Is technology bringing you closer together, or leading to disconnection? Tech is hitting marriages hard today. Yet research shows that marriage can provide a huge boost to personal happiness. Today’s guest, Arlene Pellicane, has written several books on how technology is impacting relationships, and today she shares tech habits that will help you and your marriage to thrive. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: The 1 habit that guarantees marriage success 99% of the Time Easy ways to declutter your digital life for deeper connection How modern technology is changing the way we love. Are married people happier? Research tells the truth… Break the tech spell: Tips for parenting in a digital age *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “If we seek God and His guidance, He’s always going to have an answer.” Dr. Kim Kimberling “Is technology bringing you closer together? Or causing you to grow farther apart.” - Arlene Pellicane “We're missing all these little times to connect. That’s why you feel disconnected.” - Arlene Pellicane “You have to prepare to be unpopular, because as a parent, it’s your job to protect your child.” - Arlene Pellicane MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Grab Arlene’s new book, Making Marriage Easier, as well as her helpful books on healthy tech habits Find all of the National Marriage Week resources, including tomorrow's live panel with Dr. Kim, on the WEB, FACEBOOK, X (TWITTER) or INSTAGRAM Spice things up in the bedroom with our limited-time ‘Break the Bedroom Rut’ Sexy Bundle! Learn more about what boundaries can do for your marriage in Dr. Kim’s free Building Healthy Boundaries Webinar. Learn more here! Don’t let screens come between you: Use our free 17 Questions Every Couple Should Ask About Tech printable to get on the same page!
Transcribed - Published: 7 February 2025
Your marriage doesn’t have to grow old just because you do. The second half of marriage does not have to grow stale - make plans to make these your best years yet! Listen today to learn how. Whether you’re looking ahead to the second half of marriage, or you’re already there, it is a great time to improve and grow. In today’s episode, Dr. Kim shares tips to avoiding complacency and embracing the best version of your marriage in the second half. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: How to jumpstart marriage growth if you’ve gotten complacent Practical steps to do the second half of marriage well - no matter where you are today Tips to bring back the fun and passion later in marriage Simple conversation starters to help you get going How to find a mentor couple to help your marriage Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips! *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! Couples Conversation Guide: Main takeaway: The second half of marriage does not have to grow stale - evaluate where you’d like to see your marriage go from here, then take the steps to get there. Questions to Discuss: What do you envision for your marriage in the next 5 years? 10 years? 20? What is one thing you can start doing today to move you toward that vision? What is one thing you need to stop doing today to move in that direction? QUOTES If your marriage has been teetering, it can fall at this stage. - Lindsay Few Nothing is worse than feeling lonely when your spouse is with you. - Dr. Kim Kimberling We’d seen couples who were older than us disconnect. We didn’t want that to happen. - Dr. Kim Kimberling It’s never too late. But the earlier you start, the easier the transition will be. - Dr. Kim Kimberling If you’re one step ahead, you can help somebody. - Lindsay Few MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Spice things up in the bedroom with our limited-time ‘Break the Bedroom Rut’ Sexy BUNDLE! Have better conversations with your spouse using Creative Questions to Ask Your Spouse – check out the completely unique First, Second and Third editions of this popular resource! Deepen emotional intimacy with the FREE Printable Heart to Heart Card Game ❤️ Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips! OR sign up for Dr. Kim’s One Thing email to get DAILY steps to build your marriage Grab your copy of Love, Intimacy and Sex in the Second Half of Marriage, by Dr. Kim and Nancy Kimberling
Transcribed - Published: 4 February 2025
Your marriage should be a blessing to you and your spouse, but it does not need to stop there - a healthy marriage can also bless the world around you! Where is your marriage today? Are you and your spouse a healthy team? Are you healthy enough to pour into those around you? Today we are delighted to welcome Dedric and Krystal Polite to the podcast today to share their unique perspective on finding a vision for their marriage that is making a mark on the world. Listen for encouragement on enacting a Godly marriage vision this year! We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips! Episode highlights include: Breaking the cycle of generational poverty Developing a life aligned with your values Tips to date intentionally so that you find a spouse you can partner with How to make your marriage a blessing to the world around you Making your spouse your teammate - not your opponent *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! Couples Conversation Guide: Main takeaway: Make your marriage strong and healthy so it can become a vehicle for blessing your spouse, family and your community. Questions to Discuss: What ways could you intentionally bless others as a couple? Think about the legacy you want to create as a couple. How would you define your marriage vision? QUOTES “Never tie your self worth into your net worth.” - Krystal Polite “We pray together, we stay together, we work together.” - Krystal Polite “We lean on each other’s strengths.” - Dedric Polite Faith keeps us steady when the road gets rough.” - Krystal Polite “Our purpose isn’t just to make it - we’re here to make a difference.” - Krystal Polite “It starts and ends with effective communication.” - Dedric Polite MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Learn more from the Polites on their website PoliteWealthPortal.com Find BePolite Properties on Facebook or YouTube Build healthy habits in the New Year with the Healthy Marriage Rhythms Bundle: 5 resources for just ONE donation! Get all the details HERE! Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips! Nominate a couple for Awesome Marriage of the Year HERE!
Transcribed - Published: 28 January 2025
Spiritual intimacy is something couples want, but don’t really know how to get there. We can tend to believe a common myth that it should come naturally without any effort, plus it can seem awkward to pray together or pursue spiritual growth. So how can spiritual intimacy be a realistic part of marriage? Today we’re talking about tangible ways to grow in spiritual intimacy with your spouse - and what NOT to do. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips! Episode highlights include: Why spirituality matters in marriage Common mistakes couples make with spiritual intimacy Can the wife initiate the conversation about spiritual intimacy, or does the husband need to do that as a spiritual leader? Practical steps to growing together spiritually Tips to grow your marriage to become a light and example *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! Couples Conversation Guide: Main takeaway: The spiritual domain is integral to our health and wellbeing. Sharing it with your spouse is an essential part of intimacy in marriage. Questions to Discuss: What practices / spiritual disciplines have been most impactful for your personal spiritual growth? What is one spiritual practice you would like to share with your spouse? QUOTES “If you’re not able to share about spirituality with your spouse, it diminishes your ability to be intimate and know one another.” - Lindsay Few “We wish we could have an awesome marriage without trying. But it does take effort.” - Lindsay Few “When you have an expectation, you’ve got to share it with your spouse. Then they can let you know whether it’s realistic or not.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “Most guys feel inadequate to be a spiritual leader. But God will equip you: It’s not rocket science, it’s just being intentional.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “Most wives just want to see an intentional effort. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “Any time in the Word is better than none.” - Lindsay Few MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Build healthy habits in the New Year with the Healthy Marriage Rhythms bundle: 5 resources for just ONE donation! Get all the details HERE! Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips! FLASH SALE! Browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com, and use code “FLASH2025” for $100 off ANY of our courses! Limited time only.
Transcribed - Published: 21 January 2025
It's a new year, but it's still the same you and your spouse ... so how can you make your marriage the best it can be in the new year? With intentionality, you can break out of the habits that are not serving your marriage well, and build new ones that work better. Listen today for the tips and tools to help! We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips! Episode highlights include: Signs that your marriage needs a “reset” What NOT to do during a reset Where to start if you want a “reset” but you’re not sure what to do Tips to make sure you don’t fall back into the same old patterns? *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! Couples Conversation Guide: Main takeaway: Now is a great time to check in, take stock, and prioritize the healthy habits to make your marriage strong. Listen, then start taking steps today! Questions to Discuss: What do you want your marriage to look like in the new year? What do you envision that’s different from how things are now? Brainstorm 3-5 steps you want to build into your marriage this year. Where will you start? QUOTES “I think we need this every year.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “Don’t just see the red flags and ignore them.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling If we’re intentional in the New Year, we can really close the gap between what we have and what we want our marriage to look like.” - Lindsay Few “You don’t have to agree on everything, but you have to be willing to compromise.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “God is for our marriage. He is for us. When we invite Him into the process it really changes things.“ - Lindsay Few “Sometimes we have to sacrifice good things for what’s most important.” - Lindsay Few MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Build healthy habits in the New Year with the Healthy Marriage Rhythms Bundle: 5 resources for just ONE donation! Get all the details HERE! FLASH SALE! Browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com, and use code “FLASH2025” for $100 off ANY of our courses! Limited time only. If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com ! Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips!
Transcribed - Published: 14 January 2025
Obedience to the ways of Jesus can sound closed-minded or restrictive, but in today’s episode we’re breaking down that myth for good. We’re delighted to have pastor Rich Villodas join us today to talk about what it looks like to live on the Narrow Path Jesus taught about, and why it creates the most expansive life you could have. Learn what cultural Christianity gets wrong about the way of Jesus and how to walk the narrow way for a more joy filled life and marriage. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: Signs you’re not living out the Narrow Path Jesus taught about Learn the damaging beliefs of cultural Christianity that don’t align with Jesus’ teaching Ways that shallow faith shows up in marriage - and what to do about it Internal shifts to help you value what matters to your spouse Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips! *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! Couples Conversation Guide: Main takeaway: Dying to self to live in Christ is the path to a full and expansive life. What would it look like to live this out in your marriage today? Questions to Discuss: How are you doing with each of the cultural values of successism, moralism, and hyperindividualism in your marriage? What growth step would help you follow the narrow way of Jesus more closely with each of those? QUOTES “It seems restrictive on the outside, but ultimately following Jesus leads to greater spaciousness in our lives.” - Rich Villodas “Is it possible for Christians to be on the ‘broad path’? Absolutely. Which is why the Sermon on the Mount is a wake up call to the kind of discipleship that Jesus is calling us to live into.” - Rich Villodas “Jesus is saying, ‘the kind of life you were designed for is found in my teachings.’” - Rich Villodas “We might be on the broad path if we are organizing our lives according to worldly notions of what success is.” - Rich Villodas “The paradox of the Christian life is that to die in Christ is to actually come alive and truly live.” - Rich Villodas MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Rich’s new book The Narrow Path: How the Subversive Way of Jesus Satisfies Our Souls Find more from Rich on his website, on Instagram, and learn more about his church, NewLife.nyc Ready to break free from negative thought patterns? Use these 11 Prayers to get you on the right path! Grab the beloved House Prayer Cards and make praying over your home a regular part of your day! Our ministry is made possibly ONLY through our generous donors. Plus, they get each month’s new marriage resource automatically, as well as some other exclusive perks! Learn more about Marriage Changers Membership here. Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips!
Transcribed - Published: 17 December 2024
Conflict in marriage is inevitable: it’s how you handle it that matters most. But what about couples who really never fight? What happens to conflict that is never addressed and only stays under the surface? Does it ever really go away? Listen today to learn better ways to handle the issues you don’t know how to deal with. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: Tips to initiate a hard conversation you’ve been avoiding How to stay grounded when you want to shut down How conflict can actually lead to better intimacy and connection Helpful nonconfrontational ways to broach difficult topics Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips! *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! Couples Conversation Guide: Main takeaway: Dealing with the important issues together paves the way for true peace, and learning effective conflict solving skills is a win for your marriage. Questions to Discuss: Some skills mentioned are: Intentionality - set up a good time to talk, use “I” statements, do not blame your spouse, focus on what you would like to achieve together through the conversation. Pick the one that would help you the most. What is one easy issue you can tackle together to practice better resolution skills? Focus on using your chosen skill. QUOTES If a couple said they never had conflict, I would think they’re not being completely honest with each other. - Dr. Kim Kimberling I think the more you fear conflict, the less you’re able to resolve it. - Lindsay Few We want to equip couples to handle it in a healthy way. - Lindsay Few Conflict is not bad in itself. It’s how we handle conflict. - Dr. Kim Kimberling Yes, we want peace in our homes. But you can’t have it if you ignore things that need to be dealt with. - Dr. Kim Kimberling It’s ok if you get stuck, just don’t stay stuck. - Dr. Kim Kimberling MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Do you want a better friendship with your spouse? Build your friendship with the 5 Day Friendship Challenge. Have you lost the connection you once had? Rebuild friendship with your spouse using the 5 Day Rebuilding Friendship Challenge. Our ministry is made possibly ONLY through our generous donors. Plus, they get each month’s new marriage resource automatically, as well as some other exclusive perks! Learn more about Marriage Changers Membership here. Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips!
Transcribed - Published: 10 December 2024
Marriage conflict is hard, but you know what makes it even harder? Trying to WIN. Because if you win, that means your spouse loses. And that’s not great for your marriage connection. Break out of the “my way” versus “your way” myth and learn what it means to work together to have a win for your marriage. Today we’re unpacking the process of how to win TOGETHER. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips! Episode highlights include: Why taking divorce off the table changes the dynamics of conflict. What does it mean for the marriage to “win” and how can you do it? Key steps for healthy conflict resolution The importance of empathy and proactive communication to prevent arguments. *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! Couples Conversation Guide Main takeaway: Marriage conflict is hard. When you try to win, you make it even harder. Questions to Discuss: Are there any issues that have you stuck in a “win/lose” cycle? Have you considered any creative “third” options (options that aren’t “your way” or “their way”) that could solve the issue? Brainstorm possible options. During brainstorming, no idea is too out there! Just get lots of other options on the table to help you start looking for marriage wins instead of fighting over your individual preference. QUOTES "If you’re trying to win, that means your spouse loses." - Dr. Kim Kimberling "A marriage win creates two winners." - Dr. Kim Kimberling "Ask: What's going to make our marriage win?" - Dr. Kim Kimberling MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Get the Love Making Survey 2.0! Now expanded with 20 new questions PLUS the 7-day Love Making Challenge, it’s our Giving Tuesday gift to you, as a thank you for your donation to the ministry of Awesome Marriage! Shop Honoring Intimates for lingerie, lubricants and more with NO lewd images, and use our discount code AWESOMEMARRIAGE for 20% off! Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips!
Transcribed - Published: 3 December 2024
Couples often enter marriage with high expectations, and are then dismayed to learn that marriage is not a fairy tale after all. What do you do when marriage doesn't make you happy? How can we break out of our selfish hopes and become the spouse God intends us to be? Listen to learn practical ways to reconcile your marriage dreams with your married reality. We all have hopes and dreams for marriage, and the reality of life is that they don’t always play out the way we expected. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips! Episode highlights include: How your expectations before marriage impact your relationship The hidden role of selfishness in marital issues and conflicts How to cultivating humility helps to understand your spouse better Recognizing the redemptive nature of marriage can lead to deeper connections. Steps to finding a true and deeper joy in marriage *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! Couples Conversation Guide: Main takeaway: Unrealistic expectations of marriage are pretty common, but they can take away from enjoying the marriage you’re actually living. If marriage isn’t making you happy, then that’s your cue to start sowing into it. Questions to Discuss: What expectations did you bring into marriage that you later realized were unrealistic? What are some things you’d love to see more of in your marriage, and how can you work together to make that happen? Do you have friends who will give you hard feedback when needed? What step can you take to build a friendship like that? QUOTES “A lot of people getting married have high hopes for marriage, then a few years into it they realize it’s not going to be their source of identity, hope and happiness. That realization kind of turns their world upside down.” - Chelsea Damon “What does God say about me? I had to do some soul searching to see what God has to say about me without trying to find that sense of security in my spouse.” - Chelsea Damon “Marriage does a good of showing you who you are, and all of your faults. It’s a good wake up call for who you are as a person.” - Chelsea Damon “One of the things couples find surprising are the expectations they don’t even know they’re bringing into marriage.” - Chelsea Damon “I realized so much of my sense of security was not in the right place. I decided to put that back on Christ and find my identity in Him.” - Chelsea Damon “You need someone who’s willing to speak into your life.” - Chelsea Damon MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Find Chelsea on her website, Instagram, Grab a copy of Chelsea’s book, I Thought This Would Make Me Happy Shop Honoring Intimates for lingerie, lubricants and more with NO lewd images, and use our discount code AWESOMEMARRIAGE for 20% off! Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips!
Transcribed - Published: 26 November 2024
Today we’re answering listener questions about how to handle the pain of a spouse’s porn use. Unfortunately, this is a pretty common issue we hear about from couples, but the good news is that you CAN heal and move forward. So today we’re answering listener questions about healing and recovery from pornography in marriage. We’ll talk about the process for forgiveness, what to do if you just cannot forgive and move on, how to rebuild trust, and practical strategies to combat intrusive thoughts. Listen for practical ways to heal and recover your heart and your marriage. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: How to forgive and move forward when it feels impossible Changing your view if you can’t separate your spouse from the hurtful behavior The balance of feeling safe and willingness to be vulnerable Boundary setting to allow for healing Getting out of the comparison trap and starting to feel beautiful and desirable again *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! Couples Conversation Guide: Main takeaway: When your marriage is recovering from porn use, repentance is the first step. Forgiveness allows you to heal, and boundaries help facilitate marriage healing. You can rebuild your marriage even better than before. Questions to Discuss: What does your spouse do that helps you trust them? Are there any areas where you need to build or repair trust with your spouse? What can you do together to help that process? QUOTES “Until you forgive, you’re still giving a lot of power to what happened.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “One of the best prayers is asking God to help you see your spouse through His eyes.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “We want assurance that nothing will ever hurt us again, but that’s not possible.” Lindsay Few “Look for Jesus in your spouse. When you see that, things are probably going to be pretty good.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling This is not a hurdle to get through: this is a lifestyle change. - Dr. Kim Kimberling There’s nothing wrong with being accountable, not because you ‘have to,’ but because you love your spouse. - Dr. Kim Kimberling “You’ve got to be completely open and transparent with each other. You can’t have trust without that.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Sign up for the Free 5 Steps to Healing After Porn Betrayal to learn the steps you need to take to live a marriage undefiled and experience closeness and intimacy again Past podcast episodes on healing your marriage after porn: How to Regain Trust With Your Spouse After Porn | Ep. 561 How to Rebuild Intimacy With Your Spouse After Porn | Ep. 562 Has your marriage been damaged by the effects of porn? Not sure what’s next? Download the 8 Steps To Heal Your Marriage After Porn to learn your next steps to healing.
Transcribed - Published: 19 November 2024
Are your kids protected from p*rn? Do they know how to fight back? What if they’ve already been exposed to it? So many parents do not know how to protect their kids from porn, or how to equip them with what to do if they are exposed to it. We are so pleased to hear from Kristen Jenson today on the podcast with the answers to your questions. Equip yourself so that you can equip kids well. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: The hidden mental health dangers of p*rn The scripts parents need to discuss p*rn with their kids’ Tips for digital safety in today's technology-driven world. When should you start talking to your kids about p*rn? Which phones are safer for kids? Resources that will help you guide your kids or grandchildren The need for open conversations that can protect children's innocence. *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! Couples Conversation Guide: Main takeaway: Your kids & grandkids need a plan in place to protect them from the danger of porn exposure and addiction. Today’s episode will equip you to make that plan. Questions to Discuss: Have you taken the time to equip your kids with what to do if they are exposed to porn? Do you have a plan to resist the temptation of porn or explicit materials? If not, use the resources below to develop a plan today. QUOTES “If you’re worried about what to do with your kids about p*rn, this podcast is for you.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “P*rnography is fueling a huge rise in child-on-child harmful sexual behavior.” - Kristen Jenson “How do you talk to kids about it in a way that doesn’t scare them, doesn’t scare the parents and gives them a real plan?” - Kristen Jenson “We all need scripts for certain life situations. There are no scripts passed down for this problem.” - Kristen Jenson “We live in a world awash with addiction. We need to teach our kids how to protect their brains from addiction.” - Kristen Jenson “P*rnography is the tool of choice. If kids know what to do, they’re going to be that much safer.” - Kristen Jenson “We have an opportunity to say, no this isn’t normal. No, this isn’t healthy.” - Kristen Jenson MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Purchase Kristen’s books: Good Pictures Bad Pictures: Porn-Proofing Today's Young Kids, Good Pictures Bad Pictures Jr., and the Guidebook for Counseling Kids Learn about our the brand new curriculum Brain Defense: Digital Safety Keep current with empowering articles From Defend Young Minds Use the instantly-downloadable guides to help you teach your child Follow Defend Young Minds on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, & LinkedIn
Transcribed - Published: 15 November 2024
If porn has damaged your marriage, healing is possible. And you are not alone…This is unfortunately a common issue we hear from couples about. So today on the podcast, we’re answering listener questions about healing and recovery from pornography in marriage. We’ll talk about the need for forgiveness, what to do when a spouse cannot forgive and move on, how to rebuild trust, and practical strategies to combat temptation. Listen for practical ways to engage in healing and recovery for you and your marriage. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: What to do if a spouse can’t forgive past porn use How to make a plan for dealing with temptation. Necessary steps in the trust-rebuilding process Help to understand the impact on a wife’s self-image How shame and isolation impact recovery *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! Couples Conversation Guide: Main takeaway: Porn use can really damage the trust in marriage, but recovery is possible. Learn how and do what it takes to rebuild trust and does not Questions to Discuss: What are the areas of vulnerability in your marriage? How can you make a plan to protect your marriage where you need it most? Is there anything you need to come clean about with your spouse? Do it today. QUOTES “The things a spouse needs to do for recovery are good for them AND good for the marriage. It really works together.” Lindsay Few “Most men I talk to have no idea how devastating their p*rn use was for their wife.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “It’s so important to have a plan in place.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “Remember that temptation itself is not sin. It’s what you do once you are tempted.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “You can use temptation as a red flag to drive you toward things that are good for you.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “God doesn’t want us stuck in shame, but the enemy sure does.” - Lindsay Few MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Podcast episode: We mentioned this episode with Matt Cline Other helpful episodes: How to Regain Trust With Your Spouse After Porn | Ep. 561 How to Rebuild Intimacy With Your Spouse After Porn | Ep. 562 Sign up for the Free 5 Steps to Healing After Porn Betrayal to learn the steps you need to take to live a marriage undefiled and experience closeness and intimacy again
Transcribed - Published: 12 November 2024
How is the emotional intimacy in your marriage? Do you feel safe telling your spouse anything? Do you feel loved, heard, and understood? Marriage is meant to be a refuge…a place where you each feel safe sharing deep personal feelings and confident you will be graciously received by your spouse. The problem is that many of us don’t talk about or even understand our own emotions. And if we can’t properly process our emotions, it will be very hard to build true emotional closeness in marriage. Tune in today to learn the Do’s and Don’t of emotional intimacy. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: Surprising behaviors that may shut our spouses down emotionally What wives tend to get wrong about emotional intimacy What husbands often get wrong about emotional intimacy What we miss out on when emotional intimacy is missing in marriage *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! Couples Conversation Guide: Main takeaway: Emotional intimacy is being able to share your thoughts, feelings, hopes, fears, and more with your spouse and be loved and accepted. It is a building block of great connection in marriage. Questions to Discuss: How safe do you feel sharing anything you need to with your spouse? What could you do to better accept your spouse as they are? What helps you feel emotionally close and connected? QUOTES Wives may experience more of the feeling of the lack of emotional intimacy. - Lindsay Few I promise you, after 54 years of marriage, that your spouse cannot read your mind. - Dr. Kim Kimberling A lot of times we think our spouse thinks like we think. Dr. Kim Kimberling Our assumptions really get us in trouble. - Lindsay Few Instead of thinking your spouse is a terrible person, realize they’re just different. They don’t see things the same way you do. - Lindsay Few God didn’t give feelings and emotions to women that He didn’t give to men. He gave us the same feelings and emotions. It changes your life when you get in touch with that. - Dr. Kim Kimberling We’re all emotional. We’re just not all in touch with them. - Lindsay Few MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Take the 5 Days to Deeper Emotional Intimacy challenge to learn practical steps to growing emotional intimacy with your spouse. FREE Awesome Marriage Feelings Chart Printable FREE Married couples card game Heart-to-Heart is a game designed to deepen emotional intimacy and connection between you two.
Transcribed - Published: 5 November 2024
We’re so happy to have David and Meg Robbins from FamilyLife joining us on the podcast today. The Robbins have been in ministry for many years and have learned so many important truths about what it takes to create a marriage strong enough to stand strong through the years. Today they share their wisdom and experience. You don’t want to miss this conversation, full of wisdom and practical application that will benefit you and your marriage. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: The unique strengths of Gen Z when it comes to pursuing marriage The 3 threats every marriage faces The power of the Holy Spirit to stand strong Daily habits to fight the drift that busyness creates in marriage Scheduling habits to keep your marriage connected How to find an encouraging community of support - and why it matters *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! Couples Conversation Guide: Main takeaway: Don’t neglect the health of your marriage: Keep short accounts when things need to be addressed between you, and cultivate supportive community. Questions to Discuss: Are you aware of the spiritual battle for your marriage? Are there any ways you’re viewing your spouse as your enemy, and neglecting to protect your mind and heart against the real enemy? Where would your life and marriage benefit from community? What step can you take today to nurture your friendships, mentorship and fellowship? QUOTES Younger generations are doing a lot of deep story work. - Meg Robbins We all have ingrained sin patterns that we bring into marriage. - David Robbins Vulnerability does involve risk. It’s not status quo. Yet vulnerability is the pathway to deeper intimacy. - David Robbins You have to take risky steps to take down the walls around your heart. - Meg Robbins With little things, we can be hard on ourselves. But when you spend time with other people, you realize these are normal things. - Meg Robbins Most people want to talk about their marriage, it just requires someone else to start the conversation. Anyone of us can crack open the conversation. - David Robbins A healthy marriage is one that’s repenting often. - David Robbins No marriage is going to naturally drift towards awesome oneness. - Meg Robbins MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Find marriage-building resources and events at www.FamilyLife.com Find and follow FamilyLife on YouTube Utilize FamilyLife’s The Art of Marriage small group course Nurture your marriage with our FREE 15 Better Assumptions to Make About Your Spouse printable.
Transcribed - Published: 29 October 2024
Are you familiar with the 5 levels of communication and where they fit in your marriage? Do you use all 5 levels in your marriage? The basics of communication sound simple on paper, yet most couples are struggling to communicate effectively. And when communication falls short, your connection suffers, conflict ramps up, and marriage isn’t the partnership you hoped for. Today Dr. Kim shares these levels and how to use them, so you can access all 5 types of communication your marriage needs and avoid common communication breakdowns with your spouse. Tune in to learn more! We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: 5 communication levels you and your spouse need Simple tips for avoiding common communication breakdowns Getting to deep communication with a less talkative spouse Common mistakes husbands and wives make with deeper communication How to respect your spouse’s personal communication style *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! Couples Conversation Guide: Main takeaway: When you talk, be mindful of communicating in ways that your spouse will be able to really hear you. When your spouse talks, listen well, and don’t neglect any of the 5 communication levels. Questions to Discuss: Which levels of communication come more naturally in your marriage? Which levels are harder to use? What is one thing you can do today to make sure you communicate in a way your spouse will be able to receive well? QUOTES “Communication is so essential. I don’t know if there's ever a couple that comes in for counseling and it’s not an issue.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “It sounds simple enough, but at the same time most couples are struggling with communication.” - Lindsay Few “It’s important that you pay attention to each other. That you value it and listen to each other.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “There are so many distractions in life. It’s important to tune in.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “Instead of blaming our spouse because they’re not listening well, ask how well am I communicating with them?” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “We have a responsibility to grow in self awareness, and marriage is a beautiful way to do that.“ Lindsay Few MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Turn to God and ask him to renew your mind with our NEW resource, 11 Prayers To Stop Thinking Negatively About Your Spouse 15 Better Assumptions To Make About Your Spouse is a free printable to help you set your mind on what is true, right and good. Learn more here! Follow Awesome Marriage on Instagram for more marriage tips!
Transcribed - Published: 22 October 2024
Are you truly resolving your marriage issues? Most couples experience recurring arguments that never truly resolve. This cycle leaves you with two problems: 1, You never solved the issue, and 2, now one or both are hurt and angry. Plus you’ve got some baggage around the issue, too. Today we’re going to help you learn how to resolve the actual issues. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: What NOT to do in a recurring argument Communication tips to help you prevent conflict Conversation hacks to prevent defensiveness The process to understand the REAL underlying issues *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! Couples Conversation Guide: Main takeaway: If you have recurring arguments (most couples do!) there’s probably a deeper issue you’re not aware of. Get under the surface to resolve the real issue. Questions to Discuss: On a scale from 1-10, how well do you and your spouse resolve your marriage conflict? Better communication helps you address the real issues you need to resolve. What is one step you can take to grow your communication today? QUOTES "Most couples have recurring arguments that never truly resolve" - Lindsay Few "Being vulnerable builds intimacy and trust." - Dr. Kim Kimberling "Using 'I' statements takes ownership and responsibility." - Dr. Kim Kimberling "Learning to resolve conflict in a healthy way is a gift to your marriage." - Dr. Kim Kimberling MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Our Conflict Resolution Cheat Sheet is a printable resource to help you address conflict the healthy way. Grab the free cheat sheet HERE! Marriage Multiplier is a quick and highly practical weekly email to help you invest in your marriage. CLICK HERE to learn more! Has infidelity damaged your marriage? Sign up for Dr. Kim’s webinar Rebuilding Trust and Establishing Healthy Boundaries After an Affair and learn what steps to take next. 15 Better Assumptions To Make About Your Spouse is a free printable to help you set your mind on what is true, right and good. Learn more here! Follow Awesome Marriage on Instagram for more marriage tips!
Transcribed - Published: 15 October 2024
How well do you choose your battles? If you struggle with recurring conflict in marriage, you might need to work on choosing your battles. On the other hand, if you’re feeling resentment but you’re not sure how to address it… you might need to work on choosing your battles. Today Dr. Kim is going to help you learn how to choose your battles well. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: Knowing when to stand your ground vs. when to let go The underlying message in your recurring marriage issues How to balance love and grace with speaking the truth The path to build trust for open and honest feedback *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! Couples Conversation Guide: Main takeaway: Some things are not worth arguing over! You can reduce the tension in your marriage by learning to choose your battles better. Questions to Discuss: What situations tend to end in recurring arguments in your marriage? Are any of those battles you can let go of, instead of fighting? Is there any resentment you need to let go of today? QUOTES Instead of being critical, learn to work together. - Dr. Kim Kimberling Stay faithful to agreements you’ve made. The things you agreed on affect one another. - Lindsay Few It doesn’t have to be a battle. - Lindsay Few Getting defensive just never works. - Dr. Kim Kimberling MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Marriage Multiplier is a quick and highly practical weekly email to help you invest in your marriage. CLICK HERE to learn more! Our Conflict Resolution Cheat Sheet is a printable resource to help you address conflict the healthy way. Grab the free cheat sheet HERE! Has infidelity damaged your marriage? Sign up for Dr. Kim’s webinar Rebuilding Trust and Establishing Healthy Boundaries After an Affair and learn what steps to take next. 15 Better Assumptions To Make About Your Spouse is a free printable to help you set your mind on what is true, right and good. Learn more here! What situations tend to end in recurring arguments in your marriage? Are any of those battles you can let go of, instead of fighting? Is there any resentment you need to let go of today? QUOTES Instead of being critical, learn to work together. - Dr. Kim Kimberling Stay faithful to agreements you’ve made. The things you agreed on affect one another. - Lindsay Few It doesn’t have to be a battle. - Lindsay Few Getting defensive just never works. - Dr. Kim Kimberling MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Marriage Multiplier is a quick and highly practical weekly email to help you invest in your marriage. CLICK HERE to learn more! Our Conflict Resolution Cheat Sheet is a printable resource to help you address conflict the healthy way. Grab the free cheat sheet HERE! Has infidelity damaged your marriage? Sign up for Dr. Kim’s webinar Rebuilding Trust and Establishing Healthy Boundaries After an Affair and learn what steps to take next. 15 Better Assumptions To Make About Your Spouse is a free printable to help you set your mind on what is true, right and good. Learn more here!
Transcribed - Published: 8 October 2024
After a few “golden years” of ministry for Ken Guidroz and his family, things imploded. When Ken had to face the unimaginable as a dad, faith was hard to find. Hope seemed distant as he, his wife, and their marriage both struggled to recover. Today Ken shares the story of how they clung to each other and found hope to move forward together, through their darkest season. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: How to hold onto faith when you feel hopeless Maintaining marriage unity while holding different parenting values How to recover from marriage disagreements you can’t forget Ken’s story of breaking through to the other side after a dark season *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! Couples Conversation Guide: Main takeaway: When your marriage is rocked by the unexpected, allow your spouse to process the way they need to. Focus on supporting one another, and finding common bonds. Questions to Discuss: What has been your hardest marriage season? What helped you stay close in that time? What is one way you can strengthen your marriage today to protect it for the future? QUOTES In some ways, it was our toughest time ever. In other ways, it was “you and me, honey, against the world.” - Ken Guidroz To say we felt like we had a scarlet letter on our chest is an understatement. - Ken Guidroz We were partners in the pit. It was tough. But it also cemented us for life. - Ken Guidroz MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Find more of Ken’s writing, including his book, Letters to My Son in Jail, on his website 15 Better Assumptions To Make About Your Spouse is a free printable to help you set your mind on what is true, right and good. Learn more here!
Transcribed - Published: 4 October 2024
Your mindset greatly impacts your day to day life. If you’re stuck in unhealthy or unhelpful thought patterns, both you and your marriage will suffer. But there are simple ways to unpack your thought patterns and replace the unhelpful with a biblical perspective. In today’s episode we’re looking at practical ways to adopt a gracious, life-giving perspective in marriage. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: Common perspective mistakes in marriage and what causes them Practical tips to resolve perspective issues and create a Biblical perspective What do secret sin and perspective have in common? Ways to communicate more effectively and seek to understand your spouse's perspective Tips to cultivate oneness and a spiritual foundation of unity *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! Couples Conversation Guide: Main takeaway: Is your perspective of your spouse realistic? For most issues, a generous perspective and good communication can get you through it together. Questions to Discuss: Do you have any unrealistic expectations of your spouse today? If you’re not sure, check them out together. Are you and your spouse at odds over an issue? Take the time to learn what matters most to your spouse about their position on it. Do you have thought habits that are leading to bitterness or resentment in your marriage? QUOTES "It's hard to step into your spouse's shoes or take the time to do that, to have empathy for them." - Dr. Kim Kimberling "Resentment can be a huge thing and it's so dangerous because if we don't stop it, it continues to grow." - Dr. Kim Kimberling “Perspective is your lens on the world. If your lens is covered with smudges and you’re not seeing clearly, that’s not the world’s fault. You’ve got to clean your lens.” - Lindsay Few MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: If you are ready to have a better perspective – and a better marriage, then the biblically-based 4 Week Reframing Challenge is for you! Turn to God and ask him to renew your mind with our NEW resource, 11 Prayers To Stop Thinking Negatively About Your Spouse 15 Better Assumptions To Make About Your Spouse is a free printable to help you set your mind on what is true, right and good. Learn more here! Join the Marriage Changer Movement! Because a world full of awesome marriages can change the world Marriage Multiplier is a quick and highly practical weekly email to help you invest in your marriage. CLICK HERE to learn more!
Transcribed - Published: 1 October 2024
An affair doesn’t have to mean the end of a marriage. At Awesome Marriage, we have seen so many marriages restored! Yet the recovery process will take time and working together to see the Lord heal the union. If you’ve experienced this pain, you need a guide to help you along the way. Rick Reynolds joins Dr. Kim today to share his story of marriage recovery, and how he’s used his own painful experience to help others through the process of rebuilding after infidelity. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: How to avoid common behaviors that can set you up for an affair How to rebuild a marriage after affair - better than before Why Christians need to be aware of their own vulnerability How to overcome the obstacles to recovering after infidelity Common mistakes in the affair recovery process *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! Couples Conversation Guide: Main takeaway: One of the best ways to protect your marriage from an affair is to realize you could be vulnerable to infidelity, and put boundaries in place. If your marriage has experienced infidelity, it can be restored much stronger than before. Questions to Discuss: What boundaries do you have in your life to prevent even baby steps toward an affair? Are you a safe place for your spouse to be completely honest and open? What would help make your marriage a safer place for honesty? QUOTES “When we fall, what’s important is what we do afterwards.” - Rick Reynolds “A lot of Christians don’t realize they’re vulnerable, so they don’t put constraints in place. Then they find themselves in a mess.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “What heals is empathy and emotional responsiveness.” - Rick Reynolds “The wayward spouse needs to understand that disclosure is the way that trust is reestablished.” - Rick Reynolds MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Learn more or sign up for the Hope Rising Conference at AffairRecovery.com If you feel defeated about your marriage, or are considering divorce, our 90 Days to Save Your Marriage plan is for you. Learn more here.
Transcribed - Published: 27 September 2024
When costs keep rising, and earnings often don’t match, money stress is bound to invade your marriage. Most couples face additional tension around how to handle finances well – as well as how to handle them together. In today’s podcast, Dr. Kim talks with Dan and Kay Ockey about how to take control of your finances, even in times of financial uncertainty. Dan and Kay offer concrete and actionable advice on how to take the steps to get out of debt, make a realistic plan, and work together. Tune in for help to get your finances in order. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: The action plan for how to start tracking finances Productive ways to handle the realities of inflation and financial uncertainty 2 keys for financial success in a marriage Use this reframing shift and fight over finances less *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES "The magic bullet doesn't exist, but being real about your numbers and not spending more than you make is key." - Dan Ockey “We’re finding that among a lot of people there’s an expectation you should have the life you want.” - Dan Ockey “We may not have the money to do all the things we want right now, and that’s ok. You’re not a failure - you can work toward that.” - Dan Ockey “Our money conversations were so painful. Then I realized that our unity was more important than my beliefs about money.” - Dan Ockey Couples Conversation Guide: Main takeaway: Unity in your marriage finances requires a team mindset, learning about each other, and learning the skills to handle money well. Questions to Discuss: What financial beliefs are keeping you from unity in your marriage? Are you working toward a common goal together today? If not, work together to set one. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Learn how to avoid the 4 common budgeting mistakes couples make when in the FREE Centsei Class. Learn more here. The Gap and the Gain Get the budget conversation started with 27 Money Questions Every Couple Needs to Ask Marriage Multiplier is a quick and highly practical weekly email to help you invest in your marriage. CLICK HERE to learn more!
Transcribed - Published: 24 September 2024
Show of hands: Are you an Amazon box hider? … or do you have your spouse break down the boxes for you? All joking aside, online shopping can be an issue that hinders couples’ closeness. Money management in general can be a hot topic, but the wide range of ways we can spend money online with just the click of a button can create some additional obstacles, and we hear about it from couples all the time. Today we’re equipping you to resolve this issue. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: Red flags that you need to address online spending with your spouse. The role of trust in marriage money habits How to know when online shopping has become a problem The negative cycle of emotional triggers *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “When you look into what’s most important with money, you make a lot more progress more quickly.” - Lindsay Few "When you quit being a team, that's when it becomes a problem." - Dr. Kim Kimberling "If shopping is getting in the way of closeness with your spouse, then something needs to change." - Dr. Kim Kimberling Couple's Conversation Guide: Main takeaway: Money secrets do not serve your marriage well, so do what it takes to build trust with your spouse around finances. Questions to Discuss: Are there any money habits your spouse does not know about you? What areas bring out money tension for your marriage? What is one step that would help you work through that and build unity today? MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Learn how to avoid the 4 common budgeting mistakes couples make when in the FREE Centsei Class. Learn more here. Get the budget conversation started with 27 Money Questions Every Couple Needs to Ask Marriage Multiplier is a quick and highly practical weekly email to help you invest in your marriage. CLICK HERE to learn more!
Transcribed - Published: 17 September 2024
We don’t often talk about our failures, but maybe that needs to change. It’s easy to focus on others’ highlight reel, while we’re highly aware of our own personal shortcomings. But the shame of feeling like we don’t measure up keeps us from real relationships. Today we’re going there with special guest, Becky Kiser, as we talk about the power of the gospel and how God uses us in spite of our shortcomings. Don’t miss this powerful conversation. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: Fight the cascade effect of feeling like a failure The two most debated sections of Becky’s new book - and why! The 1st step to start loving your spouse well How to move out of shame and into freedom *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “Even women who are successful; women who have accomplished a bunch, deal with failure.” - Becky Kiser “The Gospel message is not, ‘Get your life together then God can do something with your life.’” - Becky Kiser “I’ve found the most freedom from acknowledging I can’t.” - Becky Kiser "Not all failures are actual failures. They’re just a part of life.” - Becky Kiser "We spend so much time ‘dying to ourselves’ that we think there’s no value to ourselves.” - Becky Kiser MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Find Becky at https://www.beckykiser.com/ and on Instagram @beckykiser Grab the new book, “But God Can” today! Get the budget conversation started with 27 Money Questions Every Couple Needs to Ask Marriage Multiplier is a quick and highly practical weekly email to help you invest in your marriage. CLICK HERE to learn more!
Transcribed - Published: 10 September 2024
After five years of marriage, Kristin and Todd Evans’ world was rocked when they learned they were about to become parents to a child with a disability. The stress, grief and the demands of learning to be caregivers to a child with disabilities transformed their once-joyful marriage and nearly broke it apart. When spouses are also caregivers, the marriage will face challenges that others may not know anything about. Today Todd and Kristin share their powerful story of learning to navigate this reality and how they have kept their marriage strong through it all. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: The additional challenges parents face as caregivers Learning to cope with the ‘living loss’ of disability How to set and communicate priorities in an unending to do list Ways to deepening emotional connection & intimacy while always “on call” Handling grief and chronic sorrow together *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “For all parents, there’s a sacrificial piece to it. For special needs parents, it goes to a new level of what you have to sacrifice.” - Todd Evans “1 in 3 caregivers experience depression and anxiety.” - Kristin Evans “I couldn’t understand why I couldn't’ get over my grief, but Todd had moved on.” - Kristin Evans “There’s not a right or wrong way to grieve, it’s just different.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Order the Evans’ book, How to Build a Thriving Marriage as You Care for Children with Disabilities Follow @DisabilityParenting on Instagram for more great tips! Get the budget conversation started with 27 Money Questions Every Couple Needs to Ask Marriage Multiplier is a quick and highly practical weekly email to help you invest in your marriage. CLICK HERE to learn more!
Transcribed - Published: 6 September 2024
Reduce money stress in your marriage by making sure your money knows where to go! Don’t avoid talking about money with your spouse: Establishing a budget you can both stick to will certainly pay off long term. Today Dr. Kim shares several simple tricks that help him and Nancy to stress less and be intentional with their finances. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: The basic starting point for building a budget The budget category Dr. Kim & Nancy would NEVER cut out The power of breaking a scarcity mindset and becoming generous Strategies to better money management How to get started if you’ve never budgeted *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “We felt like it was always important to have a date.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “Make sure to build in your budget that you can go out somewhere each week and not have to worry about it.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “God is so generous, and that’s really what we want to emulate.” - Lindsay Few “My lack of generosity was not the person I wanted to be.” - Lindsay Few Continue to ask, “What are our financial goals? How do we budget to make them work?” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “If you need help, get it. If you’re going to fight about money for 50 years, that doesn’t sound fun at all. ”- Dr. Kim Kimberling “When you tithe 10%, the 90% you have left goes a lot further than you thought the 100% would.” - Lindsay Few “I don’t know anyone personally who would say they regret tithing.” - Lindsay Few MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Get the budget conversation started with 27 Money Questions Every Couple Needs to Ask Learn how to avoid the 4 common budgeting mistakes couples make when in the FREE Centsei Class. Learn more here. Marriage Multiplier is a quick and highly practical weekly email to help you invest in your marriage. CLICK HERE to learn more!
Transcribed - Published: 3 September 2024
Do your habits online support your marriage? Or damage it? Fewer couples are getting married than ever. Tech is hitting marriages hard today. Yet research shows that marriage can provide a huge boost to personal happiness. Today’s guest Arlene Pellicane has written several books on how technology is impacting relationships, and today she shares tech habits that will help you and your marriage to thrive. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: The 1 habit that leads to a 99% marriage success rate Simple to streamline your tech habits for more connection Why today’s tech affects relationships differently than before Research shows how marriage can impact happiness Parenting tips to break unhealthy tech habits and get your child back *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “If we seek God and His guidance, He’s always going to have an answer.” Dr. Kim Kimberling “Is technology bringing you closer together? Or causing you to grow farther apart.” - Arlene Pellicane “We're missing all these little times to connect. That’s why you feel disconnected.” - Arlene Pellicane “You have to prepare to be unpopular, because as a parent, it’s your job to protect your child.” - Arlene Pellicane MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: If you need help with family tech habits, DO NOT miss Arlene’s books on the topic. National Marriage Week is each February 7-14th – and their great marriage building resources are available all year long! Learn more and support the mission on the WEB, FACEBOOK, X (TWITTER) or INSTAGRAM ! Learn more about what boundaries can do for your marriage in Dr. Kim’s free Building Healthy Boundaries Webinar. Learn more here! What could 1 intentional weekend do for you and your spouse? Find out when you take on our Marriage Weekend Challenge! Click to learn more! Don’t let screens come between you: Use our free 17 Questions Every Couple Should Ask About Tech printable to get on the same page! Marriage Multiplier is a quick and highly practical weekly email to help you invest in your marriage. CLICK HERE to learn more!
Transcribed - Published: 30 August 2024
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Transcribed - Published: 20 August 2024
We’ve all wondered at some point … is everyone else living a better life? It looks like they might be, and social media only seems to confirm it! That’s why we’re delighted to bring you Dr. Kim’s conversation with today’s guest, Sarah Bragg, of the Surviving Sarah podcast. In today’s episode, we’ll hear Sarah’s take on feeling “stuck” in life, how to become happier, and steps to overcome the idea that someone else’s life is better than yours. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: Why we face the questions that keep us up at night Practical strategies for when you feel stuck in life How to deal with experiencing grief in midlife Guardrails to protect yourself from the effects of comparison Staving off the effects of unhappiness in your marriage Our Couples Conversation Guide helps you apply each episode’s content. Click here to get each week’s guide! *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “We can look back and see where we’ve been. But when we look forward we don’t know what it’s going to look like.” - Sarah Bragg “When we keep it inside, it grows. It feels bigger than it really is.” - Sarah Bragg “We all grieve in different ways, over different things.” Dr. Kim Kimberling “It’s okay to just keep showing up and trying.” - Sarah Bragg “In this age of social media, it’s nothing but compare and compete.” - Sarah Bragg “Connection is the root of happiness.” - Sarah Bragg MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Order Sarah’s book, Is Everyone Happier Than Me? Listen to the Surviving Sarah podcast and find more from Sarah on her website & @SarahWBragg on Instagram! Don’t let screens come between you: Use our free 17 Questions Every Couple Should Ask About Tech printable to get on the same page! Our Couples Conversation Guide helps you apply each episode’s content. Click here to get each week’s guide!
Transcribed - Published: 16 August 2024
Did you know that marriage can be good for you? Marriage is not always viewed as the gift from God that it actually is, but He has designed this relationship to provide some *amazing* benefits to both spouses. Today Dr. Kim is sharing several of the ways a healthy marriage supports health and wellness for you, your spouse and your family. Tune in to learn more! We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: The benefits of a good marriage for mental and physical health Health effects on kids and families The damaging effects of loneliness - even in marriage Steps you can take to combat loneliness Hidden benefits of the process of working on things you need to work on Our Couples Conversation Guide helps you apply each episode’s content. To get each week’s guide click here to subscribe! *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “There’s all kinds of incentives to work on your marriage, and this is one of them: If you have a healthy marriage, you have a healthier, longer life.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “We hear about so much depression; so much anxiety. Everybody’s under stress. Marriage can help your mental health.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “I was out of my comfort zone, and any time you do that is uncomfortable, but on the other side there might be something really helpful.” - Lindsay Few MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Don’t let screens come between you: Use our free 17 Questions Every Couple Should Ask About Tech printable to get on the same page! Life’s unpredictable. Build a solid foundation for your marriage with 21 Prayers to Build an Awesome Marriage Are you ready to join the mission? Our Marriage Changers exist because a world full of awesome marriages can change the world! Learn more HERE Our Couples Conversation Guide helps you apply each episode’s content. To get each week’s guide click here to subscribe! We are here to help! Email [email protected] any time. Our Healthy Self / Healthy Marriage Podcast Series goes deeper: Why Does Physical Health Matter In Marriage? | Ep. 520 The Connection Between Emotional & Spiritual Health | Ep. 521 Mental Health & Your Marriage | Ep. 522 Answering Listener Questions | Ep. 523
Transcribed - Published: 13 August 2024
Does marriage still matter in this day and age? We say a resounding yes! Marriage was designed by God, and there are several purposes the Bible gives for why marriage matters. Today we’re digging into what Scripture says about the value of marriage. Tune in to learn God’s purposes for the marriage relationship, and why they matter in your marriage! We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: Dr. Kim’s list of biblical purposes for marriage Several ideas for what it means to “be fruitful” in marriage The power of a marriage model - and tips on how to find one The ripple effect of an intentional marriage Ways your marriage can be a light in our dark world Our Couples Conversation Guide helps you apply each episode’s content. To get each new guide, click here to subscribe! *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “No marriage is perfect. But if you’re a couple steps ahead, you’ve navigated some things that others haven’t.” - Lindsay Few “My dream for the marriage changers is that they’re learning, growing and passing that on.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “Prayer has had such an impact on our marriage. When God answers prayer like He does, we want to tell everybody what He’s done!” - Dr. Kim Kimberling The things God calls us to do bring glory to God. They bring us joy, life and peace, and they also bring light and encouragement to others.” - Lindsay Few “Yes, it’s hard at times. Yes, there are things you have to work through. But the big picture result is worth it.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Don’t let screens come between you: Use our free 17 Questions Every Couple Should Ask About Tech printable to get on the same page! Life’s unpredictable. Build a solid foundation for your marriage with 21 Prayers to Build an Awesome Marriage We are here to help! Email [email protected] any time. Are you ready to join the mission? Our Marriage Changers exist because a world full of awesome marriages can change the world! Learn more HERE Our Couples Conversation Guide helps you apply each episode’s content. You’ll get each new guide when you click here to subscribe!
Transcribed - Published: 6 August 2024
Is it harder to live a faithful life today than in times past? Today’s world does provide some unique challenges that couples face, but there are also unique opportunities. Today’s conversation with Gabrielle McCullough sheds light on some of the ways today’s world can be deeply impacted by Jesus and the effects of our faith can have on marriage. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: Unique challenges and unique opportunities for faith in Gen Z 3 questions for biblical accountability A challenge to help you find your place in the local church The impact of following Jesus on every aspect of life Why the local church is still relevant and needed today *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “Following Jesus impacts every area of your life.” - Gabrielle McCullough “We follow Jesus because he has our hearts. There’s an obedience that is compelled that isn’t out of drudgery but out of true delight.” - Gabrielle McCullough “They want something that’s authentic. That excites me about my generation.” - Gabrielle McCullough There’s a beauty in asking, ‘how can I serve the church?’ instead of asking how others can serve me.” - Gabrielle McCullough “As Christians, our responsibility is to love people the way Christ loves them; with love and with truth.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “If marriages can be healthy and strong, what a testament to the world of who Jesus is and the way he fights for his Bride.” - Gabrielle McCullough MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Find Gabrielle on Instagram, TikTok, and on her website The Christmas in July Sale is on at Awesome Marriage University and that means you get 30% ANY and ALL of our online marriage courses! BROWSE our course offerings to find which one your marriage needs and use the code JULY at checkout! Our 5 Days to Deeper Emotional Intimacy digital resource provides practical steps to understand and share your emotions, and to work together to grow your emotional intimacy…and it’s our gift to you for your donation of any amount.
Transcribed - Published: 30 July 2024
Has you or your spouse’s insecurity affected your marriage? We’re all insecure about something, and the way we see ourselves will end up spilling over into the way we relate to others. Nowhere is this more likely to happen than in marriage. In this episode Dr. Kim and Christina share ways to address your insecurity and your spouse’s insecurity, including a surprising way Dr. Kim has learned to turn his weaknesses to strengths. Tune in for wisdom and practical tips. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: How insecurity affects a marriage Advice if your spouse’s insecurity is weighing you down Advice if your OWN insecurity weighs you down Practical steps to overcome insecurity How to fight back against your insecurities *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “How you view yourself absolutely affects how you’re going to interact with others.” - Christina Dodson “I think the role of the spouse is to build each other up. Your marriage should be your safest place, next to your relationship with God.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “Perfection is not what God expects from you, nor should anyone else be expecting it from you.” - Christina Dodson “You begin to believe the things God says about you and who you are in Christ, and that changes your countenance. You will look like a different person.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “There’s less holding you back if you’re not weighed down by your insecurities. There’s more joy, more abundance, freedom to enjoy life together. ” - Christina Dodson “One thing God does so well for us is he loves us right where we are. Our goal is to love our spouse right where they are.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “You can’t take it over. You can’t fix it for them. But you can come alongside and do what God wants you to do.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “No one is thinking about you as much as you’re thinking about you. To me, that’s really freeing!” - Christina Dodson MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Our 5 Days to Deeper Emotional Intimacy digital resource provides practical steps to understand and share your emotions, and to work together to grow your emotional intimacy…and it’s our gift to you for your donation of any amount. The Christmas in July Sale is on at Awesome Marriage University and that means you get 30% OFF ANY and ALL of our online marriage courses! BROWSE our course offerings to find which one your marriage needs and use the code JULY at checkout!
Transcribed - Published: 23 July 2024
Want better connection with your spouse? One thing we hear a lot from couples is that they don’t feel close to each other or that their relationship feels like it’s missing some depth. That’s why today we’re re-airing this episode from Dr. Kim and Christina that talks all about emotional intimacy and gives you ideas of practical ways to deepen the emotional intimacy in your marriage. We pray this episode is helpful to you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: What is emotional intimacy, and why does it matter? Warning signs you need to grow in this area Emotional intimacy killers to avoid Tips to start working on this - alone, and together *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “It is hard work knowing someone. You have to pay attention. It takes work to be intimate.” - Christina Dodson “Laziness and business are going to block your intimacy, so we have to fight against those things.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “Give yourself opportunities to connect.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “It adds value to my marriage for me to have a relationship with my friends, just like it benefits our marriage that he has guy friends.” - Christina Dodson “You could have had the best childhood in the world and you still have baggage because we’re human. That’s okay, and you can deal with that.” - Christina Dodson “You can’t be emotionally intimate with your spouse if you aren’t aware of your own emotions.” - Christina Dodson MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Our 5 Days to Deeper Emotional Intimacy digital resource provides practical steps to understand and share your emotions, and to work together to grow your emotional intimacy…and it’s our gift to you for your donation of any amount. Your marriage can only be as healthy as the two of you are. The Bible says, “Let us examine our ways and test them and let us return to the Lord” (Lamentations 3:40). Our new Self Check-In Guide will help you do just that! Print out this Feelings Chart and use it to help you talk about your emotions. Our Questions To Help Your Spouse Open Up resource is a simple way to help build the closeness between you and your spouseAccountability is a biblical and helpful tool for growing in holiness.
Transcribed - Published: 16 July 2024
What is a “gospeler”? It’s probably a lot simpler than you think! It is something that will certainly impact you and your marriage, but also has the potential to have a huge impact on others around you. Today Willie Robertson shares how one person sharing the Gospel impacted thousands, starting with his family, and he explains just how simple it can be to begin to care enough for others to share the Gospel with them. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: Gospel genealogy & the ripple effect one conversation can have The Biblical basis for this kind of conversation Where to start if you don’t know where to start Advice for parents to share their faith in parenting Different ways to approach sharing your faith *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “When you’re active in sharing your faith, it takes care of a lot of other things for you as well.” - Willie Robertston “The great commission was for all of us.” - Willie Robertston “Make disciples, baptize people, teach people; you’re not going to do any of those 3 unless you open your mouth.” - Willie Robertston “It starts with caring about people.” - Willie Robertston “You start learning the Word, you’ll start standing out in the crowd.” - Willie Robertston MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Order Willie’s new book, Gospeler today! Find more from Willie at DuckCommander.com and WillieRobertson.com Our 5 Days to Deeper Emotional Intimacy digital resource provides practical steps to understand and share your emotions, and to work together to grow your emotional intimacy…and it’s our gift to you for your donation of any amount.
Transcribed - Published: 12 July 2024
Are you ever a bit too helpful in your marriage? Do you find yourself frustrated with the way your spouse responds to you? You may be trying to control your spouse by “helping” even if you don’t mean to! Today Laura Doyle from the Empowered Wife Podcast joins Dr. Kim to teach us some ways to shift our marriage culture - without resorting to control tactics. Tune in to learn how! We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: Empowering ways to shift the culture of your marriage, even if your spouse isn’t on board “Cheat phrases” to help you shift from controlling tendencies to deeper intimacy The unexpected lesson of sitting down with your spouse and getting nothing done! MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Find more of Laura’s content, including her free Empowered Wife Road Map on her website Check out Laura’s book, the Empowered Wife! Our 5 Days to Deeper Emotional Intimacy digital resource provides practical steps to understand and share your emotions, and to work together to grow your emotional intimacy…and it’s our gift to you for your donation of any amount.
Transcribed - Published: 9 July 2024
Most of us deal with self doubt, regret, and feelings of not measuring up. But learning to love ourselves properly means learning to see ourselves as God does, and it allows us to love others more freely and graciously. Today, Bryan Crum will help you step away from nagging self doubts and into a solid biblical perspective. Give your marriage the gift of seeing yourself and your spouse through God’s eyes. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: Unexpected lessons learned from people who are facing their mortality Why is it hard to accept loving and valuing ourselves properly? Rewriting negative messages we’ve learned Ideas to break away from self-doubt Why relationships are needed to help us learn to love ourselves *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “I’m on a mission to help people fall in love with God’s greatest creation; and that’s us.” - Bryan Crum “We all want to know our time on this earth means something.” - Bryan Crum “I’ve discovered 2 truths about living: 1. We’re priceless. 2. For some reason, we’ve forgotten that truth.” - Bryan Crum “We interact with people every day but we don’t always treat them like they are valuable.” - Bryan Crum “When we acknowledge the truth of what we’re worth, we’re acknowledging a truth heaven knows well.” - Bryan Crum “The first step is to stop comparing ourselves to each other.” - Bryan Crum “There's power in giving each other the benefit of the doubt.” - Bryan Crum “Giving each other grace is a small step that covers a lot of distance.” - Bryan Crum “Marriage is promising each other that we’re all-in. We’ve got to make the conscious choice to say, ‘I’m still here.’” - Bryan Crum MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: If your marriage is doing okay but could use a jumpstart, then this 5 Week Marriage Refresher Challenge is for you! Find more from Bryan HERE Order Bryan’s book, Neighbor, Love Yourself HERE
Transcribed - Published: 21 June 2024
Conflict is no one’s favorite, but it is an inevitable part of life. And today Donna Jones teaches us why it’s nothing to be afraid of by busting some of the most common misunderstandings that lead to conflict avoidance, and providing a biblical roadmap to handle conflict in a healthy way. Tune in to learn more about approaching conflict in a healthy, biblical way. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: The biggest mistakes most couples make in conflict The trick to de-escalate in the heat of the moment. The inner characteristics that build better conflict habits Help to break conflict patterns in your marriage The healthy way to apologize well *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “When we handle conflict in a healthy way, the outcome is peace. Peace between us and who we have conflict with; peace in our own souls.” - Donna Jones “When we are in conflict, it literally affects everything about us. We function, but on the inside, we’re torn to pieces.” - Donna Jones “The reason so many of us think conflict is bad, is that we never learned to see how conflict can turn out good.” - Donna Jones “When we have conflict, we tend to think it means 1 of 3 things: There’s something wrong with you; there’s something wrong with me, or there’s something wrong with us. But conflict doesn’t mean that.” - Donna Jones “No relationship can survive an atmosphere of disrespect over the long haul.” - Donna Jones “The most important thing is not an act, it’s an attitude: Humility.” - Donna Jones “If you want to know how strong a person really is, look for humility.” - Donna Jones MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Order Donna’s book Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life today! Find Donna on her website, on Instagram @DonnaAJones or Facebook @donnajonesspeak/ For more help to break the conflict cycle, sign up for Dr. Kim’s “8 Guidelines for Fighting Fair Webinar” If your marriage is feeling a bit blah, the Marriage Refresher is the jumpstart you need to bring fresh life into your marriage!
Transcribed - Published: 19 June 2024
We have gotten a lot of questions about gaslighting and narcissism, and today Dr. Kim is answering. This topic is layered and one podcast episode cannot take the place of more in-depth interventions, but we can offer helpful and hopeful next steps. In today’s episode we’re covering how to know what constitutes abuse versus the sin nature we all struggle with. Listen for We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: Marriage counseling doesn’t work with abusers – So what does? Can a marriage recover after long-term gaslighting? How to diagnose abuse using the power and control wheel Does the “gray rock” strategy work in marriage? Reasons why emotional abuse is often dismissed *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “Narcissism is all about power and control. Neither of those have a place in marriage at all.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “I don't think God expects anyone to live in an abusive situation. In many ways, it’s as much a violation of vows as adultery is to not take seriously your vow to love and cherish your spouse.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “You deserve to be safe.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “If you look at the message of the BIble, you can’t defend any type of abuse, for any person, ever.” - Lindsay Few “The goal would be repentance and reconciliation.” - Lindsay Few “The reason a lot of people minimize emotional abuse because they haven’t seen it.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “I’ve seen people who gaslight and don't really understand what they’ve been doing.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “Nobody’s uplifted or brought closer to Christ through manipulative behaviors.” - Lindsay Few MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: The Power and Control Wheel is helpful to understand what constitutes abuse If your marriage is doing okay but could use a jumpstart, then this 5 Week Marriage Refresher Challenge is for you! Past episodes on the topic: Gaslighting in Marriage Accidental Gaslighting When is Enough Enough? With Dr. David E. Clarke Recent series with Kathy’s Story Escaping an Emotionally Abusive Marriage: Kathy’s Story | Ep. 608 Escaping an Emotionally Abusive Marriage Part 2: Seeking Church Support | Kathy’s Story Ep. 609 Escaping an Emotionally Abusive Marriage Part 3: Help to Get Out and Get Safe | Ep. 610
Transcribed - Published: 18 June 2024
Is there a war on fathers? Our guest on today’s podcast thinks so. The impact of fathers on their kids is so valuable, yet it’s incredibly difficult to know how to engage purposefully in the process of parenting. If you’ve had a hand in raising kids, you already know that parenting is not for the faint of heart! That’s why we are so thankful to share today’s episode and Kent Evans’ practical advice and encouragement for dads. Kent Evans is a wise and helpful mentor for dads who are searching for their purpose in parenting. Listen and learn Kent’s simple, practical tips for dads and moms alike. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: What prevents dads from being confident to engage in fatherhood? The reasons why your kids need an imperfect dad Advice for the dad who feels like it’s too late to start to engage well Steps to growing in your purpose as a dad Advice for the wife who wants her husband to engage An incredible tip for finding friends & community *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “Satan wants us to take us out of the fatherhood game by getting us to self-select and walk off the field.” - Kent Evans “God wants to be known as a dad, therefore there’s a war on fathers.” - Kent Evans “My experience as a dad is that God can take care of the things I mess up.” - Dr. Kim “Even if we could be perfect, it would not be beneficial. It would deprive them of the example of how to fall off the horse then get back on.” - Kent Evans There are few things more motivating to a man than the praise of his wife, but it’s multiplied by an exponent when she does it in front of the children.” - Kent Evans “I didn’t get it right. I didn’t do it perfectly, but God took my loaves and fishes and they landed as nourishment.” MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Grab Kent’s great tools for dads at ManhoodJourney.org Listen to the Father on Purpose Podcast With the Creative Questions Bundle you will NOT lack for great conversation topics! Get all the details here! Sign up here to get the Couple’s Conversation Guide for each episode!
Transcribed - Published: 14 June 2024
Marriage doesn’t have to get boring … but for too many couples, it has. If you’re ready to break out of the routine and restore the joy in your marriage, this one's for you! Listen for ways to have more interesting and connective conversations, new ideas of things to try, and how to avoid common mistakes that keep couples from enjoying their marriage. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: Better questions to ask for better conversations 2 common mistakes that keep couples from having fun together Several ideas for fun things to try For Dr. Kim’s bullet point list of steps, sign up for the Conversation Guide *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “When we’re dating our future wife, we guys up our game.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “We loved our time with our kids, but we realized we also had to be intentional about our marriage.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “You have to give yourself time to do the fun stuff. The mundane will still be there when you’re done.” - Lindsay Few MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: With the Creative Questions Bundle you will NOT lack for great conversation topics! Get all the details here! Check in on your marriage each week with our Weekly Check In Guide to keep your connection strong Sign up here to get the Couple’s Conversation Guide for each episode! Questions to Help Your Spouse Open Up Is there a marriage resource you need us to make? Tell us your idea! Arlene Pellicane will be on the podcast later this summer. She has written some great books on tech in the family! Cool, Calm and Connected: 5 Digital Habits for a More Balanced Life Growing Up Social: Raising Relational Kids in a Screen-Driven World Screen Kids: 5 Skills Every Child Needs in a Tech-Driven World
Transcribed - Published: 11 June 2024
Do you ever feel like you and your spouse are two ships passing in the night? Strangers living under the same roof? Business partners executing the plans you’ve made for your kids and household? Then you’re in a disconnected marriage. The marriage relationship should nurture both spouses. If you’ve lost the connection in your marriage, or just want to step up from where you are right now, tune in today to learn the practical steps for reconnecting. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: Why do couples disconnect? The steps to reconnection A helpful source for fun marriage ideas and resources *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “Little tweaks can make such a difference.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “Living separate lives is not going to get you a connected, fun marriage.” Christina Dodson “We weren’t always there but we chose to stay in the marriage and work through things. It’s worth it.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “You can continue to grow, but you have to work at it.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Check in on your marriage each week with our Weekly Check In Guide to keep your connection strong Creative Questions Bundle Sign up here to get the Couple’s Conversation Guide for each episode! The Sex Talk course equips you to teach your kids about sex in a biblical, God-honoring way
Transcribed - Published: 7 June 2024
If your marriage communication is a struggle, you are NOT alone. So many marriage issues come back to communication, and if your communication is awesome, your marriage will be too! But most of us will have some trouble with communicating well with our spouse, and it’s the biggest issue couples ask us for help with. That’s why today we’re equipping you with 6 tips to communicate well in the good times and in the bad. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: How to talk so your spouse can listen Use the “title page” trick to help your spouse listen to you Dr. Kim’s 6 tips to communicate well How to find a good counselor if you need one How to restart the openness & honesty in your marriage *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “I think what happens for guys is that when we’re dating our future wife, we up our game.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “It’s hard for me to put my thoughts and feelings into succinct words.I can easily ramble on… but that doesn’t make for good communication.” - Lindsay Few “The bottom line is you want them to hear what you’re saying, so how do you best communicate in a way that they’re going to hear it?” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “If you’re going through a hard time, call it that. Work together to reclaim your time and energy.” - Lindsay Few “We can’t give away every piece of our heart, mind, time and energy to things that drain the life out of us.” - Lindsay Few MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Get the Couple’s Conversation Guide for each episode by signing up here! The Sex Talk course equips you to teach your kids about sex in a biblical, God-honoring way Dr. Kim’s blogs on questions to ask your counselor: 4 Qualities Your Christian Counselor Needs 3 Things A Counselor Needs To Believe to Help Your Marriage 3 Mistakes Couples Make When They Try Counseling Our FREE Weekly Check In Guide helps with regular communication Making Your Marriage a Refuge with Special Guest Gary Thomas Ep. 530 Achieving Awesome Communication in Marriage YouVersion Plan
Transcribed - Published: 4 June 2024
It often feels like the world around us is too broken. Where would you even start if you wanted to try and fix it? On the podcast today, Charlie and Andi Ashworth answer this question, and thankfully their answer is much simpler and more doable than it might seem. The Ashworths have spent decades sharing their creative gifts and encouraging others to do the same, and in today’s episode they artfully equip you to take small steps toward creativity, community, and reflecting the light of God’s love, right where you are. Don’t miss this bonus episode! We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: How should Christians engage with culture? A call for culture making - and how simple it is to actually do it Why the small things matter - and how to use them for good in your life Hope for becoming the remedy to the loneliness epidemic How to balance the desire for creativity and the need to get things done Battling the dis-integration of “mundane” versus doing things we like *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “We make less and less meaning of everything now, because it’s happening so fast and we’re receiving so much information.” - Charlie Ashworth “There’s no small people; there’s no small things. Everything matters.” - Charlie Ashworth “We don’t know the stories that will continue after we do.” - Andi Ashworth “If all of life matters to God, then all of life matters to us.” - Andi Ashworth “We want a formula … but it is a process.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “Based on your faith in Christ, what kind of culture are you making? Are you contributing good? Or are you contributing negativity?” - Charlie Ashworth “It’s antithetical to the word of God and to creation itself to think that we as people of God are somehow standing outside of it. It actually creates an ‘us’ versus ‘them’ mentality that is so unhealthy.” - Charlie Ashworth “Start with where you're at: You're actually getting up and making culture every day.” - Andi Ashworth “As an artist, maturity looks like a seamless integration of a diversity of creativity over time.” - Charlie Peacock MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Charlie and Andi’s book, Why Everything That Doesn't Matter, Matters So Much: The Way of Love in a World of Hurt Find more from the Ashworths on their website: https://thewriterthehusband.com/ Andy Crouch’s book Culture Making Learn 7 reasons why your sex life may not be where you want it to be, and how to get it there! Sign up here for the 9 Ways to Improve Your Sex Life Webinar
Transcribed - Published: 31 May 2024
Your marriage needs trust in order to be healthy. Without it, your connection with your spouse will fade, and you’ll experience more conflict and tension, and less of the closeness and intimacy marriage is meant to have. Don’t stay stuck like this! Turn things around by closing the trust gaps between you and your spouse and make your marriage a safe refuge for both of you. Episode highlights include: Areas where you might not realize you lack trust How to address it effectively with your spouse - without blaming How to have grace in the rebuilding process Tips to building financial trust Practical tips to become more trustworthy with completing tasks *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “Without trust in a marriage, the marriage just crumbles.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “We don’t realize how valuable trust is until it’s broken.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “Trust can be unique to the person and the situation.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “We have to own what’s driving our trust-breaking behavior.” - Lindsay Few “The budget isn’t a prison, it’s a plan. But sometimes it will be uncomfortable.” - Lindsay Few “The sooner you go to counseling, the sooner you’ll resolve your issues.” - Lindsay Few “If you get stuck, you don’t have to stay stuck.” - Lindsay Few “Your spouse may make some mistakes, so look for Jesus in your spouse.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “I felt like he should trust me … but my action was not giving him anything to trust.” - Lindsay Few MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Sign up HERE to get the Couple’s Conversation Guide for each week’s new episode We are bombarded with negative messages about marriage. FIGHT BACK with our Reframing Challenge If your marriage has been damaged by porn, the 5 Steps to Healing After Porn Betrayal webinar is a great first step to healing. Learn more or grab your spot here. Warm Up Your Marriage (Past Episode)
Transcribed - Published: 28 May 2024
Today we answer some of the most frequently asked questions we hear about sex. Dr. Kim and Christina covered this on an episode in 2021, and we’ve distilled their conversation into the most timeless and practical answers to common sex questions. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: How often is “normal”? Dealing with dead sex drive Is oral sex ok in marriage? What about anal? Is there such thing as too much sex when trying to conceive? How to start talking to your kids about sex What do do if your spouse withholds sex *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “Guys, you have to continue to be romantic.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “I wanted my kids to talk to me about sex before they went to a friend or read it on a bathroom wall or a magazine. You want that door to be open.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “You need to honor each other and respect each other’s body to honor God in marriage.” - Christina Dodson “Guys, if you please your wife first, does it really matter when you orgasm? There's this unspoken pressure.” - Christina Dodson “There’s always an answer. I’ve never had a couple we couldn’t figure out an answer for.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “Stay at the comfort level of the one who is least comfortable. If you do that, you’re going to be ok.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Sign up HERE to get the Couple’s Conversation Guide for each week’s new episode Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier is a quick weekly email with actionable insights to grow your marriage. Sign up HERE! Resources we recommend for starting the sex conversation with your spouse Celebration of Sex Lovemaking Survey Resources we recommend for talking to your kids about sex: Don’t Mom Alone Podcast Ep 328 Full Set - God's Design for Sex Series: Revised and Updated Edition by Stan Jones, Brenna Jones We’re delighted to partner with The Sex Talk, an excellent online course to help you navigate this topic well
Transcribed - Published: 24 May 2024
Trust in marriage is not one-size-fits all. There are many areas where your marriage needs trust in order to thrive, and some might matter to your spouse more than they do to you, and vice versa. So today we’re talking about how to navigate any trust gaps you may have with your spouse, how to start the conversation about it, and rebuild what’s been broken so you both feel more connected and secure in your marriage. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: Several types of trust marriages need, and why they matter The side effects of missing trust Simple steps to catch a trust slip-up so that trust is not broken Specific trust-killers you need to avoid How to build trust - and keep it *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “It helps to build trust if you accept me as I am, not as you wish I would be.” - Lindsay Few “I may not even be aware if I did something that affected the trust, and I want to know.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “If it’s important to her and it keeps coming up, I want her to tell me about it.” Dr. Kim Kimberling “I’d be so offended when he didn’t trust me, but when I think about the reality, I wasn’t trustworthy.” - Lindsay Few “Trust is between two people. It’s not just your perception of yourself.” - Lindsay Few “It’s not like we quit making mistakes, it’s just that we handle them differently now.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: What would happen if you took the next 4 weeks to reframe your spouse and your marriage with a biblical approach? Cultivate a better perspective – and a better marriage, with our Reframing Challenge Sign up HERE to get the Couple’s Conversation Guide for each week’s new episode Does your sex life need a reboot? Improve your sex life with our Locking Lips Kissing Game! If your marriage has been damaged by porn, the Marriage Undefiled Online Course provides a path to rebuild trust and repair your marriage. Click HERE to get the Couple’s Conversation Guide for each week’s new episode! The free printable Weekly Check Up is a simple way to keep short accounts and keep building trust.
Transcribed - Published: 21 May 2024
Does lust have a place in marriage? What sets it apart from sexual desire? Today we’re working through the reasons this question matters for your marriage, and how to have a marriage that glorifies God in every aspect, including how you steward your sexual desires. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: Defining the difference between lust and desire, biblically The godly purposes for sexual desire in marriage Specific reasons why misused sexual desire is destructive How to maintain purity in marriage Why porn affects your marriage even if your spouse doesn’t know you use it *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! QUOTES “Lust is more about what you see, what you’re attracted to and what it can do for you.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “In the Bible, it’s not like they lived in a Puritanical culture at that time. No, it was probably every bit as bad…we just access things in a different way now.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “If we look at Scripture, lust was never mentioned in a positive light.” - Lindsay Few “We won’t ever clear that bar, but he’s taken care of it through his life, death and resurrection, so there is grace and forgiveness.” - Lindsay Few “The best sex is within the context of a Christian marriage.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling “If it’s reduced to that ‘just get it over with’ kind of situation, whoa. Red flag. The goal is not just to satisfy the urge, the goal is mutual enjoyment, pleasure, connection and building of the marriage.” - Lindsay Few “Vulnerability is uncomfortable, but it can lead you to prevent something a lot more painful.” - Lindsay Few MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: If your marriage has been damaged by porn, our free 5 Steps to Healing After Porn Betrayal webinar with Dr. Kim is a great first step toward healing Our Marriage Undefiled Online Course with Matt Cline takes a deeper look at ways to heal and restore your marriage Sign up HERE to get the Couple’s Conversation Guide for each week’s new episode Getting Your Sex Life Off To A Great Start by Cliff & Joyce Penner The Gift of Sex by Cliff & Joyce Penner The Best Way to Affair Proof Your Marriage (Past Episode) Does your sex life need a reboot? Improve your sex life with our Locking Lips Kissing Game!
Transcribed - Published: 14 May 2024
Most couples are not going to be completely aligned with sex drive. There are a lot of factors that can cause this, but there are also a lot of solutions! Today we want to equip you to have a productive approach to making your sex life the best it can be in marriage. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: Why is it so hard to have a productive conversation about sex? Should the lower-drive spouse “just do it” for the spouse’s sake? Why or why not? Why respecting your wife’s drive level helps her feel sexy Ways to respect your spouse’s drive *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: What would happen if you took the next 4 weeks to reframe your spouse and your marriage with a biblical approach? Learn how to have a better perspective – and a better marriage, with our Reframing Challenge Does your sex life need a reboot? Improve your sex life with our Locking Lips Kissing Game! If your marriage has been damaged by porn, the Marriage Undefiled Online Course provides a path to rebuild trust and repair your marriage. Click HERE to get the Couple’s Conversation Guide for each week’s new episode!
Transcribed - Published: 7 May 2024
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