Rebuilding Us: Marriage Podcast

Expectations play a vital role in shaping marriages. In part two of my conversation with Mark and Jill Savage, we explore how four expectations in marriage can set a couple up for success. Expectations will either bring two people closer together or create a rift between them. This is why it’s important to learn to manage expectations within marriage. As a marriage coach, I've had the privilege of excavating the intricacies of marriages that, at their core, are molded by the expectations we hold. The Savages and I share personal experiences from our marriage journeys of rebuilding after infidelity. Listen and learn how understanding and realigning expectations can greatly impact and enhance your marriage. Key Takeaways:  See Conflict as a Catalyst for Growth:Conflict should be expected and embraced in a relationship.  Learn to Navigate Disappointments:Accept that disappointment is part of any partnership.  Continue Investing in Your Marriage:Just like any worthwhile endeavor, marriage requires ongoing education and investment.  Resources Mentioned in this Episode:  Download my "Ultimate Couple's Checklist": 5 Simple Steps for Building More Intimacy in Your Marriage Learn More About Mark & Jill Savage's marriage resources Love the show? Be sure to give it a 5-star rating, and I'd love to read your positive review!Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever had suspicions that your spouse was being unfaithful? A listener, triggered by her friend's trauma with infidelity, is in a dilemma. She looked through her husband's phone and didn't like what she saw. We're discussing one of the toughest challenges any marriage can face: the breach of trust when unfaithfulness comes into play in this Q&A segment.  Here's what we cover: Privacy vs. Suspicion Spotting the Red Flags: Empowering the Wounded Spouse Addressing the Infidelity Epidemic: Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Download my "Ultimate Couples Checklist" and bring that spark back into your marriage! 12 Signs Your Spouse is Having an Online Affair  Join the Conversation: I always love hearing from you! If you have your own marriage or relationship questions, send them my way here. Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When trust is broken in a marriage, many couples feel like marriage restoration is impossible and all hope is lost. However, Mark and Jill Savage’s journey reveals how marriages can heal and even thrive after infidelity. In this episode, they share their incredible testimony of a renewed marriage after a period marked by betrayal, depression, a mid-life crisis, and near-divorce. Their story offers incredible insights and encouragement for anyone who feels hopeless in their marriage. Their marriage restoration story is nothing short of a miracle and an incredible testament to the restorative power of forgiveness and repentance.  This was such a great conversation that I had to break it up into two parts!  Listen to part one today and be encouraged that ANYTHING is possible to the one who believes. Resources Mentioned in this Episode:  No More Perfect Podcast Learn More About Mark & Jill’s Story & Services Get Your Free Ultimate Couple’s Checklist  Thanks for listening! Please give the podcast a 5-star rating and write a review is this episode encourages you. Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

How do you reconnect emotionally in marriage when the feelings just aren't there? I’m answering this listener’s question on today’s episode. First, I just have to say how grateful I am for her transparency; I, too, have walked through seasons in my marriage where I felt disconnected. I’m sure many of you can relate to knowing the right actions to take but not feeling the emotions align with those actions. There were times when I simply didn’t want to do what I knew was right. Over the years, one thing I've learned is that actions often lead to feelings, not the other way around. This is called behavioral economics. Emotions are unpredictable, and they shouldn’t drive our decisions. Listen to find out how to respond to your spouse in love when you're not feeling the love.  Resources Mentioned in this Episode:  How Connected Are You Really? Take the Quiz and Find Out! Ep. 80 - Feelings Aren't Forever Like the show? Please leave a five-star rating and review to help others find this helpful marriage resource!Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In our 300th episode, we’re discussing the popular yet often misunderstood topic of "Marriage Goals" and how to live united in marriage. Social media paints a picture-perfect image of what marriage goals should look like – those idyllic photos on a beach or atop a mountain with captions like #MarriageGoals. But today, we’re venturing beyond the Instagram facade to explore how you can truly create the marriage of your dreams – one that’s deeper, united, and undivided. The hashtag-ready pics may draw likes, but genuine marriage goals focus on unity and purpose, not perfection. You may wonder, "What are the true goals of a marriage?" I created an acronym for UNITY that will help you remember to pursue unity in embracing your marriage goals. Inspired by Ephesians 4, I am taking you on a journey to uncover the real meaning of marriage and how to reset your marriage to its intended goal.  Resources Mentioned in this Episode:  Get Your Ultimate Couple’s Checklist Here.  ALSO SEE: 5 Marriage Goals for a New Year   If you enjoy the show, please be sure to leave a five-star rating and write a review!Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

  If you’ve ever felt like you’ve let yourself go or lost yourself in your marriage, this will encourage you. A listener is struggling with self-image and motivation after having three kids in five years. She feels that she has let herself go and seeks advice on how to rediscover herself and get back to feeling like her old self. Listen in for encouragement, practical steps, and a simple 4-week blueprint I share to help reignite her spark and sense of self-worth. Episode Highlights: Grace and Gratitude: Giving voice to what is going right Mental Health Consideration: Could this be postpartum depression? 4-Week Blueprint to Finding Yourself Again: Including a simple morning routine, making time for self-care, prioritizing time spent with her husband, and reflecting on the four-week experience.    Have a relationship or marriage question for the show?  Email or send a DM on Instagram.  If you like the show, please give it a 5-star rating and write a review!  Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Entering into marriage is undoubtedly one of the most significant decisions you'll make in your life. But it comes with a cost. With the joys of the engagement season heightened by holidays like Christmas and Valentine's Day, many find themselves caught up in the excitement of wedding planning. However, while beautiful ceremonies and Instagram-worthy moments are cherished, the essence of a marriage lies in its longevity and health. This podcast episode details nine important questions to ask before you get married and emphasizes the importance of counting the cost before tying the knot, ensuring that you're prepared for a lifetime commitment, not just a memorable wedding day. Resources Mentioned in this Episode:  Get Your FREE "7 Secrets to a Lasting Marriage" Audio Download Here.    If you enjoy the show, please be sure to leave a five-star rating and write a review!Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We're addressing a listener's distressing experience of financial abuse within her marriage. Despite having a stable job and a good income, her husband refuses to pay household bills and indulges in personal expenditures. This has brought about financial strain and an emotional toll. Listen as we discuss the nature of financial abuse and what she can do to "fix" her situation. Key Discussion Points: Understanding Financial Abuse: I elaborate on how financial abuse is a form of control, likened to physical, emotional, verbal, and other types of abuse. Potential Solutions: Best and worst-case scenarios are discussed, including the importance of courageous conversations with her husband and engaging a financial planner or counselor for intervention. Practical Steps: I outline actionable steps for our listener to protect her financial assets if her husband doesn't change. Legal Advice: I stress the importance of understanding her legal rights in marriage and documenting all financial decisions she makes. Resources Mentioned: Episode 119: "Financial Peace in Your Marriage" with Austin Black Episode 137: "What is Financial Infidelity?" with Chad Willardson Get Your FREE Ultimate Couples Checklist: 5 Simple Steps to Build More Intimacy Got a question you'd like answered on the show? Submit your relationship questions via email or on Instagram. Like the show? Please give it a 5-star rating, and I'd love for you to write a review!Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Being a peacemaker is one of the greatest qualities to have in a relationship. As the holiday season approaches, many of us are preparing to gather—whether with family, friends, or even by ourselves—and the pursuit of peace in our relationships becomes more relevant than ever. In this episode, we discuss the value of peacemaking in relationships and discuss the many differences between peacemaking and “peacefaking.” Key Topics: The Differences Between Peacemakers and Peacefakers The Importance of Starting with Reconciliation in Mind How Conflict Can Be a Tool for Growth How Listening Impacts Your Influence Resources Mentioned in this Episode:  Learn About my online course: From Conflict to Connection  Get your Free Conversation Starters to Bash Conflict    If you enjoy the show, please be sure to leave a five-star rating and write a review!Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever felt like your spouse was a shell of a person and you couldn't emotionally connect to him/her? I'm addressing a pressing concern shared by a listener and many couples - the struggle of feeling emotionally disconnected in their marriage or relationship. Many in similar situations will resonate deeply with this discussion. Episode Highlights: Create a Safe Environment: I address the importance of creating a space where couples feel safe to share their emotions. Understanding a partner’s background and upbringing can offer insight into their emotional responses. Meet Him Where He Is: Engaging in activities your spouse or partner enjoys can naturally open the door to deeper conversations and connection. Lead with Vulnerability: By sharing your own struggles and vulnerabilities, you can encourage your spouse to do the same. Affirm Small Steps: Acknowledging and affirming small instances of vulnerability can help build trust. Have a marriage-related question for the show? Send your questions here or DM on Instagram.  Links and Resources: Take the "How Connected Are You Partner Quiz" Tune in next week for another episode of relationship insights and advice!Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Can you guess the divorce rate of arranged marriages? The stats might shock you. As an Indian immigrant and an insightful storyteller, Sherene Joseph joins me to discuss the nuanced world of arranged marriages. We’re debunking some common myths and exploring the profound impact of family involvement on choosing spouses, providing listeners with valuable relationship advice that transcends cultural and modern marriage boundaries. Key Discussion Points: Intentional Parenting: Emphasizing how parents can be intentional about helping their children prepare for marriage.  Family Dynamics: Sherene shares her personal experience with arranged marriage, the importance of understanding family dynamics, and the reality of such marriages versus common misconceptions. Love and Commitment: Is love enough for a successful marriage?  Matchmaking: The episode touches on informal matchmaking practices within communities and the role of family in suggesting compatible partners.  Surprise Divorce Statistics: Modern marriages are often rife with divorce. We discuss the divorce stats among arranged marriages vs other marriages.    Resources Mentioned: Find Sherene's Writings Online  Ep. 151 - What If Married the Wrong Person? Get Your FREE Ultimate Couple's Checklist Here!   Like the show? Please leave a review! This helps other marriages and relationships grow too!Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

One listener feels overwhelmed by marriage problems and doesn’t know where or how to start addressing them.  In today’s episode, we will discuss how to identify and prioritize marriage issues more effectively. Knowing where to focus can be challenging. How do you tackle your marriage problems without feeling buried under them all? Shaun is also here to give his take and offer guidance on finding patience and purpose amidst the turmoil. Key Discussion Points: Finding Personal Purpose: the importance of recognizing one’s value beyond your career or marital status Shaun’s Perspective: developing patience with an at-risk marriage while focusing on self-improvement Prioritizing in Marriage: actionable advice on dealing with marriage problems one step at a time, including the importance of recognizing what is currently working and building upon it, while gradually addressing other areas in need of improvement. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Submit your marriage or relationship question for the show here. or send a DM on Instagram Get your FREE Ultimate Couples Checklist here.   If you found this episode helpful, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred platform. Your feedback is invaluable! Tune in next time for more insightful discussions on rebuilding and strengthening your marriage!Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We've all heard it said—marriage is hard. But what about marriage is so hard? Specifically, what is about your marriage that makes it hard work? In this episode, I’m sharing five reasons your marriage may be harder than it should be. Also, can we reframe that belief? What if instead of seeing marriage as hard work, we saw it as heart work? Key Points: Changing Your Perspective on MarriageReframe the mindset from "marriage is hard work" to "marriage is heart work." Commit to becoming more resilient and seeing challenges as growth opportunities. 5 Reasons Marriage Is HardLearn to recognize these common marriage problems: trying to change your partner, wishy-washy commitment, external influences, relying on your own strength, and focusing too much on problems. Guarding Influences On Your MarriageDiscover the importance of guarding your mind, media consumption, and the words you use about your marriage. Choose Your HardMake peace with the fact that good things are often hard.  Challenges will exist in all areas of life, but “choosing your hard” will help you value what really matters. Get the full show notes at danache.com/podcast.    Resources Mentioned in this Episode:  Ep. 288: 7 Traits to Create a More Resilient Relationship Get Your “Ultimate Couples Checklist” to Develop Greater Intimacy Interested in 1 on 1 Marriage Coaching?   Like the show? Please leave a review! This helps other marriages and relationships grow too!Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

A husband is seeking advice on how to communicate to his wife that her nurturing behavior sometimes feels smothering and he needs space. They have been together since high school and married for three years. In this episode, we discuss compassionate and clear ways to communicate when you need to tell your spouse something that may be hard to hear. Key Points Discussed: Understanding the Source Smothering Behavior Identifying the Love Languages of Your Spouse Encouraging Personal Space Without Distancing Yourself The Importance of Honest Communication: What to Change and Preventing Resentment   Resources Mentioned in this Episode:  Download my "Ultimate Couple's Guide" to reignite the spark in your relationship. Ask your marriage & relationship questions here or on Instagram. Like the show? Give it a five-star rating and write a helpful review so others better their relationships too!Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We all want lives of meaning. But building your life and relationships on a solid foundation is more complex than simply desire. This topic hits home for pretty much all of us—whether you're hustling in the business world, running after little ones at home, or working a 9-to-5. We all need to pause and ask: What am I living for, really? I reflect on a time I spoke at a business leaders conference; I spoke about the need to shift our focus from simply achieving success as per worldly standards to building a life on a firm foundation. But this dilemma isn’t applicable only to entrepreneurs and pastors. All of us can be tempted to sacrifice what’s most important for what seems most important. Listen as I share three practical steps on how to build a life of meaning--a life that is built on a firm foundation that will stand the test of time and trials.  Find the full show notes at danache.com/podcast. Resources Mentioned in this Episode:  Get your free “Ultimate Couples’ Checklist” for a more connected marriage today. 7 Traits of a Resilient Relationship  Like the show? Please leave a review! This helps other marriages and relationships grow too!Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When you're best friends with both halves of a splitting couple, as listener Sherry is, things can get messy. Divorce is one of those life events that not only impacts the couple involved but also sends ripples through their connected circle of friends and family. So how do you show love and support without finding yourself stuck in the middle, or worse, causing unintended strains on your relationships and own marriage? In this episode, we dive into these questions and explore ways to maintain healthy boundaries and communications while also supporting your friends through a divorce. Here are some key takeaways from the episode: Love as Individuals Respect Proper Boundaries Model Good Communication Forge a New Way Forward Prepare for New Relationships Remember, it's essential not to let your friends' issues seep into your own marriage. Keep their struggles separate from your relationship, and focus on maintaining harmony at home. Find the full show notes at danache.com/podcast. If you have a relationship or marriage question you’d like answered on the show, email me or send a DM on Instagram.Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In marriage and relationships, it’s crucial to understand how to build resilient relationships. Resilience isn’t about never facing challenges; it’s about facing them, growing through them, and becoming better because of them. Not everyone who faces hardship in relationships develops resilience; many become bitter and disillusioned. Having been married for 25 years, my husband Shaun and I have faced numerous marriage problems. From infidelity and financial crises to family losses and parenting struggles, we've endured it all. If you’ve followed our journey, you know that these challenges have fortified our resilience in profound ways. Listen as we discuss the seven character traits of building or rebuilding marriages and relationships of resilience. Find the full show notes and helpful resources in this episode at danache.com/podcast.  Get Your FREE New Resource! The Ultimate Couples Checklist: 5 Simple Steps to Build More Intimacy   Like the show? Please leave a review! This helps other marriages and relationships grow too!  Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Chris, a husband of three years, is seeking advice on managing his friendships while maintaining harmony in his marriage. He shares his struggle with balancing time spent with friends and his wife's apparent displeasure with it. In this episode, we discuss what to do when your spouse has trust issues, the important balance between friendships and marital commitments, and other practical advice for couples facing similar situations. Key Points Discussed: Trust Issues Healthy Friendships in Marriage Balancing Social Time Couple Friends Open Communication   Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Download my free “Ultimate Couples Checklist: 5 Simple Steps to Build More Intimacy” to rekindle the spark in your marriage. Email to ask your marriage and relationship questions here or DM on Instagram. Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Life is busy! Now more than ever is the time to stay connected as a couple. Shaun is back on the podcast and we’re discussing how to maintain a strong connection as a couple in the midst of busy schedules and seasons. Whether you’re juggling careers, family, life changes, or personal growth, listen as we share insights we’ve learned (and are in the process of learning) on effective communication, finding moments of quality time, and appreciating your current season of life, no matter how busy life is right now. Find the full show notes at danache.com/podcast. Resources Mentioned in this Episode:  New Resource! The Ultimate Couples Checklist: 5 Simple Steps to Build More Intimacy   Like the show? Please leave a review! This helps other marriages and relationships grow too!Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

I received a heartfelt email from a listener struggling with the aftermath of his wife’s affair. His words resonated with me, and I found myself reflecting on my own journey through such tumultuous times. In this episode, I share some insights, offering guidance and support for anyone walking this difficult path, including:  Understanding the Aftermath The Importance of Time and Patience Avoid Triggering Media Forgiveness Goes Both Ways Turning Your Sorrow to Prayer If you or someone you know is facing similar struggles, I encourage you to reach out.  You’re not alone, and as I often remind you, healing is indeed coming. Stay the course, my friends; brighter days are ahead. Resources Mentioned in this Episode:  Get your FREE Conversation Starters for Couples in Conflict  Like the show? Please leave a review! This helps other marriages and relationships grow too!  Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.