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Loving Well

Loving Well

47 episodes

Season 9, Episode 4: How God & Prayer Build Trust

When was the last time you thanked God for your mate? Arlene Pellicane joins Jim Daly to share why being grateful needs to be a regular part of your marriage. Plus, Pastor Scott Kedersha discusses the need to be spiritually aligned with your spouse. Finally, Greg and Erin Smalley talk with John about how praying for your mate can establish greater trust as a couple.   Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage: 12 Secrets for a Lifelong Romance   Focus on Marriage Assessment   Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage Podcast   Download the Conversation Starters for Couples   If you enjoyed listening to Loving Well, please give us your feedback.

Feb 13, 202624 min

Season 9, Episode 3: Meaningful & Deep Conversations

We all desire meaningful discussions with our mate. But how can you tell if he or she is really engaged in a conversation with you when we live in such a distracted world? Greg and Erin Smalley will encourage you to not neglect having heart-to-heart conversations together. Plus, Jim Daly talks to Dr. Heather Holleman and her husband Ashley on ways they've learned to stay connected, after more than twenty-five years together. They'll also give you some thoughts for overcoming communication challenges.   Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage: 12 Secrets for a Lifelong Romance   Focus on Marriage Assessment   Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage Podcast   Download the Conversation Starters for Couples   If you enjoyed listening to Loving Well, please give us your feedback.

Feb 6, 202622 min

Season 9, Episode 2: Romance, Sex & Date Nights

It's easy to let responsibilities add up, and neglect things like romantic date nights. You'll hear Jay and Laura Laffoon join Jim Daly, as they share why date nights should be a regular part of your marriage. Plus, Dave and Ashley Willis discuss how physical intimacy will change with seasons of marriage. Also, if you've not had a romantic get-together with your mate in a while, John, Greg and Erin will remind you that making time for romance can build trust with your mate.   Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage: 12 Secrets for a Lifelong Romance   Focus on Marriage Assessment   Download the Conversation Starters for Couples   If you enjoyed listening to Loving Well, please give us your feedback.

Jan 30, 202621 min

Season 9, Episode 1: “Honey, We Need to Talk About Money!”

How you and your spouse handle money is one of the best ways to build trust as a couple. Jade Warshaw joins Focus President Jim Daly to share how she and her husband overcame a mountain of debt. You'll also hear from Russ Crosson on the importance of budgeting with your spouse. At the end, John and the Smalley's will share why you and your mate can practice generosity together.   Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage: 12 Secrets for a Lifelong Romance   Focus on Marriage Assessment   If you enjoyed listening to Loving Well, please give us your feedback.

Jan 23, 202628 min

Season 9 Preview

We're excited to have you join us for season 9 of the Loving Well! Please join John Fuller and Dr. Greg Smalley, and Erin Smalley as they explain why trust is a key component to making your marriage successful.   Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage: 12 Secrets for a Lifelong Romance   If you enjoyed listening to Loving Well, please give us your feedback.

Jan 19, 20263 min

Season 8, Episode 4: How Spiritual Connection Creates a Lifelong Love

A spiritual connection is the surest foundation to build your marriage on. As we finish out season 8 of Loving Well, John and the Smalley's share how you can get stronger spiritually over time. Also, Jim Daly talks with Dave and Ashley Willis about how true spiritual connection requires being vulnerable with your mate. Finally, Dr. Kevin Leman addresses how you need to go against your feelings sometimes, if you want a good relationship.   Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage: 12 Secrets for a Lifelong Romance   Join the 10-Day Couples' Prayer Challenge   Take Our Free Marriage Assessment   Listen to Greg and Erin's Podcast   7 Days to a Naked Marriage Bundle   If you enjoyed listening to the Loving Well Podcast, please give us your feedback.  

Feb 14, 202524 min

Season 8, Episode 3: When You Have Different Ways of Connecting with God

How do you and your spouse connect with God? For many couples, the methods of how you spend time with God might be very different. John, Greg and Erin will encourage you to keep seeking God together, even if you prefer a different church from your spouse. You'll also hear from Focus President Jim Daly and Jodie Berndt on how to pray for your spouse when you have contrasting personalities.   Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage: 12 Secrets for a Lifelong Romance   Join the 10-Day Couples' Prayer Challenge   Take Our Free Marriage Assessment   Listen to Greg and Erin's Podcast   Sacred Pathways: Nine Ways to Connect with God   If you enjoyed listening to the Loving Well Podcast, please give us your feedback.  

Feb 7, 202523 min

Season 8, Episode 2: Realistic Goals for Spiritual Growth

One of the best motivators to grow spiritually in your marriage is to have goals. But how can your ambitions be realistic when life is hectic? Greg shares with John and Erin about how he's learned from a goal he set that didn't go so well. Then, you'll hear Jim Daly speak to Dr. Josh and Christi Straub, as they discuss how parenting challenges have led them to show each other grace and helped them grow together. Finally, a few members of our staff will give you ideas for connecting spiritually with your mate, even when your schedule is busy.   Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage: 12 Secrets for a Lifelong Romance   Join the 10-Day Couples' Prayer Challenge   Find More Marriage Resources   Listen to Greg and Erin's Podcast   Book: Famous at Home   If you enjoyed listening to the Loving Well Podcast, please give us your feedback.  

Jan 31, 202528 min

Season 8, Episode 1: Why Spiritual Connection Matters

Is having a strong relationship with God the most important ingredient of succeeding in marriage? We tackle that very question on this week's episode of Loving Well. John, Greg and Erin share what a spiritual connection is, and why it's never too late to develop one with your mate. You'll also hear from a few friends of ours, who address the significance of a spiritual bond with your spouse.   Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage: 12 Secrets for a Lifelong Romance     Join the 10-Day Couples' Prayer Challenge   Find More Marriage Resources   Listen to Greg and Erin's Podcast   If you enjoyed listening to the Loving Well Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Jan 24, 202522 min

Season Eight Preview

We're excited about our brand new season 8 of the Loving Well Podcast! Join John Fuller, Dr. Greg Smalley, and Erin Smalley as they preview the upcoming season of Loving Well, which will focus on helping you develop a strong spiritual connection in your marriage.     Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage: 12 Secrets for a Lifelong Romance   Join the 10-Day Couples' Prayer Challenge   If you enjoyed listening to the Loving Well Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Jan 20, 20255 min

Season 7, Episode 4: Oh No! I Missed Valentine's Day

Did you accidentally forget to celebrate Valentine's Day? The truth is, we all make mistakes in our marriages, but if you forgot to celebrate February 14th, you'll be encouraged by the tips John, Greg and Erin give. They'll share how to make the most of missed opportunities. Also, some of our own staff members describe the need to show your spouse grace after a mistake.   Receive the book Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage: 12 Secrets for a Lifelong Romance" for your donation of any amount!   Learn more about your strengths and weaknesses as a couple by taking our free Marriage Assessment!   Wondering if the Hope Restored intensive is for you? Check out the details here.    Almost 2,000 marriages will end today. What if you could make a difference in one of those marriages? You don’t have to be a marriage expert. And you can make a difference in as little as 60 seconds a day.   If you enjoyed listening to Loving Well, please give us your feedback.  

Feb 16, 202430 min

Season 7, Episode 3: Making Valentine's Day Amazing

How are you planning to celebrate Valentine's Day this year? To give you some ideas, John, Greg and Erin each share their opinion on an ideal Valentine's Day date. You'll also hear from a few Focus staff members, who tell about their favorite Valentine's Day memories. Plus, if you're in a spot where you can't afford to spend a lot of money, John, Erin and Greg will give you a few helpful perspectives.   Receive the book Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage: 12 Secrets for a Lifelong Romance" for your donation of any amount!   Learn more about your strengths and weaknesses as a couple by taking our free Marriage Assessment!   Wondering if the Hope Restored intensive is for you? Check out the details here.    Almost 2,000 marriages will end today. What if you could make a difference in one of those marriages? You don’t have to be a marriage expert. And you can make a difference in as little as 60 seconds a day.   If you enjoyed listening to Loving Well, please give us your feedback.  

Feb 9, 202426 min

Season 7, Episode 2: Pulling the Plug on Busyness

You long for romantic dates with your spouse, but how are those possible when the schedule is full? John and the Smalley's share how they've navigated busy seasons in their marriages. Courtney Ellis describes how she dealt with a full season in her family. Also, Jodie Berndt offers ideas for how to pray for your mate, even when life is busy. Receive the book Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage: 12 Secrets for a Lifelong Romance for your donation of any amount! Learn more about your strengths and weaknesses as a couple by taking our free Marriage Assessment! Wondering if the Hope Restored intensive is for you? Check out the details here. Almost 2,000 marriages will end today. What if you could make a difference in one of those marriages? You don’t have to be a marriage expert. And you can make a difference in as little as 60 seconds a day.

Feb 2, 202417 min

Season 7, Episode 1: Making a Marriage Happy

How would you define a "happy" marriage? John, Greg and Erin explore that very question. You'll also hear Ted Lowe discuss some of the components of a good relationship. Also, Lisa Jacobson and her friend Phylicia Masonheimer share about a concept called, "biblical flirtation." Receive the book Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage: 12 Secrets for a Lifelong Romance" for your donation of any amount! Learn more about your strengths and weaknesses as a couple by taking our free Marriage Assessment! Wondering if the Hope Restored intensive is for you? Check out the details here. Almost 2,000 marriages will end today. What if you could make a difference in one of those marriages? You don’t have to be a marriage expert. And you can make a difference in as little as 60 seconds a day. If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jan 26, 202425 min

Season Seven Preview

What's your favorite thing about Valentine's Day? John and the Smalley's share what they enjoy most about this special holiday, and get you ready for season 7 of the Loving Well Podcast.

Jan 22, 20242 min

Season 6, Episode 4: Appreciating Your Mate

Learning to see your spouse through the lens of God’s love is one of the best ways to keep your marriage strong. John talks with Erin and Greg about why being humble is good for your relationship, and how you can appreciate the way God made your mate. Receive the book "Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage: 12 Secrets for a Lifelong Romance" for your donation of any amount! Get this resource! Love Like You Mean it by Bob Lepine Focus on Marriage Assessment 4 Animals Personality Test If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 10, 202333 min

Season 6, Episode 3: Healthy Habits for a Godly Marriage

Good habits are a necessary foundation for your relationship. To help you and your spouse develop healthy habits, John, Greg and Erin share how to make prayer, saying “I love you,” and other simple things regular parts of your daily life. Receive the book "Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage: 12 Secrets for a Lifelong Romance" for your donation of any amount. Get the book: Simple Habits for Marital Happiness by Dr. Randy Schroeder Focus on Marriage Assessment If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 3, 202332 min

Season 6, Episode 2: Walking Through Seasons Together

Just like the ways the weather changes, your marriage will experience seasons. Greg, Erin and John offer some helpful perspectives on how you and your spouse can grow together during the changing seasons of life. Receive the book "Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage: 12 Secrets for a Lifelong Romance" for your donation of any amountfocusonthefamily.com/crazy-little-thing-called-marriage-softcover Book: Love in Every Season by Debra Fileta If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jan 27, 202332 min

Season 6, Episode 1: The Beauty of Romance & Intimacy

Romance is a wonderful blessing in your marriage, and is a great gift to help keep your relationship strong. John, Erin and Greg discuss why romance and intimacy can help with the long-term health of your marriage.     Receive the book "Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage: 12 Secrets for a Lifelong Romance" for your donation of any amount   The Fundamentals of Marriage: 8 Essential Practices of Successful Couples   God, Sex and Your Marriage   If you enjoyed listening to Loving Well, please give us your feedback.  

Jan 20, 202332 min

Season Six Preview

We all have those married couples we look up to. There’s something special about a marriage that goes the distance. Join John Fuller, along with Greg and Erin Smalley who’ll share about some of their favorite couples, and preview the upcoming season of the Loving Well podcast, which launches January 20th.

Jan 16, 20232 min

Season 5, Episode 4: Answering Marriage Questions

There’s no such thing as a bad question! Today, John and the Smalley’s answer questions about marriage on a variety of topics. Get the book "Cherish" If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 11, 202232 min

Season 5, Episode 3: Loving by Words and Actions

Sometimes, you don’t need to do something extravagant to improve your marriage. It might be that giving a simple complement, or a seemingly small act of love can take your relationship to the next level. Join John and the Smalley’s as they discuss how words and actions can make a difference in your relationship. Get the book "Cherish" If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 4, 202239 min

Season 5, Episode 2: Loving Your Best Friend

Marriage is a unique and special opportunity to build a lifelong friendship. John, Erin, and Greg share some of the ways they’ve learned to be friends with their spouse and discuss how you can cultivate a friendship as a couple. Get the book "Cherish" If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jan 28, 202223 min

Season 5, Episode 1: Love Without Expectations

Is it possible to love your spouse without expecting something in return? John Fuller and Greg and Erin Smalley share how they’ve learned to rely on God’s love in marriage and offer a practical perspective on what it means to truly love your mate. Get the book "Cherish" If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jan 21, 202224 min

Season Five Preview

Welcome to Season 5 of the Loving Well podcast! Join John Fuller as he chats with Greg and Erin Smalley about how God’s love helps you to love your spouse through simple and creative actions. Throughout this season, we’ll explore how a relationship with Christ can influence the ways you love and treat your spouse. Get the book 'Cherish' If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jan 17, 20221 min

Season 4, Episode 4: Developing Spiritual Connection

Connecting spiritually and emotionally with your spouse are some of the most important things you’ll do together. John talks with Greg and Erin about spiritual goals for you and your spouse. Plus, Ryan and Selena Frederick explain how practicing transparency can bless your marriage. Get the Book: Reconnected If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 12, 202135 min

Season 4, Episode 3: Rekindling Simple Romance

Romantic moments aren’t limited to the most picturesque settings. In fact, they can come from the simplest places. John, Greg and Erin discuss why romance is important, Matt and Lisa Jacobson tell a fun story about how an ordinary moment turned romantic, and Marcus Warner and Chris Coursey give some creative acronyms for finding connection in your marriage. Get the Book: Reconnected If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 5, 202130 min

Season 4, Episode 2: Connecting in the Busy Times

When life gets busy, keeping your marriage a top priority requires intentional effort. John Fuller talks with Greg and Erin Smalley about how they stay connected in busy seasons, Mark and Susan Merrill discuss simplifying your schedule, and Matt and Lisa Jacobson describe the different ways husbands and wives desire connection. Get the Book: Reconnected If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jan 29, 202132 min

Season 4, Episode 1: Love & Laughter

Having fun and laughing together are some of the greatest joys of marriage. When you find reasons to enjoy life, it can lead to some wonderful memories as a couple. Join John Fuller as he talks with Greg and Erin Smalley about how laughter has helped their marriage. Plus, comedian John Branyan tells funny stories about himself and his wife, and Pastor Ted Cunningham explains why laughter is healthy for your marriage. Get the Book: Reconnected If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jan 22, 202141 min

Season Four Preview

Welcome to season 4 of the "Loving Well" podcast! For this season, we'll explore ways to rekindle joy in your marriage through laughter, simple connections, romance and affection, and good spiritual habits. Featuring Focus on the Family broadcast guests like Greg and Erin Smalley, John Branyan, Pastor Ted Cunningham, Ryan and Selena Frederick and more. Get the Book: Reconnected

Jan 18, 20213 min

Season 3, Episode 4: God's Plan for Your Love Life

Happy Valentine's Day! As you celebrate your marriage, we want to encourage you to build your relationship on the foundation of God's love. Call-in guests share their best marriage advice; Rhonda Stoppe talks about her favorite Bible couple; and Ryan and Selena Frederick describe how God sustained them through a trying season. Focus on Marriage Weekend Getaways If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 15, 202025 min

Season 3, Episode 3: Loving Your Spouse (Part 2)

Inspiring husbands to love their wives with practical ideas and finishing the discussion on principles for a healthy marriage. Focus on Marriage Assessment If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 7, 202033 min

Season 3, Episode 2: Loving Your Spouse (Part 1)

A wife can encourage her husband's heart by choosing to respect him. John and the Smalleys give some great thoughts for how a wife can practically bless her husband; Dave and Ashley Willis unpack the communication differences between men and women; Fawn Weaver talks about lessons she learned from interviewing married couples around the world; and Rhonda Stoppe shares the desire of every wife's heart. Focus on Marriage Weekend Getaways If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jan 31, 202036 min

Season 3, Episode 1: Love Stories

Sharing heartwarming love stories and discussing healthy boundaries for a romantic relationship. Focus on Marriage Assessment If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jan 24, 202030 min

Season 3 Preview

Valentine's Day is the perfect time to reflect on your love story. What better way to rekindle those warm feelings and special memories than with a romantic song? Join John Fuller, Greg Smalley and Erin Smalley as they preview Season 3 of the Loving Well podcast and talk about their favorite love songs. Focus on Marriage Weekend Getaways

Jan 17, 20203 min

Season 2, Episode 4: Valentine for a Lifetime

Even after the children leave home, your spouse will still be there. Dr. Gary Chapman talks about how mature couples can thrive in the second half of marriage, and Bob and Cheryl Reccord offer tips for you and your spouse to stay active during the later stages of life. If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 14, 201932 min

Season 2, Episode 3: Parenting Together

Kids change a marriage, but they can also strengthen the bond with your spouse. Arlene Pellicane explains how you can keep your romance alive amongst the busyness of parenting, and Dr. Gary Chapman talks about how to keep your priorities in order during the cold seasons of marriage. If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 7, 201923 min

Season 2, Episode 2: When Everything is New!

The early years of marriage are filled with changes. Pastor Ted Cunningham explains how couples can transition well after leaving their parents' home, Dr. Juli Slattery talks about working through the sexual dynamics of marriage, and Bill and Pam Farrel discuss how young couples can learn how to communicate with each other. Focus on Marriage Assessment If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jan 31, 201931 min

Season 2, Episode 1: Date-Nights and a Diamond

Young love is exciting, but it must be built on a solid foundation in order to flourish. Join John, Greg and Erin as they share their engagement stories. You'll also hear from guests Roger and Diane Ingolia about the importance of having a marriage mentor, and Gary Thomas on how to find a godly spouse. Focus on Marriage Assessment If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Jan 24, 201931 min

Season 2: Preview

Focus on the Family is celebrating Valentine's Day with a new season of the Loving Well Podcast! Join John Fuller, Dr. Greg Smalley and his wife, Erin, as they discuss how to embrace and enjoy your romance journey, no matter what part you find yourself in.

Jan 21, 20191 min

Season 1, Episode 6: Lasting Love

A strong and lasting marriage is a beautiful thing. In this final episode of our ‚Loving Well podcast series, Gary Thomas and Dr. David Clarke describe what you can start doing today to build a marriage that will stand the test of time.   If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 14, 201836 min

Season 1, Episode 5: Intimate Love

True intimacy is essential for a marriage to thrive. In this episode, Dr. Cliff and Joyce Penner, along with Bill and Pam Farrel, explain ways you and your spouse can develop deeper physical, emotional and spiritual intimacy. If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 12, 201843 min

Season 1, Episode 4: Loving Fun

Whether it’s an inside joke or a big night out, having fun with your spouse can re-energize your marriage. Join us as we hear from Pastor Ted Cunningham and Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley about simple ways husbands and wives can make fun a priority in their relationship.

Feb 9, 201831 min

Season 1, Episode 3: Romantic Love

Love can take many forms, but few are as meaningful as romantic love between husband and wife. We’re exploring that love today with the help of Cindy Dagnan and Pastor Ted Cunningham, who will reveal fun and simple ways to add more romance to your marriage. Date Night DVD If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 7, 201839 min

Season 1, Episode 1: Loving the Differences

Your spouse is unique, and understanding what makes him or her special can radically improve your marriage. Learn how to appreciate your differences as a husband and wife with the help of marriage experts Dr. Walt and Barb Larimore and Dr. Josh and Christi Straub. Focus on Marriage Assessment If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 2, 201839 min

Season 1, Episode 2: Showing Love

Showing love to your spouse doesn't take large or elaborate gestures, sometimes simple things are best! On today's Loving Well, Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley, along with Kathi Lipp, will describe how you can find ways to express your love in meaningful ways to your spouse. If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Feb 2, 201835 min

Loving Well: A Sneak Peek

Get ready for Loving Well, a new podcast series from Focus on the Family. This series offers you lots of practical advice and encouragement from our favorite marriage experts, plus a lot of fun, too! Join us Monday, February 5th for the premiere of Loving Well.

Jan 29, 20181 min