out & Anger Management
    Original air date: Wednesday, March 05, 2008
    Episode Description:
    As we have noted, friendship depends upon being gentle. We simply cannot afford to be very angry with each other very often. Nonetheless, anger is a natural part of any close relationship and occurs with some frequency. The key is to manage the anger.
  • Episode: Why Conflict is Inevitable in any Intimate Relationship
    Original air date: Wednesday, February 27, 2008
    Episode Description:
    While differences actually attract us in the beginning of a close relationship, they can become sources of conflict after prolonged contact. Other sources of conflict stem from differences in gender, family histories, temperament, personality traits and brain biology. Join us to learn more.
  • Episode: The Five G's
    Original air date: Wednesday, February 20, 2008
    Episode Description:
    We will discuss the five G's--the fundamental attitudes which are important to promote affection and friendship.
  • Episode: Love Languages
    Original air date: Wednesday, February 13, 2008
    Episode Description:
    We'll be discussing love languages and caring behaviors. There are many ways to express the love we feel for one another. We'll be discussing how to keep love vibrant through what we say and what we do.
  • Episode: Velcro Appreciations
    Original air date: Wednesday, February 06, 2008
    Episode Description:
    The atomic structure of love and friendship identifies the words and deeds as being appreciated. Velcro, describing how the appreciator feels inside about the words and deeds.
  • Episode: Friendship Skills
    Original air date: Wednesday, January 30, 2008
    Episode Description:
    We’ll be sharing techniques to keep your relationships healthy, loving, and fun. Dr. Tom and Joyce DeVoge, relationship experts, will join the discussion and give us ideas that will help you create loving friendships.

Host Bio

Rev. George Whitton
Rev. George Whitton is on staff at the New Thought Unity Center in Cincinnati and serves as director of radio. He has been attending Unity since 1979. He teaches classes and along with his wife Nancy, a licensed teacher, facilitates a midweek evening service at his Center.

As a licensed Unity teacher, George has hosted more than 1000 radio shows since 1997. George produces shows that are designed to provide information and inspiration so that we might live rich, abundant and peaceful lives.

Each week he is joined by co-hosts Tom and Joyce DeVoge Tom and his wife, Joyce, both certified Master Teachers and Trainers in PAIRS (Practical Application of Intimate Relationship Skills), founded the Cincinnati Relationship Center (CRC) in 2000. CRC is a sanctuary for people with personal and relationship concerns. The center offers adolescent and adult psychotherapy as well as marital counseling. Tom and Joyce also conduct PAIRS workshops for couples and relationship classes for couples and individuals, as well as recommitment counseling for couples.

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