Room Escape Artist

“Trust is sexier than jealousy”

Diamonds are formed under a million years of crushing pressure, and for many couples, they’re also the ultimate symbol of commitment. Coincidence? Maybe not. That’s why we welcomed back couples therapist Zach Brittle, host of the Marriage Therapy Radio podcast. He talks to us about the secret to healthy relationships an – spoiler alert – it’s not just vibes or diamond rings.

So how did diamonds become synonymous with engagement rings? What are they good for, really? David dives into the history and science of diamonds, including the most successful marketing campaign of all time, industrial uses, and more. I also share perspective as a working jeweler. Check out some of my work on my Instagram @loradorjewelry.

Today’s game is called Uncut Gems. Players must polish and cut a word by removing the first and last letter to reveal the “diamond” word inside.

Check out Zach Brittle’s Website for more info on his podcast and his work. I recommend starting with David and Lisa’s episode, Ep 409 – No One Wins Alone: Lessons in Partnership from Escape Room Experts David and Lisa Spira.

Time Stamps

• 00:58 Game: Uncut Gems
• 09:24 Topic: Relationships and Couples Therapy
• 14:59 Topic: The Truth About Diamonds
• 26:05 Credits

Guest: Zach Brittle

I’ve been helping couples build connection for over 20 years—as a teacher, coach, and therapist. I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Washington State and, as far as I know, the only couples therapist in the world certified in both Gottman Method Couples Therapy and Relational Life Therapy (Terry Real’s model).

I train clinicians in both approaches and often speak and teach on how they intersect—where they align, where they clash, and how together they create something more complete.

I’m also the host of Marriage Therapy Radio and the author of The Relationship Alphabet, a bestselling relationship guide, and The Marriage Therapy Journal, a practical workbook for couples. My work has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Vanity Fair, Men’s Health, Real Simple, and the Gottman Relationship Blog.

I’ve been happily married to Rebecca for 25 of our 28 years together. We live in Seattle with two adulting daughters who challenge our sanity and enrich our lives in equal measure.

More Podcasts from Peih-Gee & David

If you enjoy PG’s Playhouse, check out Reality Escape Pod (REPOD), where your hosts David Spira & Peih-Gee Law explore immersive gaming from all angles, alongside guests with incredible experience in this realm.

And by supporting Room Escape Artist on Patreon, you’ll get access to the REPOD Bonus After Show ($5 per month and up) and the Spoilers Club ($15 per month and up) where we chat in depth with creators about iconic escape rooms… spoilers and all!

Production Credits

• Hosted by Peih-Gee Law & David Spira
• Puzzles by Peih-Gee Law
• Produced by Theresa Piazza
• Supported by Lisa Spira
• Edited by Peih-Gee Law
• Music by Matt Farthing
• Logo by Theresa Wagner