Quote from Oladosun Joshua Segun on November 29, 2024, 11:42 AM

Long-term relationships in Hollywood often seem like a gamble, filled with twists and turns. Yet, some couples manage to turn the odds in their favor. One such pair is Sterling K. Brown and Ryan Michelle Bathé. Both talented actors, they have built a commendable career while nurturing a loving marriage. This journey, includes the challenges they've faced, and the insights shared in their podcast, "We Don't Always Agree."

This includes the lessons they’ve learned throughout their 18-year marriage; many couples will surely relate to what Brown considers one of the hardest.

Sterling and Ryan first crossed paths at Stanford University, where their shared interests in the arts and community service sparked an instant connection. They both valued creativity and aimed to make a difference in the world, forming a strong foundation for their relationship.

"This is the kind of thing that you learn over and over again," the American Fiction actor shared in an exclusive joint interview, “and you know it, but you still have to make peace with it: Why doesn’t she see things the way that I see them? And I know she's her own person who's had her own background and own experience that has led her to a very specific perspective on life, as am I."

Like many dual-career couples, Sterling and Ryan have faced the challenge of balancing demanding acting careers with family life. Statistics show that around 60% of dual-career couples struggle with work-life balance. Both have appeared in major TV shows and movies, making it essential to establish a routine that supports their work and personal commitments.

Still, knowing the answer and applying it are two different things.

"I think we're actually way better 18 years than we were two years in terms of the kind of friction that it would cause when we saw things differently," he continued. "I think learning to appreciate your partner's perspective instead of being befuddled and confused by it is something that I am constantly growing into, and I think that'll be for the course of our relationship."

Through their journey, they have encountered obstacles, such as the pressures of fame and the demands of their respective careers. They’ve publicly shared their experiences, showing how honest communication and commitment helped them overcome these hurdles. Each challenge has made their bond stronger.

"We Don't Always Agree" arose from their desire to encourage open conversations about relationships and parenting. The podcast allows them to share their perspectives, even when they don’t align.

Recurring themes in the podcast include:

• Effective communication
• Conflict resolution strategies
• Maintaining intimacy in a busy life

Specific episodes, such as discussing communication hurdles and parenting differences, resonate with many listeners, offering practical advice. The podcast has gained popularity, with thousands of downloads each month. Listeners appreciate the authenticity Sterling and Ryan bring, sharing their genuine experiences and vulnerabilities.

So, pick your battles because not everyone is worth the fight. As Bathé put it, "You can be right, or you can be in a relationship. I think that applies to any relationship, too." But this doesn’t mean partners have to see eye-to-eye on everything.

“I think people would like to believe that in a couple [RELATIONSHIP] everyone agrees all the time and you're just so much in sync,” Bathé added. “While that is true, I think what can also be healthy in a couple [RELATIONSHIP] are people who have different approaches. Because those different approaches can help, when we have healthy disagreements, blend into a really good hybrid approach.”

Sterling and Ryan advocate for healthy conflict resolution strategies. They emphasize the importance of listening as much as speaking, valuing each other's viewpoints while finding common ground. Relationship experts support this approach, noting that open dialogue reduces misunderstandings.

She explained that instead of focusing on why your partner doesn’t see the situation the way you do, couples can understand “how different people learn and how we can approach this and get the best of both worlds.”

"But if you think that every argument spells doom and you're not supposed to argue or you're not even supposed to disagree deeply,” Bathé shared, “then you never get to the other side of the argument, which is a dual approach or just even a deeper appreciation for another way of seeing things that can only enrich your life and then enrich your lives as a couple."

Despite their busy schedules, they prioritize intimacy. They share date nights and moments of connection, showcasing the importance of making time for each other. This intentionality strengthens their relationship.

Self-care plays a crucial role in their relationship. By taking care of themselves, they are better partners. Some practical tips include:

• Setting personal goals
• Pursuing hobbies
• Having solo time

As Brown and Bathé continues to grow as a couple they’re taking their fans along for the ride sharing how they can disagree and still love each other on their podcast (with new episodes dropping Wednesdays). These actions help maintain their mental well-being, positively impacting their marriage.

Shared values and goals are vital for any long-term relationship. Sterling and Ryan often reflect on how their commitment to family and community aligns with their personal visions. This alignment fosters mutual respect.

Supporting one another’s careers is essential for them. They celebrate each other’s successes, creating a nurturing environment that fosters growth in both their personal and professional lives.

“Anybody's relationship from the outside can appear to be ‘perfect,’ ‘goals,’ et cetera, et cetera,” the Emmy winner noted. “I think Ryan and I were interested in, ‘Listen, there is effort that is extended on a daily basis to ensure that we keep choosing each other. Sometimes it can look messy, sometimes it can be a bit more fluid. There’s ebbs and flows, crests and troughs to the whole thing.’”

As parents, they’ve navigated the joys and challenges of raising children also. Their dedication to parenting reinforces their partnership, as they work together to create a loving environment for their kids.

Sterling and Ryan's journey offers crucial lessons for couples:

• Open communication is vital
• Prioritize intimacy and self-care
• Support each other's dreams

Their transparency in discussing relationship challenges has inspired many couples. By sharing their experiences, they highlight that ups and downs are part of any relationship journey.

 Brown also hopes this gives listeners a “full picture” of who he and Bathé are as a couple. “If people wanted to give us goals for anything,” he continued, “then hopefully they get the chance to peek behind the veil a little bit and be like, 'Oh, OK. It is goals, but it is also work.'"

The podcast contributes significantly to relationship advice by emphasizing conversations that matter. It serves as a valuable resource for couples seeking to strengthen their bond.

Sterling K. Brown and Ryan Michelle Bathé exemplify that a fulfilling marriage is possible, despite challenges. Their commitment to open communication and shared values has created a strong foundation for their relationship. For couples seeking inspiration, listening to "We Don't Always Agree" can be a transformative experience. Embrace the journey of love—its ups, downs, and collective growth.