Author Glennon Doyle and her wife, former soccer star Abby Wambach, discussed maintaining intimacy and navigating challenges in their marriage during a recent podcast appearance. The couple shared insights into their ten-year relationship, highlighting how connection evolves beyond initial infatuation.
Appearing on the podcast "Call Her Daddy", Abby Wambach explained that a core practice for them involves understanding what makes each other feel intimate. She stated that their relationship, like others, has experienced both highs and lows over the past decade.
Wambach elaborated that these fluctuations apply to both physical intimacy and emotional closeness. She described periods of feeling deeply connected followed by times when external pressures, such as personal loss or health crises, create distance.
She noted that striving for a constant state of intense infatuation is not realistic or sustainable. The focus shifts towards cultivating a sense of deep partnership and enduring intimacy as the relationship matures.
Glennon Doyle and [Abby Wambach](https://www.latimes.com/lifestyle/story/2024-10-11/sunday-funday-abby-wambach-things-to-do-los- angeles) made their relationship public in late 2016 and married in May 2017. They have previously spoken about communication being a central part of their dynamic.
In a 2019 interview, Wambach described their relationship as involving "a ton of talking all the time," often centered on their shared passion for advocating for equality and addressing societal issues. Doyle added that their similar beliefs and goals were foundational to their connection.
The couple, along with Doyle's sister Amanda Doyle, host the podcast "We Can Do Hard Things," which inspired their book, "We Can Do Hard Things: Answers to Life’s 20 Questions". The book draws on lessons learned from navigating personal struggles, including health diagnoses and grief.
Glennon Doyle has been public about her journey with anorexia, discussing the challenges of addressing the eating disorder amidst public scrutiny. She has stated that honesty about her struggles helps her cope.
Regarding political beliefs, Doyle has cited James Baldwin, stating that while disagreements are possible, she draws a line when a differing view denies someone's humanity or right to exist. She noted that recent events have led her to focus on aligning with those who agree on core human rights, such as protecting vulnerable individuals.
Doyle has also discussed her perspective on parenting and contributing to the world, suggesting that a "mothering energy" is needed broadly in communities regardless of whether one has children. She reflected on the challenge of raising children in a world she sometimes finds overwhelming.
Asked about maintaining hope when feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world, Doyle recounted a story about a protester with a single candle. She said the protester explained the purpose was not necessarily to change policy, but to ensure the protester did not become indifferent.
