Dear Young Married Couple

"I worked with women when they’d come in for their annuals and I'd ask them, 'How is it going with your sex life?' Sometimes, they would tense up and wouldn't want to talk about it. Then, I started thinking to myself, 'Wow! Sexual dysfunction is far larger of a problem than I realized when I was in school.'" - Kimberly Mathis Listen in to what the medical professionals have to say about sexual arousal and pain disorders in today's episode of the DYMC Podcast. Kimberly and Meredith recommended: ISSWSH articles Etiology of Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder and Implications for Treatment: Four Case Scenarios by Brooke M. Faught, DNP, WHNP-BC, NCMP, IF, and Susan Kellogg-Spadt, PhD, CRNP, IF, FCST UpToDate (access to medical professionals) Contact Info: Kimberly Mathis, WHNP-BC, RNC-OB, MSN Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (Urogynecology and Reproductive/Infertility Specialist) E-mail: [email protected] Meredith McWhirter, MSN, RNC-OB, APRN, NP-C Family Nurse Practitioner (Urology Specialist) E-mail: [email protected] Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com Join us for the next Monthly Live Date Night where we dig into some of these topics with you LIVE for 90 minutes this month! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"We’re so open about sharing our story, as many times and as often as necessary, because if one more person can realize this happens, that this is a thing and that they can get out of it, then it’s so worth it." - Cole and Cait Zick, Directors of Moral Revolution In this episode, Cole and Cait share their story of having entirely different upbringings around sex and sexuality, how they merged their lives, and how they healed from being completely disconnected in their sex life. Now, they have a thriving and healthy sex life and they're here to share how they did it. Cole and Cait recommended: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel Van Der Kolk Intimate Issues by Linda Dillow Look at You, Girl by Caitlin Zick “Sex. Church. Culture.” E-Course Parenting Sexuality E-Course Sexpectations Card Deck You can reach Cole and Cait: IG: @colezick + @caitlinzick Website: www.moralrevolution.com E-mail: [email protected] Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com Join us for the next Monthly Live Date Night where we dig into some of these topics with you LIVE for 90 minutes this month! Here’s the YouTube Video we talked about during the shout-out at the beginning on 3 Strategies for Praying Together as a Married Couple Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you're looking to destress your life/marriage and if you like having clear, practical steps, this podcast is for you! It consists of 5 tips to simplify your life, explained thoroughly and practically by the lovely minimalist, Shelley Coon. We like to think of her tips as "attainable minimalism". :) Shelley recommended: Evernote Going Paperless (blog post) Free to Focus by Michael Hyatt Full Focus Planner by Michael Hyatt The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo The Minimalist Home by Joshua Becker Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport You can reach Shelley: E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.thegoodnessmargin.com IG: @thegoodnessmargin Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How can we have empirical data to back up the claims we make or advice we give about something so subjective (like relationships)? Hear all about that in this episode as we interview Don and Carrie Cole, Licensed Professional Counselors and Directors of the Gottman Institute. Don and Carrie share incredible research from the most robust marriage studies ever done, involving 40+ years of observing 3000+ couples in the Love Lab in Seattle. Their insights are grounded on what actually works in relationships that are happy and stable. Listen to this episode to see for yourself why millions of couples worldwide have benefited from the Gottman Method. Don and Carrie recommended these resources for couples who want to invest in their relationship: The Art and Science of Love Workshop (ASL) 30 Days to a Better Relationship Eight Dates by John and Julie Gottman The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by John Gottman What Makes Love Last? by John Gottman The Mathematics of Marriage by John Gottman Principia Amoris by John Gottman You can reach Don and Carrie: IG + FB: @gottmaninstitute Website: www.centerforrelationshipwellness.com Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We go deep "real quick" in this episode, answering these questions: What role do SMELLS play in physical intimacy? Is it normal to have sexual TEMPTATION as a married Christian man? How do I deal with a very ANGRY spouse? Come join us as we dive even further into like topics at our Monthly LIVE Date Night! (Next one is September 11th @ 5pm-6:30pm PDT and it's called Your Brain, Your Body, and the Bedroom.) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Anthony and Kelli are a Student Pastor and Teacher/RN in Tennessee who have a 1-year-old baby girl. In this episode, they talk about how to keep your marriage alive with an infant. They discuss: Co-Sleeping and Sleep Training Date Nights Traveling before Baby Traveling Alone after Baby PDA Speaking Highly of your Spouse You can reach Anthony and Kelli: IG: @kelli.danielle E-mail: [email protected] Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"Having been married for only 3 weeks, we were just home from our honeymoon, unpacking, building our new life, and excited for our first home. We were on track. We were headed toward our goals. We were right on schedule. I was a nurse and Kevin had just started his third year of medical school. In an instant, it all changed. An explosion in our home initiated the scariest challenge ever given: the fight for our lives. While Kevin was also injured, his recovery is often overshadowed by mine. Even so, he endured much pain as well, having: • 35% of his body burned mostly to the 2nd degree. • Some 3rd degree. • 2 days in the burn ICU. • 3 weeks hospitalized. • 4 surgeries. For me: • 96% of my body was burned to the 2nd and 3rd degree. (Chance of survival, slim). • 2 weeks of a medically-induced coma. • 3 months in a burn ICU. • 2 months in a rehab hospital. • 27 surgeries. So, many other things... One day, we will talk about it all. Words cannot articulate all of my feelings, but God... He stepped in that day, exactly one year ago, and He’s been there every painful day since then." -Kevin and Medley Bokun, a newlywed couple, shares their story in this episode and lessons learned from the first year of marriage. You can reach Kevin and Medley: IG: @medleyregan FB Group Page: Kevin and Medley's Road to Recovery Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"When we talk about scheduling sex, we’re not necessarily saying Tuesday at 9:07pm. Scheduling sex is looking at how frequently the two of you want to have sex and then saying, ‘Okay. What does it look like to start dividing up the week?’⁠" This episode addresses the common debate around scheduling sex. Join in on the conversation we have with the amazing creators of One Extraordinary Marriage, Tony and Alisa DiLorenzo.⁠ Tony and Alisa recommended these resources for couples who want to work on their sex life and their marriage in general: The Intimacy Lifestyle Planner 19 Questions to Amazing Sex Coffee Break You can reach Tony and Alisa: IG + FB: @oneextraordinarymarriage Website: www.oneextraordinarymarriage.com Podcast: The One Extraordinary Marriage Show Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When you constantly live in your adaptive self so that you don't have to risk being rejected, you might be safer -- but you might also be limiting yourself big time. Today, we had the honor of interviewing our mentor and coach, Andrew Bentley. In this episode, he shares key insights for folks who aren't satisfied with settling and he gives practical tips for taking action now! Andrew Bentley recommended these books for those just getting started with a dive into personal development: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey Great by Choice by Jim Collins Emotional Intelligence 2.0 by Travis Bradberry Crucial Conversations by Patterson, Granny, McMillan, and Switzler Andrew says he has been on a "consciousness kick" lately, so he also recommends these books to folks who are interested: A Ghost in the Atom by PCW Davies How the Mighty Have Fallen by Jim Collins Am I Just My Brain? by Sharon Dirckx Self Comes to Mind by Antonio Damasio Mind & Cosmos by Thomas Nagel You can reach Andrew Bentley via IG: @bentley238 Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Your marriage deserves a retreat! DYMC VIRTUAL MARRIAGE RETREAT: August 14-15, 2020 DYMC COUPLES CRUISE: June 14-18, 2021 We can't wait to hang out with you at two upcoming events: DYMC VIRTUAL MARRIAGE RETREAT: This LIVE event is just around the corner, so be sure to register right away! August 14-15, 2021 - just $37 Learn 5 Communication and Conflict Resolution Tools Talk Confidently about your Sex Life Download the Workbook with all the Tools and Handouts Interact with other Couples Take a Custom Online Assessment for Your Marriage DYMC COUPLES CRUISE: June 14-18, 2021 We want to keep the cruise relatively small, so we will cap the registration. Sign up today and our travel agents will be in touch to collect a $200 registration deposit. Depart from Miami, Florida on Monday, June 14th, 2021 on Navigator of the Seas Visit Nassau, Bahamas and CocoBay, Bahamas! Includes: Beautiful Stateroom, All Food, Tips, Tax, and Registration Fees Includes: 4 Marriage Bootcamp Group Sessions with Adam and Karissa Optional individual or couple's counseling with Adam, Karissa, or another counselor (limited slots available upon request - sign-ups start in 2021) Optional Couple Massage and Other Couple Activities E-mail us with any questions you have! [email protected] Here are the links for the two events. We can't wait to be with you! DYMC VIRTUAL MARRIAGE RETREAT: August 14-15, 2020 DYMC COUPLES CRUISE: June 14-18, 2021 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever wonder why your spouse doesn't receive your feedback well? In this episode, you'll learn lots of tips for how to make sure you're actually giving feedback and not criticism. Our guests for today's episode are Aaron and Jocelyn Freeman of The Empowered Couples Podcast and authors of "The Argument Hangover". They cover everything "Conflict Resolution" in this episode as they share helpful hints for the person giving feedback and also valuable tools for the person who wants to learn how to receive feedback better. In short, you'll learn how to fight smarter. Aaron and Jocelyn recommended: The Argument Hangover The New Power Couple The Empowered Couples Podcast You can reach Jocelyn and Aaron via their website at: www.meetthefreemans.com Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In today's episode, we have a conversation with Yvette Kumar, LMFT about how anxiety impacts us as individuals and how it can affect the marriage. Yvette teaches several practical tools for overcoming anxiety and all from a Christian perspective. Yvette recommended: The Whole Brain Child by Daniel Siegel The Assertiveness Guide for Women by Julie de Azevedo Hanks The Assertiveness Workbook by Randy Paterson Butterflies on the First Day of School You can reach Yvette via e-mail at: [email protected] Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In last week's episode, we shared some tips for speaking about difficult topics like SEX and MONEY. This week, we're sharing some tips for how to listen and understand when your spouse does bring something up. Here's the link to our upcoming live VIRTUAL MARRIAGE RETREAT: https://event.webinarjam.com/register/1/n6075a7 Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks that we created for you and your spouse: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sex and Money - two topics of conversation that often get you to shut down or heat up (maybe in more ways than one?). If you're going to bring up a conversation that you think could cause some more-than-normal tension, trigger unpacked emotions, or even some pain, it's important to let your spouse know that you're going to throw the ball. If you don't give them the heads-up, you might hit them in the back of the head, causing further negative emotion, pain, and tension around the topic next time it gets brought up.⁠ Here are some ways to give your spouse a heads-up:⁠ "Babe, I need to unpack a pretty big conversation box with you that has to with our sex life. I want to make sure we're both in a good mental space for it. Would tomorrow during the kids' nap time be a good time for us to discuss a few needs that we both have about our intimacy?"⁠ "I know we both want to win with money and we each have some ideas to put on the table for how to best do that. Do you think we could both do some research between now and Saturday on retirement investment options and then we could work toward a decision together on Saturday after breakfast?"⁠ "Babe, I have an important need to share with you about our spending. Is now a good time to chat?"⁠ "Hey Babe - when in the next week or so would be a good time for us to have a check-in about how often we have sex? I know today's probably not the best day and I'd like for us both to have time to think about it before we check-in."⁠ P.S. If you call your spouse something other than Babe, that works too. 😆 More about these conversation stems in today's episode. Here is the link to our upcoming LIVE virtual marriage retreat: https://event.webinarjam.com/register/1/n6075a7 Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Whether you think you're married to someone from a different culture than your own or not, this podcast is for you! The truth is, we all come from different family cultures, and when we marry someone, we're faced with many challenges of adopting, adapting, or dismissing various family traditions and norms that we bring into the marriage. In today's episode, Jonathan and Tiffany Bonilla, youth pastors in Florida, share their experience marrying into a culture different than their own. They discuss language barriers, familial expectations, spiritual alignment, and more. Jonathan and Tiffany recommended: Andy Stanley Podcast The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman @ianmorgancron (author of "The Road Back to You") Take notes and soak up lots at marriage seminars and church! Read the Word of God You can find Tiffany and Jonathan on IG: @tiffboni + @jonboni_ Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rachael was born by artificial insemination to two moms and moved every few years while Montie grew up witnessing the outgrowth of "street life" and the conflicts that surround gang culture - their story about changing generational patterns in your marriage is one you don't want to miss. “One of the biggest impacts for both us, even when we were just dating, was going to families’ houses in the church and being blown away at the family interactions and all their love. Neither of us had seen that growing up.⁠ It was like a dream to look at them and think ‘We can create that for own family.’” Montie and Rachael Easter How do you pursue a godly relationship that was originally founded by the world’s standards? How do you create a thriving, two-parent household without having that example growing up? Come join the conversation on today's episode. You can find Montie and Rachael on IG: @rachael.easter + @montie_trc⁠ Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"Looks actually do matter," says Pastor Myron Wideman Jr., in reference to looking for a potential spouse. Myron is Karissa's former student in the Bachelor of Science in Human Development Program at Wilson University and he earned a concentration in Counseling. He's also the Associate Pastor at Dekalb UPC in Stone Moutain, GA (Metro Atlanta Area). In this episode, we discuss: Biblical Perspective of Physical Attraction Keeping up with Your Physical Appearance while Married Ways to Support Your Spouse's Eating/Exercise Goals Sex vs. Intimacy Scheduling Sex Coming to Bed Intentionally Myron Wideman Jr. recommended: The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman Before You Say "I Do" by H. Norman Wright After You Say "I Do" by H. Norman Wright Dr. R.A. Vernon's 10 Rules of Dating by R.A. Vernon You can find Myron Wideman on IG: @myronwidemanjr Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Wow... We just finished learning from three amazing friends and colleagues about their experiences, perspectives, insight, and lessons. As we type this description (today, Juneteenth), our hearts are heavy and our motivation is high to listen, learn, and continue this conversation -- or as one of our panelists suggested, "Don't stop the conversation when it gets uncomfortable." Our prayer for you is that you can take down your walls as you listen to these stories and try to learn from the lessons that they teach us -- all of us. Our guests on the panel are: —Cynthia Eldridge: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and School Counselor at a Community Day School in Sacramento —Dr. Daniel Blash: Licensed Psychologist, Pastor, and Vice Dean of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at St. Louis University School of Medicine —Kevin Goward: Owner of a Signing Agent Service Company (Banking/Finance Industry for 16 years) and Licensed Minister Some of the topics that our panelists covered (based on your and our questions) are: Significance of Juneteenth Black Lives Matter as a statement vs. organization Identity as People of Color (Black, African-American) and Identity as a Child of God Experiences with racism as a child and adult (both decades ago and months ago) Statements like "All Lives Matter" Interracial Marriage Racism in the Church We had so many takeaways from this conversation, but we'd like to hear from you... What's something you learned today? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nic and McKenzie Norris dated long-distance (from two different countries, actually), and they shared several tips from their experience in this interview. Listen in as we discuss: Benefits of Long-Distance Dating Challenges of Long-Distance Dating Immigration Communication Trust/Transparency Boundaries when Dating This was a special episode for us since McKenzie is actually Adam's sister. So it was fun reminiscing and laughing about old dating memories. Whether you're a dating couple (long-distance or not) or a married couple who dated long-distance, you'll really enjoy the reflections and nuggets of wisdom in this episode. Nic and McKenzie Recommended: The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman You can find Nic and McKenzie on IG: @norris_clan_2.0 + @nicholasbertram Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This was a special interview for us because Linda Carlos, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, was Karissa's supervisor before she became licensed several years ago. Linda was trained at Fuller Theological Seminary and has a deep understanding of how to integrate faith and practice. She has been a therapist for 30+ years, has two private practices in California and is an expert on attachment. In this podcast episode, Linda helps us understand attachment styles and how they impact our relationships as adults. Linda recommended: The Attachment Theory: How Childhood Affects Life (YouTube) How Your Childhood Affects Your Love Styles (You Tube) What Your Love Style Says About Your Childhood (YouTube) The Four Attachment Styles of Love (YouTube) How We Love (Quiz) Attachments: Why You Love, Feel, and Act the Way You Do by Clinton and Sibcy Hold Me Tight by Sue Johnson Created for Connection by Johnson and Sanderfer How We Love by Milan and Kay Yerkovich You can contact Linda Carlos: [email protected] Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When faced with a cancer diagnosis, the way you respond (both as an individual and as a couple) speaks volumes of your maturity, character, and depth. We had the privilege of interviewing Dr. Daniel Blash and his lovely wife Annemarie Blash about various struggles and setbacks they've experienced in their lifetime together. Their response was unique and reflected the depth of trust they have in God -- a faith that doesn't deny the facts, but defies the facts. Together, Daniel and Annemarie pastor in St. Louis, Missouri and Dr. Blash also practices as a Psychologist in St. Louis, Missouri. Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A recent survey showed that couples fight about money more than any other subject (including sex, chores, communication, and what's for dinner). As young married couples, it's most common for us to argue about: frivolous purchases budgeting credit card debt not having a great emergency fund frustrations about retirement plans not living up to the same money status as friends or family In this episode, Ramsey Personality and Personal Finance Expert, Rachel Cruze, tackles these subjects as she shares with us what she wishes she would have known about money before she got married (which is quite ironic, since she's Dave Ramsey's daughter). Rachel recommended: Financial Peace University (14-day Free Trial as of May, 2020) Every Dollar App You can check out more of what Rachel has to offer here: The Rachel Cruze Show (podcast) Love Your Life, Not Theirs: 7 Money Habits for Living the Life You Want (book) The Contentment Journal (90-day journey - learn to love your life and not someone else’s) You can contact Rachel at: www.rachelcruze.com or @rachelcruze on IG Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is our third "ASK" episode! Every now and then, we'll take a few of your questions and answer them here in a short 10-15 minute episode. Many of you asked questions about keeping your marriage alive while parenting, so we decided to share some reflections on these topics: What is the best way that you have found to stay intimately connected when you have kids? Did you have any systems that you put in place once you had children to make sure you stayed connected? What was the biggest adjustment for your marriage after you had your first child? As a stay-at-home mom with a 20-month-old, how do I get out of feeling like my life is a re-run? If you're looking for ways to connect with your spouse while quarantined, check out these marriage card decks that we created just for you: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Depression is the leading cause of disability in the United States among people ages 15-44 and 2/3 of them don't actually seek or receive proper treatment. In this episode, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Beth Baus, tells us how depression can affect the marriage, and she gives practical steps for both the depressed person and the spouse for how to deal with depression. Beth recommended: It's Not Supposed to Be This Way by Lysa TerKeurst Hope Prevails by Michelle Bengtson I want to Change My Life by Steven Melemis When Your Spouse is Depressed (Focus on the Family article) Christian Counseling: A Guide for Pastors, Ministers, and Christian Counselors by Beth Baus You can contact Beth Baus: www.ourhealthyfamilies.org or @bethdbaus on IG Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever wish you could pick the brain of a Christian sex therapist? Well we did just that in our interview with Laura Brotherson, LMFT, CST and we get to share it with you! These 12 "T's" provide a recipe of key ingredients, especially for women, to embrace their sexuality and wholeness - necessary for a "Sextraordinary Marriage." You can rate yourself in each of these areas to see where you might need to focus your efforts. Laura recommended: Knowing Her Intimately: 12 Keys for Creating a Sextraordinary Marriage From Honeymoon to Happily Ever After: 23 Keys to Prepare for a Sextraordinary Marriage (use code: honeymoonprep to get this book for $10!) Rocket Fuel for Female Sexual Desire (PDF) 5-Minute Meditation Text and Audio Sexual Wholeness Workshop for Women The Gift of Sex by Cliff and Joyce Penner Celebration of Sex by Doug Rosenau The Marital Intimacy Show Podcast w/ Laura You can contact Laura Brotherson: [email protected] or @strengtheningmarriage on IG Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is our second "ASK" episode! Every now and then, we'll take a few of your questions and answer them here in a short 10-15 minute episode. These two questions were asked in various ways this month, so we decided to share some reflections on these topics: Can you talk about embracing your sexuality? How do you go from no sex, to sex all the time? Do you think that God will still bless a marriage if you had premarital sex? If you're looking for ways to connect with your spouse while quarantined, check out these marriage card decks that we created just for you: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Last week, we heard from a couple who shared their story of recovery from pornography addiction. This week, we get to hear from an expert in the field, Rev. Timothy Hadden, CADC-R, an outpatient addictions counselor. He sheds some light on how addictions form and the red flags to look out for if you suspect that your spouse is addicted. He covers common addictions that he sees in church circles, like prescription medications and pornography, but also shares insight for other addictions like drugs, alcohol, gambling, and internet addiction. Timothy also shares guidelines and boundaries to have in place for a marriage to stay free of addictions. Timothy Hadden recommended: Worthy of Her Trust by Stephen Arterburn Hope Casting Podcast Hope Connect Community @hope_connector on Instagram and Facebook You can contact Timothy Hadden: [email protected] Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is the second part of a 2-part exclusive interview with Nathan and Martha Driskill, the Young Married Leaders at Christian Life Church in Mequon, WI. (If you haven't listened to Part 1, go back and do that now!) In this interview, Nathan shares his childhood story of how the addiction to pornography began and how it followed him into adulthood. Martha joins the story when she shares how she met, dated, and married Nathan, and then how the porn addiction stayed hidden until their 7th year of marriage. In part 2, Martha shares how she found out about Nathan's addiction and then Nathan and Martha discuss practical steps they took toward healing over the last 13 years (including resources that they recommend to other couples who find themselves in this place of pain and fear). Nathan recommended the following books for the spouse with the addiction: Every Man's Battle by Stephen Arterburn and Fred Stoeker Every Man's Marriage by Stephen Arterburn and Fred Stoeker Intoxicated with Babylon by Steve Gallagher At the Altar of Sexual Idolatry by Steve Gallagher Pure Desire by Ted Roberts The Walk of Repentance by Steve Gallagher / Pure Life Ministries - 24-week course: the first 12 weeks are overseen by a mentor and the final 12 weeks are completed solo. (Martha and I went through this individually in 2013. It was crucial in Martha's recovery and further solidified my recovery as it led me even closer to God's heart for us in this world.) The Conquer Series (Our church recently went through this program. I served as a group leader in this 10-week series as well as the following series) 7 Pillars of Freedom Workbook by Ted Roberts (28-week men's group series: I am currently leading this series with a group of men from our church - Good stuff!) Martha recommended the following books for the wounded spouse: Every Heart Restored by Fred and Brenda Stoeker The Healing Choice by Brenda Stoeker and Susan Allen When His Secret Sin Breaks Your Heart by Kathy Gallagher Every Man's Battle by Stephen Arterburn and Fred Stoeker (This book was very helpful for me to understand men’s struggle.) Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we created for couples who want to become more connected: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is the first part of a 2-part exclusive interview with Nathan and Martha Driskill, the Young Married Leaders at Christian Life Church in Mequon, WI. In this interview, Nathan shares his childhood story of how the addiction to pornography began and how it followed him into adulthood. Martha joins the story when she shares how she met, dated, and married Nathan, and then how the porn addiction stayed hidden until their 7th year of marriage. In part 2, Martha shares how she found out about Nathan's addiction and then Nathan and Martha discuss practical steps they took toward healing over the last 13 years (including resources that they recommend to other couples who find themselves in this place of pain and fear). Nathan recommended the following books for the spouse with the addiction: Every Man's Battle by Stephen Arterburn and Fred Stoeker Every Man's Marriage by Stephen Arterburn and Fred Stoeker Intoxicated with Babylon by Steve Gallagher At the Altar of Sexual Idolatry by Steve Gallagher Pure Desire by Ted Roberts The Walk of Repentance by Steve Gallagher / Pure Life Ministries - 24-week course: the first 12 weeks are overseen by a mentor and the final 12 weeks are completed solo. (Martha and I went through this individually in 2013. It was crucial in Martha's recovery and further solidified my recovery as it led me even closer to God's heart for us in this world.) The Conquer Series (Our church recently went through this program. I served as a group leader in this 10-week series as well as the following series) 7 Pillars of Freedom Workbook by Ted Roberts (28-week men's group series: I am currently leading this series with a group of men from our church - Good stuff!) Martha recommended the following books for the wounded spouse: Every Heart Restored by Fred and Brenda Stoeker The Healing Choice by Brenda Stoeker and Susan Allen When His Secret Sin Breaks Your Heart by Kathy Gallagher Every Man's Battle by Stephen Arterburn and Fred Stoeker (This book was very helpful for me to understand men’s struggle.) Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we created for couples who want to become more connected: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Daniel Blash, a psychologist and pastor in St. Louis, Missouri is anointed, educated, and gifted. It was an honor to interview him about the impact that trauma can have on the marriage. In this episode, Dr. Blash addresses: What trauma is vs. what it looks like Five domains of intimacy Small traumas that build up and the impact they can have on your marriage Holding on to stuff and letting trauma take space in your life How people get triggered How to work through a sexual history Healing through encounters with God and through godly counsel Dr. Blash recommended: His Needs Her Needs by Willard Harley We also recommend these books for couples healing from sexual trauma: Healing the Wounded Heart by Dan Allender When a Woman You Love was Abused by Dawn Scott Jones Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Studies show that how often you argue actually doesn't matter when it comes to your satisfaction in the marriage; how those arguments are handled, however, will definitely be a determining factor in predicting not only satisfaction, but divorce rates and other important dynamics in your marriage. So how do we argue well? Today on the podcast, Matthew and Sabrina Schlesinger share five rules for arguing effectively: Seek first to understand. Call a grown-up time-out. Don't go to bed angry. Respect their process. Become a safe place. One of our favorite things that Matthew and Sabrina said during this episode was, "Have a good customer service desk for your spouse." You may not always agree, but seek to understand. This will definitely result in a much happier customer. Matthew + Sabrina gave a couple of book recommendations: The Naked Marriage by Dave and Ashley Willis Hedges: Loving Your Marriage Enough to Protect It by Jerry Jenkins You can contact Matthew and Sabrina at www.mommentor.org or [email protected] (or on IG: @sabrinaschlesinger). Their two podcasts are "Marriage on the Go" and "Parenting on the Go" Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

So little clarity and so much unrest... Such a perfect time to release an episode on grief that is desperately needed in this moment of folks grieving various forms of loss. We interviewed Dr. Chelsea Hall before the globe was in the state of pandemic, but in this episode, you'll see that so much of what Dr. Hall discusses about grief can be applied to what we are all feeling in this season. Whether you recently had unexpected news about the health of a loved one, whether you recently lost a loved one, or whether you are grieving the loss of normalcy in your life, job, and relationships, this episode is for YOU. Dr. Hall gave several book recommendations: A Grief Observed by C.S. Lewis The Problem of Pain by C.S. Lewis Tear Soup: A Recipe for Healing After Loss by Pat Schweibert and Chuck DeKlyen You can contact Dr. Hall at (510) 512-2353 or [email protected] (or on IG: @carpe_veritas) Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

During times of economic uncertainty, there can be a lot of tension around the finances and just talking about it can feel like an argument is about to explode. In this episode, Adrian Hildebrand, Certified Financial Education Instructor, shares some practical tips about discussing the finances as a couple. She tackles debt, budgeting, investments, financial infidelity, joint accounts, spending limits, and managing an economic crisis. Adrian also discusses the COVID-19 pandemic specifically and shares some insights on financial do's and don'ts. She shared a specific resource about what you can do with retirement contributions (401Ks and IRAs) right now with the new CARES act -- here is a FORBES article from March 28th that explains the details. Here are Adrian's Book Recommendations: The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey Your Money, Your Marriage by Cherie and Brian Lowe You can connect with Adrian at www.faithinfinance.org or on IG @faith.in.finance Here's a link to our sponsor, Relate Foundation. (Use our code DYMC for 20% off your assessment!) You can connect with us at: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com, e-mail us at hello@dearyoungmarriedcouple, or on IG @dearyoungmarriedcouple. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is our very first "ASK" episode! Every now and then, we'll take a few of your questions and answer them here in a short 10-15 minute episode. These three questions were asked quite a few times this past month, so we decided to share some reflections on these topics: How did you know your marriage was ready for a baby? Any advice for the first night? How do I get my spouse to go to counseling? If you're looking for ways to connect with your spouse while quarantined, check out these marriage card decks that we created just for you: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"Isn't it the church's job to teach my children about the Bible?" This is a sentiment that is all-too-often shared by many busy, young married couples throughout North America. Now more than ever, we need to be equipped as parents to pour into the hearts of our children at home. We met Justin Jeter in a hotel lobby when we were doing a marriage seminar in Arkansas last year and he was doing a children's conference in the same town. The more we learned about Justin and Hillary, the more we got excited about connecting with them and their ministry. Justin and Hillary Jeter are the founders of THE RESOLUTE FAMILY, and they're also the Family Pastor and Director of the ECE ministry at their local church. They have such creative ideas about discipling your children at home and they even have free resources available for you! In this podcast, Justin and Hillary share practical tips for us as young, married parents and they give so many examples for you to implement right away (and Lord knows we need more help in the home during the COVID-19 crisis). Here are their book/resource recommendations: Five-Minute Fatherhood Podcast 31 Creative Ways to Build Your Family Team by Jeremy and Kelsey Pryor From Tablet to Table by Leonard Sweet Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles by Paul David Tripp Sticky Faith by Kara E. Powell Usborne Book of Bible Stories Friends with God Story Bible WordSong Scripture Memorization by Denee Varnum Here's a link to our sponsor, Relate Foundation. (Use our code DYMC for 20% off your assessment!) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is an introduction and explanation to the next episode. We wanted to keep the next episode limited to just the track itself with no explanation, in case you wanted to use it as a sleep tool or prayer. In times of uncertainty, it can be helpful to have tools to be able to combat the anxiety and fear that can arise. This is one of many tools that we'll be sharing with you in the coming weeks and it's called MEDITATION. Meditation is a very biblical concept. Here, we talk about how the world has taken the word meditation from us as Christians. Eastern meditation focuses on detachment. Christian meditation focuses on attachment. Eastern meditation is passive. Christian meditation is active. Eastern meditation focuses on union or oneness with God. Christian meditation focuses on communion with God. Eastern meditation focuses on emptying yourself. Christian meditation focuses on filling yourself. If worry has overwhelmed you or anxiety has taken control of your thoughts during the COVID-19 pandemic, we encourage you to listen to the next episode and meditation on the Lord (P.S. See if you can recognize all the scriptures in the meditation). :) You can connect with us at: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com , e-mail us at hello@dearyoungmarriedcouple, or on IG @dearyoungmarriedcouple. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"There were times when I felt like God completely forgot about us. So I had to lean on Alana to tell me that this IS worth praying for." In this episode, we interview Danny and Alana Opdyke, who share their story of conquering the low-lows that your marriage can experience when going through chronic pain. Over the past 20 years of their marriage, Danny has had the following surgeries/procedures: 2002 - Laminectomy / Discectomy of L4/5-LS1 2004 - Anterior & Posterior Lumbar Fusion 2004 - Broken Foot 2006 - Pain Pump #1 2012 - Pain Pump #2 2015 - Snapped Tibia - Rod Placed 2015 - Knee surgery 2016 - Oral Surgeries 2017 - Pain Pump #3 from internal pump failure 2018 - Plantar Plate Rupture/ plate installed / multiple toes fused. Here are the books that Danny + Alana recommend for someone in a chronic health/pain situation: You'll Get Through This by Max Lucado (free on Kindle with Prime) It's Not Supposed to Be This Way by Lysa TerKeurst Here's a link to RELATE (our sponsor). Use code "DYMC" for 20% off. Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks they talked about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Google searches for “sexless marriage” are 3.5x more common than “unhappy marriage”. So what exactly makes a marriage sexless? There’s no precise definition, though some experts say it’s when a couple has sex less than 10x/year (or about 1x/mo) while others say it has more to do with one spouse wanting sex more than the other and not feeling like they’re having enough sex. Today, our podcast guest is Rev. Jason Carr, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (and pastor) in Beaumont, TX. He says, “I don’t know that I’ve ever counseled with a couple that were on the same page when it comes to the desire for sexuality.” Why? He says, “Sex is the thing that nobody wants to talk about in many church circles. It’s rarely (if ever) addressed in premarital counseling, and when it is, it’s usually the pastor handing the couple a book and saying, ‘Here, good luck,’ and they don’t actually talk about it. 90% of marriages have problems in their sex life and don’t actually talk about it. They might hope it gets better or even pray it gets better, but having the boldness to open up and communicate about it requires an intimate relationship.” All about that today on the #DYMCpodcast You can get in contact with Rev. Jason Carr by going to www.tac.life. The book recommendations he made is "Sheet Music" by Kevin Leman. Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"Find someone you can glorify God with and someone you can grow with." In this episode, Tovares and Safa Grey of @godlydating101 offer many practical dating tips for both premarital and married couples. Check out their podcast for dating couples by searching "Godly Dating 101" and catch them up Instagram where they offer daily dating advice. Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

People don't wake up and say, "I'm going to have an affair." People usually “slide” into affairs. They think that crossing a boundary will feel like an electrical fence (“Ouch! I don’t ever want to do that again!), but it doesn’t — it often feels good. It can feel liberating because it usually involves feeling heard and understood by someone. It doesn’t even seem like a problem at first. In today’s episode, Lori Pearring, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, walks us through very practical steps for affair-proofing your marriage. She also guides us through some affair-recovery principles that she uses in session with couples. Here are the books that Lori references in the interview: Torn Asunder by Dave Carder Torn Asunder Workbook Hold Me Tight: 7 Conversations for Connection by Sue Johnson Created for Connection by Sue Johnson + Kenneth Sanderfer Here's a link to Lori’s website. Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

She blushed as we questioned, “HOW did you make it special when he came home?” and then she responded: “A special meal, special candles, special music...” This was all part of their intention to “have something familiar in the midst of the crazy”, both as a couple and as a family in the military. Today on the podcast, Pastor Robert + Maria Rodriguez, Missionaries to Mexico, talk about their experience in the military for decades, and they give practical tips for couples with this dynamic in their marriage and family. Link in bio or swipe up in our story. We had the privilege of doing a #MissionsForMarriage retreat with the church that this couple pastors in Mexico, and we put pictures of their building in our story today. They did NOT ask us to do this, but we felt the Lord laid it on our hearts to put their account out there for folks to contribute to the building needs for this growing church. Give to their missions efforts here (even if it’s a small amount, it all counts): www.paypal.me/ensenadamxmissions. Book Recommendations from Team Rodriguez: Love and Respect Amor y Respeto The Five Languages Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

You’ll hear a snippet of a story in the very beginning about a broken man (warning: it’s about a man who pulled the trigger with a gun held to his head)... and then the beauty that came from this brokenness when he committed to intentionally building his marriage and family. In this episode, Pastor Paul and Lori Elder (pastor in Pueblo, CO for 30+ years) teach us practical tips about building traditions in our marriage and family — whether we come from intact families or from broken homes. The “I love your more than ______” is a tradition that Pastor Paul and Lori Elder have done in their marriage and with their kids for decades. “Our intention with that was to instill the idea that love for one another is greater than things,” he said. And then she added, “You can make anything a tradition — just something that you repeat, that the kids know is going to happen.” From ways to read Chinese fortune cookies to Totino pizzas in a mini oven, to the very traditions that bind us together as a church family — this episode is chock-full of practical traditions and spiritual insight for your marriage and family. Book Recommendations from Team Elder: Creative Correction The Book of Virtues Zeal without Burnout "Mary Did You Know" - by the Elder Family Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA REALIZATIONS: https://amzn.to/3brNTWh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

“People have these rich fantasy sex lives with decades of porn use and then they go into marriage and they’re thinking it’s going to be a different kind of sex life. It creates an incredible conflict and it’s difficult to just “get over”. Some people think that if they just kick the habit then they can get on with a healthy marriage and it doesn’t work that way at all.” - Dr. DeVon Mills Today’s podcast episode is about HEALING YOUR MARRIAGE FROM PORN. Did you know that about 75% of millennial Christians (regardless of gender) are viewing pornography on a weekly basis? In this episode, we interview Dr. DeVon Mills about the effects of pornography on the marriage, but also how to heal from it. There IS hope. Send this podcast link to somebody who can use it as a resource. More importantly, pray for that person, that couple, that spouse, or even yourself. Pray that God would equip you with tools to take action in a healthy direction. Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We had the privilege of interviewing Pastor Myles and Sheila Young, who also happen to be our very own pastor here at The Rock Church in Elk Grove, CA. Having them as our first podcast guest was very intentional - they have supported us from teenhood through present day and have guided us through each decision we've made for the Dear Young Married Couple ministry. We look up to them for how they support each other's dreams - but they don't stop with simply supporting each other - they are also committed to their own journey of personal growth. We've seen many marriages in which one spouse is committed to growing in their ministry, education, physical fitness, or career, while the other spouse supports, but stays personally stagnant. In this episode, we ask them practical questions about how to grow WITH your spouse and not just support his/her dreams. Pastor Myles Young is currently finishing his doctoral degree in Missiology and Sis. Sheila Young is currently finishing her doctoral degree in Economics, Leadership and Development. Book Recommendations from Team Young: DiscipleShift Leading Change Atomic Habits A People's History of the United States Lift Up Thy Voice Stay in conversation with us on IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple or on our website: www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com P.S. Here are the links to the marriage card decks we talk about in the episode: FOUNDATIONS: https://amzn.to/2RaXF7g SEXPECTATIONS: https://amzn.to/2GbVMRA Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices