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Focus on the Family Strengthening Marriage Podcast

Focus on the Family Strengthening Marriage Podcast

762 episodes — Page 5 of 16

When Your Marriage Faces Spiritual Warfare

We have an enemy, Satan, who hates God's design for marriage. Greg Smalley talks with John and Erin about how to recognize when your marriage may be facing a spiritual attack. Then, Matt and Lisa Jacobson speak with Jim Daly about why we need to take spiritual warfare seriously in our marriages. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the 2-Book Bundle: Loving Your Husband/Wife Well for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Spiritual Warfare: When the Enemy Attacks Your Marriage Contact our Counseling Department If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jun 11, 202411 min

Seeking to Serve and Honor

True love seeks to serve rather than to get all the time. To help you do that, Bill and Pam Farrel discuss how they've learned to serve each other by working better together. Also, John and Erin share how a husband can encourage his wife to become who God has called her to be. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Men Are Like Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Understanding the Differences Between You and Your Spouse Becoming a Selfless Spouse If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jun 6, 202410 min

The Ways You Handle Stress

Every marriage faces stressful moments. The key is how you manage them when they come. Bill and Pam Farrel join Jim Daly to address the different ways men and women handle stress in marriage. Plus, John and the Smalley's offer ideas for how to discern if you're stressed due to being overcommitted. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Men Are Like Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime 5 Ways to Stay on the Same Team God Designed Men and Women to Be Different in Many Ways If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jun 4, 202416 min

Your Spouse Wants Out. Now What?

What can you do when your spouse says, "I want out of this marriage?" Greg tells John the story of how he and Erin reached a difficult time in their marriage. Also Toni and Carey Nieuwhof talk with Jim Daly about how they went to counseling after Toni confessed she wanted to leave. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Before You Split for your donation of any amount! Hope Restored Listen Anytime Contact our Counseling Department Is Divorce the Right Answer? If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

May 30, 202413 min

They Almost Didn’t Make It!

When a couple reaches a desperate place, they start asking questions like, "Can our marriage survive?" Carey and Toni Nieuwhof join Jim Daly to tell their love story, and when they later reached a crisis in their relationship. Then, John and Erin discuss how couples can still be restored, even if it seems hopeless now. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Before You Split for your donation of any amount! Hope Restored Listen Anytime Contact our Counseling Department Is Divorce the Right Answer? If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

May 28, 202412 min

Happy Couples Think Differently

Are your thoughts about your spouse positive or negative? Ted Lowe speaks with Jim Daly on why happy couples choose to see the best in their spouses. You'll then hear John and the Smalley's discuss how thinking the best about your mate can help your marriage. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Us in Mind for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Control Negative Mindsets for an Improved Marriage What Cherishing Your Spouse Really Means If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

May 23, 202410 min

Resisting the Temptation of Pornography

How does a couple fight for purity when our culture is saturated with pornography? Jim Daly speaks with Dr. Michael Sytsma and Shaunti Feldhahn about encouraging people to resist the temptation to look at pornography. Also, John and the Smalley's explain why porn can have a devastating impact on marriages. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Secrets of Sex & Marriage for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Contact our Counseling Department The Truth Offers Hope and Freedom from Pornography Addiction If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

May 21, 202410 min

Look to the Lord, Even When You’re Frustrated

How do you respond when your spouse does something that really frustrates you? Matt and Lisa Jacobson tell Jim Daly the story of their first serious argument in marriage, and how turning to the Lord helped cool their emotions. However, if it feels like your marital frustrations have been going on for years or even decades, John and the Smalley's will offer some good perspectives. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the 2-Book Bundle: Loving Your Husband/Wife Well for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Contact our Counseling Department Four Ways Couples Can Wake Up from Feeling Stuck in Marriage If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

May 16, 202412 min

Having Fellowship, Showing Respect

One of the best ways to improve your marriage is when you simply appreciate being together. Jim Daly asks Matt and Lisa Jacobson why it's good for your relationship to enjoy fellowshipping as a couple. They'll even discuss the need for respect. Also, John Fuller and Erin Smalley address how a husband can show his wife that he respects her. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the 2-Book Bundle: Loving Your Husband/Wife Well for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Submission' May Not Mean What You Think It Means Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

May 14, 20249 min

Because It’s Who We Want to Be

It's important to never take your spouse for granted. A great way to do that is to remember how you and your mate fell in love. John, and the Smalley's share why remembering your love story can help your marriage today. Then, Bill and Pam Farrel join Jim Daly to discuss how it's good to take advantage of simple opportunities for romance. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Men Are Like Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime 6 Ways to Make Your Marriage Happy God Designed Men and Women to Be Different in Many Ways If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

May 9, 202410 min

If Your Spouse Isn’t the Romantic Type

What do you find romantic? Jim Daly joins Bill and Pam Farrel to discuss how men and women desire romance differently. Also, John and the Smalley's encourage you to seek to romance your spouse over getting what you want every time. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Men Are Like Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Understanding the Differences Between You and Your Spouse Keeping Romance Alive If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

May 7, 202410 min

How a Couple Gave Away $1 Million

Small acts of generosity add up over time. Bob and Linda Lotich talk with Jim Daly about how God put it on their hearts to give away $1 million. Then, you'll hear from John Fuller and Greg Smalley who will encourage you and your mate to be generous with even small amounts that you have. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Simple Money, Rich Life: Achieve True Financial Freedom & Design A Life of Eternal Impact for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Generosity in Marriage: Small Acts That Make a Big Difference Investing in Others Through God’s Love If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

May 2, 202414 min

Should You Tithe as a Couple?

Practicing generosity to your local church is a wonderful thing to do as a couple. John and Greg address how they've learned give regularly to their respective church congregations. Also, Jim Daly speaks with Bob and Linda Lotich on why God wants us to be cheerful givers. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Simple Money, Rich Life: Achieve True Financial Freedom & Design A Life of Eternal Impact for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Tithing When Your Spouse Objects Coping With Financial Crisis and Maintaining Your Marriage If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Apr 30, 202411 min

If Your Spouse Has Experienced Sexual Abuse

Past sexual abuse can be one of the most difficult things to discuss with your spouse. John, Erin and Greg provide hope to people who've been sexually abused. Plus, Jim Daly speaks to Dr. Michael Sytsma about how you can be a source of healing, if your spouse has experienced past sexual trauma. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Secrets of Sex & Marriage for your donation of any amount! Hope Restored Listen Anytime Sexual Trauma and Its Effect on Marriage Contact our Counseling Department If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Apr 25, 20249 min

Getting Rid of Unrealistic Sexual Expectations

Unrealistic expectations going into marriage will lead to disappointment. That principle also applies to sex. John, Erin and Greg discuss how unhealthy expectations is something many couples struggle with. You'll also hear Jim Daly talk with Shaunti Feldhahn and Dr. Michael Sytsma about loving your spouse, even when sex isn't going perfectly. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Secrets of Sex & Marriage for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime 5 Things Experts Wish You Knew About Healthy Sex in Marriage Contact our Counseling Department If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Apr 23, 202411 min

Choosing to Be Thankful for Your Mate

How do you remain thankful for your mate, even when you notice their flaws? John and the Smalley's share some ideas for seeing the best aspects of your spouse. Plus, Matt and Lisa Jacobson talk with Jim Daly about how God's love for us compels us to better love our mate. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the 2-Book Bundle: Loving Your Husband/Wife Well for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Four Ways Couples Can Wake Up from Feeling Stuck in Marriage Believing the Best About Your Spouse If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Apr 18, 20248 min

Owning Your Faith, Even When Your Spouse Doesn’t Own Theirs

What can you do when your spouse isn't showing the spiritual maturity you'd hoped for? Jim Daly talks with Matt and Lisa Jacobson about why it's best to focus on your own walk with God. Also, John asks Greg and Erin about how you can practically stay focused on the Lord. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/parentingpodcast. Or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the 2-Book Bundle: Loving Your Husband/Wife Well for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Improve Your Marriage Through Thankfulness Spiritual Unity: How I Built Trust in My Marriage If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Apr 16, 20248 min

The Different Ways Men and Women Are Romantic

What do you find romantic? John, Erin, and Greg share examples of what's romantic to them. Plus, Bill and Pam Farrel talk with Jim Daly about simple, yet effective ways you can romance your spouse. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/parentingpodcast. Or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book Men Are Like Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Romance: It's Not Just for Valentine's Day Understanding the Differences Between You and Your Spouse If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Apr 11, 202410 min

Passwords to Resolve Conflict

How do you and your spouse try to resolve conflict? John asks Greg and Erin about ways they've learned to get better at managing conflict in their relationship. You'll also hear a lighthearted discussion Jim Daly had with Bill and Pam Ferrel on how they've worked through misunderstandings. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/parentingpodcast. Or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book Men Are Like Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Understanding the Differences Between You and Your Spouse Why are Men Like Waffles? Why are Women Like Spaghetti? If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Apr 9, 202413 min

Couples and Credit Cards

How you talk about and make decisions on money as a couple is extremely important for the unity of your marriage. John and the Smalley's address common mistakes couples make regarding their finances. Then, Jim Daly speaks with Bob and Linda Lotich about some of the rules they have for handling money. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/parentingpodcast. Or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book Simple Money, Rich Life for your donation of any amount! Learn About the Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime How to Prevent Cyberbullying in Your Child’s Life Contact our Counseling Department If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Apr 4, 202411 min

Submitting Your Money to God

What does it practically look like to trust God with your money? Bob and Linda Lotich join Jim Daly to discuss a phrase that helps them manage their money - Assets Under Management. Also, John and Greg address the need to practice financial stewardship in your marriage. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/parentingpodcast. Or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book Simple Money, Rich Life for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Coping With Financial Crisis and Maintaining Your Marriage Money Tips from God If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Apr 2, 202411 min

Pornography Hurts True Intimacy

Sadly, many marriages today have at least one spouse who's struggling with pornography. Jim Daly speaks with Dr. Michael Sytsma and Shaunti Feldhahn about the great damage porn can do to a marriage. Then, John and Greg discuss some practical steps a person can take towards wholeness if he or she is struggling with pornography. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book the Secrets of Sex & Marriage for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Responding to Your Husband's Secret: Porn No Porn Marriage Podcast If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Mar 28, 202412 min

When Spouses Have Differing Sexual Desires

Sex is a wonderful gift for marriage, and yet, it can also be complicated. John and Greg address how physical intimacy is a top issue many couples fight over. You'll also hear Jim Daly talk with Shaunti Feldhahn and Dr. Michael Sytsma about how couples can work through scenarios where one spouse wants sex more than the other. Finally, Erin Smalley will offer a helpful perspective on how to ask your spouse for sex. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book the Secrets of Sex & Marriage for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Article: The Best Ways to Deal with Mismatched Libidos in Marriage Article: What is Intimacy? If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Mar 26, 202410 min

Remembering the Story of How You Met

It's wonderful to reflect on how you and your spouse fell in love. John asks the Smalley's to share their fun love story. Then, you'll hear Jim Daly talk to Matt and Lisa Jacobson about how their first meeting didn't go so well, and why God still used it anyway. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the two book bundle Loving Your Husband/Wife Well for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Improve Your Marriage Through Thankfulness The Story of Us If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Mar 21, 20249 min

Marriage and Children with Special Needs

For couples that have a child with special needs, the challenges are very real. John, Erin and Greg address what it's been like for each of their marriages to raise a child who has special needs. Plus, Jim Daly talks with Lisa Jacobson about how she and her husband Matt kept their marriage strong, even during some challenges with their daughter. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book The Flirtation Experiment for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Managing Marriage and Children with Special Needs Contact our Counseling Department If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Mar 19, 20249 min

Repeat Back Your Spouse’s Interests

When your spouse shows genuine interest in something you enjoy, it's like good medicine for the heart. Bill and Pam Farrel talk with Jim Daly about how they've encouraged couples to express curiosity in something your mate likes doing. Also, John and the Smalley's cover a common communication struggle many husbands deal with in marriage. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Men Are Like Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Learn how You're Feeling with the Feelings Wheel Why are Men Like Waffles? Why are Women Like Spaghetti? If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Mar 14, 202411 min

Communication Mistakes Spouses Make

How do you and your spouse work through your different communication styles? Jim Daly is joined by marriage experts, Bill and Pam Farrel, and they'll share common mistakes men and women make in communicating. Plus, John and the Smalley's give some tips to help you avoid miscommunications in your marriage. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Men Are Like Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Understanding the Differences Between You and Your Spouse Why are Men Like Waffles? Why are Women Like Spaghetti? If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Mar 12, 202413 min

Getting on the Same Page Financially

The discussions you have about money early in your marriage help set the tone for your financial habits as a couple. Jim Daly speaks with Linda and Bob Lotich about some of the conversations they had about money when they were a young couple. Plus, John talks with the Smalley's about some money rules they've implemented in their marriage. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Simple Money, Rich Life for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Communicating About Debt 3 Steps to Stop Bankruptcy From Bankrupting Your Marriage If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Mar 7, 202412 min

Being Honest About Your Financial History

What were some of your financial habits going into marriage? Jim Daly talks to Bob and Linda Lotich, who get very honest about how they handled money before walking the aisle. Also, John, Greg and Erin bring up why it's important for you and your future spouse to talk about your money habits before getting married. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Simple Money, Rich Life for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Contact our Counseling Department 3 Steps to Stop Bankruptcy From Bankrupting Your Marriage If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Mar 5, 202412 min

How Often Should We be Intimate?

It's common for married couples to ask, "how often should we be physically intimate?" While there's no rule, Jim Daly speaks to Dr. Michael Sytsma and Shaunti Feldhahn on why many couples struggle to agree on frequency. You'll also hear John and the Smalley's offer encouragement to couples who are struggling to enjoy sex. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Secrets of Sex & Marriage for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Contact our Counseling Department The Best Ways to Deal with Mismatched Libidos in Marriage If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 29, 202412 min

Three Types of Sexual Desire

How do you deal with a situation where you and your spouse have differing desires regarding sex? Jim Daly talks with Dr. Michael Sytsma and Shaunti Feldhahn about three kinds of sexual desire that most couples deal with. Also, John and the Smalley's discuss what couples can do if one or both spouses are resistant to sexual intimacy. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Secrets of Sex & Marriage for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Contact our Counseling Department The Best Ways to Deal with Mismatched Libidos in Marriage If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 27, 20249 min

When Your Childhood Impacts Your Marriage

Undealt with pain from your childhood can sometimes come up unexpectedly in the ways you treat your spouse. John, Erin and Greg will encourage you to deal with wounds from your childhood. You'll also hear Jim Daly talk with Lisa Jacobson and Phylicia Masonheimer about the need for getting difficult things out in the open. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book The Flirtation Experiment for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Contact our Counseling Department Coping with Alienation, Anger, and Anxiety in Marriage If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 22, 202412 min

Connecting Well in the Evening

When you've had a long day, it's easy to pull out your phone and not talk with your spouse. John and Greg emphasize why it's important to be disciplined with your screen-time in marriage. Plus, Jim Daly speaks with Lisa Jacobson about how she learned to stop watching shows with her husband every evening. Also, Phylicia Masonheimer shares about a time that praying with her husband before bed helped her marriage. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book The Flirtation Experiment for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Three Ways to Nurture the Marriage You Want Phubbing, Social Media and Your Marriage If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 20, 202411 min

Respecting Your Spouse’s Brain Wiring

One of the biggest factors in how husbands and wives communicate is the unique ways each of your brains are wired. Bill and Pam Farrel join Jim Daly to address the different ways God designed men and women's brains. Plus, John, Greg and Erin share why your understanding what your mate needs can help you be a better communicator. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Men Are Like Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Understanding the Differences Between You and Your Spouse Why are Men Like Waffles? Why are Women Like Spaghetti? If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 15, 20249 min

The Ways Men and Women Process Information

Do you ever get frustrated by the different ways and your spouse communicate? Jim Daly talks with marriage experts, Bill and Pam Farrel about the differences in how men and women talk. You'll also hear John and the Smalley's share why it's best to show appreciation to your mate, even in spite of your differences. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Men Are Like Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Understanding the Differences Between You and Your Spouse Why are Men Like Waffles? Why are Women Like Spaghetti? If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 13, 202412 min

Don’t Hide from the Pain

How do you handle painful memories? While it's not fun to think about them, we encourage you to not hide from them either. Jim Daly and Dr. Ron Deal encourage blended families to work through painful situations from the past. Plus, John and the Smalley's encourage you to give yourself grace, even when you get something wrong today. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Preparing to Blend for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Contact our Counseling Department Hope Restored If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 8, 202413 min

The Ripples of Grief for Blended Families

Sadness and pain happen in every family. How do you pick up the pieces, even when you can't shake painful memories? Jim Daly and Dr. Ron Deal address some of the ways sadness and grief impact blended families. Also, John and the Smalley's explain how practicing vulnerability can help heal past wounds. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Preparing to Blend for your donation of any amount! Hope Restored Listen Anytime Contact our Counseling Department How Remarriage Affects Kids If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 6, 20249 min

If Your Spouse Doesn’t Receive Positive Affirmations

Have you tried to be encouraging to your spouse, but he or she wasn't receptive to it? Jim Daly talks to Shaunti Feldhahn and Dr. Michael Sytsma about some healthy perspectives on if your spouse isn't receiving your kind words. Plus, John and the Smalley's discuss how positive affirmations can help a couple build trust and have more enjoyable intimacy. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Secrets of Sex & Marriage for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Contact our Counseling Department Honest Affirmation Can Make Your Marriage Great If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 1, 20247 min

Owning Your Responsibility to Feel Good

Being affirmed by your spouse is great, but do you need it to survive? John, Erin and Greg explain why affirming your spouse is healthy, and discuss the difference between a need and a strong desire. You'll also hear from Jim Daly and Dr. Michael Sytsma on why feeling good about yourself is your decision, and should not be dependent on what your spouse says. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Secrets of Sex & Marriage for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Discovering Mutual Pleasure in Marriage Honest Affirmation Can Make Your Marriage Great If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jan 30, 202411 min

Maintaining Joy When Your Plate is Full

What your marriage is in a busy season, how can you make time for fun and laughter? Jim Daly speaks to Lisa Jacobson and Phylicia Masonheimer about how they've learned to be joyful during busy seasons. John also talks with Greg and Erin about how they maintain joy, even with a taxing schedule. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book The Flirtation Experiment for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime A Laugh Between Us What Is Intimacy? If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jan 25, 202410 min

When Your Husband Doesn’t Initiate Romance

What can you do if you desire romance, but your spouse isn't the romantic type? Jim Daly talks with Lisa Jacobson and Phylicia Masonheimer about a concept they call, "biblical flirtation." Plus, John and the Smalley's share about why it's good for men to be romantic toward their wives. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book The Flirtation Experiment for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Contact our Counseling Department A Guy’s Guide to Romance If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jan 23, 202411 min

Openness That Leads to Healing

Pretending like you've got it all together is not good for your your marriage. John and Greg address why it's not okay to act like your relationship is perfect, especially when there are issues going on. Also, Jim Daly talks with Pastor Rick Bulman about how he and his wife Tiffany don't hide from their broken past, and ways they've seen God heal their marriage. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Mended for your donation of any amount! Hope Restored Listen Anytime Recovering From an Affair Contact our Counseling Department If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jan 18, 20249 min

A Wedding for Blended Couples

For couples facing remarriage, what's the way to do a wedding right? John and the Smalley's share how they've seen God restore people, even after an unwanted divorce. Also, Jim Daly and Dr. Ron Deal talk about ways kids can be involved in a blended family wedding. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Preparing to Blend for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime How Remarriage Affects Kids Remarriage Doesn’t Wipe Away Memories and Old Habits If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jan 16, 202410 min

When You and Your Spouse Don’t Agree on Discipline

How do you and your spouse find agreement on ways to discipline your kids? John, Erin and Greg address how this is a common tension point for couples, and why having kids can help you be a better spouse. Also, Dr. Ron Deal and Jim Daly discuss what healthy discipline can look like for blended families. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Preparing to Blend for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Contact our Counseling Department Discipline Is Worth the Effort If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jan 11, 202414 min

Blended Couples and Their Finances

Money is one of the top areas of conflict for married couples. If you're facing financial problems, John, Erin and Greg will explain why you can still have hope. They'll also address whether or not a prenuptial agreement is a good idea. Plus, Jim Daly and Dr. Ron Deal discuss how blended families can deal with financial issues. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Preparing to Blend for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Contact our Counseling Department Making a Financial Plan Matters to Your Marriage If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jan 9, 202414 min

Focusing on the Best for a Better Sex Life

You long to feel emotionally safe in marriage. When you feel that safety, it can positively impact your sexual relationship. Shaunti Feldhahn and Dr. Michael Sytsma talk with Jim Daly about the need to focus on good things in your marriage, even outside of the bedroom. Plus, John and the Smalley's talk about how you can help your mate overcome his or her insecurities. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Secrets of Sex & Marriage for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Contact our Counseling Department 5 Things Experts Wish You Knew About Healthy Sex in Marriage If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jan 4, 202412 min

Are We the Only Ones Struggling with Sex?

The truth is, many couples face challenges regarding physical intimacy. John, Greg, and Erin share why a satisfying sex life takes time and doesn't happen overnight. You'll also hear from Jim Daly, who talks to Shaunti Feldhahn and Dr. Michael Sytsma about common misconceptions many couples have about sex. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Secrets of Sex & Marriage for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Contact our Counseling Department 5 Things Experts Wish You Knew About Healthy Sex in Marriage If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jan 2, 202413 min

Taking the Chance to Flirt

It can be easy to neglect romance when life gets busy. John talks with the Smalley's about how they've learned to be playful and flirtatious. Also, Jim Daly speaks with Lisa Jacobson and Phylicia Masonheimer about a concept they call, "biblical flirtation," that you can apply to your relationship. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book The Flirtation Experiment for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime Flirt Your Way to a Better Marriage Conversation Starters for Date Nights If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Dec 28, 202311 min

Stop Criticizing and Start Planning

Have you ever been critical of your spouse and you didn't realize how your words hurt his or her feelings? Dr. Randy Schroeder talks to Jim Daly about how couples can recognize if they're criticizing their mate too much. Plus, John and the Smalley's address why planning things together, instead of complaining, can go a long way in your marriage. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Simple Habits for Marital Happiness for your donation of any amount! Focus on Marriage Assessment Listen Anytime The Reactive Cycle 6 Tools for Healthy Communication in Marriage If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Dec 26, 202310 min

Can God Heal the Betrayal?

Adultery does great damage to a marriage, and it's strongly warned about in the Bible. Pastor Rick and Tiffany Bulman discuss what happened after her affair with a friend came to light. Also, John and the Smalley's share about what you can do, if you're wondering if you'll ever trust your mate again. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book Mended for your donation of any amount! Hope Restored Listen Anytime Contact our Counseling Department Recovering From an Affair If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Dec 21, 202311 min