The Grace Fueled Wife | Communication, Intimacy, Restoration, Marriage

In this anniversary episode, I’m reflecting on how this podcast began — and why so many women resonate with episode one: loneliness inside a marriage that looks “fine” on the outside. Before my separation nearly 15 years ago, the fighting had stopped. But instead of feeling better, we became quiet roommates. The chaos was gone… but so was the connection. If you’re not fighting but still feel distant, disconnected, or emotionally alone, this episode is for you. I unpack the real root of that loneliness — attachment longing — and walk you through the five core questions underneath conflict and disconnection: Are you there for me? Do I matter? Will you come when I call? Do you need me? Will you be there when I’m vulnerable? You’ll learn why loneliness isn’t proof your marriage is broken — and how to move toward deeper attunement without rushing to fix everything. If you’ve ever felt married but emotionally single, you are not alone. Resources:  The Every Woman’s Bible is a study Bible for the heart and mind with over one hundred scholars, writers, and contributors - all women - from around the world. It is packed with study notes and devotionals that address topics relevant to women with cultural, historical, and literary clarity and context to gain greater understanding.    Discover God’s heart for you through deep study and reflection. Learn more at EveryWomansBible.com.   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community! Work with me: Schedule a 45 min 1:1 coaching call: https://thegracefueledwife.com/coaching Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news: https://thegracefueledwife.com/insider

In this very special 200th episode of The Grace Fueled Wife Podcast, I’m sitting with you in a conversation that feels both tender and necessary—the difference between intent and impact in marriage. Because so often, we mean well. We’re not trying to hurt our husbands or create distance. And yet, our words can land in ways we never intended, leaving both of us feeling misunderstood, defensive, or shut down. If you’ve ever found yourself saying, “That’s not what I meant,” or “I was just trying to help” I want you to know - you’re not alone! In this episode, I talk about why good intentions aren’t always enough, and how emotional attunement is what actually creates safety and connection. I’ll walk you through why impact matters more than intent during moments of tension, and how learning to repair—rather than retreat—can become one of the most powerful tools in your marriage. We’ll talk about how to: Slow down defensiveness (yours and his) Take responsibility for impact without drowning in shame Repair moments of disconnection instead of avoiding them Rebuild emotional safety, even when conversations feel vulnerable This isn’t about blaming yourself or fixing your husband. It’s about learning how to show up with wisdom, humility, and grace—so reconnection becomes possible again.   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a 45 min 1:1 coaching call: https://thegracefueledwife.com/coaching Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news: https://thegracefueledwife.com/insider

Have you ever found yourself and your husband stuck in recurring arguments that never seem to resolve? I've been there too. Today, we're piecing together everything we've learned about the negative communication cycle and how it’s responsible for your disconnection. We're diving into practical steps to recognize, regulate, and change these patterns in real-time. We'll talk about how to move from frustration back to connection, and I'll share personal anecdotes and clients' stories that highlight the importance of breaking these cycles. By the end, you'll know how to step out of reactivity with awareness, humility, and grace, fostering a deeper, more empathetic connection in your marriage. This isn't about forcing change, but about gentle, mindful shifts that make all the difference. Join me, take a deep breath, and let's work on breaking those negative cycles together. Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a 45 min 1:1 coaching call: https://thegracefueledwife.com/coaching Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news: https://thegracefueledwife.com/insider

Have you ever found yourself in a full-blown argument over something small, wondering how it got so big? In this episode, I share how understanding your nervous system can help you stop getting defensive, even when you feel attacked! You’ll learn what the “stoplight” model of emotions looks like, how Scripture affirms what neuroscience teaches about safety, and a simple breathing exercise to calm your body and reconnect with your spouse. Join me as we explore how to move from protection mode to grace-filled connection, because even your nervous system is fearfully and wonderfully made. Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community! Work with me: Schedule a 45 min 1:1 coaching call: https://thegracefueledwife.com/coaching Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news: https://thegracefueledwife.com/insider

In this episode, I dive deep into the world of emotional pursuers—something I know all too well from personal experience. I'll share my story of how years of tiny rejections and a relentless drive for validation shaped my adult relationships, leading to constant anxiety and a desperate need for connection. We'll explore how these anxiously attached styles develop and the exhausting cycle they create. But don't worry, it's not all doom and gloom! I'll tell you how I began to heal by leaning into my faith and re-identifying myself through God's eyes, rather than seeking my husband's validation. This episode is all about finding strength in your identity and embracing grace in your relationships. I hope my journey can offer you some guidance and hope if you're facing similar challenges. So, if you're an emotional pursuer longing for connection but often finding yourself in a cycle of blame and resentment, you're in the right place. Let's work on becoming the grace-fueled wives we aspire to be, together.    00:00 Introduction: The Weight of Tiny Rejections 01:03 Understanding Emotional Pursuers 01:48 A Personal Story of Perfectionism 04:00 The Impact of Inconsistent Caregivers 04:40 The Exhausting Cycle of Pursuers 08:12 Finding Strength in Faith 09:42 A Path to Healing and Connection 10:22 Conclusion and Support Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a 45 min 1:1 coaching call: https://thegracefueledwife.com/coaching  Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news: https://thegracefueledwife.com/insider  

In this episode I continue the discussion from last week about negative communication cycles, focusing specifically on emotional withdrawers. I'll share a personal story and explore why some people withdraw emotionally in relationships. We delve into how childhood experiences and societal expectations shape this behavior. I highlight the struggles that withdrawers face, such as feeling unsafe expressing emotions and the pressure of perceived failure. By understanding their experiences, we aim to foster empathy, and improve communication. Join me to learn more about how to offer grace and nurture a healthier relationship.    03:06 Understanding Withdrawers 04:07 The Impact of Upbringing on Withdrawers 05:07 Withdrawers in Professional Life 06:51 The Emotional Struggles of Withdrawers 10:40 Empathy for Withdrawers   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community! Work with me: Schedule a 45 min 1:1 coaching call: https://thegracefueledwife.com/coaching Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news: https://thegracefueledwife.com/insider

In this episode, we dive into the root causes of disconnection in marriages focusing on unmet emotional needs and negative communication cycles. I share a personal story showcasing how recognizing these cycles and responding differently can transform interactions. Using a practical exercise, I explain the mechanics of negative communication and how it perpetuates disconnection. Tune in to understand how you can stop these cycles and start feeling connected again. Don't forget to check out the free video training and our community resources - If you’re already on my insider list, I’ve included it with this week’s email.   00:23 Understanding Communication Issues in Relationships 01:19 Personal Story: Handling a Partner's Mood 04:09 The Negative Communication Cycle Explained 04:38 Visualizing the Communication Cycle 13:14 Impact of Negative Cycles on Emotional Needs 14:29 Conclusion and Resources Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community! Work with me: Schedule a 45 min 1:1 coaching call: https://thegracefueledwife.com/coaching Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news: https://thegracefueledwife.com/insider Download the visual aid from this episode (If you’re already on my insider list it will be included with this week’s email): https://thegracefueledwife.com/cycle

In this episode, I give you some tips on how you can put defensiveness aside and respond with grace when a situation gets challenging! We explore the emotions behind defensiveness and how to navigate them effectively by learning the three key steps to deescalate an argument. I also share how validating feelings and communicating from a place of understanding can make a huge difference in your relationships.  00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back 01:13 A Personal Story of Defensiveness 02:28 Reflecting on Emotional Reactions 05:52 Practical Steps to Deescalate Arguments 09:15 Final Thoughts and Announcements   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community! Work with me: Schedule a 45 min 1:1 coaching call: thegracefueledwife.com/coaching Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news.  Thegracefueledwife.com/insider

In this episode, I share insights gained from my recent experiences in therapy training, highlighting the importance of emotional safety in relationships. I discuss how a clinician's listening approach influenced my willingness to share and how this relates to fostering emotional intimacy in marriage.  I further explore how being a safe spouse means being present and non-judgmental, which requires self-awareness and understanding of what safety feels like. Join me as I reflect on my personal journey and offer practical advice on how to model this crucial aspect of a healthy marriage. 02:32 Personal Reflections and Training Insights 03:34 Understanding Emotional Safety 06:29 Applying Emotional Safety in Marriage 07:59 Restoration and Final Thoughts   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a 45 min 1:1 coaching call: https://thegracefueledwife.com/coaching Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news: https://thegracefueledwife.com/insider

In this episode, I address my hiatus from the podcast and the reasons behind it. I discuss my evolving perspective on marriage therapy, shaped by both personal experiences and professional training. Join me as I share insights from my journey, touching on the importance of working on personal issues before tackling couples therapy. This year, my goal is to provide you with tools for achieving security and intimacy in your relationships. Follow along every week as we embark on this journey together. Until next week, my friends! Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a 45 min 1:1 coaching call: https://thegracefueledwife.com/coaching Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news: https://thegracefueledwife.com/insider

Understanding Grace, Boundaries, and Wisdom in Marriage   In this episode, we revisit episode number two, where I discuss how we can't change our husbands, only ourselves, and the importance of offering grace. Taking it a step further, I address common concerns about feeling like a doormat and emphasize the difference between silence and wisdom. Silence is fear-driven while wisdom involves choosing the right moment to express oneself. We delve into practical steps such as using effective communication, setting boundaries, and regulating emotions to foster a healthy marital environment. Through empowering ourselves, we build stronger, more loving relationships. Join me in our community for more discussions!   02:29 Reflecting on Episode Two 03:08 Understanding Grace in Marriage 04:19 The Difference Between Silence and Wisdom 05:25 Biblical Insights on Fear and Wisdom 08:00 Practical Steps to Change and Communication 11:13 The Power of Boundaries 11:46 Emotional Regulation and Final Thoughts 12:46 Building Community and Closing Remarks   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a 45 min 1:1 coaching call: https://thegracefueledwife.com/coaching Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news: https://thegracefueledwife.com/insider

Harnessing the Power of Breathwork to Regulate Emotions and Trauma This week's episode features an enlightening conversation with Samantha Skelly, founder and CEO of Paws Breathwork. Samantha shares her journey from battling anxiety and an eating disorder to discovering the transformative potential of breathwork. She explains how breathwork can help regulate emotions, reduce trauma responses, and create space between triggers and reactions, which can be particularly beneficial in relationships. We explore the science behind breathwork, its spiritual connections, and its practical applications. Samantha also guides us through a brief breathwork exercise, demonstrating its immediate impact. For those interested in further exploring breathwork, Samantha offers resources through her Breathwork app and facilitator training. This episode is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve emotional regulation and overall mental well-being.   00:00 Introduction to Emotional Control 02:03 Meet Samantha Skelly: Breathwork Expert 03:52 Samantha's Journey to Breathwork 07:16 The Science and Impact of Breathwork 11:05 Breathwork in Relationships 24:21 Practical Breathwork Exercise 34:16 Final Thoughts and Resources Learn more about our guest here! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samanthaskelly/   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community! Work with me: Schedule a 45 min 1:1 coaching call: https://thegracefueledwife.com/coaching Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news: https://thegracefueledwife.com/insider

Understanding Emotional Abuse: Disappointing vs. Destructive Marriages In this episode of the Grace Fueled Wife Podcast, I'm delving into the critical difference between disappointing and destructive marriages. Building on last week's discussion about emotional abuse, I reference Leslie Vernick's book, 'Emotionally Destructive Marriage,' to provide clarity. We explore what it means to feel emotionally unsafe and identify when it crosses into abuse. We'll also discuss the importance of fully disclosing your situation to a therapist for proper guidance and support, even if it means going alone. This episode aims to offer insights and resources for those struggling in emotionally abusive relationships and emphasizes that you do not have to live in such a nightmare, even as a Christian. Stay tuned as we navigate these heavy but essential topics together.   00:00 Introduction: The Fear of Speaking Up 00:29 Understanding Emotional Abuse 02:44 Disappointing vs. Destructive Marriages 03:36 Real-Life Examples and Quotes 05:24 Therapist's Role and Client Disclosure 10:59 Mandated Reporting and Emotional Safety 15:14 Concluding Thoughts and Resources Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a 45 min 1:1 coaching call: https://thegracefueledwife.com/coaching Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news: https://thegracefueledwife.com/insider

Navigating Marriage Therapy: Tips for Encouraging Your Spouse to Participate This week, we dive into communication strategies, using 'I-statements,' and how to approach the topic with your spouse in a way that makes them feel safe and understood. I'll also share insights on clarifying what you want to achieve in therapy and the common issues couples face, like miscommunication, mistrust, and lack of emotional safety. Plus, we'll discuss options for those whose spouses refuse to go to therapy. Tune in as we explore how to make marriage counseling a more approachable and effective process.   00:00 Introduction and Personal Confession 02:24 Common Issues in Relationships 04:47 Challenges in Seeking Marriage Counseling 06:16 Effective Communication Strategies 12:16 Clarifying the Core Issues 18:37 Taking Action and Seeking Support 21:38 Conclusion and Community Engagement Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a 45 min 1:1 coaching call: https://thegracefueledwife.com/coaching Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news: https://thegracefueledwife.com/insider

In this episode of the Gracefueld Wife Podcast, I have the distinct honor of hosting Debra Smith Pegues. Debra is a best-selling author, global inspirational speaker, CPA, MBA, certified John Maxwell leadership coach, and Bible teacher who shares 45 years of marital wisdom. We discuss her journey, the secrets to her successful marriage, and the importance of communication and confrontation in maintaining a healthy relationship. Debra provides invaluable insights on how to approach difficult conversations lovingly and respectfully, the significance of prayer alongside confrontation, and the balance between submission and self-respect in marriage. We also touch on practical tips from her book, '30 Days to Taming Your Tongue,' and her guide, '10 Commandments for a Heavenly Marriage.' This episode is packed with wisdom for any woman navigating the complexities of marital relationships. 04:43 Secrets to a Successful Marriage 06:16 Navigating Spiritual Differences in Marriage 08:40 The Power of Words in Marriage 13:22 Effective Communication Strategies 20:34 The Importance of Confrontation 21:14 Effective Communication Techniques 23:02 Setting Boundaries and Consequences 25:22 Balancing Submission and Confrontation 33:06 The Role of Prayer in Conflict Resolution 36:55 Final Thoughts and Resources   Did you love our guest? Here is where to learn more: Website: https://confrontingissues.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deborahsmithpegues/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DeborahSmithPegues/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DeborahSmithPegues   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a 45 min 1:1 coaching call: https://thegracefueledwife.com/coaching Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news: https://thegracefueledwife.com/insider

Hello, and welcome back to the Grace Field's Wife podcast! After a brief hiatus due to my training as a marriage and family therapist, I'm excited to bring fresh insights to our podcast. This week, we tackle the pressing question: 'How do you stand for your marriage in the midst of trouble or separation?' I'll share three essential Cs: Clarity, Commitment, and Community. We'll discuss identifying whether your relationship is abusive or just disappointing, understanding your and your husband's commitment levels, and the importance of having a supportive community. These steps will equip you with the practical tools to navigate through marital struggles effectively. Join our Facebook group or become an insider to stay connected and find more resources. Until next week!   00:00 Welcome Back to the Grace Field's Wife Podcast 03:53 The Importance of Clarity in Marriage 12:16 Understanding Commitment in Marriage 14:40 The Power of Community Support 20:54 Conclusion and Next Steps     Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a 45 min 1:1 coaching call: https://thegracefueledwife.com/coaching Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news: https://thegracefueledwife.com/insider

In this episode, we discuss the value that is even more important to your marriage than communication and why. We also talk about the limitations of working on your marriage alone and what skills can be learned even if only one spouse is participating.   For those of you looking to enrich your marriage and become the hero in your marriage story, check out The Marriage Lab and enter GFW in the coupon code to secure $20 off your monthly marriage membership.   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a 45 min 1:1 coaching call: https://thegracefueledwife.com/coaching Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news: https://thegracefueledwife.com/insider

In this episode, I discuss the importance of establishing healthy boundaries in marriage by reviewing 5 rules for healthy boundaries. Through the examples presented, I illustrate how these principles can help couples navigate the complexities of marriage, empower themselves, and foster mutual respect and love.   00:08 The Importance of Healthy Boundaries in Marriage 04:48 Exploring the Laws of Boundaries in Marriage 06:09 Applying Boundary Laws to Real-Life Scenarios 14:52 The Power of Choice and Respect in Marriage   You've heard me talk about it, now check out The Marriage Lab  and enter GFW in the coupon code to secure $20 off your monthly marriage membership!!   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a 45 min 1:1 coaching call: https://thegracefueledwife.com/coaching Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news: https://thegracefueledwife.com/insider

In this week’s podcast, we dive deep into the ins and outs of building a sturdy foundation in marriage. I take you through a group coaching exercise, encouraging you to rate your marriages and personal mental health. We discuss the critical role appreciation, taking responsibility, open communication, and self-care play in fostering a healthy, vibrant marriage.    We delve into the 'Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse' concept coined by the Gottman Institute, pinpointing the dangerous behaviors that could mark a marriage heading towards divorce. I also present how to recognize and replace these negative behaviors with healthier alternatives.   00:00 Introduction and Podcast Welcome 00:04 Building a Solid Foundation in Marriage 00:41 The Importance of Self-Assessment in Marriage 00:56 Understanding the Marriage Rating Scale 02:50 The Importance of Self-Care in Marriage 03:57 Marriage Coaching and Self-Study Options 05:53 Envisioning a Level 10 Marriage 06:54 Four Tactical Steps to Improve Your Marriage 08:41 Understanding the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse in Marriage 09:34 Practical Steps to Avoid the Four Horsemen 13:01 The Importance of Timeouts in Conflict Resolution 16:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   The Thrive Marriage Lab by Restory Counseling closes doors for registration on April 7th and will not open again until next year. Enter GFW in the coupon code for $20 off your monthly membership. This is a GREAT way to start building that healthy foundation for your marriage.     Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a 45 min 1:1 coaching call: https://thegracefueledwife.com/coaching Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news: https://thegracefueledwife.com/insider

On this episode of the Grace Fueled Wife, we get to dive into conversations all about marriage, healing, and the power of stories with the exceptional Tracy Johnson. Tracy's work at Restory Counseling inspired me on my own journey to becoming a marriage therapist. She gives us the scoop on what it means to engage our personal stories in marriage and how that can supercharge healing. Tracy shares a deeply moving personal story about the weight of past experiences and the healing power of having someone witness your pain. We then delve into Restory's Year of Good Dates, an awesome tool Tracy's team developed that's all about sparking connection through shared storytelling. Tracy also drops details about what you can expect from the Thrive Marriage Lab, which is like a gym membership for your marriage! This program brings resources, growth opportunities, and a real community spirit straight into your relationship. If you're all about creating a deeper, richer connection in your marriage, this episode is filled with tons of valuable takeaways. Check it out!   00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:24 Exploring Your Marriage Story 01:17 Guest Introduction: Tracy Johnson 03:43 Understanding the Role of Family of Origin in Marriage 06:50 Advice for Reengaging a Disengaged Spouse 09:39 The Importance of Self-Awareness in Marriage 11:03 The Role of Loneliness in Marriage 13:34 The Concept of 'ACK': Awareness, Curiosity, Kindness 16:47 A Year of Good Dates: Engaging Each Other's Story 21:24 A Drive to Dairy Queen: A Personal Story 22:43 Understanding the Impact of Past Experiences 23:36 The Power of Witnessing and Understanding 24:29 The Role of Trauma in Relationships 26:58 Choosing to Remember: A Path to Healing 28:26 The Importance of Personal Work in Relationships 30:10 The Power of Story Work and Witnessing 37:22 The Thrive Marriage Lab: A Resource for Couples 40:51 Closing Thoughts and Appreciation   You can find Tracy’s info here: ReStory Counseling: Website: https://www.restory.life Facebook: facebook.com/ReStory.Life Instagram:  @storyrestored Thrive Marriage Lab: Website: https://www.restory.life/thrive CODE: GFW for 20% off!   FREE 12 Months of Dates: How date nights can lead to connection Subscribe here: www.restory.life/thrive-dates How healthy is your marriage? Take our FREE marriage assessment here: https://www.restory.life/marriage-assessment Instagram: @ThriveMarriageLab Youtube: @ThriveMarriageLab   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a 45 min 1:1 coaching call: https://thegracefueledwife.com/coaching Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news: https://thegracefueledwife.com/insider