Tools for Marriage

Season 2 Episode 17: Looking Back (Season 1), Looking Forward (Season 2) | Tools for MarriageTools for Marriage: https://toolsformarriage.comAre you looking for practical ways to build a stronger, more resilient marriage? Join Trevor and Laura in this special transition episode of the Tools for Marriage podcast as they celebrate the wrap-up of Season 1 and share an exciting look ahead at Season 2!In this episode, we reflect on the "master class" of wisdom shared by our incredible Season 1 guests—from first responders and ministry leaders to marriage authors. We dive into the most impactful "tools" we’ve learned so far.Whether you are on the cusp of marriage or have been together for decades, these tangible, Christ-centered tools are designed to help your relationship flourish. Stick around until the end to hear what’s coming in Season 2 as we continue our mission to provide the skills every couple needs but few are taught.What you’ll learn in this video: ✅ Why we started the Tools for Marriage podcast. ✅ The concept of "Radical Obedience" in a relationship. ✅ Highlights from our most popular Season 1 interviews. ✅ A sneak peek at the topics and guests coming in Season 2!Subscribe for more practical marriage tools and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Season 2!Chapters: (0:00:00) - Introduction to Season 2(0:01:04) - The Accidental Podcast: How It All Began(0:02:25) - The Technical Learning Curve and Home Studio Challenges(0:04:05) - The Mission: Reaching Beyond One-on-One Counseling(0:05:27) - Radical Obedience and Choosing Yearly Words(0:07:23) - The Philosophy Behind "Tools for Marriage"(0:08:45) - Learning in Reverse: Avoiding Relationship Potholes(0:09:49) - Communication Trap: The Myth of Mind Reading (Episode 1 - Trevor & Laura Black)(0:10:47) - Defining Your Terms and Avoiding Assumptions(0:12:37) - Intentional Connection: Couch Time and Walk-and-Talks(0:14:11) - Supporting First Responder Marriages (Episode 2 - Mark & Annette Manley)(0:16:42) - Personality Assessments and Ministry (Episode 5 - Brian & Linda Seitz)(0:18:39) - The Power of the Tongue & Developing Curiosity (Episode 8 - Trevor & Laura Black)(0:20:59) - Loving One Another Well & The “F” Word (Feelings), Feelings Wheel (Episode 4 - Kelly DuPée)(0:24:01) - Fix vs. Listen & The Love Languages (Episode 6 - DC and Cookie Currier)(0:26:44) - The 1st year of marriage & Premarital Counseling (Episode 7 - Max & McKenzie Walls)(0:29:01) - Bucket List & Savor and Gratitude & How They Met (Episode 9 - Ron & Nancy Anderson - Part 1)(0:30:22) - Restoration or Reconciliation from Infidelity (Episode 10 - Ron & Nancy Anderson - Part 2)(0:32:55) - Meeting comedian Robert G. Lee on set (Episode 11 - Robert G & Anne Lee)(0:35:06) - Prayer & Following the Holy Spirit (Episode 12 - Keith & Megan Peeler)(0:36:45) - In Sickness and In Health (Episode 13 - Chris & Sheryl Solberg)(0:38:10) - Peregrine & Lasagna Love (Episode 14 - Craig & Beryl Glass)(0:39:40) - Humility and Reconciliation (Episode 15 - Eric Heard)(0:42:00) - How We Love & Counseling (Episode 16 - Bagwell)(0:43:26) - Sneak Peek: What to Expect in Season 2(0:44:43) - Closing Thoughts and Community Connection#marriageadvice #RelationshipTools #ToolsForMarriage #ChristianMarriage #CommunicationSkills #MarriagePodcast #Season2Launch #strongertogether

Episode 16 - Darren Bagwell Marriage & Family Therapist Shares Insights on a Strong and Healthy Marriage | Tools for MarriageJoin us for an insightful conversation with licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Darren Bagwell, as he shares his personal journey and professional wisdom on healing attachment wounds and moving toward secure connection in marriage. Darren unveils the critical role of your "Attachment Imprint," explaining why the high-achieving "Golden Child" identity often fails in partnership, and how the Anxious Pleaser pattern emerges. You’ll learn tangible, compassionate steps to integrate your Inner Child, utilize the Comfort Circle for safety and attunement, and embrace the 3 R's framework (Recover, Repair, and Reconnect) to transform conflict into deeper intimacy. This episode is a must-listen for any couple ready to stop managing surface-level conflict and start building a marriage defined by lasting security and heartfelt understanding.Chapters:(0:00:00) Welcome & Meet Darren Bagwell: Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist(0:01:06) From Sociology to Diamond Sales: The Winding Path to MFT(0:05:09) The Pivot to Counseling: Grad School, MFT, and the EMDR Approach(0:07:10) Trauma is What Happens Inside: The Origin of the "Attachment Imprint"(0:11:10) The Anxious Pleaser & Discovering the How We Love Model(0:15:35) When the "Golden Child" Breaks: Marital Crisis and the Wounds from Childhood(0:21:26) The Inner Child: Why Understanding Your Past is Key to Your Present(0:33:40) The Comfort Circle: A Tool for Safety, Attunement, and Secure Connection(0:42:00) Humility & Ownership: The Two Keys to Moving Through Marital Crisis(0:47:00) Advice for Newlyweds: Marriage as a Process of "Becoming"(0:54:30) The 3 R's Framework: Recover, Repair, and ReconnectShow Notes:Darren Bagwell - https://www.darrenbagwell.com/Reunion Counseling - https://www.reunioncounseling.com/The Formation Agency - https://theformationagency.com/How We Love - https://howwelove.com Tools for Marriage - https://toolsformarriage.comAbout Darren Bagwell:Darren is passionate about helping you navigate through the complexities of life in order to find the best solution available. Darren has clinical experience working with anxiety, depression, divorce complications, co-parenting, adjustment issues, addiction, trauma, and relational conflict. He enjoys working with individuals that feel stuck or struggling to find their path as well as couples, families and young adults.Darren Bagwell , M.A., LMFT Marriage & Family Counselorhttps://www.darrenbagwell.com/949.274.3816Darren@relationship180.com26131 Marguerite Parkway, Suite AMission Viejo, CA 92692

Episode 15 - 1,358 Weddings, 18 Re-Marriages, and Truths to Transform Your Marriage with Pastor Eric Heard | Tools for MarriageDescription:In this powerful episode of Tools for Marriage, Trevor and Laura sit down with Pastor Eric Heard - a man who has spent over 50 years helping couples prepare, repair, and completely restore their marriages. With more than 1,358 weddings, 18 reconciled remarriages, and decades of working with marriages in crisis, Eric brings wisdom forged through personal pain, biblical truth, and years of pastoral experience.Eric shares openly about his own story of abuse, separation, repentance, and miraculous restoration - and explains the practical tools every couple must master: conflict resolution, emotional connection, protecting covenant, dealing with bitterness, and understanding the spiritual battle behind relational division.Whether you're preparing for marriage, fighting for your marriage, or supporting others in theirs, this episode is filled with transformational insight, humor, authenticity, and real hope.Chapters:(00:00) – Welcome & IntroductionsTrevor and Laura introduce Pastor Eric Heard and set the stage for the conversation.(01:06) – Eric’s Story: Conversion, Calling & 51 Years of MinistryHow Eric came to Christ at 18 and began his journey into pastoral ministry.(03:56) – 1,358 Weddings & a Lifelong Commitment to CouplesEric discusses performing weddings, premarital counseling, and why he uses old-school folders.(05:21) – The Beauty of Reconciliation & 18 Re-MarriagesStories of couples who divorced and later rebuilt their marriage from scratch.(15:10) – Growing Up in Abuse & How Trauma Follows You Into MarriageEric opens up about childhood abuse, normalized dysfunction, and its impact on early marriage.(21:24) – The Turning Point: Separation, Confession & God Changing His HeartThe moment Eric realized his anger and abuse were destroying his marriage — and what he did to change.(37:13) – The Four Cornerstones of Marriage: Permanence, Oneness, Nakedness & IntimacyEric breaks down the biblical foundation that shapes every healthy marriage.(43:02) – Conflict Resolution Tools That Actually WorkThe Disneyland Autotopia analogy, mirroring, and why most couples never learned these skills.(48:06) – Teaching Men to Feel & Women to Use Fewer WordsEric explains the feeling wheel, gender differences, and how to communicate more effectively.(56:06) – Protecting the Covenant: Guardrails Against BetrayalPractical boundaries, transparency, and the importance of safeguarding the marriage relationship.Show Notes:Standing Stone Ministry - https://standingstoneministry.orgMariners Church - https://marinerschurch.orgHow We Love - https://howwelove.comSYMBIS - https://symbis.comRelationship Lifeline - https://relationshiplifeline.orgTools for Marriage - https://toolsformarriage.com @ToolsForMarriage ​

Episode 14 - Smuggling Bibles, Feeding Souls, & Building Legacies — Craig & Beryl Glass | Tools for Marriage Episode 14 - Smuggling Bibles, Feeding Souls, & Building Legacies — Craig & Beryl Glass | Tools for Marriage In this inspiring episode of Tools for Marriage, Trevor and Laura reconnect with Craig and Beryl Glass — a couple whose marriage has been shaped by faith, courage, and a lifetime of service. From smuggling Bibles behind the Iron Curtain to leading men’s ministries and delivering meals through Lasagna Love, their story is a powerful reminder that marriage is both an adventure and a ministry. Listen as they share lessons learned from 49 years together, the importance of compassion and courage in godly manhood, and how small acts of love can ripple across generations. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction and Reconnection (02:05) The Journey of Craig and Beryl Glass (05:09) Early Years of Marriage (08:12) Missionary Adventures in Europe (11:03) The Risks of Bible Smuggling (14:13) Stories from the Field (17:11) The Lasagna Love Initiative (20:04) Peregrine Ministries and Its Mission (23:10) Father-Son Retreats and Their Impact (35:01) The Journey to Manhood (37:58) Creating a Passage to Manhood (40:58) The Blessing Ceremony (43:38) Core Qualities of Masculinity (46:43) The Importance of Fathers (49:37) Advice for Couples (52:32) Navigating Differences in Marriage (56:35) Faith and Ministry Together (59:11) The Impact of Small Acts (01:03:53) You Matter: A Message to Men Show Notes: Peregrine Ministries - https://peregrineministries.org/ Lasagna Love - https://lasagnalove.org/ Tools for Marriage - https://toolsformarriage.com/

Episode 13: Wit and Wisdom with the Solbergs | Tools for MarriagePodcast Chapters:(0:00:00) Introduction to "Tools for Marriage" Podcast(0:02:07) Chris and Sheryl's Meet-Cute Story(0:03:57) The Spontaneous Pop-Top Engagement(0:07:50) The Pros and Cons of Living Together Before Marriage(0:10:52) Navigating Conflict in the Early Years(0:13:19) Sex and Expectations(0:15:22) The Five Love Languages(0:19:55) The Importance of Communication and Mentorship(0:22:15) Marriage and Raising Children(0:26:06) Staying Connected as an Empty Nest Couple(0:30:26) Advice for Young Couples(0:40:48) Building a Legacy in Your Marriage(0:47:03) Navigating Temptations and Guardrails(0:56:45) Finding Community and a Love for Pickleball(1:02:00) The Power of Partnership and a Lasting ImpactShow Notes:SYMBIS - https://www.symbis.com/5 Love Languages - https://5lovelanguages.com/Tools for Marriage - https://toolsformarriage.com

Episode 12: Praying Your Way to a Stronger Marriage with Keith and Megan Peeler | Tools for MarriagePodcast Chapters:(00:00) Introduction and Overview of Everfree Ministries(01:54) The Peeler's Marriage Journey(04:20) First Date and Family Dynamics(07:05) The Importance of Communication in Relationships(09:53) Navigating Early Relationship Challenges(12:44) Advice for Young Couples(14:59) The Power of Prayer in Marriage(17:21) Interactive Prayer and Spiritual Connection(21:54) Building Intimacy Through Shared Experiences(24:00) The Power of Prayer in Marriage(25:01) Discovering Deliverance and Inner Healing(26:04) Experiencing Spiritual Warfare(29:54) Understanding Deliverance and Healing(34:04) Navigating Resistance and Pushback(39:04) The Role of Authority in Prayer(44:35) Setting Expectations for Prayer Appointments(47:09) The Power of Spirit-Led Prayer(50:26) Navigating Life's Challenges and God's Guidance(53:01) Understanding Authority in Christ(55:30) The Role of Inner Healing in Physical Health(59:31) The Healing Ministry and Its Challenges(01:04:34) Empowering Women Through Healing and Identity(01:07:10) Multiplying the Impact of Inner Healing Ministry(01:09:01) Closing and EncouragementShow Notes:Everfree 2.0 Launch - November 7, 2025: https://kingdomcreative.mykajabi.com/fund-the-freedomEverfree Prayer Community: https://kingdomcreative.mykajabi.com/everfree-communityEverfreeHER: https://www.everfreeprayer.org/everfreeherEverfree Prayer: https://everfreeprayer.org

Episode 11 - A Therapist and a Comedian Walk Into a Marriage | Tools for MarriageIn this episode we feature the incredibly talented duo, Robert G. and Anne Lee . This is not your average couple - Robert is a seasoned comedian, known as Hollywood's top sitcom warm-up comic for over 1,500 episodes of shows like Golden Girls, Becker, Wings, and the last episode of Cheers. He's also a professional stand-up comedian with upcoming shows and was a writer for the beloved children's series, VeggieTales.Anne, a gifted family and marriage therapist, and Robert, a master of humor, have combined their unique skills to create the "Humor, Healing, and Hope Marriage Retreats" Their upcoming book, “A Therapist and a Comedian Walk Into a Marriage” offers a humorous and wisdom filled take on marriage. Together, they offer practical, tangible tools, like the "25/5" communication method and the Marriage Emergency Toolkit, to help couples build strong, lasting relationships.Podcast Chapters:(0:00:23) - Guest Introduction: Anne and Robert G. Lee(0:01:23) - The Story of How They Met at Ohio University(0:05:08) - Anne's Journey to Becoming a Therapist(0:10:18) - Robert's Career as a Sitcom Audience Warm-Up Comedian(0:18:46) - The Realities of Living with a Comedian(0:31:40) - The Launch of the Humor, Healing, and Hope Marriage Retreat(0:34:06) - The "25/5" Tool for Communication(0:59:58) - The Importance of Partnership in a Marriage(1:11:44) - How to Connect with Anne and RobertShow notes:Tools for Marriage - https://toolsformarriage.comhttps://www.robertglee.com/https://www.instagram.com/robertgleecomedy/IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1557883/https://www.annewlee.com/Marriage Retreat @ Lighthouse Church (Phoenix, AZ) - Nov 7-8, 2025

Episode 10: Is the Grass Really Greener? (part 2) | Tools for MarriageThis is the second of two episodes with Ron & Nancy. See episode 9 for part 1.Ron and Nancy Anderson continue their interview with Trevor and Laura from "Tools for Marriage," discussing how they overcame challenges including infidelity, and now help other couples by teaching practical tools like establishing boundaries, maintaining transparency, and adapting through different life seasons. Nancy outlines practical steps from her book to protect and guard a marriage relationship. Chapters:(0:00:00) - Introduction to the Tools for Marriage Podcast(0:00:24) - Building Your Fortress: Removing Pornography From Your Life(0:02:42) - The HEDGES Acronym for an Affair-Proof Marriage(0:05:04) - Educating and Satisfying Each Other in Marriage(0:07:01) - Navigating the Different Seasons of Life and Marriage(0:08:14) - The Power of Sharing Your Story: The Journey to Writing a Book(0:11:05) - The Importance of Navigating Conflict with SYMBIS(0:12:19) - Ground Rules for Healthy Conflict and Communication(0:14:35) - Learning to Give and Receive Forgiveness and Grace(0:16:56) - Navigating Conflict with Different Communication Styles(0:19:13) - Habits and Intention: Opening the Car Door(0:21:00) - Tucking Her In and the Feeling of Being Safe(0:23:05) - The Importance of Being Authentic in Your Marriage(0:25:35) - Speaking What Really Matters and Be Willing to Change(0:29:35) - Nancy's List of 70 Things Before She Turns 70(0:35:22) - Advice for Couples Getting Married(0:40:05) - Phones and Addictions and Sharing Access(0:43:42) - Advice For Your Younger Self(0:47:25) - An Encouraging Word and a Concluding Prayer Show Notes:Tools for Marriage - ⁠https://toolsformarriage.com⁠Avoiding the Greener Grass Syndrome: How to Grow Affair-Proof Hedges Around Your Marriage by Nancy C. Anderson - http://amzn.to/2BuQXPDhttps://www.instagram.com/greenergrasssyndrome/https://www.facebook.com/Greenergrasssyndrome/http://nancycanderson.com/

Episode 09: Is the Grass Really Greener? (part 1) | Tools for MarriageThis is the first of two episodes with Ron & Nancy. See episode 10 for part 2.This episode features Nancy and Ron Anderson, who share their remarkable 47-year marital journey. They begin by reflecting on their unique anniversary tradition of revisiting significant places from their early relationship. The conversation then delves into their diverse backgrounds and Ron's path to faith. The core of the episode centers on a profound crisis early in their marriage, where Nancy's affair and Ron's struggles as a husband led to a near-divorce. Through a series of events, including pivotal parental intervention and a miraculous act of forgiveness, they reconciled. The Andersons conclude by discussing how their experience now allows them to mentor other couples in crisis, emphasizing that marriage requires continuous effort, spiritual growth, and building resilience to withstand life's inevitable challenges.Podcast Chapters:(0:00:00) - Introduction to Tools for Marriage & Guests Ron & Nancy Anderson(0:01:12) - Revisiting Early Years: An Anniversary Tradition(0:03:17) - Ron & Nancy's Diverse Backgrounds(0:04:01) - Nancy’s Writing and Her Book - "Avoiding the Greener Grass Syndrome"(0:04:55) - Ron's Journey to Faith & Early Marriage Struggles(0:11:56) - The "Greener Grass Syndrome": Nancy's Affair(0:16:39) - Differences in Family of Origin and Expectations(0:21:02) - The Crisis Point: Confession and Parental Intervention(0:26:00) - The Miracle of Forgiveness and Reconciliation(0:32:07) - Mentoring Couples on the Brink(0:33:10) - Continuous Effort: Building a Fortress Around Your Marriage(0:35:17) - Thanks for Watching - Please SubscribeShow Notes:Tools for Marriage - https://toolsformarriage.comAvoiding the Greener Grass Syndrome: How to Grow Affair-Proof Hedges Around Your Marriage by Nancy C. Anderson - http://amzn.to/2BuQXPDhttps://www.instagram.com/greenergrasssyndrome/https://www.facebook.com/Greenergrasssyndrome/http://nancycanderson.com/

Episode 8: Conflict & The Power of the Tongue | Tools for MarriageThis episode offers practical tools and timeless wisdom for couples seeking to transform conflict into deeper connection. Hosts Trevor and Laura, drawing from personal experience and expert research, reveal how healthy communication, empathy, and a "win-win" mindset can strengthen any marriage. Discover how to navigate disagreements, foster understanding, and build a thriving relationship where both partners feel heard, valued, and loved.Podcast Chapters:(00:00) A Cow Tongue and the Power of Words(00:38) Tools for Marriage Opening and Vision(00:59) The Power of the Tongue: Healing or Hurting Your Relationship(01:30) Embracing Conflict: Why Healthy Disagreements Bring You Closer(03:14) Oneness & Being on the Same Team(05:33) Cutting Words That Crush and Wound(06:11) Uplifting and Expressing Gratitude(08:10) Marriage Is Like a Raft & One Heart(09:41) How Many Conflicts Do Couples Have?(11:00) Differences & Preferences(12:20) Perpetual Problems: Understanding Unsolvable Marital Conflicts(16:00) Keeping It Internal: Not Sharing Issues with Others(19:15) Starting with the End in Mind and Win-Win Solutions(27:08) Empathetic Listening and Curiosity: Understanding Your Partner's Perspective(35:57) Marriage Research: Soft Start vs. Harsh Startup(39:43) Navigating Conflict Styles: Turtles vs. Rhinos(46:31) Keeping the Issue the Issue: Avoiding Personal Attacks(49:19) How Can I Make Your Day Better?(51:21) Essential Communication Tools: XYZ Formula(52:33) Water Break & Fight or Flight(54:40) Rewind or Reset(55:51) Biblical Wisdom for Your Marriage(57:57) Thanks for Watching Please SubscribeShow Notes:Tools for Marriage - https://toolsformarriage.comTry Softer by Aundi Kolber - https://www.amazon.com/Try-Softer-Approach-Mode-Connection/dp/1496439651He Wins, She Wins: Learning the Art of Marital Negotiation Hardcover by Willard F. Harley Jr. - https://www.amazon.com/He-Wins-She-Learning-Negotiation/dp/0800722515John & Julie Gottman - https://www.gottman.com/Doug Fields - https://dougfields.comMarriage Matters - https://marinerschurch.org/events/

Episode 7: Year 1 of Marriage with Max & McKenzie | Tools for MarriageJoin the conversation with our special guests and friends, Max & McKenzie, as we explore dating, engagement, a (rainy) wedding, and the first year of marriage. Great insights, fun, and laughter. Happy 1st anniversary, Max & McKenzie! We pray for more amazing years in your marriage together.Podcast Chapters:(0:00:00 Introduction and Welcome)(0:00:48 Why Premarital Counseling?)(0:03:26 A Modern Meet-Cute)(0:06:14 Key Takeaways from SYMBIS)(0:07:30 First-Year Challenges: Blending Households)(0:09:37 An Unforgettable Rainy Wedding)(0:14:55 Lessons Learned in the First Year)(0:19:17 The Role of Faith in Marriage)(0:26:22 Advice for Newlyweds)(0:32:02 Looking to the Future)(0:34:31 The Stress of a NICU Nurse)(0:41:25 Love Languages and Final Thoughts)Show Notes:SYMBIS - Save Your Marriage Before It Starts - https://symbis.comLove Languages - https://5lovelanguages.com/

E06 - Love and Respect and El Caminos with DC and Cookie | Tools for MarriageIn this episode Trevor & Laura interview DC & Cookie, a couple married nearly 50 years as they share how to have a great marriage. They share practical insights from their years teaching the Love and Respect course to couples at all stages. Have the "marriage nerds" finally met the "marriage geeks"?Chapters:(0:00:00) - Welcome and Introduction of DC and Cookie Currier (0:01:42) - How DC and Cookie Met: The El Camino Connection (02:44) - Early Marriage and Young Love: South Dakota Influence and Career Focus (03:30) - The Proposal and Mutual Decision to Marry (4:55) - "Friends Said It Wouldn't Last" and Advice on Dating Duration (5:50) - Moving to California: A New Chapter (7:09) - Secrets to Longevity in Marriage: Common Interests and Mutual Respect (8:24) - Working Together in Business: Complementary Talents and Minimal Friction (9:43) - Family Life: Kids and the Age Gap (10:18) - The Transformative Family Life Conference: A Biblical View of Marriage (13:05) - Post-Conference Ministry and Volunteer Work with Family Life (14:07) - Key Learnings from Marriage Ministry: Oneness, Intimacy, and Respect (16:26) - The "Love and Respect" Curriculum and Continuous Learning (18:10) - The Concept of Unconditional Respect in Marriage(24:00) - Understanding the Differences Between Men and Women in Marriage(25:18) - Fix vs. Listen(28:30) - Navigating Conflict in Marriage: The Importance of Kindness(29:45) - A Lifetime of Learning: Curiosity About Each Other(31:33) - Marriage Conferences: Benefits and Stigma(33:40) - Begin With the End In Mind(35:01) - CHAIRS and COUPLE(43:40) - Sharing Your Feelings: Finding the Words(44:20) - The Five Love Languages: A Life Hack to Feeling Loved(50:25) - The Myth of the 50/50 Marriage(51:00) - What Does Love Mean to You? What Does Respect Mean to You? (1:00:00) - Final Thoughts and Encouragement for a Lasting Marriage(1:02:32) - The Marriage Nerds Meet the Marriage Geeks(1:03:30) - Prayer For DC and CookieShow Notes:Love & Respect: The Love She Most Desires; The Respect He Desperately Needs by Emerson Eggerichshttps://www.loveandrespect.com/

E05 - Peaks and Valleys with Brian and Linda Seitz | Tools for MarriageIn this powerful episode of Tools for Marriage, Trevor and Laura sit down with Brian and Linda Seitz—leaders of Peaks and Valleys, a Christian marriage ministry with a heart for first responder couples. With over 36 years of marriage, they share wisdom forged through real-life trials: being unequally yoked, navigating a law enforcement career, facing health crises, and raising a family.You’ll hear about their faith-filled journey, the creation of their marriage retreats, their books, and real stories of couples who turned things around. Whether you're in ministry, married to a first responder, or just looking to strengthen your relationship—this episode will encourage, equip, and inspire you.👇 Use the chapter timestamps below to jump to your favorite part!(0:00) Welcome & Guest Introduction(1:18) Peaks & Valleys: Ministry Origins (5:55) The Challenges of a Law Enforcement Marriage (10:00) Bridging the Gap: Officer Persona vs. Home Life (13:34) Learning by Teaching: Growing Through Counseling (20:24) Healing Retreats for Law Enforcement Couples (24:00) Faith at the Forefront: Retreat Approach (35:39) The Power of Selflessness in Marriage (37:25) Marriage: A Picture of Christ & The Church (39:50) Navigating an Unequally Yoked Marriage (46:27) Healthy Self-Care Within Marriage (53:03) Stories of Hope & Transformation (54:54) Understanding Personality Differences (57:24) Resources & Final Encouragement(58:48) Closing Blessing & Prayer📖 Learn more or get their books at: https://peaksandvalleys.life/

E04: 5 Most Common Marriage Mistakes with Kelly DuPée | Tools for MarriageIn this episode Trevor & Laura sit down with Kelly DuPée. Coach Kelly, a pastor, police chaplain, marriage coach, and author, shares 5 Most Common Marriage mistakes and how to avoid them.(00:00:00) Introduction of Marriage Coach Kelly DuPée   (00:00:54) Kelly's Journey into Marriage Ministry   (00:04:12) How Personal Hardships Shaped Kelly's Passion   (00:06:22) Learning Humility: Asking God to Change Me   (00:08:35) From Pastor to Marriage Coach & Author   (00:14:40) Common Marriage Mistake #1: Communication & Understanding   (00:24:55) Common Marriage Mistake #2: Prioritizing the Relationship   (00:30:50) Common Marriage Mistake #3: Destructive Anger   (00:45:38) Kelly's Coaching Approach: Meeting Couples Where They Are   (00:47:03) Common Marriage Mistakes #4 & #5: Asking for Needs & Seeking Help   (58:27) Conclusion and Final Prayer  Show notes:Get a free digital copy of Kelly's book Turn It Up: https://turnitup.coach/75Kelly's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCu7aEeOfGdZ5D3X7H7XXnyQTo book your free Clarity Call with Kelly, text or call 626-804-1731.

E03 - Essential Tools for a Strong Marriage | Tools for MarriageIn this episode Trevor & Laura, marriage coaches, share the top tools they believe help to build a strong foundation needed to have a healthy marriage.(0:00) - Introduction to the Secrets(0:51) - Top Two Priorities: God and Spouse(01:37) - The Importance of Prioritizing Your Spouse(03:21) - Pouring into Work and Kids (4:39) - The Closest Relationship on Earth(5:47) - Visualizing the God-Centered Marriage(6:56) - The Cord of Three Strands(08:11) - The Power and Statistics of Praying Together(09:38) - The P.R.A.Y. Acrostic(11:12) - Strategies for Effective Prayer(12:46) - Dealing with Worry(13:50) - Surrendering to God(15:12) - Using Index Cards for Prayer and Worry(17:50) - Focus on God, Not the Storm(18:56) - Love, Patience, and the Holy Spirit(21:30) - Reading the Word of God Together(25:56) - Seeking Wise Counsel(27:54) - Leaving a Godly Legacy(30:16) - Recognizing Differences in Worship(32:16) - Radical Obedience(33:14) - It's Not About Me(34:45) - Having Hope for the Future(35:15) - Subscribe, Connect, and Comment(34:38) - Closing PrayerShow Notes:Power In Praise by Merlin R. CarothersPurpose Driven Life by Rick Warren Verses on clouds by Quoziowebsite: https://toolsformarriage.com

Episode 2: Marriage Challenges of First Responders | Tools for MarriageIn this episode Mark & Annette share their unique perspectives on serving as police officers and the challenges of being a first responder or a spouse. Statistics show the divorce rate in this group can be as high as 70%. With wisdom and humor they bring amazing insights into navigating marriage, faith, and family alongside the call of serving as a first responder.(00:00) Introduction – Welcome to Tools for Marriage (04:01) A Chance Meeting – How It All Started (08:00) A Birthday Surprise – A Moment of Change (12:04) All Eyes on Me – A Life-Changing Encounter (16:01) Defining the Relationship – Moving Forward (20:03) An Unexpected Call – A Turning Point (24:02) Navigating Challenges – Conversations and Discipline (28:03) Blocking Out Distractions – Prioritizing Marriage (32:01) Cultural Insights – Learning and Growing Together (36:06) Wisdom and Advice – Lessons from Experience (40:00) Work-Life Balance – Then and Now (44:01) Relationship Reflections – Who’s Right, Who’s Wrong? (48:00) Faith and Foundations – Building on Shared Beliefs (52:04) The Power of Encouragement – Lifting Each Other Up (56:00) Final Thoughts – Advice for Stronger Marriages

Episode 1: The Adventure BeginsWelcome to Tools for Marriage, where we explore communication, conflict, and connection . Hosts Trevor and Laura Black share insights, stories, and practical tools to help your marriage thrive.Subscribe and visit us at https://toolsformarriage.comEpisode Format: • Genesis (0:00) – How we got here, red ears and all • Who We Are (1:24) – Introductions • SYMBIS and TPMC (2:04) – Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts and The Pre-Marriage Course • Coaches and Actors (3:13) – Our background as Marriage Nerds • Marriage Nerds (3:29) – Key insights and what’s next • Begin with the end in mind (5:39) – set the right trajectory, resist the drift • Tools (7:29) – Key insights and what’s next • The Two Becoming One (7:49) – children vs. marriage • Starting a New Family (11:22) – writing your script together • Some Tools (12:19) – Love Languages • Gratitude (16:50) – rewire your brain • Make Your Home a Refuge (17:43) – laugher, fun, and a soft place to fall • Couch Time (18:33) – 10 to 15 minutes with no devices • How Can I Make Your Day Better? (20:15) – a story of serving one another • Date Night (21:20) – be intentional and continue to pursue each other • Business Meeting (23:17) – sync schedules, finance discussions, trip planning • Trips (24:20) – schedule them as it is important • Marriage Retreats (25:19) – Marriage Matters with Doug Fields, be intentional about your relationship • State of the Union / Summit (25:56) – How are we doing in our marriage? • Being a Cheerleader (27:38) – encouragement in the good times and the bad • Love and Respect (29:09) – a Biblical concept , how to cherish • Keeping the Issue the Issue (32:16) – encouragement in the good times and the bad • Positive Upward Spiral (33:52) – get the flywheel going in the right direction • Effective Listening Exercise (34:29) – a tool on how to really listen to one another • Fix vs. Listen (39:38) – seek to understand, could the fix be understanding? • Feelings Pillow (40:49) – Identify your feelings, soul words and How We Love • Conflict Card (42:55) – Rate the Depth of Your Disagreement, 1-10 scale • Prayer of Blessing (44:42) – grateful hearts, strong relationships • Thank you! (45:52) – follow along, subscribe, feedback Episode Show Notes:SYMBIS - https://www.symbis.com/Doug Fields - https://www.dougfields.com/How We Love - https://howwelove.com/Love and Respect - https://www.loveandrespect.com/Love Languages - https://5lovelanguages.com/quizzes/love-language