Ep13. From Conflict to Connection with Riké John

The Enlighten DXB Podcast

In this episode of The Enlighten DXB Podcast, host Erika Welch sits down with relationship coach Riké John to explore how we can move from tension and misunderstandings into deeper intimacy, trust, and connection in our relationships.

We dive into the loneliness epidemic and why, in a world that feels more polarized and disconnected than ever, so many of us are craving deeper bonds, richer memories, and a stronger social fabric. Are we stuck in the “catching up trap,” meeting just to update each other — or are we truly making memories together?

Riké shares practical tools to:

• Communicate effectively in relationships
• Repair conflict with empathy and understanding
• Recognize and manage emotional triggers
• Identify ways in which we are creating disconnection
• Overcome barriers to connection like busyness, exhaustion, and lack of time
• Intentionally create moments for bonding and joy
• Understand the difference between “side-by-side” and “nose-to-nose” energy
• Navigate the paradox of intimacy in romantic relationships vs friendships

This conversation is a guide for anyone ready to break patterns of disconnection, build stronger relationships, and live with more presence and connection. Whether you’re looking to repair a relationship, deepen emotional bonds, or create a stronger foundation for love, Riké shares practical tools and transformative insights you can start using today.
Guest Bio:
Rike is a VITA certified love and relationship coach working with the modalities of Internal Family Systems (IFS), Nonviolent Communication (NVC), and Authentic Relating, infused by her background in Tantra and modern mystery schools. She works with clients from around the world using various methods such as shadow work, embodiment and somatic practices, as well as inner parts work and practical communication tools and processes for couples and individuals. When you meet her, you realize she’s built for this; she provides a safe space for deep healing – as if it’s in her blood. But she’s lived a few lives already, from working in the corporate world, to the startup world, and then spending several years in tantric and sex positive spaces. She is now based in Dubai, working with clients in-person and online, to help them feel the love, connection and joy that they desire.

Connect with Riké:
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Chapters

1. Teaser & Intro (00:00:00)

2. Why Are We So Disconnected? (00:03:01)

3. The Struggle for Deep Intimacy in Love (00:07:32)

4. Losing Presence—and Finding Our Way Back (00:12:37)

5. The Power of Inviting vs. Demanding (00:19:21)

6. Tools for Building True Intimacy (00:29:36)

7. How We Get in Our Own Way (00:35:11)

8. Riké Breaks Down Terry Real’s Relationship Grid (00:45:37)

9. Breaking the Cycle with Compassion (and Breath) (00:51:25)

10. Grounding Strategies for When You’re Triggered (00:56:02)

11. Final Thoughts & Takeaways (01:02:05)