The Real Marriage Podcast Are You in a Toxic Marriage?
Dec 9, 2025
Explore the signs of a toxic marriage and discover effective ways to address issues before they escalate. The hosts discuss the dangers of separations leading to divorce, emotional manipulation, and the harmful effects on children. They emphasize the importance of compatibility as an ongoing effort rather than an excuse. Discover practical advice for navigating daily differences and maintaining a committed legacy. Uncover the importance of addressing marital crises head-on, armed with faith and communication.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Don't Treat Separation As A Practice Run
- Avoid informal separations that are just “breaks” because they usually become practice for divorce.
- Only separate under a counselor-led plan for addiction or abuse with clear terms and goals.
Threats Open The Back Door
- Threatening divorce or separation normalizes it as an option and damages trust.
- Grace and Mark call such threats emotional manipulation that injure the family system.
Structure Necessary Separations Like Therapy
- If separation is necessary for recovery (e.g., addiction), make it structured like physical therapy for the marriage.
- Use a counselor-led plan with clear requirements and a timeline to pursue reunification.