Rebuilding Us: Marriage Podcast

Why Spouses Are Quiet Quitting Their Marriages Oct 13, 2026 1912 We're unpacking the latest phenomenon of "quiet quitting" in marriage. You can still wear the ring, pay the bills, raise the kids, and live together while being emotionally checked out of your marriage. In this episode, we discuss what it means to "quietly quit" your marriage. How do repeated rejection, defensiveness, and disconnection lead spouses to shut down? We also discuss how to recognize th

Are You Raising Entitled Kids? Try This 3-Part Parenting Reset Oct 6, 2026 2421 Parenting can be hard, especially when children push limits, parents disagree about discipline, or one parent feels cast as “the strict one” and the kids seem entitled. In this episode, we explore my three-part parenting reset— consistency, boundaries, and consequences—and how it can help families handle parenting challenges while protecting the relationship between mom and

Has Your Marriage Become Transactional? Sep 29, 2026 1332 What if your marriage feels exhausting because you’re trying to do marriage without first understanding what it means to be married? In this episode, I’m discussing the difference between being married and doing marriage, and why understanding the purpose of marriage can change the way you approach connection, conflict, communication, and everyday responsibilities. You'll hear how marr

When Your Happily Ever After Falls Apart: Finding Hope In The Story You Never Wanted Sep 22, 2026 2222 There are losses we know how to respond to and some we don't. In this episode, Nicole Langman talks about carrying a story she never wanted. She imagined a white picket fence, Prince Charming, children, and smooth sailing. Instead, her husband walked away from the marriage, leaving her blindsided by infidelity, rejection, and abandonment. When someone dies, comforting casseroles arrive. Peopl

Why Your Feelings Keep Getting Misunderstood Sep 15, 2026 1440 Have you ever tried to explain how you feel, only to walk away feeling even more misunderstood? In marriage, this can be very frustrating. A simple conversation turns into defensiveness, confusion, or conflict. In this episode, I’m sharing practical ways to communicate what you’re really feeling so your partner has a better chance of hearing your heart. I’ll walk you through how

Spiritual Leadership or Spiritual Abuse in Marriage? 6 Signs to Know the Difference Sep 8, 2026 1895 I'm discussing six signs of spiritual abuse in marriage and how to recognize the difference between biblical spiritual leadership and toxic leadership. I explain why healthy leadership invites collaboration, tolerates disagreement, and never uses Scripture, submission, or God to control a spouse. I also talk about spiritual manipulation, maintaining personal discernment, forgiveness versus reconci

Death of the Pastor's Wife: Spiritual & Marital Abuse and Where We Go From Here Sep 4, 2026 2321 My hubby, Shaun, joins me in this special episode to discuss the Netflix docuseries Death of the Pastor’s Wife and the difficult questions it raises about abuse of power, spiritual manipulation, accountability, submission, and marriage. This conversation goes beyond the story itself. Shaun and I explore how churches can create healthier accountability structures, why power differentials

Why Talking About Your Marriage Keeps Making It Worse & 6 Things to Do Instead Sep 1, 2026 1301 Talking to your spouse about your marriage can become so constant that the relationship starts feeling like a project instead of a partnership. While communication is important, there are other ways to build connection...six ways in fact, that work better than repeated conversations. Listen in as I share these practical marriage tips to help deepen your connection and shift you toward regulation,

Help! My Spouse Isn't Interested in Working on Our Marriage Aug 25, 2026 546 What do you do when you want to work on the marriage... but your spouse doesn't? Maybe you've suggested marriage coaching or counseling. You've sent the podcast episode. You've bought the book. You've tried to start the conversations. You've prayed for change. And your spouse seems uninterested, unwilling, or just plain tired of talking about the marriage. That can be an incredibly frustratin

Feeling Forgotten? The God Who Sees, Supports, & Stays [Sweet Repeat] Aug 18, 2026 1318 Have you dealt with rejection or the feeling of being forgotten or neglected? When the people closest to you treat you like you're invisible or unimportant, it can trigger all sorts of emotions and insecurities. In today's podcast episode, I'm sharing a story of a woman who gave and gave, but her best still wasn't good enough. She was literally discarded like yesterday's news. But in that pain, sh

Healing Old Triggers that Hijack Your Marriage Aug 11, 2026 1648 Let’s be honest—just because we grew up and got married doesn’t mean we left our triggers at the playground. Sometimes marriage can feel like an endless game of emotional Whac-A-Mole. In today’s episode, I’m unpacking the hidden childhood triggers that sneak into our marriages, those moments when a look or a phrase sends us spiraling back—defenses up, ready to f

How These Boundaries Protect Your Opposite-Sex Friendships While Married - Pt. 2 Aug 4, 2026 1087 In part two of this conversation on opposite sex friendships in marriage, marriage coach Sylvia Chipman and I reflect on how emotional affairs rarely begin with the intention to betray a spouse. They often develop gradually through personal conversations, frequent communication, shared experiences, and the comforting feeling of being deeply understood. A person may genuinely believe, “We&rsq

More than Friends? Getting Real about Friends of the Opposite Sex While Married - Pt. 1 Jul 28, 2026 1735 If you're married, can men and women really be just friends? It’s a question as old as time, sparking heated debates at dinner tables, in church lobbies, and—of course—in marriages. Today's episode is a sweet repeat,  where I sat down with my good friend and fellow marriage coach, Sylvia Chipman, to unpack this tricky territory: Can you maintain healthy, platonic friendships

The Anatomy of an Affair Jul 21, 2026 1847 Infidelity is a word that can strike deep fear and pain into the heart of any married person. Many believe that affairs “just happen,” or that only people in miserable relationships are at risk. But as I share in today's episode, even couples with good marriages, strong commitments, and sincere love for one another can find themselves blindsided by the devastation of an affair. Underst

Increase Your Emotional Awareness + the CALM Approach to Conflict Jul 14, 2026 2203 Are you ready to transform conflict in your marriage and cultivate a deeper partnership? I sat down with special guest David Haastrup, host of the Reconnected Marriage Partners Podcast, for his take on increasing emotional awareness/regulation and the CALM method for handling conflict.  We both share honest stories from our own marriages, including how our different upbringings shaped our exp

I Need Space! How 24 Hours Changed Everything Jul 7, 2026 1740 It's a topic that every married couple deals with sooner or later—conflict. If you’re married, you know that conflict comes with the territory. But there is a way to deal with it better and faster. Sometimes it shows up in the middle of family vacations, like on our recent trip to Tokyo and Guam. Sean and I found ourselves in the midst of a classic “silent treatment” scenar

4 Tips on Sharing Your Feelings Without Making Matters Worse in Your Relationship [Sweet Repeat] Jun 30, 2026 1394 Sharing your feelings can be vulnerable, especially if there is already conflict in your relationship. Too often, people choose to stuff their feelings, pretending all is well just to avoid conflict. The problem with that is that conflict doesn't usually just go away. It must be addressed. Originally aired in December, 2023, today's episode is one for the ages. I'm sharing four tips on how to hone

Is Your Marriage an Idol? [Sweet Repeat] Jun 23, 2026 1528 Marriage is a blessing...until it's not. Good marriages can be like heaven on earth, but bad marriages are like h, e, double hockey sticks. Whether your marriage is wonderful or wearisome, chances are you may be prioritizing it too much. How do you know if your marriage has become an idol in your life? That's what we're discussing in today's sweet repeat episode (originally aired on August 6, 2024

Making Disapointment in Marriage Work In Your Favor [Sweet Repeat] Jun 16, 2026 1530 Are you disappointed by someone you love? Maybe your spouse let you down, a friend broke your trust, or a relationship didn't turn out the way you hoped. The truth is, every one of us has experienced the pain of unmet expectations. In this replay episode, we're revisiting a foundational conversation about hope, because the message is just as important today as when it first aired. Disappointment h

9 Do's and Don'ts of an In-Home Separation Jun 8, 2026 1604 I want you to have the clarity, consistency, and cooperation you need to avoid confusion, consequences, and chaos should you decide to do an in-home separation. Navigating an in-home separation is not an easy process, but sometimes, due to financial constraints, children with special needs, or unique life circumstances, it may be the best option. As someone who is 100% pro marriage and always root

From Boundaries to Checkpoints: A Practical Plan for an Unexpected Marital Separation Jun 2, 2026 1465 In this episode, I'm sharing my step-by-step plan for navigating a marriage separation with wisdom and clarity. Separation is never something we hope for, but sometimes it can feel like the last exit before divorce. I’m covering the exact conversations you need to have before separating—from setting boundaries and making living arrangements to talking about finances, kids, and even how

How to Do Separation in Marriage the S.M.A.R.T Way May 26, 2026 2216 It's a subject most of us would rather avoid—but sometimes, we have to face it head-on: separation in marriage. When might it be necessary, how do you do it with purpose, and why every rough patch isn't a reason to separate. You’ll hear me break down the three main reasons I believe separation could be warranted—adultery, abuse, and addiction—and I’ll also share why t

Is It Wrong to Go Through His Phone? May 19, 2026 1502 Are you constantly tempted to go through your spouse's phone or emails? If your partner has been unfaithful—or if you’re struggling with distrust and paranoia after betrayal—this is very normal, but is it the best way to determine when to rebuild trust? A listener wrote in asking this very question as she shared her struggle after infidelity. Even after her husband’s affair

Every Marital Argument Boils Down to these 5 Questions May 12, 2026 2316 Ever wonder why you keep having the same fights about money, the kids, or even just feeling ignored? My guest, marriage therapist and Christian wives coach Beatriz Vargas says there are five core questions behind every argument in marriage. Borrowing from renowned attachment-theory expert Sue Johnson's model, these questions can transform even the most hopeless-feeling, disconnected relationships.

Confessions of Imperfect Moms May 5, 2026 2240 Author, speaker, and multi-generational mentor Rhonda Stoppe joins the show to discuss the challenges and joys of motherhood and share some practical lessons from her latest book about imperfect moms of the Bible. We also discuss some of our own mom struggles in hopes of encouraging you on your mothering journey. If you've ever wondered, “Am I doing this mom thing right? Is just being a mom

What If We're 'Unequally Yoked' as a Couple? Apr 28, 2026 2014 Have you heard of the term “unequally yoked” in relationships and marriage? So many of you have reached out asking, “Is it okay for a Christian to date or marry a non-Christian?” I’m breaking down exactly what the Bible says about being unequally yoked, and sharing real talk about how this applies to dating, marriage, and even business partnerships. I talk about why G

I Just Found Out My Spouse Had an Affair—Where to Even Start? Apr 21, 2026 1303 Finding out your spouse has been unfaithful can feel like your entire world has just shattered. I'm speaking directly to the person who is hurting, confused, and unsure of what to do next in this “best of the best” sweet repeat episode. Whether this terrible discovery is fresh or something you’ve been quietly carrying for a while, this conversation will help you take your first s

Stop Overthinking Your Marriage: The C.A.R.E. Method that Builds Consistency Apr 14, 2026 1662 We're celebrating our 400th episode and tackling one of the most important topics in marriage—consistency. If you’ve ever struggled with feeling like your efforts to improve your marriage aren’t working or wondered if all those small daily actions really matter, this episode is for you. Today, I’m sharing my personal journey and my not-so-secret struggle with staying consis

[Sweet Repeat] What If I'm the Only One Working on My Marriage? Apr 7, 2026 602 Do you often get frustrated or maybe even sad because it seems you're the only one working on your marriage? Like, your spouse is "in it," but he/she doesn't seem to take the marriage seriously. You often feel taken for granted, or you feel like you take two steps forward and twelve steps back? Today's episode is just what you need to hear. This is a sweet repeat (an oldie but goodie)... a listene

Could These 5 Unspoken Expectations Be Hurting Your Marriage? Mar 31, 2026 2356 As a marriage coach, I know firsthand how unspoken and unrealistic expectations can quietly sabotage even the strongest marriages. In this episode, I'm sharing practical strategies to help you define, communicate, and realign your expectations so you and your spouse can avoid unnecessary disappointment and disconnection. We'll talk about the five most common unrealistic expectations couples face,

12 Emotionally Healthy Questions to Ask Before You Get Married Mar 24, 2026 1634 Before you get married, there are several important conversations you need to have. In this episode, I'm sharing 12 emotionally healthy questions every couple should ask before getting married. Whether you’re single, engaged, or already married and just want to build deeper intimacy with your spouse, these conversation starters will help you avoid pitfalls and create a lasting connection in

5 Reasons Your Marriage Feels So Hard (And How to Start Fixing It) Mar 17, 2026 1808 We've all heard it said, maybe even said it ourselves—marriage is hard. It's true...marriage, like life, has its seasons. There are winters in marriage, challenging times when things feel cold and bleak. But what if we can reframe that belief? What if instead of seeing marriage as hard work, we saw it as heart work? In this episode, I break down five reasons your marriage might feel difficul

What to Do When You Feel Unseen, Unloved & Like a Low Priority in Your Marriage? Mar 10, 2026 1551 Have you been feeling overlooked, devalued, or unseen by your spouse? Does is feel like your marriage is running on autopilot, where someone or something else always seems to take priority over you? What do you do when you feel like you’re coming in second place in your marriage, or as I call it, “playing second fiddle.”  I open up about with wisdom straight from my new book

Do You Need Help, a Hug, or Just to Be Heard? 3 Questions Show Empathy and Care Mar 3, 2026 1782 Understanding how to offer meaningful support and help to those you love, especially during moments of grief or difficulty, is a skill worth learning. Let's explore the core question everyone should learn to ask: “Do you need a hug? Do you need help? Or do you need to be heard?” After going through a painful time, I reflect on grief and the unique ways we process pain. Sometimes, the g

Keeping Marriage Fun: Alphabet Dating and Budget-Friendly Date Ideas Feb 24, 2026 1654 Have you heard of 'ABC Dating'? It's a unique and fun way to keep date nights fresh by building each outing around a different letter of the alphabet. I'm joined in this episode by my friend and fellow marriage coach, Sylvia Chipman, as we share personal stories, lots of laughs, and practical advice on how couples can break free from relationship ruts, regardless of budget or time constraints. Fro

Are We Growing Apart? How to Reconnect When You Feel Apathetic & Emotionally Distant Feb 17, 2026 1635 Do you feel disconnected or emotionally distant from your spouse? You're likely growing apart or feeling apathy in your relationship and want to know how to stop the drift. Today, I'm sharing some key insights and actionable steps to help you start rebuilding connection—even when things feel hopeless or aloof. I’ll break down the major causes of apathy in marriage and relationships&mda

5 Simple Ways to Reconnect Your Marriage This Valentine’s Day Feb 10, 2026 1496 Valentine’s Day is almost here, and for many people, this holiday doesn’t always feel like a celebration, especially if you’re feeling disconnected or discouraged. You are definitely not alone—and this episode is packed with practical ideas you may have never considered to help you reconnect on Valentine's Day and beyond. Here's your cheat code for making Valentine&rsq

The Silent Spiritual Disconnection Creating Emotional Distance in Your Marriage Feb 3, 2026 1425 If you're focusing on fixing the emotional or relational problems in your marriage but haven't addressed your spiritual disconnection, your efforts won't go as far or last as long. In today's episode, we're getting to the heart of why so many couples struggle in their marriages. From my experience coaching couples, I see marriage problems like poor communication or emotional distance are often sym

How to C.O.V.E.R. Your Marriage in Prayer [Sweet Repeat] Jan 27, 2026 1537 Do you sometimes struggle with how to pray for your marriage? In today’s episode, I’m breaking down the five powerful ways you can cover your marriage in prayer—and how to actually pray with confidence, intention, and results. Whether you're a seasoned prayer warrior or just starting out, you’ll leave with a super-practical template that makes praying for your spouse simple

Gender Roles that Don't Fit the Mold (Tried and True) Jan 20, 2026 1302 It's story time! Come and listen to how an ancient story about Deborah the judge can teach us to break free from traditional gender roles and society's expectations. I’m excited to share an excerpt from my brand-new book, “Tried and True: Marriage Advice from 12 Imperfect Biblical Couples,” which highlights Deborah's incredible leadership, her secure identity in God, and her husb

Letting Your Guard Down: How to Rebuild Emotional Safety in Your Marriage (Tried and True) Jan 13, 2026 1559 Do you feel emotionally safe in your marriage? Because many couples do not. Emotional connection in marriage isn't just a “nice to have,” but truly a foundational priority for every relationship. Drawing from chapter one of my newest book, Tried and True: Marriage Advice from 12 Imperfect Biblical Couples, I explore the original couple from the Bible, Adam and Eve, and what their story

How Pressure Produces What’s Precious in Your Life & Marriage (Tried and True) Jan 6, 2026 1604 What do diamonds, pearls, and gold have in common? They must all endure pressure and irritants to produce what is precious. The truth is that in marriage and in life, we most often grow through our pain and our trials, not our successes. The pressure is meant to forge a greater purpose in you. When you trust the process, you realize it is producing in you something that far outweighs anything you

8 Conversations You're Likely Avoiding in Your Marriage & How It's Widening the Distance (Tried and True) Dec 30, 2025 1869 From unmet expectations to trust issues and loneliness in marriage, this episode exposes eight conversations you're likely avoiding in your marriage and how it's causing the disconnection gap to widen. I open up with a personal story about my own struggles with fear and avoidance (including a wild trip to the urgent care!), and how these emotions often hold us back from tackling topics that really

When Marriage is Harder Than You Ever Expected (Tried and True) Dec 23, 2025 1613 If you’ve found yourself disappointed, grieving unmet expectations, or questioning whether your relationship is supposed to feel this tough, you're not alone. It's a struggle that many couples face but rarely talk about openly—what to do when marriage is much harder than you ever expected.  Plenty of couples walk down the aisle brimming with hope and expectation. After all, we&rsq

Savers vs Spenders: How Couples Handle Holiday Gift-Giving Dec 16, 2025 1531 I’m joined by my husband, Shaun, to discuss the sometimes complicated world of gift-giving in a relationship. If you’ve ever found yourself debating with your spouse or partner over how much money you spend on gifts, how much is “too much,” or how to honor each other's money habits, this conversation is for you. Shaun and I get real about our different financial personaliti

Holiday Affection Dip: Simple Strategies to Protect Your Affection Dec 9, 2025 1726 It's the most wonderful time of the year—unless your relationship is in trouble. We're taking an honest look at how affection can ebb and flow in your relationship—especially during busy seasons like the holidays. Whether you consider yourself naturally affectionate or not, you'll learn why intentionally nurturing closeness matters for every couple. We're discussing real-life reasons a

The 'Seven C's' of Creating More Resilience in Your Relationships Dec 2, 2025 1748 Do you struggling with bouncing back after hardship? Are you often tempted to quit things when they get hard? This episode highlights the critical role of resilience in relationships and personal growth. Resilience isn't just about enduring hardships but also becoming stronger because of them. I introduce the 'Seven Cs of Resilience,' which include competence, confidence, connection, character, co

Gratitude That Heals: Reframing Relationships in the Hard Seasons Nov 25, 2025 1478 Gratitude isn’t just for the easy, feel-good times in your marriage. In this episode, we discuss how to practice real thankfulness—especially when things feel tense, unresolved, or even painful—and some simple, down-to-earth ways to reframe complaints into thanks and spot those tiny moments of hope. If you and your spouse are feeling disconnected or just need a little perspective

Kicking P*rn Use for Good & How Shameless Connection Leads to Recovery Nov 18, 2025 2114 I know p*rn isn't a topic that we like to discuss. It brings guilt, embarrassment, pain, and shame. But it's a topic we MUST discuss if we want to have authentic and whole relationships. Parents, your kids are looking at it. Wives, your husbands have it on their phones. Husbands, your wives are secretly into it. Of course, not all, but the numbers are staggering within both faith-based and se

My #1 Solution for When Trust Breaks Nov 14, 2025 913 In this special episode, you'll learn how to heal your broken heart and rebuild your marriage after infidelity. Many affair-recovery programs are run by those who never experienced infidelity first-hand. Not this one. I share candidly and compassionately our story of how infidelity ransacked our marriage and how we overcame it. If you're feeling embarrassed, ashamed, isolated, or abandoned, you do

How Changing Your Thoughts Can Heal Your Life & Relationships - Pt. 2 Nov 11, 2025 1892 Brenda Kennison is back for part two, diving deeper into her remarkable journey of transformation. After hitting rock bottom in the public eye, Brenda rewired her mindset and found true freedom from alcoholism, another failed marriage, and depression. Brenda shares how neuroplasticity and faith worked together to reshape her emotional and spiritual health, shifting her from toxic cycles to a

Rebuilding From Rock Bottom to a New Life, Mindset - Pt. 1 Nov 4, 2025 1709 Brenda Kennison is a certified neuro cycle facilitator and founder of Day One of Sobriety Ministries. She shared her raw, powerful journey from rock bottom—battling addiction, depression, a foiled suicide attempt, and the pain of divorce—to discovering hope, healing, and transformation through science and faith. Brenda Kennison’s story is a reminder that our lowest moments can be

Making Marriage Easier: How Small Habits Can Transform Your Relationship Oct 28, 2025 1888 Bestselling author and comedian KevonStage and his wife, Melissa, hosted a podcast called Marriage Be Hard. But what if we could make marriage easier? Marriage can be hard—but it doesn’t have to feel impossible. In today’s episode, I sat down with Arlene Pellicane, bestselling author of “Marriage Made Easier.” We dove into the real reasons why marriages

Forgive But Don't Forget: Why Remembering Matters Oct 21, 2025 1082 Forgiveness isn't just a gift you give someone else—it's the pathway to your own freedom and growth. In today's episode, I shared how deciding to forgive, even before an apology, can change everything. Forgiveness is not about forgetting the lessons; it's about moving forward—but without the sting, so that you can help others and build stronger connections. Whether in your personal or

Life Lately: The Kairos Season I'm In Oct 14, 2025 1644 I'm in a new season of life and want to give you a life update—one that will hopefully encourage you where you are in your life. This one is a true testament to the power of dreams, faith, and perseverance. No frilly clichés here, but I'm walking you through what part of my journey has been, where I'm at now, and where I'm headed. 3 Key Takeaways: Don’t Lose Heart: Dreams may

Why the Best Time to Work on Your Marriage is ______. Oct 7, 2025 1269 When should you start working on your marriage? Is it when things start to feel off, or when problems become too big to ignore? Whether you’re single, engaged, newlywed, or several decades in, today's episode will leave you encouraged and equipped to invest in your most important relationship. Key Takeaways Why Couples Wait Too Long:  The story of “Evelyn and David”&m

Friends with Benefits: Recreational Intimacy Ideas with Shaun Williams (Intimacy Series) Sep 30, 2025 1703 If you’ve ever found yourself in a marriage rut—where date nights feel forced and conversations revolve around paying bills—it’s time to look at a form of intimacy you might not be prioritizing: recreational intimacy. On the latest (and final!) episode of this intimacy series, my husband Shaun and I pull back the curtain on how couples can rekindle connection by nurturing t

Brain Bonding Beyond Small Talk: Decoding Intellectual Intimacy (Intimacy Series) Sep 23, 2025 1806 We're talking all about intellectual intimacy—what I like to call “brain bonding" in this episode. We spend so much time talking about emotional connection and physical intimacy in marriage, but let me tell you a secret: connecting through ideas, learning, curiosity, and thought-provoking conversations can completely change the game in your relationship. I open up about a time I was re

Between the Sheets: A Real Convo About Improving Sexual Intimacy (Intimacy Series) Sep 16, 2025 2707 Tony and Alisa DiLorenzo of One Extraordinary Marriage are here to help us improve our sexual intimacy! If you're ready to transform your marriage and reignite the passion, join me and this legendary duo for a candid and hope-filled conversation on sexual intimacy, healing, and how a chance "sex challenge" changed everything in their marriage. In this episode, you’ll discover: What REALLY b

Building Emotional Intimacy: How Your Attachment Style Affects Your Connection (Intimacy Series) Sep 9, 2025 2459 Emotional intimacy is a cornerstone you can’t ignore if you’re on a journey to deeper, more authentic relationships—whether in your marriage, friendships, or even workplace. We're joined in this episode by psychotherapist and author Jessica Baum to discuss attachment styles. This is a goldmine for anyone who craves real connection or wonders why emotional closeness sometimes feel

From NFL Teams to Marriage Dreams: A Journey to Spiritual Intimacy (Intimacy Series) Sep 2, 2025 2407 Former NLF player turned church pastor, Derwin Gray, and his beautiful wife, Vicki, share wisdom drawn from over 33 years of marriage, their journey from a lopsided spiritual partnership to unified faith, and practical ways couples can cultivate deep spiritual intimacy—no matter their starting point. Notable Quotes Derwin: “Intimacy is ‘into me, you see.’ … It

Beyond the Bedroom: 5 Types of Intimacy Every Couple Needs Aug 26, 2025 1892 Whether you've been married for decades or are just starting out, this episode will help you understand intimacy in all its facets (beyond the bedroom) and how to cultivate the kind of deep connection that produces positive fruit in your relationship.  Key Takeaways: Defining Intimacy: My personal definition—“being fully known and knowing fully”—plus learn the biblica

Bad Marriage Advice that's Killing Your Intimacy (Intimacy Series) Aug 19, 2025 2077 We've all been given some bad marriage advice from well-meaning folks. But what if that bad marriage advice is ruining your intimacy? My guest, Monica Tanner, and I discuss what helpful marriage advice couples should focus on instead. Monica shares wisdom from her upcoming book, Bad Marriage Advice, and how this relates to intimacy. Let's stop the crazy cycle and lean into the hard truths and

Chemistry or Intimacy? Redefining Connection in Marriage (Intimacy Series) Aug 12, 2025 931 Is it chemistry or intimacy that keeps a relationship going strong? In today's episode, we discuss how chemistry gets you in the door, but intimacy is what keeps you in the room. When I first started dating my husband, it was electric: the butterflies, the late-night talks, the “I can’t stop thinking about you” feeling. We used to talk on the phone until we literally fell asleep

How Avoiding Conflict is Hurting Your Relationship [Sweet Repeat] Aug 5, 2025 1914 Do you freeze up or shut down when it’s time to have hard conversations? Maybe you avoid conflict altogether because you’re afraid of making things worse. In today’s episode, we’re talking about how to stop running from relational tension and start communicating with confidence—even when it’s uncomfortable. Avoiding conflict might feel safe in the moment, but ov

7 Ways Men & Women Communicate Differently - with Shaun Williams [Sweet Repeat] Jul 29, 2025 1682 Move over, stereotypes! Yes, it's a fact that men and women communicate differently. However, not all gender communication styles are the same. Joining us is my husband, Shaun, who, in his own special way, helps to explain the differences in how men and women communicate. If you're having a bad day, this episode is sure to cheer you up. Plus, you'll learn a lot in the process, like . . . Which ge

7 Ways to Listen Better in Your Relationships [Sweet Repeat] Jul 22, 2025 1937 Here’s the hard truth: most of us are not good listeners, even though we think we are. In today’s episode, you’ll learn seven tips on becoming a better listener and how to encourage your people to do the same. Communication doesn't have to go wild! The good news is that with a few tweaks, anyone can become a better listener and have more mutually beneficial conversations with tho

4 Behaviors that Destroy Relationships (AKA The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse) [Sweet Repeat] Jul 15, 2025 1794 Today's episode is like a master's course on communication in relationships. We're breaking down Dr. John Gottman’s famous concept of the “Four Horsemen” — four destructive communication habits that can quietly ruin even the strongest relationships if left unchecked. Drawing inspiration from the dramatic imagery of the biblical Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, Gottman ident

The Difference Between Silence and The Silent Treatment [Sweet Repeat] Jul 8, 2025 1802 Whether you're a pro at giving the silent treatment or feel hurt by your partner's silence, I'm going to show you how silence can truly be golden in your relationship and how the silent treatment will further damage it. We're unpacking six healthier alternatives to the silent treatment. Rather than withdrawing, learn practical tools to address conflict effectively and foster more connected re

Stop Pointing Fingers & Shifting Blame - Try “I Statements” Instead [Sweet Repeat] Jul 1, 2025 1414 How does it feel when someone shifts the blame for their behavior to you? No bueno, right? In today's episode, we're discussing the power of "I statements" and how they help us to stop pointing fingers and tell our partners about US, not them. Most people have never learned the tools of good communication, so they make accusations, abdicate responsibility for their feelings and/or choices, and inc

Q & A: Why My Mother-In-Law Meddles Jun 27, 2025 548 Do you have a meddling in-law? Do they break your boundaries and cause a ruckus in your home? Today's episode emphasizes the importance of establishing clear boundaries within the household and the need for spousal support in the sometimes messy family dynamics. Open communication with both the mother-in-law and the other spouse is essential to ensure a respectful and harmonious living environment

How to Approach Difficult Conversations with Confidence [Sweet Repeat] Jun 24, 2025 1692 Tough conversations are inevitable—but they don’t have to be toxic. Learn a practical and heart-centered approach to preparing for the difficult conversations we often avoid. Whether it’s addressing betrayal, setting boundaries, or navigating a sensitive issue in your relationship, you’ll learn how to check your emotions, clarify your intentions, and approach the talk with

Q & A: How to Disagree Without Arguing [Sweet Repeat] Jun 20, 2025 556 Does it seem like you disagree and argue about almost everything in your relationship? A listener writes in to ask how to get his point across without arguing with his wife. Maybe you've wondered the same. In this episode, I am sharing a powerful communication tool (also a conversation starter) called the Mirror Moment. This practice will help you to explain your perspective or opinion to someone

Struggling with Insecurity? Here’s How to Rebuild Your Confidence Jun 17, 2025 1603 Do you constantly second-guess yourself, shrink back in relationships, or feel like you’re never quite “enough”? Insecurity has a way of creeping into every area of our lives—our marriages, careers, friendships, and even our faith. But the good news? Confidence isn’t about perfection. It’s about knowing who you are and "whose" you are. In today’s episode,

Q & A: I Don't Want My Husband But I Don't Want a Divorce Either [Sweet Repeat] Jun 13, 2025 766 This was one of our highest-rated episodes of the Q & A series and, therefore, deserving of a "sweet repeat." Many spouses can relate to the feeling of "falling out of love" with their spouse, yet not wanting to divorce their spouse. If you have ever experienced prolonged resentment or boredom in your relationship, listen up.  Learn how to overcome feeling stuck in your marriage while wor

Finding Comfort in God Who Sees, Provides, and Is Always With You Jun 10, 2025 1318 Are you going through something in your life and need to be reminded that you're not alone? I am so grateful to know that God sees, provides, and is always with me. In this episode, I'm helping you to discover this God, to truly know Him intimately and personally—the difference between head knowledge and heart experience. Drawing inspiration from a recent meeting with a group of women leader

Q & A: Helping Couples with Different Vacation Styles Jun 6, 2025 637 I love today's listener's question about the different travel styles she and her husband have. Our listener, Carrie, wants to know how to vacation when she and her husband have different vacation interests and travel needs. In this episode, I discuss the importance of travel as a means to reconnect and recharge, while also discussing the necessity of compromise and individual preferences during va

Why Your Partner Isn’t Listening—And What to Say Instead [Sweet Repeat] Jun 3, 2025 2023 Does it seem like your spouse doesn’t listen to you? Maybe you find yourself wondering how to talk so they will listen and understand you. Listening skills are an essential part of communication in relationships, and one that trips many people up. Today’s episode (a sweet repeat from 2023) will teach you the right communication principles to guide you toward a better understanding and

Q & A: How to Do Separation the Right Way May 30, 2025 509 Have you considered a separation in your marriage? A listener wrote asking about the right way to do a separation. How long should it be? What are the "rules of engagement"? We're discussing reasons for separation, establishing clear rules, and knowing the realities of the situation, including the need for a timeline and the significance of having a plan for reconciliation (or not!).  Takeawa

Are You Helping or Enabling? May 27, 2025 1621 I know you have good intentions, but want to know if you are helping or enabling? This episode will help you to discover if you are indeed an enabler: what it really means, the signs you might be an enabler, and the dangers of mistaking enabling for grace (especially within Christian circles and families). I share about my strength in setting boundaries, shaped by the experiences I witnessed growi

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