In this episode of The Learning Love Podcast, we explore one of the most common relationship habits that quietly destroys trust: putting down your spouse in front of friends, coworkers, or family members.

It may seem harmless. A joke. A complaint. A way to vent or get a laugh. But over time, repeatedly mocking, criticizing, or belittling your partner in social settings can slowly create contempt — and according to relationship researcher Dr. John Gottman, contempt is the #1 predictor of divorce.

Why does this happen? How do small comments become emotional distance? And what can couples do instead if they genuinely need support, humor, or a safe place to process frustration?

In this episode, we discuss: • Why public criticism damages emotional safety • The difference between healthy vulnerability and destructive venting • How fri ...