Marriage in Real Life

On our latest heart-to-heart podcast voyage, we unfurl the sails to explore the deep waters of love, life, and enduring partnerships. My wife and I celebrate her mother's surprise 75th birthday cruise while also reflecting on the dance of our 32-year marriage. We dive into the societal pressures women face around marriage and motherhood and the profound impact age and expectations have on shaping our narratives.As we navigate the ebb and flow of married life, it's the laughter during load-shedding and the shared silence under the stars that truly bind us. Our latest conversation is a tapestry of such moments, interwoven with the spiritual threads that strengthen the union of two souls. Drawing from the wisdom of Psalms 127:1 and 1 Corinthians, we delve into the essence of a God-centered marriage and the role of love as its unwavering pillar. Love, we discover, is not just a fleeting emotion but a steadfast force that thrives on patience, kindness, and humility.The journey of love is far from a solo expedition; it's a shared climb where the weight of ego and pride must be left at the base camp. Through personal anecdotes sprinkled with humor, we reveal the transformative power of selflessness and forgiveness, where the act of holding on to past wrongs is replaced by the grace of letting go. As we peel back the layers of what makes love endure, we touch on the intricacies of navigating financial decisions together, the art of communication without resentment, and the importance of continuous growth as a couple.With over three decades of marriage under our belt, we understand the complexities of love and the continuous investment it demands. In this heartfelt exchange, we underscore the importance of truth, communication, and shared purpose in nurturing the garden of marriage. Reflecting on the impact of personal transformation through faith and the dynamic nature of falling in love time and time again, we share our insights and invite listeners to become part of the community that cherishes the mosaic of committed relationships. Join us, and let's celebrate the realness, the challenges, and the triumphs of love and life together. Watch the live show on Youtube.Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @marriageinreallifepodcast

Have you ever wondered how to keep the sparks flying years into marriage? We've got you covered with a heartwarming exploration of the joys and benefits of continuing to date your wife post-nuptials. We're taking Women's History Month to heart by sharing our own personal stories and insights that reveal just how much of a difference regular date nights can make. From strengthening your bond to rediscovering the thrill of your relationship, we talk about how simple gestures and checking in with each other can breathe new life into your love story.This isn't just about romantic dates; it's about solidifying your partnership. Treating your spouse as your best buddy is crucial, and we discuss how this approach can reinforce your commitment and keep your love as radiant as ever. We also don't leave our single listeners out in the cold—we emphasize the importance of self-love and the empowering act of taking yourself on a date. So, whether you're hitched or flying solo, there's something in here for you to take your relationship with your partner or yourself to the next level.To cap it all off, we touch on the practical side. Balancing kids, jobs, and other responsibilities can make date nights seem challenging, but we share effective ways to prioritize your relationship amidst the chaos. We invite you to engage with us across platforms like Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Spotify, and iHeartRadio Beamcast. So, grab your partner or a cozy spot for one and tune in as we unpack the realities of love, dating, and marriage in everyday life. Watch the live show on Youtube.Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @marriageinreallifepodcast

Discover the essence of a wife's heart as we journey through scripture and personal insights to uncover what she truly desires from her husband. Our latest episode is a heartfelt exploration of love, respect, and the gold standard set by Christ's sacrificial love, as outlined in Ephesians 5:25. We dive into the idea that true love eradicates any inkling of mistreatment and fosters a nurturing ground for respect to bloom. Listen for an enriching discussion that might inspire you to renew your marital vows with a fresh perspective on love and dedication.Have you ever wondered how to fortify your marriage against the storms of life? Our conversation turns to the pillars that make a marriage survive and thrive. From the critical importance of giving your spouse undivided attention to redefining traditional gender roles in spiritual and educational nurturing, we leave no stone unturned. We'll guide you through the nuances of communication and trust and share how to maintain the sanctity of your bond amidst the ever-present distractions of the world. Join us, along with our guests, as we share stories and wisdom that could transform the way you see and participate in your partnership.In a world where intimacy often follows a script, we challenge the norm and invite you to reimagine the dynamics within your marriage. Our enlightening dialogue sheds light on the importance of appreciation, the significance of spiritual leadership, and the beauty of mutual desire and respect in the conjugal bed. Crank up the volume on the dialogues that matter as we groove to the evolving dance of sex and intimacy and chuckle over a pastor's quirky take on pet names. As we wrap up, we emphasize the impactful role of husbands as prayerful guides, setting an example that will resonate through generations.  Tune in for an episode that is not simply listened to but experienced as we offer insights that could illuminate the path to a richer, more spiritually connected marital relationship.Watch the live show on Youtube.Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @marriageinreallifepodcast

Unlock the secrets to a fulfilling, lifelong marriage as we sit down with Bishop Gerald and Lady Cheryl Banks, a couple whose love has blossomed over an astonishing 41 years. Their wisdom, deeply rooted in spiritual faith and practical experience, offers a blueprint for not just surviving, but thriving in a committed relationship. From the sacred origins of marriage to the daily acts that cement a loving bond, this episode is a treasure chest of insights that promises to enrich your understanding of love, partnership, and divine intention.Feel the warmth as Bishop Gerald and Lady Cheryl Banks unwrap the pillars that have supported their four decades of unity—trust, forgiveness, and communication stand out as the load-bearing walls of their marital home. As you listen, you'll learn how they've navigated the challenges of change and growth, keeping the flame of friendship alive through humility and compromise. Their anecdotes and advice serve as a guiding light for any couple looking to reinforce their connection and ward off the shadows of conflict and negativity that can encroach upon even the happiest of unions.Wrap up your listening journey with heartfelt stories that exemplify the importance of shared faith and mutual respect. The Banks couple's reflections on overcoming obstacles, both big and small, provide a candid look at the effort required to build a strong, supportive relationship. Whether you're engaged, newlyweds, or celebrating decades together, this episode is a testament to the enduring power of love and the small, continual acts that weave a tapestry of deep affection and understanding in marriage.Watch the live show on Youtube.Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @marriageinreallifepodcast

 Marriage in Real Life isn't just a podcast; it's a community space where we expose the raw truths of our journey as partners in life, love, and everything in between. We invite you to be part of our vibrant conversation, where your voice can echo through the airwaves, sharing wisdom on weathering the stormy days of marriage and family life.Words carry weight, and in the tapestry of marriage, they can be threads that either strengthen or unravel the bond. We peel back layers on the importance of empathy and careful communication, especially when it comes to sensitive topics like body image. This episode is an intricate dance around the delicate subjects that often stay whispered behind closed doors. We tackle phrases that sting deeper than intended, the silent signals of distress shown through changes in personal habits, and the necessity of professional guidance when the waters get too murky to navigate alone. Every chapter is a step towards understanding that the unsaid can be just as impactful as the spoken word in the realm of love. Tune in for a heartfelt exploration of the ways in which we communicate, support, and love each other through life's unpredictable journey.Watch the live show on Youtube.Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @marriageinreallifepodcast

Navigating the sphere of marital advice can be treacherous. How do you differentiate between sound advice and chatter in the sea of voices? Drawing from personal experiences, we delve into the need for discernment and caution when choosing confidants. We discuss the potential negative influences that can rock your relationship boat, the lurking dangers of gossip, and the significance of seeking guidance from those who have weathered similar storms. Marriage is not a 50/50 venture - a shocking revelation or a familiar truth? We argue for the latter as we explore the fluctuating dynamics of marital responsibilities. We share a unique approach of daily check-ins to gauge your partner's emotional state and adjust support accordingly. To round it off, we spark thought-provoking discussions on the power of forgiveness, the potential growth after infidelity, and the role of trusted counsel in a marriage's journey. So, are you ready to dive deep into the tumultuous yet rewarding ocean of marriage in real life? Tune in!Watch the live show on Youtube.Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @marriageinreallifepodcast

What if the secret to a lasting, fulfilling marriage is as simple as saying "thank you"? Journey with us, your hosts Eric and Patsy Richards, as we unpack the transformative power of gratitude in marriage. Fresh from our trip to Tampa, we put the spotlight on everyday expressions of appreciation and share how this simple act can revolutionise your relationship.The second part of our heart-to-heart conversation explores the marriage-parenting conundrum. Drawing from our personal experiences, we discuss how positive behaviour in marriage sets a sturdy foundation for effective parenting. We share how our actions can teach our children invaluable lessons about love, respect, and relationships.Finally, we share invaluable advice from a bishop who has been married for a staggering 66 years! We delve into his nuggets of wisdom, from treating your spouse like royalty to understanding the power of communication and compliments. We end with a listeners' deeply touching expression of gratitude for her husband. So, join us on this enlightening journey through the many colours of marriage, and remember to hit that like, share, and subscribe button!Watch the live show on Youtube.Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @marriageinreallifepodcast

Do you ever wonder why some dates fizzle out while others bloom into something beautiful? At the beginning of this episode, during HOT TOPICS, we discuss the viral list of "Where Women Do Not Want to Go on First Dates." We pull back the curtain and tell you what we think about the list.   Enjoy a hearty laugh as we break down the list, with Cheesecake Factory topping that list! We also delve into striking the right balance between setting expectations and keeping things simple—the cornerstone of every successful first date.But it's not all about first dates and dating preferences. We're here to help you navigate your relationship waters—especially those pesky weekend arguments that we're all too familiar with. Constantly feeling burnt out from overscheduled weekends? We've got some hints for you! From unpacking the root cause of these disputes to providing tips on balancing chores and relaxation, our discussion is all about creating stress-free weekends.And what's a relationship without communication? In the final segment, we open up about our personal experiences and stress the importance of open and honest dialogue within a marriage. Clear the air on the Sunday Night Blues, learn how to navigate frustrations, and understand differences in communication styles. We're sharing strategies to enhance communication, respect, and trust, regardless of which stage your relationship is in. This episode is a treasure trove of real-life insights and practical advice! So join us and take a step towards a more fulfilling relationship.Watch the live show on Youtube.Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @marriageinreallifepodcast

Are you craving for some candid conversation about the realities of marriage? Well, have a seat! From the thrill of seeing our twins, Natalie and Nikki, achieve great things to the elation of our grandbaby, Juicy, landing a role in a play; we’re sharing it all. Not to forget we also talk about the overwhelming response to the All Pro Dads chapter sponsored by our church. Ever wondered how little acts of love can strengthen your bond with your spouse? Well, we've got some insights to share. Whether it's taking care of routine chores without a reminder or simply going along with your partner's movie choice, expressions of love can be found in the simplest actions. Join us as we dissect the concept of compromise and sacrifice in a relationship, revealing how they can contribute to a stronger bond.As we venture into the realm of 'Showing Love in a Relationship,' we underline the significance of spending quality time together. From planning surprise dates to arranging midday pick-me-ups, we explore diverse ways to express love. We then turn our attention to our beloved online community, extending a warm welcome and inviting them to share their locations and experiences. Join the conversation; it's one you wouldn't want to miss!Watch the live show on Youtube.Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @marriageinreallifepodcast

How often do you find yourself caught in the classic marital tango, wanting to express love but just not feeling it? Ever wondered how to navigate through those challenging times and maintain effective communication with your partner? Well, this episode of Marriage in Real Life is here to guide you. Eric and Patsy Richards bring forth their wisdom and experience, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect, understanding, and treating your partner as your equal. They believe that a harmonious relationship can be established by leading in a way that encourages submission and refraining from comparing your partner to others.Get ready for some real insights on how to show love, even when you're not feeling it. It may sound tricky, but it all boils down to understanding your partner's capabilities and not expecting them to lead the same way someone else does. Patsy and Eric share their own journey, complete with the humorous and light-hearted moments that have kept their bond strong. They discuss the significance of providing your partner space, expressing anger correctly, and the importance of choosing your words carefully. Furthermore, they offer practical advice on how to reconnect with your partner after needing space, emphasizing the role of small acts of kindness and active listening.This episode is not just about dealing with the tough times; it's also about celebrating the beautiful moments in a marriage. The Richards talk about the power of a genuine apology, the significance of follow-through, and how to maintain your relationship effectively. They stress the importance of showing grace, giving hope, and taking responsibility in relationships, and remind listeners to not let anyone else impede their marriages. So tune in to this episode full of heartfelt conversations, advice, and some good humor, all aimed at building a strong and lasting marriage.Watch the live show on Youtube.Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @marriageinreallifepodcast

Have you ever felt the power of a hearty belly laugh in the midst of chaos? We, your hosts Eric and Patsy Richards, delve into the heart of this phenomenon in our latest episode of 'Marriage in Real Life.' we navigate the waves of laughter and its pivotal role in successful unions. Our personal experiences, interspersed with hilarious anecdotes like the wayward rat in the kids' room and the curious case of the elusive pink gown, lay the groundwork for an enlightening discourse on the importance of humor in relationships.As we embark on this journey of discovery, we encounter the intriguing contrast between joy and happiness. We discuss how the two are not interchangeable, especially within the realm of marital bliss. We learn how joy, unlike fleeting happiness, can withstand the test of time and tribulations. It's an insight that holds particularly true in the context of dating - the quest for a companion who brings joy and helps preserve it.We extend an open invitation to listeners to share their favorite funny moments with their spouses that highlight the importance of laughter in relationships. With an array of insightful interviews, coverage of hot marriage topics, and an abundance of laughter, Season Two of 'Marriage in Real Life' promises to be a rollercoaster of emotions. So, join us in this expedition through the highs, lows, and laughter-filled moments of Marriage in Real Life.Watch the live show on Youtube.Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @marriageinreallifepodcast

Ever wondered about the secret sauce for a thriving marriage? Tune in, as we journey through the melodic lanes of love songs, created especially for married couples. Joined by Minister Chris Bird, a stalwart of the gospel music industry, we explore the transformative power of music in enhancing the bond between spouses and setting the mood for those intimate moments.Throughout our banter, we present you with a curated list of ten songs, each a resonating note of love and affection. From the soulful "Far From Turtle" by Bob James to the sensual "Sexual Healing" by Marvin Gaye, we touch upon the intrinsic effect of these classics on couples. As a special treat, Chris relays his inspiring journey of intertwined music and marriage, giving us a peek into how he found his musical muse and crafted love songs that resonate with many couples. However, it's not all roses. We delve deeper into the challenges, addressing how distractions like pornography can hamper the intimate harmony of a marriage, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries. In the context of a Christian marriage, we underscore the need for fostering a deep connection and a respectful atmosphere. Wrapping up our session, we indulge in a lively discussion on our favorite love songs, dissecting their lyrics, and elaborating how they can help couples stay connected. So come on board as we navigate through the beautiful symphony of love, music, marriage, and the sparks that bind them together.Watch the live show on Youtube.Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @marriageinreallifepodcast

Ever wondered how unresolved past traumas may be impacting your relationship? We delve into this intense topic, sharing our insights on open communication, identifying triggers, and the importance of seeking professional help on our podcast, Marriage in Real Life. We've wrapped up an incredible season filled with heartfelt discussions on everything from Getting Your Spouse to Listen to You to Marriage Chore Wars, not to mention celebrating personal family milestones. We've hinted at pop-up sessions this summer, so don't forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell!Our season recap wouldn't be complete without touching on the aspects that add spice to marriage. Regular dates are crucial to keep the romance alive, and we've shared tons of fun and exciting ideas for 'at home' dates, 'spontaneous' dates, and 'reconnection' dates among others. We've also discussed the joys and challenges of navigating a relationship when one partner has a strong personality. Remember, understanding and respecting your partner's individuality can make all the difference.As we sign off this season, we leave you with the thought of the importance of public displays of affection in marriage. From sharing simple kisses to holding hands in public, these small gestures can nurture your relationship and strengthen your bond. We're thrilled to keep the conversation going in the next season, so feel free to chime in with your thoughts, or call in and share your experiences. Until then, keep the love alive!Watch the live show on Youtube.Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @marriageinreallifepodcast

How much PDA is too much for Christian couples? Today, we're tackling this sensitive subject of Marriage in Real Life, discussing the importance of self-control and setting a Godly example for others. We also dive into recent celebrations like graduations, a local play "Deaf Ears," and the Little Mermaid movie.As we explore PDA, we ask ourselves five crucial questions to ensure our actions don't cause anyone to stumble. We also touch on the influence of social media and how it can lead to dangerous situations. Along the way, we reflect on the significance of affection in relationships and how different cultures express love. We share our thoughts on how our generation is more open to expressing love with words and touch and delve into the importance of affection in Godly marriages.Join us in this laughter-filled episode as we discuss the role of PDA in Christian couples' lives and how it can impact those around us. We also take calls from listeners, sharing their experiences and perspectives on the subject. So, tune in and let's learn together about the delicate balance of showing love and affection while maintaining respect for our faith and the people around us.Watch the live show on Youtube.Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @marriageinreallifepodcast

In this episode, Eric & Patsy discuss ways to get your partner to listen to you.  These tips were taken from the blackmatters.com Marriage and Family Tips page The website, Black Marriage and Family Therapy Matters (BMFTM) is designed to connect black families with black therapists. We share a positive outlook on black marriages and families and are committed to providing culturally relevant support designed to empower and encourage black family development. They believe in the unity of black marriages and do all they can to provide black families with the resources they need to thrive.Sometimes, we cannot get our partners to listen no matter how hard we try. Here are a few tips that might help us to break this barrier.Watch the live show on Youtube.Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @marriageinreallifepodcast

In this episode, Patsy and Eric discuss how a wife with a strong personality can either help or hinder a marriage.  They will list traits to know if you have a strong personality and also give examples in their marriage where a strong personality was needed or unwarranted.Watch the live show on Youtube.Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @marriageinreallifepodcast

Who doesn’t want a better marriage? This week in Part I of our podcast, you’ll hear what  God thinks about marriage and why He’s so passionate about blessing you even in life's difficulties. Watch and learn how to live in victory in marriage.Eric and Patsy talk about Marriage as a WWE Tag Team.  You can't get distracted by the others that are outside the ring, you, as a married couple, must pay attention to the ring.  Watch the live show on Youtube.Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @marriageinreallifepodcast

Depending on the season of your marriage, maintaining a habit of dating will require varying amounts of effort and intention. Sometimes, it’ll be easy.Taken from the blog 6 DATES TO MASTER THROUGHOUT MARRIAGE of October 26, 2022, by the Prepare/ENRICH team, Eric & Pasty discuss their dating practices.  This will be a funny podcast full of stories and tips.1. The At-Home Date2. The Spontaneous Date3. The (Re)Connection Date4. The Something-New Date5. The Tradition Date6. The All-Out DateLike, comment, and subscribe to stay updated with the late content from Marriage in Real Life.The Marriage in Real Life podcast is a ministry of Real Life Church SFL.Watch the live show on Youtube.Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @marriageinreallifepodcast

Chores tend to be a frequent and hot source of arguments in relationships. Why? Because chores are there – day in and day out. For many couples, chores aren’t at the top of their to-do list, making arguing about household duties easy.Taken from the post by DRS.  LES AND LESLIE PARROTT,  Eric & Pasty discuss 3 of the FOUR TIPS TO ALLEVIATE CHORE WARS.  This will be a funny podcast full of stories and tips.1. COMMUNICATE2. FOCUS ON WHO IS GOOD AND WILLING3. DON’T CRITICIZELike, comment, and subscribe to stay updated with the late content from Marriage in Real Life.The Marriage in Real Life podcast is a ministry of Real Life Church SFL.Watch the live show on Youtube.Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @marriageinreallifepodcast

Taken from the post by DRS.  LES AND LESLIE PARROTT, Eric & Patsy discuss what they did at the beginning of the year and what they continue to do.  They discuss their shortcomings and what they have mastered. START THE YEAR WITH GRATITUDEMAKE PRAYER A DAILY PRIORITYFORGIVE THE PAST YEAR’S WRONGSLEARN SOMETHING NEW ABOUT ONE ANOTHERCOMMIT TO BETTER LOVEWatch the live show on Youtube.Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @marriageinreallifepodcast