22. Why Love Isn’t Supposed to Be Chaos—But Ours Kinda Was

Can love be both passionate AND peaceful? In this special Valentine's Day episode, I'm joined by my husband David for an unfiltered conversation about our relationship: from first impressions to navigating entrepreneurship, conflict, and personal growth together. We share the lessons we’ve learned, the mistakes we’ve made, and the rituals that keep our connection strong.

We talk about the differences that have led to the greatest conflict, the unexpected impact of taking dance classes together, and David’s slightly concerning fascination with cults. 

David shares his raw perspective on leaving corporate life for entrepreneurship and then choosing to go back, while I open up about learning to embrace my feminine energy in our relationship and secure attachment. Whether you're navigating your own relationship or still searching for the right partner, this candid conversation reveals why love doesn’t have to be complicated or dramatic to be real.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • How do first impressions shape long-term relationships?

  • What’s the secret to balancing love and entrepreneurship?

  • How can couples argue better instead of just arguing?

  • Can opposites attract and actually build a lasting relationship?

  • What relationship habits make love feel effortless?

​​Free Guide: ⁠⁠Common Mistakes Entrepreneurs Make in Marketing (& How to Fix Them)⁠⁠

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Key Takeaways

Introduction and First Impressions (00:00 - 05:23)

  • Samantha introduces David, her husband, as a special guest

  • They discuss their first impressions of each other on their first date

  • David thought Sam was well put together and fun

  • Sam found David immediately funny and relaxed

  • They connected over travel experiences and tech backgrounds

Shared Interests and Differences (05:24 - 16:56)

  • Both enjoy dancing and have taken various dance classes together

  • They have different tastes in music (David likes jam bands, EDM; Sam prefers indie)

  • David enjoys music festivals, while Sam has become more sensitive to crowds

  • They discuss their different approaches to planning and spontaneity

  • Both are entrepreneurs and support each other's professional goals

Relationship Dynamics and Communication (16:57 - 30:40)

  • They discuss how they support each other's professional development

  • Both have transitioned from corporate jobs to entrepreneurship

  • They celebrate each other's small wins and provide honest feedback

  • They've learned to communicate better and understand each other's perspectives

  • They use the 'Eight Dates' book to improve their relationship

Professional Transitions and Personal Growth (30:41 - 40:09)

  • David discusses his decision to transition back to corporate work

  • They talk about the challenges and learnings from entrepreneurship

  • Both value ambition and continuous personal and professional growth

  • They discuss the balance between work and personal life as entrepreneurs

️ Conflict Resolution and Personal Development (40:10 - 51:54)

  • They discuss how they handle arguments and conflicts

  • Both emphasize the importance of communication and understanding each other's perspectives

  • They talk about the impact of past experiences on current behaviors

  • Both value personal development and therapy in strengthening their relationship

️ Valentine's Day Plans and Relationship Advice (51:55 - 01:01:47)

  • They plan to make songs for each other for Valentine's Day

  • David gives advice for single women in the dating world

  • They discuss the importance of secure attachment in relationships

  • Both emphasize that love can be calm and easy, rather than turbulent

About your host: Samantha Fackler is an Executive Leadership Coach and Marketing Advisor who transforms how women entrepreneurs grow a freedom-based business. After scaling 100+ companies over 12+ years with both Fortune 500 companies (think Apple, PayPal, LinkedIn) and early-stage founders, she brings a rare blend of corporate strategy and holistic leadership to help you scale intentionally. Her approach? Building aligned, profitable businesses without the burnout narrative. Because success shouldn't cost you your wellbeing.

Watch: ⁠HOW TO SCALE Masterclass Replay (FREE for a limited time)⁠

Join Sam's Mastermind Group for Women Entrepreneurs: ⁠Apply here⁠

Connect with Sam:

Instagram: ⁠@growwith_sam⁠

TikTok: ⁠@sidenotepod⁠

Website: ⁠www.growwithsam.com⁠

YouTube: ⁠@sidenotepod⁠

Have a transformation story worth sharing? Top-tier women entrepreneurs can apply to be a guest at ⁠sidenotepod.com⁠.

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Marriage Isn't What You Think—A Raw First Year Reality Check (ft. My Husband)

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21. How Women Sabotage Success + Somatic Solutions with Kelley Hoag