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Focus on the Family Strengthening Marriage Podcast

Focus on the Family Strengthening Marriage Podcast

775 episodes — Page 2 of 16

God Was Working Before You Got Married

How was God working in your heart before you met your spouse? Jim Daly talks to Rebecca St. James and her husband Cubbie Fink on lessons God taught them and ways they stayed active before they walked down the aisle. Plus, John asks Greg how God can redeem your story, even if you don't like how your marriage is going.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book Lasting Ever: Faith, Music, Family, and Being Found by True Love for your donation of any amount!   Focus on Marriage Assessment   Finding God's Love in Marriage and Life    Practice Makes Parent    Unsung Hero Official Lionsgate Website   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Jan 1, 202612 min

Live for God, Not the Crowd

As Christians, we're called to please God. So, how do you balance that with trying to make your spouse happy? Dr. Greg Smalley will help you discern if your goal is to obey God, or if you're focusing too much on your mate's happiness. Also, Rebecca St. James joins Jim Daly to explain how she learned to let go of people-pleasing tendencies before she got married.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book Lasting Ever: Faith, Music, Family, and Being Found by True Love for your donation of any amount!   Focus on Marriage Assessment   Finding God's Love in Marriage and Life    Practice Makes Parent    Unsung Hero Official Lionsgate Website   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Dec 30, 202511 min

When Your Love Changes

One of the beauties and challenges of marriage is that your spouse is always changing. Greg and Erin join Jim Daly and his wife Jean to explain how you can learn to love your spouse more with time. Also, John asks the Smalley's about how Greg's introversion has had a positive impact on Erin.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book The Healthy Marriage Devotional for your donation of any amount!   Focus on Marriage Assessment   Five Ways to Grow Closer as a Couple    Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage    Reconnect Through Meaningful Conversation   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Dec 25, 202510 min

Say "Good Morning" Before Giving Your To-Do List

Have you told your spouse how much you appreciate him or her recently? It can be easy to get caught up in the to-do lists of life, and miss telling them "thank you." Jim Daly and his wife Jean, along with the Smalley's, encourage you to make your mate feel valued through very simple gestures. Plus, John Fuller asks Erin Smalley why focusing on the best aspects of your spouse is good for your relationship.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book The Healthy Marriage Devotional for your donation of any amount!   Focus on Marriage Assessment   Five Ways to Grow Closer as a Couple    Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage    Reconnect Through Meaningful Conversation   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Dec 23, 202510 min

Safe Boundaries, Strong Love

Focus on the Family When you set a boundary, it can lead to deeper intimacy with your spouse. John and Erin will encourage you to be intentional about setting boundaries in your marriage. Then, Jim Daly and Jerry Jenkins discuss ways you can practically eliminate some types of sexual temptation.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book Hedges for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   How to Guard Your Marriage From Temptation    Contact our Counseling Team    The Hedges Challenge   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Dec 18, 202511 min

Protecting What Matters Most

It's important to recognize where you're tempted so you can guard your marriage. Jim Daly and Jerry Jenkins address how sex, money and pride are the top areas where most people battle temptation. Then, Erin Smalley encourages married couples to create a safe place for you and your spouse to talk about where you feel tempted.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book Hedges for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   How to Guard Your Marriage From Temptation    Contact our Counseling Team    The Hedges Challenge   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Dec 16, 202510 min

Finding Your Way Back to Each Other

How do you embrace the ways you and your spouse are so different? Greg Smalley gives a helpful perspective for appreciating your mate's uniqueness. Also, Jim Daly talks to Tara Lalonde and Dr. Bob Paul on how to love your spouse for who they are, not who you wish they'd be.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book Loving the Spouse God Gave You for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   Empowered to Love: Discovering Your God-Given Power to Create a Marriage You Both Love     Contact our Counseling Team    Take the Reactive Cycle Assessment   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Dec 11, 202513 min

Reigniting Romance in Your Marriage

Has the romance run dry in your marriage? Most couples go through a season where that happens. Erin Smalley gives a few tips for small things you can do if the romance is low. Then, Jim Daly talks to Dr. Bob Paul and Tara Lalonde about how remembering you are a team can lead to more romantic moments.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book Loving the Spouse God Gave You for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   Empowered to Love: Discovering Your God-Given Power to Create a Marriage You Both Love     Contact our Counseling Team    Take the Reactive Cycle Assessment   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Dec 9, 202512 min

Your Stories Before You Were Married

It's wonderful to recount your story before you and your spouse fell in love. Jim Daly talks with Rebecca St. James and her husband Cubbie on what their lives were like before they met. Plus, John asks Greg about why it's good for couples to reminisce on how God has worked in your lives.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book Lasting Ever: Faith, Music, Family, and Being Found by True Love for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   Finding God's Love in Marriage and Life    Unsung Hero Official Lionsgate Website    Practice Makes Parent   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Dec 4, 202510 min

Embracing God’s Redemption

Focus on the Family In Christ, you can experience redemption, even after you've made poor choices in your marriage. Jim Daly talks with Jim Turner on how to confront lies you might believe about yourself. Then, Greg shares how to respond well if a good friend calls you out on something.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book The Disconnected Man for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   Dealing with Emotional Disconnection in Marriage    Contact our Counseling Team    What Will Your Marriage Be Like In The Future?   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Dec 2, 202511 min

Be Focused and Have Fun

How do you like to bless your mate and ask him or her, "how are you doing?" It's good to make that a regular part of your relationship. The Smalley's joined Jim and Jean Daly to discuss the importance of making your marriage a high priority above other human relationships. Plus, John Fuller asks Greg and Erin about why having fun is good for your marriage.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book The Healthy Marriage Devotional for your donation of any amount!   Focus on Marriage Assessment   Five Ways to Grow Closer as a Couple    Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage    Nurturing the Heart of Your Spouse   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Nov 27, 202511 min

Fine China, and Simple Blessings

What does the Bible mean when it calls wives a "weaker vessel?" Jay and Laura Laffoon join Jim Daly to offer a beautiful perspective on what that term actually means. Then, Erin and Greg explain why speaking encouragement to your spouse is critically important.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book Celebrate Your Marriage for your donation of any amount!   Focus on Marriage Assessment   Practical Ways to Celebrate Your Marriage    Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage    6 Tools for Healthy Communication in Marriage   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Nov 25, 202511 min

Be Careful with Physical Touch

Most affairs can be traced back to small compromises. Erin Smalley addresses how she's seen that very truth in her counseling practice, and why there's still hope if you're feeling tempted. Plus, Jim Daly and popular author, Jerry Jenkins, share why it's important to be guarded with things like touching someone and giving compliments   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book Hedges for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   How to Guard Your Marriage From Temptation    Contact our Counseling Team    The Hedges Challenge   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Nov 20, 202512 min

Practical Ways to Guard Against Temptation

All of us need boundaries to protect ourselves from sexual temptation. Greg and Erin open up about something that helps them fight tempting thoughts. Then, Jim Daly talks to Jerry Jenkins about how men can protect themselves around women.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book Hedges for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   How to Guard Your Marriage From Temptation    Contact our Counseling Team    The Hedges Challenge   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Nov 18, 202511 min

Talking at the Heart Level

What helps you and your spouse connect emotionally? Jim Daly speaks to Tara Lalonde and Dr. Bob Paul about a concept they refer to as Heart Talk, and how you can practically do it. Plus, Erin provides hope to couples who are struggling to communicate at the heart level.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book Empowered to Love for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   Loving the Spouse God Gave You    Take the Reactive Cycle Assessment    Contact our Counseling Team   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Nov 13, 202513 min

She Climbed Out a Window

It's common for you and your spouse to have different styles for trying to resolve conflict. Jim Daly joins Dr. Bob Paul and Tara Lalonde, who both open up about times they worked through conflict with their spouses. Then, John Fuller asks Erin and Dr. Greg Smalley how you can make things right with your mate after a bad argument.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book Empowered to Love for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   Loving the Spouse God Gave You    Take the Reactive Cycle Assessment    Contact our Counseling Team   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Nov 11, 202513 min

“I Messed Up! Can My Story Be Redeemed?”

It's easy to believe the lie that things won't get better. But, we serve a God who's in the business of redemption. Jim Turner sits down with Jim Daly to explain how God has healed his story, even after his first marriage failed. Also, Greg Smalley offers encouragement to couples who don't feel like persevering through a rough season.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book The Disconnected Man for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   Dealing with Emotional Disconnection in Marriage    Contact our Counseling Team    Humility In Marital Conflict Makes A Difference   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Nov 6, 202510 min

Going for a Heart Walk

When was the last time you and your spouse went for a walk together? Erin Smalley discusses how the simple activity of going for a walk can help you and your spouse connect. Then, Jim Daly interviews Jim Turner on something called a Heart Walk   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book The Disconnected Man for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   Dealing with Emotional Disconnection in Marriage    Contact our Counseling Team    Developing Emotional Intimacy   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Nov 4, 202512 min

The Words You Say to Your Mate

Do your words encourage or tear down your spouse? Jim Daly speaks to Jay and Laura Laffoon on how they've learned to be more encouraging to each other. Then, Erin Smalley gives some pointers for the person who recognizes they need to be a better encourager to their mate.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book Celebrate Your Marriage for your donation of any amount!   Focus on Marriage Assessment   Practical Ways to Celebrate Your Marriage    Hope Restored    Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Oct 30, 202510 min

Getting Rid of Hurry-Syndrome

Saying "yes," to too many things is really bad for your marriage. Greg opens up about how he's learning to try and pull back from too many commitments. Also, Jay and Laura Laffoon join Jim Daly to share why prioritizing your spouse and kids matters more than career accomplishments.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book Celebrate Your Marriage for your donation of any amount!   Focus on Marriage Assessment   Practical Ways to Celebrate Your Marriage    Hope Restored    Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Oct 28, 202511 min

Run from Pornography!

Jesus tells us in the New Testament that looking lustfully at someone is equivalent to committing adultery in your heart. Greg Smalley explains why watching pornography will do serious damage to your marriage. Plus, Jim Daly and Jerry Jenkins discuss why porn also causes feelings of shame.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book "Hedges" for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   How to Guard Your Marriage From Temptation    Contact our Counseling Team    The Hedges Challenge   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Oct 23, 20259 min

When Temptation is Still Around

When you got married, it was easy to believe sexual temptation might disappear. John and Erin explain why temptation still needs to be dealt with even after you get married. Then, Jim Daly and author Jerry Jenkins share why God calls us to flee from sexual temptation, not just fight it.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book "Hedges" for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   How to Guard Your Marriage From Temptation    Contact our Counseling Team    The Hedges Challenge   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Oct 21, 20259 min

Stay Curious About Your Spouse

How do you stay curious about your spouse, even if you've been married for a long time? Dr. Bob Paul and Tara Lalonde speak to Jim Daly about why there's always something new to learn about your mate. Also, John talks with Erin Smalley about how a couple can regain curiosity, even if you've lost that romantic spark.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book "Loving the Spouse God Gave You" for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   Empowered to Love: Discovering Your God-Given Power to Create a Marriage You Both Love     Take the Reactive Cycle Assessment    Contact our Counseling Team   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Oct 16, 202511 min

Why Codependency is so Toxic

If you're focused too much on your spouse's issues, that might be a sign of codependency. Jim Daly talks with Dr. Bob Paul and Tara Lalonde, on how you need to deal with your own problems first before trying to fix your spouse. Also, John and the Smalley's bring up how to discern if you're not focusing on your own maturity enough.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book "Loving the Spouse God Gave You" for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   Empowered to Love: Discovering Your God-Given Power to Create a Marriage You Both Love     Take the Reactive Cycle Assessment    Contact our Counseling Team   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Oct 14, 202512 min

The Dangers of Not Engaging Emotionally

To not try to understand your wife's emotions can do great damage in your marriage. John asks Erin Smalley about how it makes a wife feel if her husband dismisses her emotions. Then, Jim Turner and Jim Daly explain why loving your wife is more than just doing nice things for her. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book "The Disconnected Man" for your donation of any amount! Hope Restored Dealing With Emotional Disconnection in Marriage  Contact our Counseling Team  Humility in Marital Conflict Makes a Difference Support This Show! If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Oct 9, 202513 min

When Your Husband is Emotionally Distant

What do you do if your husband is not connecting with you emotionally? Jim Daly interviews Jim Turner about how he struggled with being emotionally distant in his first marriage. Also, Greg Smalley shares how he's learned to be more open to sharing his feelings with Erin. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book "The Disconnected Man" for your donation of any amount! Hope Restored Dealing With Emotional Disconnection in Marriage  Contact our Counseling Team  Humility in Marital Conflict Makes a Difference Support This Show! If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Oct 7, 202514 min

Too Busy to Date Your Spouse?

You want fun dates with your spouse, but what if you simply don't have much time on your plate? Jay and Laura Laffoon speak with Jim Daly about how you can still make date nights a priority, even if you have a demanding schedule. Then, John asks Greg about how incremental changes in your relationship can have a major impact on having more time with your mate. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book Celebrate Your Marriage: 365 Daily Devotions for Busy Couples for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Practical Ways to Celebrate Your Marriage  Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage  Make Date Night with Your Spouse a Weekly Habit Support This Show! If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Oct 2, 202510 min

Don't Skip Date Night

Date nights should be a part of every couple's schedule no matter how long you've been married. Jay and Laura Laffoon, who've been together for four decades, speak with Jim Daly about why their marriage is better because of date nights. Plus, Dr. Greg Smalley talks about some of the best dates he and Erin have been on. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book Celebrate Your Marriage: 365 Daily Devotions for Busy Couples for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Practical Ways to Celebrate Your Marriage  Conversation Starters for Date Nights  How Important is Sex in a Marriage Support This Show! If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Sep 30, 20259 min

Sexual Issues & Erasing Shame

The statistics on how many Christian men are viewing porn regularly are very sad. Jim Daly talks with Sherri Mueller and Erin Smalley on how sexual sin is having negative consequences on young people. Also, John and the Smalley's offer hope to people who are feeling shame over past sexual sin.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book The Disconnected Man for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   Pursuing Intimacy with a Reluctant Husband    Contact our Counseling Team    How Important is Sex in a Marriage   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Sep 25, 202511 min

Enjoying Physical Intimacy Regularly

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul encourages couples to not go too long without physical intimacy. Jim Daly talks to Erin Smalley and Sherri Mueller on why it matters for a couple to not neglect sex in marriage. Then, Dr. Greg Smalley encourages families to talk about sex in healthy ways.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book The Disconnected Man for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   Pursuing Intimacy with a Reluctant Husband    Contact our Counseling Team    How Important is Sex in a Marriage   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Sep 23, 202512 min

Don’t Play the Blame Game

When you're upset, one of the worst things you can do is fixate too much on blaming your spouse. Dr. Greg Smalley shares a story about a time he snapped at Erin, and how he learned from it. Plus, Jim Daly joins Dr. Bob Paul and Tara Lalonde on why it's important to not give your spouse too much power over how you feel.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book The Disconnected Man for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   Empowered to Love: Discovering Your God-Given Power to Create a Marriage You Both Love    Contact our Counseling Team    Take the Reactive Cycle Assessment   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Sep 18, 202511 min

When a Button is Pushed, and Self Care

How do you respond well when one of your buttons gets pushed in marriage? Dr. Bob Paul and Tara Lalonde talk with Jim Daly about examining the reasons why your buttons get pushed. Also, John Fuller asks Erin Smalley about how couples can practice effective types of self-care.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book Loving the Spouse God Gave You for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   Empowered to Love: Discovering Your God-Given Power to Create a Marriage You Both Love    Contact our Counseling Team    Take the Reactive Cycle Assessment   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Sep 16, 202512 min

When a Friend Calls You Out

Having supportive friends is one of the best ways to keep your marriage strong. Jim Turner tells Jim Daly a story about a time a friend called him out on something. Plus, Erin Smalley shares what women need from friends who love them.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book The Disconnected Man for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   Dealing with Emotional Disconnection in Marriage    Contact our Counseling Team    Humility In Marital Conflict Makes A Difference   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Sep 11, 20259 min

Emotional Distance in Marriage

Allowing your spouse to share their feelings is one of the best ways to make your marriage safe. Jim Turner and Jim Daly talk about how men tend to compartmentalize their emotions. Also, John and the Smalley's will give some ideas on how to make sure you and your spouse are connecting frequently.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book The Disconnected Man for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   Dealing with Emotional Disconnection in Marriage    Contact our Counseling Team    Humility In Marital Conflict Makes A Difference   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Sep 9, 202514 min

A Few Minutes of Intentionality

What if a small change in your marriage made the biggest difference? Jay and Laura Laffoon talk about how 15 minutes of uninterrupted conversation has helped couples they've worked with. Then, the Smalley's talk about simple ways you can make your spouse feel appreciated.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book Celebrate Your Marriage for your donation of any amount!   Focus on Marriage Assessment   Practical Ways to Celebrate Your Marriage    6 Tools for Healthy Communication in Marriage    Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Sep 4, 202511 min

Simple Celebrations with Big Implications

When was the last time you and your spouse laughed together? Erin Smalley explains why laughter is a sign of a healthy relationship. Then, Jim Daly joins Jay and Laura Laffoon, who bring up why every couples needs to find simple ways to have fun together.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book Celebrate Your Marriage for your donation of any amount!   Focus on Marriage Assessment   Practical Ways to Celebrate Your Marriage    6 Tools for Healthy Communication in Marriage    Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Sep 2, 20259 min

Good Sex is the Result of Commitment

The best sex is many times the end result of staying committed to your spouse. Jim Daly talks to Sherri Mueller about why sex can get better with time in your marriage. Then, Erin Smalley shares about how your marriage can still be great, even if you're in a season where you and your spouse can't have sex.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book I Want Him to Want Me for your donation of any amount!   Focus on Marriage Assessment   Pursuing Intimacy with a Reluctant Husband    Contact our Counseling Team    The Best Way to Deal with Mismatched Libidos in Your Marriage   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Aug 28, 20259 min

When Sex Isn’t Happening as Often as You Want

There are times where physical intimacy is a regular part of your marriage. But how do you navigate the seasons where it's not? Jim Daly speaks to Erin Smalley and Sherri Mueller on when wives have a husband who's not able to engage in sex. Plus, John and the Smalley's address healthy perspectives for husbands whose wives can't be physically intimate.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book I Want Him to Want Me for your donation of any amount!   Focus on Marriage Assessment   Pursuing Intimacy with a Reluctant Husband    Contact our Counseling Team    The Best Way to Deal with Mismatched Libidos in Your Marriage   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Aug 26, 202513 min

When the Reactive Cycle Goes Negative

How are you and your spouse responding to conflict? Jim Daly speaks with Dr. Bob Paul and Tara Lalonde about something called, The Reactive Cycle, and when it goes wrong in your marriage. Then, Dr. Greg Smalley will give you some hopeful perspectives if you and your spouse are in a pattern of handling conflict poorly.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book Loving the Spouse God Gave You for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   Empowered to Love: Discovering Your God-Given Power to Create a Marriage You Both Love    The Reactive Cycle Assessment    Contact Our Counseling Team   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Aug 21, 202515 min

Reactions that Make Your Spouse Feel Safe

Every marriage needs to feel safe before both spouses can be open with each other. Erin shares about some ways her husband Greg makes her feel safe. Plus, Jim Daly talks with Dr. Bob Paul and Tara Lalonde about how real safety is not just physical protection, but also where you can be vulnerable with your mate.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book Loving the Spouse God Gave You for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   Empowered to Love: Discovering Your God-Given Power to Create a Marriage You Both Love    The Reactive Cycle Assessment    Contact Our Counseling Team   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Aug 19, 202512 min

Roadblocks to Effective Communication

Do you think you have your spouse all figured out? The truth is, there's always something new to learn. Ryan Frederick and Jim Daly encourage husbands to work through communication barriers to better understand their wives. Plus, Erin Smalley talks about the right ways to give honest feedback to your spouse, for the sake of improving your relationship.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive How a Husband Speaks for your donation of any amount!   Focus on Marriage Assessment   Loving Your Wife with Your Words    How a Wife Speaks: Loving Your Husband Well Through Godly Communication    The Reactive Cycle Assessment   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Aug 14, 202513 min

The Difference 3 Seconds Can Make

If you're ever mad with your spouse, it's good to pause before saying something you regret later. Greg and Erin Smalley talk about the value of pausing before you explode in a marriage argument. Also, Ryan Frederick joins Jim Daly to address how a husband can respond well when he's upset with his wife.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive How a Husband Speaks for your donation of any amount!   Focus on Marriage Assessment   How Your Birth Order Shapes Your Marriage    How a Wife Speaks: Loving Your Husband Well Through Godly Communication    The Reactive Cycle Assessment   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Aug 12, 202512 min

Lean into Your Spouse’s Strengths

How have your spouse's strengths been useful to you? John Fuller opens up a way his wife has helped him be a better man. Also, Dr. Kevin Leman talks with Focus President Jim Daly about how his wife has been good at catching details and encouraging him.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive The Birth Order Book for your donation of any amount!   Focus on Marriage Assessment   How Your Birth Order Shapes Your Marriage    Recognize Your Spouse’s Value    Contact Our Counseling Team   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Aug 7, 202514 min

The Value of Your Spouse’s Birth-Order

You and your spouse likely have different strengths. God designed it that way. But are you telling your spouse you appreciate their gifts? Dr. Kevin Leman and Jim Daly share about how a firstborn wife, who loves rules, can still respect her husband, even if he's not as strict with rules. Then, Erin Smalley shares what it means to a wife when her husband encourages her.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive The Birth Order Book for your donation of any amount!   Focus on Marriage Assessment   How Your Birth Order Shapes Your Marriage    Recognize Your Spouse’s Value    Contact Our Counseling Team   Support This Show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Aug 5, 20259 min

When Sex Isn’t Frequent

How do you handle seasons where you're not enjoying physical intimacy as much as you want in marriage? Jim Daly speaks to Erin Smalley and Sherri Mueller about when sex isn't happening much for married couples. Plus, Greg Smalley shares how a husband can be a safe place for his wife to talk about sex.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book I Want Him to Want Me for your donation of any amount!   Focus on Marriage Assessment   Pursuing Intimacy with a Reluctant Husband     Major Turn-Offs to Intimacy    Contact Our Counseling Team   Support This Show!    If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jul 31, 202513 min

Leaving a Marriage Legacy

What will your kids say about your marriage in the future? Greg and Erin Smalley share how they stay inspired to remember they're building a legacy now. Also, Sean and Lanette Reed address how God wants us to bless not only your marriage but also generations to come after you.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book Marriage in Transition: Creating Connection Through Uncontrollable Change for your donation of any amount!   Focus on Marriage Assessment   Creating a Shared Vision for Your Marriage    Secrets to a Lifelong Love    Lifetime Love: Advice from Couples Who Made Marriage Last   Support This Show!    If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jul 29, 202512 min

What You Control, What You Don’t

It's easy to fixate on what your spouse is doing wrong. But real courage many times is focusing on what you need to work on. Erin Smalley addresses how a lot of couples in her counseling are too focused on their spouse's issues. Then, Jim Daly speaks to Tara Lalonde and Dr. Bob Paul, who will encourage you to work on yourself.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book Empowered to Love: Discovering Your God-Given Power to Create a Marriage You Both Love for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   Loving Your Wife with Your Words     Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage Podcast    Contact Our Counseling Team   Support This Show!    If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jul 24, 202511 min

Can God Work a Miracle in Your Relationship?

Have you ever reached a point in marriage where you didn't think you'd make it? John asks Greg Smalley about how he and Erin persevered through a challenging time in their relationship. Plus, Jim Daly talks to Dr. Bob Paul and Tara Lalonde on what helps couples go the distance in their marriage.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book Empowered to Love: Discovering Your God-Given Power to Create a Marriage You Both Love for your donation of any amount!   Hope Restored   Loving Your Wife with Your Words     Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage Podcast    Contact Our Counseling Team   Support This Show!    If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jul 22, 202512 min

When Two Strong Personalities Clash

When you and your spouse are in an argument, it can be pretty intense. Ryan Frederick talks with Jim Daly about how he's learned to be more gentle when in conflict with his wife. Then, Erin Smalley explains why it's good for wives to keep learning about how their husbands think.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book How a Husband Speaks for your donation of any amount!   Focus on Marriage Assessment   Loving Your Wife with Your Words     Encouraging Your Spouse Through Positive Communication    Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage   Support This Show!    If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jul 17, 202512 min

Your Temperament as a Husband

It's not just about what you say to your spouse, but it's also about how you say it. Ryan Frederick and Jim Daly address why it's important to watch your tone as a husband. Plus, John and Greg offer encouragement to husbands who are more introverted and don't feel like talking much.   Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY.   Receive the book How a Husband Speaks for your donation of any amount!   Focus on Marriage Assessment   Loving Your Wife with Your Words     Encouraging Your Spouse Through Positive Communication    Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage   Support This Show!    If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jul 15, 202510 min