Episodes
Nov. 11, 2021
Remembering What Brought You Together
Sometimes, it's good to reflect on why you married your spouse. To help you do that, John and Erin discuss the benefits of remembering how you fell in love. Featuring Mrs. Melanie Shankle. Find us online at focusonthefamily.c...
Nov. 9, 2021
Having Fun With Your Opposite Personalities
You married someone who's very different from you! It's part of God's design. While your differences can be a lot of fun, they can also create a lot of tension. John talks to Erin about ways that a couple can have fun with th...
Nov. 4, 2021
Opening a Closed Heart
It's one of the worst things that can happen in a marriage: when your spouse's heart closes. If that happens, it can take a long time for the relationship to be restored. John Fuller and Erin Smalley discuss ways to speak kin...
Nov. 2, 2021
Eliminating Distractions, Finding Intimacy
Let's be honest, sometimes, it's easy to get distracted when your spouse is trying to tell you something. John talks with Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley about why it's important for couples to eliminate distractions and connect on...
Oct. 28, 2021
Purpose of the Seasons
Each season of marriage has a purpose. The key is in choosing to make the most of the one you're in, even when it's not easy. If you feel stuck in a winter season today, Greg, Erin and John will offer you some hope. Featuring...
Oct. 26, 2021
The Seasons Your Marriage Goes Through
Every marriage goes through seasons. Some are wonderful, while others are difficult, but each one can help you improve your relationship. John talks with Greg and Erin about seasons in a marriage and how to know if you've bee...
Oct. 21, 2021
Representing Jesus in Our Marriage
If there's a lack of love in your marriage, it's good to evaluate the strength of your relationship with God. The more you prioritize obeying God, the better job you'll do at being a good spouse. John talks to Erin and Greg a...
Oct. 19, 2021
Honey, That's Not What I Meant
You said something to your spouse, and thought your point was clear. But after a day or two, your mate is really upset. It turns out, your spouse misunderstood what you said. Sound familiar? John, Erin and Greg explain why wo...
Oct. 14, 2021
When Unfaithfulness Meets God's Grace
When your spouse has hurt you, it's easy to hold on to unforgiveness. But doing so will only make things worse. John talks with Greg and Erin about ways couples can take steps toward healing, even if one of the spouses has be...
Oct. 12, 2021
The Immediate Damage of an Affair
Sadly, many couples experience the sting of betrayal. When the unfaithfulness comes to light, the damage is shocking. John talks with Greg and Erin about why an affair is so devastating to a marriage, and they'll point you to...
Oct. 7, 2021
Questions and Answers
You long for meaningful connection with your spouse. However, there are moments when it feels like life and responsibilities keep getting in the way. During those seasons, what do you do? John, Greg and Erin suggest some ques...
Oct. 5, 2021
Planets and the Sun
Raising kids with your spouse is one of life's greatest blessings. But anyone who's had children will tell you it's not easy to balance them with your marriage. John talks with Greg and Erin about how to prioritize your marri...
Sept. 30, 2021
Planning for a Thriving Marriage
Success doesn't happen by accident. It requires planning and making intentional decisions. The same principle is true for your marriage. Greg and Erin talk with John about how practicing simple exercises has made their marria...
Sept. 28, 2021
The Story You Tell Yourself
When you're frustrated with your spouse, it's easy to tell yourself things about him or her that aren't true. We've all been guilty of that before. Greg, Erin and John explain how simple gestures of kindness can calm your emo...
Sept. 23, 2021
Working Through Triggers With Honesty
You love your spouse so much, but we're all still human. Part of being human is getting on each other's nerves. John, Erin and Greg discuss what it looks like for couples to work through irritations during the early years of ...
Sept. 21, 2021
Overcoming Tension in the Early Years
The early years of marriage are filled with bliss and lots of adjustments. With so many changes, getting on each others' nerves is very common as you're learning to live together. John, Greg and Erin give some encouragement t...
Sept. 16, 2021
When Jesus Saved Her Marriage
When it seems hopeless, Jesus will still meet you where you are. Your marriage might be struggling today, but God can do a miracle in your relationship. John and the Smalleys share how they've seen God restore broken marriage...
Sept. 14, 2021
God Can Redeem Any Marriage
Many marriages go through a dark season. If you're feeling discouraged today and wondering whether you and your spouse are going to make it, you've come to the right place for hope. Hear John, Erin and Greg explain how it's n...
Sept. 9, 2021
Healthy Expectations for Busy Seasons
When we get angry at our family, there's typically a deeper reason why. It might even be rooted in unrealistic expectations. Erin, Greg and John discuss how to have healthy expectations for busy seasons, and ways to show your...
Sept. 7, 2021
Listen to the Metronome
Like music needs a metronome to sound good, your marriage needs a rhythm to help you stay connected. But is that possible when your schedule feels overloaded? John, Erin and Greg discuss ways to make time for your spouse, eve...
Sept. 2, 2021
Brain Magnets and Joy Buckets
Do you remember what it was like when you and your spouse first fell in love? The attraction was so strong. As time goes on, that same attraction can start to fade if you're not careful. John, Greg and Erin provide some helpf...
Aug. 31, 2021
Marriage is Like Maintaining a Garden
Just like a garden needs water, your marriage needs simple acts of love in order to thrive. John, Erin and Greg explain how they've seen little things help their marriages. They'll also offer some encouragement to couples who...
Aug. 26, 2021
Stop the Sarcasm!
Telling jokes can be a great way to liven up your marriage. But, a good punch line should never come at your spouse's expense. Greg, Erin and John explain why sarcasm can be toxic for your marriage. Featuring Matt and Lisa Ja...
Aug. 24, 2021
When Super-Husband Isn't Enough
While doing things to help your spouse is wonderful, activities should never replace the joy of being together. Greg, Erin and John discuss how they've learned the importance of spending time with their spouses. Featuring Mat...