Focus on Marriage Podcast - podcast cover

Focus on Marriage Podcast

Focus on the Familywww.focusonthefamily.com
If you’re married — or soon to be — you’ve got questions. What makes this relationship work? How do I fix it when it breaks? Where do I go when I need help? Host John Fuller and marriage experts Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley help answer those questions with practical, down-to-earth insights based on God’s design for marriage. Find answers and inspiration in every short episode of this Christian marriage podcast.

Episodes

The Roller Coaster of Recovery

When a marriage has been hurt by betrayal, the road of recovery takes time. It's not an easy journey, but healing is possible with God's help. John, Greg and Erin offer a healthy perspective for couples traveling the road to recovery. Featuring Mr. Mark and Mrs. Jill Savage. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Jill Savage's book "Your Next Steps: What To Do When Your Spouse Is Unfaithful" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefam...

Jan 06, 202214 min

Why Blaming is So Dangerous

If your spouse has hurt you, it's easy to start playing the blame game. But doing so will only make things worse, not better. John, Erin and Greg discuss a step you can take toward healing in your marriage, even after being hurt by your spouse. Featuring Mr. Mark and Mrs. Jill Savage. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Jill Savage's book "Your Next Steps: What To Do When Your Spouse Is Unfaithful" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.foc...

Jan 04, 202213 min

Finding True Peace and Prosperity

Having financial goals as a couple can greatly bless your marriage. The key is to get on the same page as a team. John and Greg share how to work together as a team and find contentment in your financial situation as a couple. Featuring Mr. Chuck and Mrs. Ann Bentley. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Chuck and Ann Bentley's book "Money Problems, Marriage Solutions" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm-podc...

Dec 30, 20219 min

When Your Spouse Repents

There's a temptation to think you can change your spouse's bad habits. However, no matter how hard you try, true repentance is only possible with God's help. John talks with Erin and Greg about how to move on when your spouse repents from a bad habit. Featuring Chuck and Ann Bentley. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Chuck and Ann Bentley's book "Money Problems, Marriage Solutions" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.c...

Dec 28, 202111 min

The Season of Conflict

Conflict is part of marriage. But if you're willing to work through it, your relationship can become stronger even after a fight. John talks with Greg and Erin about how they paint a realistic picture of marital conflict when counseling an engaged couple. Featuring Mrs. Debra Fileta. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Get Debra Fileta's book "Love in Every Season: Understanding the Four Stages of Every Healthy Relationship" for your donation of any amou...

Dec 23, 202112 min

Spider Webs & Glass-Blowing Classes

When you're engaged, it's easy to think you know your future spouse really well. However, getting to know someone takes time. John talks with Greg and Erin about how engaged couples can develop a healthy friendship before a wedding. Featuring Debra Fileta. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Debra Fileta's book "Love in Every Season: Understanding the Four Stages of Every Healthy Relationship" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusont...

Dec 21, 202110 min

In-Laws and Staying Committed

There's an old saying about marriage, "you don't just marry your spouse, you marry the person's family." If we're honest, sometimes learning to get along with in-laws is a big adjustment. John, Erin and Greg share about staying committed while trying to get along with your spouse's family. Featuring Melanie Shankle. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Melanie Shankle's book "The Antelope in the Living Room: The Real Story of Two People Sharing One L...

Dec 16, 202113 min

Choosing Love, Even When You Don't Feel It

As you get to know your spouse, you learn so many things about him or her. While learning new things can be funny, some situations can lead to tension. John, Erin and Greg discuss why loving your spouse is still a decision, even if you don't feel like doing it. Featuring Mrs. Melanie Shankle. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Melanie Shankle's book "The Antelope in the Living Room: The Real Story of Two People Sharing One Life" for your donation o...

Dec 14, 202111 min

When God Reaches Us in Our Mess

When you've made several mistakes in your marriage, it can seem like things could never be restored. But even when you've turned away from doing things God's way, He's still willing to forgive and welcome you back home. John, Erin and Greg offer hope to couples who feel like their marriage is too far gone. Featuring Mark and Jill Savage. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Jill Savage's book "Your Next Steps: What To Do When Your Spouse Is Unfaithfu...

Dec 09, 20218 min

When God Showed up on Easter

We've all known a couple who's thought, "Our marriage can't make it." If that's you, John, Greg and Erin will share how they've seen God restore broken marriages, and provide some tips for preventing an affair. Featuring Mark and Jill Savage. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Jill Savage's book "Your Next Steps: What To Do When Your Spouse Is Unfaithful" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm-podcast-2021-10-...

Dec 07, 202112 min

Changing Bad Money Habits

What do you do when it feels like you and your spouse can't agree about money? John and Erin will share how to be patient when you and your mate are struggling to find financial unity. Featuring Chuck and Ann Bentley. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Chuck and Ann Bentley's book "Money Problems, Marriage Solutions" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm-podcast-2021-11-30?refcd=1181701 Get more episode resou...

Dec 02, 20219 min

When Your Money Habits Clash

Money. It's one of the most common reasons couples fight. To help ease financial tension, John and Erin will share a helpful key for when you're frustrated with your spouse's financial choices. Featuring Mr. Chuck and Mrs. Ann Bentley. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Chuck and Ann Bentley's book "Money Problems, Marriage Solutions" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm-podcast-2021-11-30?refcd=1181701 Get ...

Nov 30, 202114 min

Confessing Sexual Sin to Your Family

Sexual sin grows in the dark. But when you bring it into the light by confessing it, the healing process can start. John, Greg and Erin discuss how to find a trustworthy person to confess sin to. Featuring Mr. David and Mrs. Kirsten Samuel. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Kirsten Samuel's book "Choosing a Way Out" for your donation of any amount! https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm-podcast-2021-11-23?refcd=1181603 Get more episode resou...

Nov 25, 202111 min

When a Secret Sin is Uncovered

Statistics reveal that many married men are struggling with a pornography addiction, even in the church. If this has impacted your marriage, please know, you're not alone. John, Erin and Greg discuss how to take a step toward healing, after a secret sin has been uncovered. Featuring Mr. David and Mrs. Kirsten Samuel. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Kirsten Samuel's book "Choosing a Way Out" for your donation of any amount! https://donate.focuson...

Nov 23, 202113 min

Growing Spiritually in Every Season

Homes need a strong foundation, and marriages need to be established on God's love. Without it, you won't be nearly as ready when challenges come your way. John and Erin offer some helpful ideas for being strong spiritually as a couple. Featuring Mrs. Debra Fileta. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Debra Fileta's book "Love in Every Season: Understanding the Four Stages of a Healthy Relationship" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.foc...

Nov 18, 202111 min

Overcoming Fear in the Spring Season

When you're falling in love, it can feel like the start of the spring season. Flowers are blooming, the sun is shining and romance is strong. But if we're honest, sometimes falling in love can also reveal our deepest fears. John and Erin discuss how to know if your relationship is healthy in the early stages of romance. Featuring Mrs. Debra Fileta. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Debra Fileta's book "Love in Every Season: Understanding the Four ...

Nov 16, 202113 min

Remembering What Brought You Together

Sometimes, it's good to reflect on why you married your spouse. To help you do that, John and Erin discuss the benefits of remembering how you fell in love. Featuring Mrs. Melanie Shankle. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Melanie Shankle's book "The Antelope in the Living Room: The Real Story of Two People Sharing One Life" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm-podcast-2021-11-09?refcd=1174704 Get more epis...

Nov 11, 202110 min

Having Fun With Your Opposite Personalities

You married someone who's very different from you! It's part of God's design. While your differences can be a lot of fun, they can also create a lot of tension. John talks to Erin about ways that a couple can have fun with their differences. Featuring Mrs. Melanie Shankle. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Melanie Shankle's book "The Antelope in the Living Room: The Real Story of Two People Sharing One Life" for your donation of any amount: https:...

Nov 09, 202110 min

Opening a Closed Heart

It's one of the worst things that can happen in a marriage: when your spouse's heart closes. If that happens, it can take a long time for the relationship to be restored. John Fuller and Erin Smalley discuss ways to speak kindly to your spouse, even when he or she doesn't want to talk. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley's book: "Reconnected: Moving from Roommates to Soulmates in Marriage" for your donation of any amount: h...

Nov 04, 202113 min

Eliminating Distractions, Finding Intimacy

Let's be honest, sometimes, it's easy to get distracted when your spouse is trying to tell you something. John talks with Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley about why it's important for couples to eliminate distractions and connect on a spiritual level. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley's book: "Reconnected: Moving from Roommates to Soulmates in Marriage" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fof...

Nov 02, 202111 min

Purpose of the Seasons

Each season of marriage has a purpose. The key is in choosing to make the most of the one you're in, even when it's not easy. If you feel stuck in a winter season today, Greg, Erin and John will offer you some hope. Featuring Debra Fileta. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Debra Fileta's book "Love in Every Season: Understanding the Four Stages of a Healthy Relationship" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm...

Oct 28, 202112 min

The Seasons Your Marriage Goes Through

Every marriage goes through seasons. Some are wonderful, while others are difficult, but each one can help you improve your relationship. John talks with Greg and Erin about seasons in a marriage and how to know if you've been one for too long. Featuring Debra Fileta. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Debra Fileta's book "Love in Every Season: Understanding the Four Stages of Every Healthy Relationship" for your donation of any amount: https://don...

Oct 26, 202111 min

Representing Jesus in Our Marriage

If there's a lack of love in your marriage, it's good to evaluate the strength of your relationship with God. The more you prioritize obeying God, the better job you'll do at being a good spouse. John talks to Erin and Greg about what it means for couples to represent Jesus in their marriage. Featuring Guy Lia, Amber Lia, and Jean Daly. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Amber and Guy Lia's book "Marriage Triggers" for your donation of any amount: ...

Oct 21, 202111 min

Honey, That's Not What I Meant

You said something to your spouse, and thought your point was clear. But after a day or two, your mate is really upset. It turns out, your spouse misunderstood what you said. Sound familiar? John, Erin and Greg explain why working through misunderstandings can make your relationship stronger. Featuring Guy Lia, Amber Lia, and Jean Daly. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Amber and Guy Lia's book "Marriage Triggers" for your donation of any amount: ...

Oct 19, 202114 min

When Unfaithfulness Meets God's Grace

When your spouse has hurt you, it's easy to hold on to unforgiveness. But doing so will only make things worse. John talks with Greg and Erin about ways couples can take steps toward healing, even if one of the spouses has been unfaithful. Featuring Mark and Jill Savage. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast , or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Jill Savage's book "Your Next Steps: What to Do When Your Spouse is Unfaithful" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamil...

Oct 14, 202114 min

The Immediate Damage of an Affair

Sadly, many couples experience the sting of betrayal. When the unfaithfulness comes to light, the damage is shocking. John talks with Greg and Erin about why an affair is so devastating to a marriage, and they'll point you to resources for starting a recovery process. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast , or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get Jill Savage's book "Your Next Steps: What to Do When Your Spouse is Unfaithful" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.c...

Oct 12, 202114 min

Questions and Answers

You long for meaningful connection with your spouse. However, there are moments when it feels like life and responsibilities keep getting in the way. During those seasons, what do you do? John, Greg and Erin suggest some questions you can ask your spouse as a way to connect with each other. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast , or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get the book "Reconnected: Moving From Roommates to Soulmates in Your Marriage" for your donation of any amount: https://store....

Oct 07, 202115 min

Planets and the Sun

Raising kids with your spouse is one of life's greatest blessings. But anyone who's had children will tell you it's not easy to balance them with your marriage. John talks with Greg and Erin about how to prioritize your marriage, even with the constant demands of parenting. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast , or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get the book "Reconnected: Moving From Roommates to Soulmates in Your Marriage" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily...

Oct 05, 202111 min

Planning for a Thriving Marriage

Success doesn't happen by accident. It requires planning and making intentional decisions. The same principle is true for your marriage. Greg and Erin talk with John about how practicing simple exercises has made their marriage better. Featuring Dr. Marcus Warner and Pastor Chris Coursey. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast , or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get the book "The 4 Habits of Joy-Filled Marriages" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm...

Sep 30, 202114 min

The Story You Tell Yourself

When you're frustrated with your spouse, it's easy to tell yourself things about him or her that aren't true. We've all been guilty of that before. Greg, Erin and John explain how simple gestures of kindness can calm your emotions, even when you feel frustrated with your mate. Featuring Dr. Marcus Warner and Pastor Chris Coursey. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast , or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Get the book "The 4 Habits of Joy-Filled Marriages" for your donation of any amount: ht...

Sep 28, 202112 min