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

Stay Inside the 9s

One of the worst things you can do is try to have a serious conversation with your spouse when one or both of you is tired. It might be that you need to set some rules for when you discuss heavy topics. John, Greg and Erin share how setting boundaries on when to have difficult conversations is beneficial to a marriage. Featuring Dr. Randy Schroeder. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book "Simple Habits for Marital Happiness" for your donati...

Aug 04, 202216 min

Wise Habits for Results You Want

When you and your spouse were first dating, you naturally did things to make each other feel happy. As time goes on in marriage, it can be easy to neglect doing those things that drew you together. John, Erin and Greg offer some ideas for how simple habits can actually get better with time and practice in your relationship. Featuring Dr. Randy Schroeder. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book "Simple Habits for Marital Happiness" for your d...

Aug 02, 202210 min

Your Spouse Should be First

Besides your relationship with God, your relationship with your spouse is the most important one. To help illustrate that point, John, Erin and Greg share what it is like when their spouse reaches out to them before other friendships. Featuring Pastor Kevin Thompson. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book "Friends, Partners and Lover" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm-podcast-2022-06-30?refcd=144...

Jul 28, 202213 min

Three Roles a Spouse Should Play

Many couples will tell you that a strong friendship is one of the best aspects of marriage. But if couples are not careful, it can be easy to get caught in the business of everyday life. John, Greg and Erin talk about how they encourage couples to keep their friendship strong, even when times get busy. Featuring Pastor Kevin Thompson. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book "Friends, Partners and Lover" for your donation of any amount: http...

Jul 26, 202215 min

When Your Spouse is Addicted to Porn

When a wife learns her husband is struggling with pornography, it's very heartbreaking. In that situation, where do you turn to for help? John, Erin and Greg discuss common mistakes wives make in that situation and point to some ways to get help. Featuring Mrs. Rosie Makinney. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book "Fight For Love" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm-podcast-2022-06-23?refcd=1440102...

Jul 21, 202211 min

Why Sexual Addiction is So Dangerous

Small compromises with pornography can lead to a serious addiction problem. When left undealt with, it will do a lot of harm to your marriage. John, Erin and Greg talk about why some men choose to look at porn, and offer help to those caught in an addiction cycle. Featuring Mrs. Rosie Makinney. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book "Fight For Love" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm-podcast-2022-0...

Jul 19, 202212 min

Loving Your Spouse, Loving Your In-Laws

There's an old saying that goes, "You don't just marry your spouse, you marry his or her family." But how do you work through a situation where a relationship with your in-laws is strained? John, Greg and Erin offer some encouragement to couples who are struggling to get along with their in-laws. Featuring Gary Thomas. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book "A Lifelong Love" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.c...

Jul 14, 202210 min

Loving God's Daughter

As a husband, one of the best things to recognize is that your wife is God's daughter. John, Greg and Erin discuss how having daughters has helped them understand why this principle is important for marriage. Featuring Gary Thomas. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book "A Lifelong Love" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm-podcast-2022-06-14?refcd=1436104 Get more episode resources: https://www.focu...

Jul 12, 202211 min

Making Your Expectations Clear

While no spouse can meet all of your dreams and desires, it's still important to make your expectations clear. Without sharing what you're expecting, you'll be setting yourself up for disappointment. John, Erin and Greg describe how they've seen unexpressed expectations cause tension in a marriage. Featuring Dr. Randy Schroeder. 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: htt...

Jul 07, 202212 min

Healthy Adjustments to Your Expectations

All of us have expectations for what we thought marriage would be like. Yet, at some point, things won't go according to plan, and how you respond will make a big difference in those situations. John, Greg and Erin discuss what it looks like for couples to have healthy expectations for each other. Featuring Dr. Randy Schroeder. 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: http...

Jul 05, 202210 min

The Intentional Marriage

Couples who go the distance don't just drift into a successful relationship. Truth be told, it takes consistent effort to succeed in marriage. John, Erin and Greg share how you can stay intentional in striving for a great relationship with your spouse. Featuring Pastor Kevin Thompson. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book "Friends, Partners and Lover" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm-podcast-20...

Jun 30, 202210 min

Marriage and Video Games

While some video games aren't necessarily bad, if they prevent you from communicating with your spouse, they can do great harm to your marriage. John, Erin and Greg provide some hope to those with a spouse who's addicted to playing video games. Featuring Bill and Pam Farrel. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive Bill and Pam Farrel's book "The First Five Years: Make the Love Investment That Lasts a Lifetime " for your donation of any amount: https:...

Jun 28, 202210 min

The Dangers of a Pornography Problem

Sadly, many married people today have a secret addiction to pornography. If left in the dark, it can destroy the very foundation of your relationship. John, Greg and Erin explain why pornography is so dangerous and offer hope to those who are afraid to confess they have a problem. Featuring Mrs. Rosie Makinney. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book "Fight For Love" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fo...

Jun 23, 202213 min

Come Out of Hiding

When things aren't going well in your marriage, having supportive friends is one of the best blessings you can have. None of us are meant to go through life isolated and alone. John talks with Greg and Erin about how they try to maintain community amidst their busy schedules. Featuring Dr. Tim and Noreen Muehlhoff. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book "Defending Your Marriage" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefami...

Jun 21, 202211 min

Loving Without Expectations

Is it possible to love your spouse without expecting anything in return? Truth be told, we can only love that way if we're relying on God's love to fill our souls. John, Greg and Erin share how they encourage couples to apply this principle to their marriages. Featuring Gary Thomas. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book "A Lifelong Love" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm-podcast-2022-06-14?refcd=...

Jun 16, 202213 min

Don't Become a Spider Spouse

Unrealistic expectations are something all of us struggle with, yet they're very damaging to a marriage. John, Greg and Erin share how they've learned to adjust their expectations in marriage. Featuring Gary Thomas. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book "A Lifelong Love" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm-podcast-2022-06-14?refcd=1423009 Get more episode resources: https://www.focusonthefamily.com...

Jun 14, 202212 min

After the Storm Has Passed

After your marriage has gone through a hard time, it can be tempting to bring up past hurts to your spouse. The truth is, recovery is anything but an easy road. John, Greg and Erin share how you can be honest about the past in your marriage, without dwelling on it. Featuring Jeff and Cheryl Scruggs. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book "I Do Again" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm-podcast-2022...

Jun 09, 202215 min

Reconciliation is Still Possible

When there's been a betrayal in a marriage, healing can take a long time. While waiting for restoration isn't easy, God is willing to send you some help. John, Greg and Erin discuss how you can be patient in your marriage, when you're hoping for reconciliation. Featuring Jeff and Cheryl Scruggs. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book "I Do Again" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm-podcast-2022-03-...

Jun 07, 202211 min

Replacing Selfishness & Control

If we're honest, we all struggle with selfishness in marriage. However, a good dose of gratitude can be the best solution for selfishness. John and Greg share how being thankful can greatly benefit your marriage. Featuring Bill and Pam Farrel. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive Bill and Pam Farrel's book "The First Five Years: Make the Love Investment That Lasts a Lifetime " for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/do...

Jun 02, 202213 min

When Little Irritations Meet Grace

All of us can find something annoying about our spouse. But, you can choose to show grace even when you don't feel like doing so. Greg talks with John about how he and Erin have worked through irritations in their relationship. Featuring Bill and Pam Farrel. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive Bill and Pam Farrel's book "The First Five Years: Make the Love Investment That Lasts a Lifetime " for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusont...

May 31, 202214 min

Community in the Fight

You and your spouse weren't meant to do life alone. Having other couples around you is key to a healthy relationship. John and Greg discuss how their marriages have been helped by having friends and share where you can go to find community. Featuring Tim and Noreen Muehlhoff. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book "Defending Your Marriage" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm-podcast-2022-03-29?refcd...

May 26, 202211 min

Deal with Technology Distractions

While technology is a great tool, spending too much time on a screen can distract you from quality time with your spouse. John talks with Greg, who shares about how he and his wife have had to cut back on screen time in their relationship. Featuring Tim and Noreen Muehlhoff. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive the book "Defending Your Marriage" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm-podcast-2022-03-29?refcd=...

May 24, 202212 min

What We Long For—Connection

Sadly, many married couples report feeling lonely. Sometimes, it might even take a third-party to help you reconnect. John and Greg share how counseling can help you bridge a gap of loneliness between you and your spouse. Featuring Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive Greg and Erin's book "Reconnected: Moving from Roommates to Soulmates in Your Marriage" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.c...

May 19, 202212 min

When Your Spouse Needs Empathy

While you and your spouse cannot trade places, showing empathy to each other can go a long way toward strengthening your relationship. John and Greg discuss how to show empathy, even when there is tension in your relationship. Featuring Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive Greg and Erin's book "Reconnected: Moving from Roommates to Soulmates in Your Marriage" for your donation of any amount:https://donate.focusonthefami...

May 17, 202211 min

Doing it God's Way

If your vehicle had a problem, sometimes, looking in the owner's manual can help you fix it. In the same way, when your marriage faces a challenge, going to Scripture can point you to a solution. John and Greg share some practical ways to focus your relationship on Christ. Featuring Jeff and Cheryl Scruggs. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book "I Do Again" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm-podc...

May 12, 202215 min

When God Changes a Husband's Heart

Even when things seem difficult in your marriage, it's never too late for God to do a miracle. John and Greg discuss how seeking the Lord can make a big difference in your relationship. Featuring Jeff Scruggs. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book "I Do Again" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm-podcast-2022-03-08?refcd=1411201 Get more episode resources: https://www.focusonthefamily.com/episodes/...

May 10, 202212 min

Learning to Become a Team

Is it possible to know whether someone would be a good teammate and show you kindness even before marriage? John and Greg discuss how to show someone grace during the dating phase of a relationship, even when he or she makes a mistake. Featuring Bill and Pam Farrel. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive Bill and Pam Farrel's book "The First Five Years: Make the Love Investment That Lasts a Lifetime " for your donation of any amount: https://donate....

May 05, 202211 min

Working on You Before Your Spouse

Real change in marriage occurs when we stop fixating on everything our spouse needs to change. It takes true character to focus on what you need to work on. John and Greg discuss this important topic for couples who are dating and considering marriage. Featuring Bill and Pam Farrel. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY Receive Bill and Pam Farrel's book "The First Five Years: Make the Love Investment That Lasts a Lifetime " for your donation of any amount...

May 03, 202212 min

5 Signs of Spiritual Attack

What do you do when you and your spouse are constantly getting on each other's nerves? It may be that you're facing a spiritual attack. John, Erin and Greg share how they've found hope when facing spiritual warfare in their marriages. Featuring Dr. Tim and Noreen Muehlhoff. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive Tim's book "Defending Your Marriage" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm-podcast-2022-03-29?refc...

Apr 28, 202215 min

Deal With the Little Irritations

Small problems that aren't talked about in your marriage can turn into big issues later on, John, Greg and Erin discuss why it's important to talk things out with your spouse whenever there is tension in your relationship. Featuring Dr. Tim and Noreen Muehlhoff. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive Tim's book "Defending Your Marriage" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-fofm-podcast-2022-03-29?refcd=1349006 Ge...

Apr 26, 202211 min