RIDE OR DIE MARRIAGE | BUSINESS | LIFE

For the first time in over 16 years of business, serving hundreds of CEOs, I got sued! . Yep! Someone entered into a contract with my company was not only suing my company but also named me personally, meaning he was out for blood. Not just trying to hurt my business but specifically me and my family. . I don't care how strong your marriage is, the first time you get sued can go over like a fart in church! . My wife could have easily said things like.... . "I told you we never should have trusted him!" . "You should have listened to me!" . "Lawyers are going to cost us a fortune even when we win!" . "You're too nice! Why do you always believe people who say they've changed?" . After the initial shock, we laughed in disbelief and reminded each other that we can get through anything! . "FOR BETTER OR FOR WORSE..." aka RIDE OR DIE BABY! . We all made this vow on our wedding day but when life tries to throw tragedy your way or you find yourself under attack, do you remember that promise? . For many couples, it can be easier to default to... 1. Keeping score 2. Finger pointing 3. Blaming one another . The key to helping your marriage survive tough times is to make sure your relationship is built on a strong foundation before hard times strike. . In this 4-part series, we're going to share the facts about this recent attack and how it impacted our marriage, finances, and family life in hopes that you take away some insights that will serve you the next time you're going through a hard time. . This week we're talking about the foundation, which is everything. . Here's some of the tips we'll be covering: . *Talk things out *Seek help from others *Keep the tragedy in perspective *Be flexible *Avoid finger pointing (you're on the same team) *Accept each other's differences . LOOK...Don't wait for a crisis to build on your Ride or Die foundation. Together you guys can get through anything. I hope this series helps you see that even we get attacked and it's not always sunshine and rainbows at The Middleton's either. . Love you guys, B

In preparation for all the New Years resolutions, we wanted to talk about the ONE thing you can't avoid when making positive change in life... ...PAIN This week we'll give you perspective on the pain in your life and share with you a new way of looking at pain that will serve you heading into the New Year.   Join us in IG @brandonandsam @brandontmiddleton http://RideOrDieCouples.com

Prep for the Holiday Season... . Holy crap, it's November already?! . That means time with family, eatin' good, and all the holiday festivities... . It also means DRAMA...you know that in-law that always has an opinion about how he/she could have done better? . Or that negative Aunt Nancy who loved to bring up the past and poo poo on your life choices? . We all have them. The family or friends that just don't understand how to have a little perspective and a positive attitdue...REGARDLESS of what happened in the past. . Life is messy...for all of us. . What's important is to be grateful for what you have and always seek to get better. . This is A LOT easier to do with your husband/wife by your side BUT if you have spent all year whining to your family about your spouse, don't expect these family gatherings to be all peachy. . This week we discuss how important it is to paint your spouse in a positive light as often as possible. . At the end of the day, no one is on your team more than the person you vowed to love in sickenss & health, till death do you apart. . Let's double down on the love an gratitude this holiday season by edifying our Ride or Dies and keeping the complaining to the ones who can actualy effect change...your husband/wife...not your mom, dad, best friend, etc.

Parenting tips for happy kids . Ugh...the mom/dad guilt was STRONG this week!! . So often we are so busy and rushing that we just want the kids to pick up their toys, brush their teeth, get dressed, etc. so we can get out the door without being late for once! . In all this rushing we tend to say things like "do it or else.." or when asked "why do I have to" we say "because I said so" (God we sound like our parents right?! lol . In this episode we dive into a more effective way to talk with the kids so you get what you want with less yelling or tantrums. . WARNING: This is NOT a quick fix. It requires more patience than you probably feel you have BUT, with enough practice, you'll be raising kids that make it THEIR idea to take responsibilty for the things you're always telling them to do. . What's working for you? Have you tried this approach before? . Let us know in the comments!

We've been talking a lot about habits lately. Here's 10 habits you can create before bed to ensure a long lasting relationship. There are many secrets to being a happy couple. Little things, such as the things we do before bed, are a part of it. Over the years, we’ve developed these ten rituals before bed, which have helped us bond and contributed to our happy relationship.  Let’s Talk About This: What do you and your partner do before bed? Are the kids (and pets) allowed into your bed? Do you and your partner go to bed at the same time? Can you or your partner go to bed without their phones?   See Blog Posts on -  Ride OR Die Life:  http://rideordiecouples.com/    Follow them on INSTAGRAM:  @brandonandsam @brandontmiddleton @rideordiecouples

Even though we’ve been together for decades, we’re still learning ways to build a successful family and be better parents. In this episode, we share some of the things we learned at the Stephen Covey’s 7 habits training organized by the kids’ school.  Let’s Talk About This: How do you see or view your family? What are the things that are most important to you? What are the things you have control over? What are the things you don’t have control over?  What are the things you’d like to have more control over?    See Blog Posts on -  Ride OR Die Life:  http://rideordiecouples.com/    Follow them on INSTAGRAM:  @brandonandsam @brandontmiddleton @rideordiecouples   Like them on FACEBOOK:  https://www.facebook.com/rideordiecouples/

Sometimes, it’s difficult to walk away from a deal or situation because it feels like missing out on a deal of a lifetime. However, not all deals are beneficial to us, and we should learn to walk away from those. In this episode of the Ride or Die Podcast, we share the things that have helped us to walk away from business deals that don’t fit our plans or goals. Let’s Talk About This: What do you want at this point in your life? Does that ‘big’ deal align with your plans and goals? What would you lose if you take that potential deal of a ‘lifetime’? What are the things that would make you walk away from a deal?   See Blog Posts on - Ride OR Die Life: http://rideordiecouples.com/   Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam @brandontmiddleton @rideordiecouples   Like them on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/rideordiecouples/

There are several myths out there about having a long-lasting marriage. But, the majority of these myths are untrue, and if you pay too much attention to them, they will affect your marriage or relationship. In this episode of the Ride or Die Podcast, we debunk the top five marriage myths and share valuable insights on what really works. Let’s Talk About This: Are there any marriage myths that you believe are true? Is a marriage myth affecting your relationship with your spouse? What moves have you made to sustain your marriage over the years?   See Blog Posts on - Ride OR Die Life: http://rideordiecouples.com/   Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam @brandontmiddleton @rideordiecouples   Like them on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/rideordiecouples/

It can be frustrating to be around people who say they want something but do not take action to get it, especially if you’re a goal-getter like us. A couple of days ago, we were in a situation in which people around us were giving excuses and whining about not achieving a set goal, without putting in the required hard work. So, in this podcast, we vent about the frustration of being around people who always have excuses, as well as discuss what we do to get over the situation and concentrate on the goal. Let’s Talk About This: Do you sometimes feel unmotivated to do what it takes to achieve your goals? Is there someone around you who always finds an excuse not to do something? How do you deal with the frustration of being around people who don’t want it bad enough?   See Blog Posts on - Ride OR Die Life: http://rideordiecouples.com/   Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam @brandontmiddleton @rideordiecouples   Like them on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/rideordiecouples

It’s our 18th anniversary of being together next week – April 18th, and we would be married ten years, next year. Yaay! We’ve made it this far because of our patience, communication, sacrifice, teamwork and commitment to each other. In this podcast, we discuss our life together in the past 18 years and hope to give you insights and perspective that will be helpful on your journey to forever with your partner. Feel free to ask us any question about how we made it this far as a couple, in the comment section. Quick Poll: Should we have a huge celebration for our twenty years together or ten years married? Let’s Talk About This: How do you stay sane and keep the passion alive in your relationship? Did you have qualities of a perfect partner written down, before you met your partner? Do you and your partner have a mutual understanding on really big things? What are the highs and lows of your relationship? When did you have it figured out?   See Blog Posts on - Ride OR Die Life: http://rideordiecouples.com/   Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam @rideordiecouples   Like them on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/rideordiecouples

We all have a wide range of egos that we exhibit in different situations or when we are with different people. In this episode, which is inspired by the book, The Alter Ego Effect by Todd X, we talk about how we channel our different alter egos in our relationship with ourselves, our kids, our business partners, and the people around us. Let’s Talk About This: What’s your opinion on Ego? What are some examples of egos you don’t like? What ways has ego served you in your different relationships? How do you step into the character that will serve you and the people around you?   See Blog Posts on - Ride OR Die Life: http://rideordiecouples.com/   Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam @rideordiecouples   Like them on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/rideordiecouples

In most relationships, the men control the money while the women control the sex. This often causes a power struggle that affects the love and, consequently, the relationship. For us, we’ve learned to find a not-so-perfect balance between love, sex, and money and NEVER to use our “perceived” power as a weapon against one another. Let’s Talk About This: What’s the power dynamic in your relationship? Do you find yourself throwing your power in your partner’s face? Or vice versa? How do you deal with love, sex and money power struggle in your relationship? Are your finances combined, or do you have separate bank accounts?   See Blog Posts on - Ride OR Die Life: http://rideordiecouples.com/   Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam @rideordiecouples   Like them on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/rideordiecouples/

It’s almost the end of the first quarter of 2019, and we’ve been able to stick to our New Year resolutions/goals by being accountable to each other. It isn’t easy being the perfect accountability partner, but over the years we’ve learned how to push each other to achieve our goals. Let’s Talk About This: How much of your new year resolutions have you achieved? Do you have an accountability partner(s)? Why did you choose them? Is your significant other your accountability partner, and vice versa? How do you push each other to achieve your goals?   See Blog Posts on - Ride OR Die Life: http://rideordiecouples.com/   Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam   Like them on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/rideordiecouples

We’ve been in business together for as long as our relationship, and have had our share of friction that affect our relationship. But, we’ve learned how to work together seamlessly, and today we can’t envision not doing business together. Let’s Talk About This: Are you in business with your significant other? Is there a line between your business relationship and your personal relationship? Does being in business with your partner affect your personal relationship? How do you avoid/deal with tension in business with your significant other?   See Blog Posts on - Ride OR Die Life: http://rideordiecouples.com/   Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam   Like them on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/rideordiecouples/

Jealousy isn’t a big part of our relationship today. But, everyone struggles with jealousy, and we’ve had moments of jealousy in our relationship…and outside it. However, over the years we’ve learned how to avoid situations that will cause jealousy. Let’s Talk About This: Is jealousy a part of your relationship? What do you get jealous about? How do you avoid being jealous? How do you prevent your partner from being jealous? Besides your relationship, does jealousy affect other areas of your life?   See Blog Posts on - Ride OR Die Life: http://rideordiecouples.com/   Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam   Like them on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/rideordiecouples/

Of course, in our over a decade relationship, we’ve been disappointed in each other a couple of time. However, we’ve found ways to express our disappointment productively, to help us grow our relationship stronger. Let’s Talk About This: Does your disappointment stem from your expectations? Are your expectations of your partner too high? How do you express your disappointment with your partner? How do you react to your partner’s disappointment? How do you make up for disappointing your partner?   See Blog Posts on - Ride OR Die Couples: http://rideordiecouples.com/   Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam   Like them on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/rideordiecouples/

We usually don’t have the time to celebrate Valentine’s Day on Valentine’s Day. But, we’ve been able to surprise each other with different Valentine’s Day ideas over the past 18years Let’s talk about this: Do you have to celebrate Valentine’s Day on Valentine’s Day? Do you do something nice on Valentine’s Day expecting something in return? Is there pressure on you to do something exceptional on Valentine’s Day? What are your best and worst Valentine’s Day idea or gift?   See Blog Posts on - Ride OR Die Life: http://rideordiecouples.com/   Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam   Like them on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/rideordiecouples/

Here are some of the questions we had come in this week... Moving: How do you handle moving away from family? Sex: How does Sam get in the mood when she's not really in the mood? Business: Why did you quit your Seven figure company? How do you get your spouse on board with the change? Health: Sam, what have you been doing to stay motivated with your health? Parenting: Advise for new parents.   See Blog Posts on - Ride OR Die Couples: http://rideordiecouples.com/   Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam   Like them on FACEBOOK:  

We were fortunate enough to have a dinner date recently with 2 other amazing Ride Or Die Couples.  One of the biggest topics that came up is how we stay on a good morning routine. So why keep it to just table talk?!  Listen in as we share exactly what we do to stay on track, get more done, and crush our goals week in and week out.   See Blog Posts on -Ride OR Die Life:http://rideordiecouples.com/   Follow them on INSTAGRAM:@brandonandsam   Like them on FACEBOOK:  

Research shows that dating regularly is proven to strengthen your relationship. Over time, it can be easy to just let life “get in the way” and date nights become a pastime. It’s crucial for you to put quality time with your SO and we want to help you make the most of it!  Listen in as we talk about how you can get in the action!   Remember to like us on FACEBOOK:     Follow us on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam   Get Ride Or Die Gear and More Here:   And Catch Our Other Episodes Here:

In our house, cheating is a DEAL BREAKER!  But, from time to time the subject comes us and gets us talking.     Think about this: What do you stand for and stand against in your relationship? Have you discussed cheating with your SO?   What are the deal breakers in your relationship? Are there any needs your partner isn’t meeting right now?   See Blog Posts on - Ride OR Die Life: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:  

Let’s call out the ladies today! Today, Brandon and Sam talk about three things every husband wishes he could tell his wife. B has married guy friends who come to him all the time, asking what he does that makes Sam treat him the way she does. Today, they dig all the way down to the root. You’ll hear some great “storytime” segments with both Brandon and Sam as they pull today’s topic into their own marriage and put it out into the universe. Learn why it’s important to stop complaining and start focusing on the good things you do for each other. Learn why men are complicated, and why they’re not as complicated as you think. In today’s episode, you’ll get a front row seat as the conversation between the Middletons gets emotional in the best way! Enjoy!   See Blog Posts on - Ride Or Die Life: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

Setting goals together is important to avoid wedges in your relationship. Wedges form in areas where each of you leads a separate life. Planning and goal-setting together makes celebrating wins even sweeter. Listen as Brandon and Sam discuss their busy holiday season, and why goal-setting is so important to their success. You’ll hear why clear communication and decisive action are important, how to avoids feeling left behind or “out of the loop,” and how Whiteboard Sessions can help each of you feel heard. Happy New Year! See Blog Posts on - Ride OR Die Couples: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

Money can be a touchy subject for couples...especially during the holiday season. Spending increases, and planning & shopping can be a nightmare. Let B and Sam help! In this episode, Brandon and Sam share their shopping and gifting strategies for this year, including some awesome tips on how and where to find deals. They also delve into the sometimes-sensitive subject of budgeting. Brandon discusses one of his favorite budget planning methods in this episode, and LISTEN CLOSE for an exclusive link to get access to a tool that can save you a ton of time and headaches when you’re planning a budget!   See Blog Posts on - Ride OR Die Life: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

It happens between couples AND between parents and children Recognize that no one has power over you. YOU choose your reactions and behavior. Often when your partner is pushing your buttons, it’s because they’re struggling and looking for an outlet. They have lost control and are trying to find their way. It takes time to become aware of, and eventually immune to, The Power Struggle. Breaking the mold of “traditional” (old-fashioned) relationship roles. “Breadwinner” syndrome. Learning the dance and respecting each other’s role in parenting, in the relationship, and in business. January is the biggest month for the divorce rate - get through the holiday season! Timing is everything! Learn to identify where your partner’s focus is and ride the wave until the timing is more appropriate. Understand when and how each other learns and recharges their power. Don’t give away your power! Avoid comparing yourself on social media or at dinner parties. Everyone shows off their bells and whistles, and most people hide their failures and weaknesses. Don’t fall into that trap! Remember, even in your weakest moments, that you’re both committed. Quitting is the biggest way to give away all of your power. “Nothing has any power except for the power that you give it.”   See Blog Posts on - Ride OR Die Life: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

100 Episode Milestone! Two years! Home, Heart, Health, and Hustle “What are your favorite quick smoothie recipes?” “How do you stay motivated to work out early in the morning?” “How long after Peyton was born did you go out on a date?” “How did you guys stay close during pregnancy?” Keeping up the intimacy. Go on a babymoon? Coming up with date night ideas. Day dates! Spend the day with your spouse, and then go with the kids after school. “Do you guys take weekends off?” The importance of setting boundaries and giving yourself time to recharge as an entrepreneur and a family. Putting your Significant Other first! “Can you talk about handling faith with the kids?” Going to church, Bible app, overcoming upbringing to recognize the importance of faith. “Any book recommendations?” Profit First by Mike Michalowicz Sacred Marriage by Gary Thomas Personal development is for you; seek out resources that help with couples. Competitive nature with growth. Sam: “He’ll outgrow this relationship.” Look for seminar coming in June 2019! Thank you everyone! 100 Episodes!   See Blog Posts on - Ride OR Die Life: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

Do you give to your significant other, or are you sucking the life out of your relationship?  Don't open the door to bad habits.  A lot of people fall into the trap of being greedy and taking from their relationship without giving FIRST, and that ends up causing animosity and arguments between a couple.  It takes a lot of practice, but you can create consistent, good habits that are guaranteed to help lead to a more peaceful home environment.  Listen now for these 5 easy things to do for your significant other...even when you're mad at them...to help keep the peace and keep your relationship thriving.   See Blog Posts on - Ride OR Die Life: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

See Blog Posts on - Ride OR Die Life: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

We're all guilty of it, right?  You're in the heat of the moment, and you say something to your bae but they totally hear something different and overreact.  We had that very thing happen to us recently, and today we're breaking down the break down in our communication.  Hear what caused the rift, and what you can do to avoid this same thing in your relationship!     See Blog Posts on - Ride OR Die Life: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

Clutter clutter clutter!!!  As we clean the playroom time after time, we look around and have started thinking with the holidays coming up we'll be swimming in toys if we don't do something about it!  So listen in to hear about what cool twist we're putting on the holidays this year that will not only help with all the clutter, but create memories for the family that will last a lifetime.   See Blog Posts on - Ride OR Die Life: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

See Blog Posts on - The Middleton Methods: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

There's a lot of controversy over guys and girls going on a guys' trip or girls' trip.  The reality is, when you aren't "taking a break" there's a healthy and fulfilling way to go away with the guys or girls without your spouse resenting you for it.  Listen in as we discuss how each of us recently took separate trips, what we did, and how we balanced the decision without fighting over it.   See Blog Posts on - The Middleton Methods: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

There's a wheel of financial information that no one prepares you for when you enter into your own business. And let's face it, estate planning, tax preparation, and financial investments can be super confusing and overwhelming when you just don't know what you don't know. When you're working on your business you probably have questions about how to leverage your income and how to best protect your legacy. Listen in as B talks with friend and guest Kingsley Charles, a wealth preservation and consulting expert, as he shares why having a strong financial consultant is crucial to your success. Learn More:   See Blog Posts on - The Middleton Methods: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

Sex can be a powerful tool. Come listen in to why B and Sam believe keeping your partner sexually satisfied is important. See Blog Posts on - The Middleton Methods: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

See Blog Posts on - The Middleton Methods: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

What are Golden Handcuffs...and are you sporting a pair? B and Sam break down how you get sucked into jobs that make it hard to leave for something more fulfilling, what to look out for, and how to avoid the staying in a comfortable situation for a better opportunity. Also, listen in and get on the conversation about why making decisions together when you are ready to make career changes is vital to the success of your relationship.   See Blog Posts on - The Middleton Methods: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

Are you working on your goals, or working on someone else's goals? This week, Brandon and Sam dive into why it's important to have a clear vision on what your goals are so you don't find yourself working on someone else's dream instead of working on your own.   See Blog Posts on - The Middleton Methods: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:  

Has your partner or close friend/family ever said something that felt like a sucker punch? Something pessimistic, critical, or just flat out mean spirited? Naturally we have a tendency to want to react or retaliate. We want to prove them wrong or defend ourselves. It's human nature. This week Brandon offers a new perspective you can take in those inevitable and unavoidable times. Many times a different perspective will allow us to see tough situations through a better and more empathetic lens.   See Blog Posts on - The Middleton Methods: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

Are you being "brainwashed"?  This week, B shares why it's important to have control over your mindset before someone else controls your thinking for you.   See Blog Posts on - The Middleton Methods: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

There are little things every person can do to keep things steamy in their relationship. This week, B and Sam talk about some of their favorite tricks to get in the mood.   See Blog Posts on - The Middleton Methods: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

Being Ride Or Die doesn't just mean as a husband and wife.  You also need to be on your best parent game.  With the school year starting, things can get crazy for both you and the kids. This week B and Sam share the best ways to get back into the school year.  Learn more about why routine is so important, how to decide on each parent's roles and responsibilities, the importance of boundaries, the top tools they use to stay on track, and more tips on this week's episode.   See Blog Posts on - The Middleton Methods: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

This week B and Sam officially announce the Ride or Die podcast facelift. When they started this show in 2016 they were eager to share and serve and just picked a catchy name. Listen in this week for 3 keys they live by and how you can use them to strengthen your teamwork and adopt more of what Brandon & Sam call the Ride or Die attitude in their marriage.   See Blog Posts on - The Middleton Methods: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

See Blog Posts on - The Middleton Methods: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

See Blog Posts on - The Middleton Methods: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

This week, Brandon and Sam 'go in deep' and talk about what it takes to spice it up in the bedroom after 17 years.   See Blog Posts on - The Middleton Methods: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK:

This week we interviewed a Flipping Awesome entrepreneur, Mr. Dan Kalis and discuss his journey from broke and multiple MLM ventures to finally cracking the code on leveraging other people’s money and time to build multiple 4 Hour Workweek businesses.   See Blog Posts on - The Middleton Methods: Follow them on INSTAGRAM: @brandonandsam Like them on FACEBOOK: