Dr. Daniel Carlson joins Dave and Liz to discuss the division of household labor and its impact on marital satisfaction. From managing the mental load to ensuring fairness, Dr. Carlson shares research-backed strategies for balancing responsibilities at home. They explore the effects of the pandemic on gender roles, the importance of communication, and how couples can navigate household responsibilities to strengthen their relationships. This episode offers practical tips and insights for couples at all life stages, helping them foster mutual support and appreciation in their partnership. #marriageadvice #householdchores #genderroles This engaging episode highlights the importance of communication, fairness, and shared responsibility, offering actionable strategies to build stronger and more equitable relationships. Tune in for valuable insights and expert advice.   About Dan Carlson is an associate professor of Family and Consumer Studies at the University of Utah and a Senior Fellow at the Council on Contemporary Families. He is a public scholar whose research has appeared in numerous television, print, and radio media outlets. Generally, his scholarship examines the causes and consequences of the Second Demographic Transition in U.S. society with a particular focus on the gendered division of labor. Currently, he is conducting an NSF-funded study examining long-term shifts in U.S. parents' divisions of labor since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and their association with parents' well-being. Insights Daniel - "Don't sleep on the division of labor. You know, it may not be fun to talk about, it may not be sexy to talk about, but it's important to have these conversations with your partner about what you and they envision the load to be in your family. Who's going to do what you know, if you don't talk about it, you run the risk, potentially, of having somebody who has very different idea about these things, and that can potentially be problematic, so have that conversation, and, you know, make sure that the approach on the same page well, but when it comes to who's going to do what." Liz - "Instead of work life, balance, work life, justice, I kind of liked that a lot. I was just looking at the definition of justice as a concern for justice, peace and genuine respect for people, which I love. And I guess it goes back to the communication of even just acknowledging that I'm not going to be home much this week before six o'clock, Honey, can we talk about how that's going to go and just what you're going to need from me most, and what I'm going to need from you most? Can we? Can I pick your brain? Can we have that discussion? I think that's just so lovely, because it really is not going to be that that balance. I think some weeks are just going to be very off balance because of life." Dave - "It's got me thinking that you we really can divide responsibilities without dividing the relationship, if you will. It's and sometimes it's the give and take."     Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:  Strongermarriage.org  Podcast.stongermarriage.org  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strongermarriage/  Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongermarriagelife/    Dr. Dave Schramm:  http://drdaveschramm.com  http://drdavespeaks.com    Dr. Liz Hale:  http://www.drlizhale.com  

In this episode, Lesli Doares joins Dave and Liz to discuss the Hero Husband Project and practical ways husbands can strengthen their marriages. From building emotional safety and communication skills to creating a marriage blueprint, Lesli offers actionable advice for nurturing connection and fostering mutual respect. With over 20 years of experience, Lesli empowers husbands to step into their roles as partners and grow their relationships with intention. Whether it’s addressing common mistakes or implementing small, impactful changes, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to deepen their marital bond. #menmatter #mentalhealthmatters #menandmarriage #marriageaadvice About Lesli Doares brings over twenty years of experience working with individuals and couples as acoach and therapist. Combined with her personal experience in an almost 40-year relationshipwith her husband, she has created a paradigm shift in marriage so it can become a space where both partners feel respected and included. Lesli is well known for her direct but compassionate approach – gentle, but total honesty iswhat you’ll get. Her commitment to her marriage and children led her to crisscross the country a couple of times until the L. A. girl settled down in the South. She brings this fusion of cultures to both her business and her life. She is also the author of Blueprint for a Lasting Marriage: How to Create Your Happily Ever After with More Intention, Less Work and Being a Hero Husband: How to Make Your Wife (and You) Happy. Insights Lesli - "Relationships are only natural up to a point, and then they need some skills. You actually need to know how to work through these things. Because everybody you know, love is something that needs to be attended to. You need to feed it. You need to make sure that it's you know, because it can ebb and flow, and if we want to keep it going, we actually have to focus on it. And if we just leave relationships to chance, they're not going to work very well." Liz - "There's just not enough support for men. So, Leslie, I'm so glad that it's you. I love this whole idea of the hero husband, because it's true, they want to be heroes, and we want them to be our heroes. So certain things we as women need to do and need to stop doing. And, to make room for him to show up as a husband. And I love your thought for husbands about the physical and emotional safety for women. If they could really focus on that, gosh, we'll respond favorably." Dave - "I think there's some things as husbands that we can do better, more of, less of. I think one of those for me is to listen past the edge of the voice or the tone, and I think beneath the problem is pain. So looking for the pain beneath the problem the pain point is there fear? Is there frustration? Is there an unmet need, perhaps that's beneath all that. So, listen past that, instead of reacting and trying to get defensive. Listen to what's really hurting, what is underneath all of that, and how can I respond to that, instead of respond to the maybe the edge or the tone of the voice?" Links https://www.theherohusbandproject.com/ https://foundationscoachingnc.com/   Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:  Strongermarriage.org  Podcast.stongermarriage.org  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strongermarriage/  Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongermarriagelife/    Dr. Dave Schramm:  http://drdaveschramm.com  http://drdavespeaks.com    Dr. Liz Hale:  http://www.drlizhale.com  

Today Dr. Brandon Porter joins Dave and Liz to explore the importance of intentionality and creativity in keeping date nights alive. Brandon shares practical tips for busy couples, including the role of planning, novelty, and nostalgia in fostering connection. With a focus on affordability and accessibility, the conversation highlights how even small, intentional efforts can reignite romance and strengthen relationships. Whether it’s a cozy at-home date or a fresh experience, couples will find inspiration to prioritize quality time together. #marrieddating #marriageadvice #datingtips #datingideas #noveltyinmarriage About Brandon obtained a master's degree in family and human development and a PhD in education, both from Utah State University. He has developed curriculum for, presented on, and teaches college-level courses in marriage and family relationships. Brandon and his wife, Danielle, have created resources to support partners in deepening their friendship, increasing their harmony, and keeping date night alive. They've been married for 20 years and are the parents of 6 kids. Insights Brandon - "When it comes to consistent date nights. Don't make it perfect, just make it happen." Liz - "I love the anticipation. That's something I'm going to apply. Starting today. We have a couple things coming up, and I'm going to send Benny a couple texts on that, anticipating and being together for whatever it might be." Dave - "I love the nostalgia idea. I love the novelty, the fun, the creativity. Togetherness, and I love that it's planned, intentional time, that togetherness." Links Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarriageBuilttoThrive Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marriagebuilttothrive/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@marriagebuilttothrive   Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:  Strongermarriage.org  Podcast.stongermarriage.org  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strongermarriage/  Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongermarriagelife/    Dr. Dave Schramm:  http://drdaveschramm.com  http://drdavespeaks.com    Dr. Liz Hale:  http://www.drlizhale.com  

Today Dr. Dave Schramm interviews co-host Dr. Liz Hale on the best strategies for finding the right marriage therapist. They discuss what to look for, key questions to ask, and the importance of fit and specialized training in couples therapy. Whether you're considering marriage therapy for the first time or want to ensure you're working with the right professional, this episode provides practical advice to navigate the process effectively.   About Dr. Liz Hale Dr. Liz Hale is a passionate marriage and family therapist with over 30 years of experiencehelping couples navigate the complexities of their relationships. Whether working with thoseeager to save their marriage or couples uncertain about their future together, Dr. Liz creates asafe, supportive space to explore the best path forward. Her flexible private practice allows forextended sessions tailored to each couple's unique needs, blending joint and individualconsultations to foster open communication and effective progress. Dr. Liz’s approach is rooted in personal experience and professional expertise. She understands the challenges of marriage firsthand, viewing it as both a humbling teacher and a source of profound fulfillment. With a doctorate in Clinical Psychology and specialized training from renowned experts like Dr. John Gottman, Dr. Sue Johnson, and Dr. David Burns, she integrates research-backed methods with personalized care to help couples thrive. As a former host of KSL's The Dr. Liz Hale Show and current resident expert on Studio 5, Dr. Liz is known for her relatable, insightful advice on everything from stress to intimacy. While LDSherself, she welcomes clients of all backgrounds, incorporating their beliefs and values into acollaborative approach that strengthens their relationships. Dr. Liz is dedicated to guidingcouples toward happier, healthier marriages built on mutual respect, trust, and connection.   Inights: Liz: "Liz addressed tough topics like the financial aspects of therapy and when divorce might be necessary. To enhance her impact, she could share more personal anecdotes or client stories (anonymized) and suggest simple, actionable steps listeners can take athome. Her focus on accountability and kindness created a lasting impression." Resources: Marriage Friendly Therapist: https://www.marriagefriendlytherapists.com/ Gottman Referal Network: https://gottmanreferralnetwork.com/ American Association of Marriage & Family Therapist https://www.aamft.org/ Psychology Today https://www.psychologytoday.com/us Good Therapy https://www.goodtherapy.org/   Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:  Strongermarriage.org  Podcast.stongermarriage.org  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strongermarriage/  Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongermarriagelife/    Dr. Dave Schramm:  http://drdaveschramm.com  http://drdavespeaks.com    Dr. Liz Hale:  http://www.drlizhale.com  

Today on this episode of Stronger Marriage Connection, Dr. Liz Hale speaks with Laura Doyle, New York Times bestselling author of The Empowered Wife and a relationship coach dedicated to ending world divorce. Laura shares the six intimacy skills that transformed her own marriage and have since helped thousands of women restore love and passion in their relationships. With practical advice on addressing common marital challenges, including respect, self-care, and creating a spouse-fulfilling prophecy, this episode offers a roadmap for a thriving marriage. About Laura Doyle: New York Times bestselling author Laura Doyle was the perfect wife…until she married. When she tried to improve her husband, he avoided her. She nearly divorced. Then she asked happy wives for their secrets and…got her miracle. Laura’s books are published in 30 countries, and she founded a coach training school. But she’s proudest of her 35-year marriage to John, who’s been dressing himself since before she was born. Insights: Laura: Laura’s passion for empowering women to transform their marriages stands out. Her relatable storytelling and actionable advice about practicing respect, expressing desires, and using the "spouse-fulfilling prophecy" provided listeners with tangible tools for improving their relationships. Her vulnerability in sharing personal struggles and triumphs made her advice both credible and inspiring. Her emphasis on positivity, gratitude, and accountability resonated deeply, leaving a lasting message ofhope and empowerment. Links: https://lauradoyle.org/ https://connect.lauradoyle.org/roadmap   Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:  Strongermarriage.org  Podcast.stongermarriage.org  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strongermarriage/  Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongermarriagelife/    Dr. Dave Schramm:  http://drdaveschramm.com  http://drdavespeaks.com    Dr. Liz Hale:  http://www.drlizhale.com  

Tyler Patrick, a marriage and family therapist specializing in sexual addiction recovery, and his brother Brannon, a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist, delve into the 'Mr. Nice Guy' syndrome. They discuss how this persona masks insecurity, affecting trust and intimacy in relationships. The Patricks offer strategies for authentic masculinity, emphasizing open communication and boundaries. Listeners will learn about embracing vulnerability, healing through honesty, and the importance of supporting each other’s differences for deeper connections.

Today on the Stronger Marriage Connection, Dave Schramm and Liz Hale sit down with Blake Snow, author of Log Off, to discuss the impact of technology on relationships. Blake shares practical tips for setting boundaries with devices, finding balance, and rediscovering meaningful connection with loved ones. From "Montana moments" to screen-free Sundays, Blake offers simple strategies to reclaim your time and focus on what truly matters. Tune in to learn how to foster stronger relationships by managing technology use with intention and purpose About Blake Snow: Award-winning journalist Blake Snow writes for Fortune 500 companies, fancy publications, and 80% of America’s leading travel media. He is the best-selling author of two books, Log Off and Measuring History. A two-time marathoner, former 96% chess player, and avid recording artist, Blake enjoys cooking, playing soccer, and reading 8-10 books per year. High energy is his superpower. Liver in the present. Believer in the afterlife. Die-hard optimist. Blake resides with his wife and five children in Provo, Utah. Insights: Blake: "You can do this. And I mean that generally like, if you don't like what's going on with your life on your phone and social media, you can make changes. You can do hard things, like, look back at all this incredible stuff humanity, that team human has done for centuries, and you're a part of that. And you can do something I might seems challenging. Uh. Or even with your relationship, but you're capable of great things. And I know and think and believe strongly that each of us have the capacity to change andmake changes in our life in a way that works for us and excites us and brings us towards greater health and fulfillment. So you can do this." Liz: "I'm thinking of all kinds of things, all kinds of changes I'd like to make. Because, you know, if, if I don't control it, it, it is going to control me, info technology. And I'm even just thinking, you know, on date night, I always want my phone with me to clip pictures of Ben and I, dear friend of mine, once said, who lost her husband, she goes Liz. I'm so glad I took pictures on date night, so I make the excuse to have my phone there, but it is a distraction. So I'm thinking of investing in a small camera, and I'm thinking of going back to hard copy scriptures, because again, I take my phone to church. Why? Because scriptures are on there, but it's a distraction. So anyway, all kinds of things are running through my mind." Dave: "We've got to take back our time, take back our family, our activities, or put this instead of a half hour in the morning, I'm just going to go and scroll. Maybe go for a walk. Even better, phone a friend. Check in, use your technology." Links: https://blakesnow.com/about/   Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:  Strongermarriage.org  Podcast.stongermarriage.org  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strongermarriage/  Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongermarriagelife/    Dr. Dave Schramm:  http://drdaveschramm.com  http://drdavespeaks.com    Dr. Liz Hale:  http://www.drlizhale.com  

In this inspiring episode of Stronger Marriage Connection, Dave Schramm and LizHale welcome Casey and Meygan Caston, founders of Marriage 365, to share their journey from the brink of divorce to becoming marriage mentors. They discuss practical tools like the weekly marriage business meeting, emotional check-ins, and the 60-second blessing to help couples reconnect and thrive. With an emphasis on curiosity, intentionality, and self-awareness, the Castons provide actionable insights to strengthen relationships and build a lasting legacy of love. Rebuilding love and connection starts with intentionality, curiosity, and the courage to work on yourself. Simple, consistent habits can create a strong, lasting marriage. About Casey & Meygan: Just three years into marriage, we were voted the couple least likely to succeed. We literallyhated each other and had no idea how to get back the love and connection we’d once felt.Through lots of stumbling and trial and error, we did manage to walk back from the brink ofdivorce. But it was incredibly hard. Largely because there were no affordable and accessibleresources for us back then. We felt like we were fumbling around in the dark. So we created the exact resource we wish we’d had: Marriage365. Our restored marriage wasthe inspiration to help other couples who were feeling stuck, lost, and confused about how toreconnect. Today, our app and website reach millions of couples around the world every day,providing practical advice, tools, and inspiration. You can find all of those resources atwww.marriage365.com. Our mission is to create a safe place for people to grow and askquestions that is available to anyone. Money or privilege should never prevent someone fromgetting the tools they need to better themselves and their relationships.   Insights: Meygan: "I think everybody should lift up their head and do an emotional check in with themselves, and pick an area of their life where they know that it could probably be better, health, parenting, work, marriage, and just ask yourself, what's working, what's not working, and what needs to change. And that will be truly a gift of self care for someone listening today." Casey: "If you want to make a better marriage, make a better you, it is a message of empowerment, and it means that you can actually work on your marriage by yourself. You don't have to wait and don't have to feel stuck because your partner's not willing to join. That means, as Liz, I think you said, we take 100% responsibility of our of our marriage, and we own it and we they I'm gonna work on myself, regardlessof you. And I think marriage forces you to work on yourself, like when you're single, nobody can come over and go, You know what? You should really shouldn't say stuff like that. It's inappropriate. Marriage is a great tool for self development." Liz: "...the power of the tongue. Your Words have the power to give life or death. Yep, we know that. I just don't think of that nearly enough." Dave: "I think that that, honesty, is the key to the stronger marriage connection. I mean, the 60 seconds. It's this intentionality, it's, you know what? But I've never done that, and that might feel awkward for me, but if couples will just do it, adopt some of these positive practices to build that relationship connection. Check in, think of that other person, get curious, ask some questions, and then the sincere compliments,really genuinely eye to eye, knee ball, knee or eyeball to eyeball, kneecap to kneecap, looking them in the eye, and sharing how you really feel deeply about them, whether you appreciate about them." Links: https://marriage365.com/   Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:  Strongermarriage.org  Podcast.stongermarriage.org  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strongermarriage/  Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongermarriagelife/    Dr. Dave Schramm:  http://drdaveschramm.com  http://drdavespeaks.com    Dr. Liz Hale:  http://www.drlizhale.com  

In this insightful episode of Stronger Marriage Connection, Dr. Dave Schramm andDr. Liz Hale are joined by therapist Jake Baczuk to explore the transformative concepts of the pain and peace cycles. Jake, a clinical manager and couples’ therapist, explains how negative patterns in behavior and communication create pain cycles that keep couples stuck in frustration and resentment. He introduces the peace cycle as a way to disrupt these patterns by focusing on understanding underlying emotions and unmet needs. Tune in to learn about the practical tools and techniques to foster empathy, self-reflection, and more peaceful responses in your relationships. About Jake Baczuk: Jake is a clinical manager for evolvedMD, an integrated behavioral health company that utilizes the Collaborative Care Model in Primary Care settings. Jake is passionate about this because they are creating access to mental and behavioral health to a population that would not otherwise receive help. It's amazing! He enjoys writing and playing music, playing softball, watching baseball, and spending time with his wife and three kids. He enjoys doing couples therapy and hope’s to start a small private practice in the near future. Insights: Jake: "Recognize that we're all human beings. We're all human beings that are going to make mistakes that we're not necessarily broken or wrong or anything like that, because our love or trustworthiness was breached at some point in our life. We're just human beings, right? And when we understand that human element of ourselves, then we have so many opportunities to move in directions that are healthy, that we want to go, whether it's individually or within our relationship or within our family or at work or anything like that, right? So we're all human beings." Liz: "I think whether we're partners or just people, individuals. We're powerful. So, as we look at the pain cycle or the peace cycle, I just think that there's probably a magic in the pause just to think, now wait a minute, where might that person be coming from? What's really going underneath their behavior? So, I love that. I love the reminder of that cycle." Dave: "I think what stood out is when you talked about the boxes and learning not to react to your partner's behavior, but really respond to what's underneath, and that's the emotions. These needs are often deep and hidden, but if we can look past that and really see them and understand them, may not even agree with that, but still to understand with that, that understanding is powerful, and understanding this, thispain and these peace cycles that we're often blind to. We don't get it. We're so deep into it that we can't step outside and see that we're stuck and often creating the very problems that we don't like in our in the own reactions that our partner, that we're almost helping to create those which is this, yeah, this paradox." Links: Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:  Strongermarriage.org  Podcast.stongermarriage.org  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strongermarriage/  Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongermarriagelife/    Dr. Dave Schramm:  http://drdaveschramm.com  http://drdavespeaks.com    Dr. Liz Hale:  http://www.drlizhale.com  

In this episode of Stronger Marriage Connection, hosts Dr. Dave Schramm and Dr.Liz Hale sit down with Heather Holmgren, a marriage and family therapist and founder of Simple Modern Therapy. Heather shares insights on emotional regulation, the essential skill of deep listening, and how to approach conflict with curiosity rather than reactivity. She explains the importance of self- awareness, emotional control, and co-regulation to help couples navigate difficult conversations. Heather provides actionable advice for slowing down during conflicts, truly hearing your partner, and fostering a healthy, supportive relationship. Tune in to discover practical tips to strengthen communication and deepen your connection. About Heather: Heather Holmgren, LMFT and founder of Simple Modern Therapy, has committed her 20-yearcareer to understanding what makes a modern relationship thrive.Through it all she has foundthis much to be true: if you aren't happy with yourself, your intimate and professionalrelationships are likely to fail. She has built a flourishing career and flourishing practice helping contemporary individuals, relationships and families learn to love each other, “Love Yourself and Love Your Life." She is one of eight incredible therapists providing support to individuals and relationships indowntown Salt Lake City (and Utah, virtually). All Simple Modern therapists have additionaltraining and expertise in relationship work, as well as providing affirming care to LGBTQIA+relationships. Heather is passionate about professional mentorship and has supervised clinicians for the lastten years. She is a strong advocate for the practice of good mental hygiene, and can be foundspeaking on this topic, as well as relationship related issues on Good Things Utah, at EdisonHouse and for corporations across the state. You can also find Heather, with her colleagueAndrès Brown, providing training, support and consultation to the larger therapeuticcommunity, expanding the reach of skilled and affirming inclusive relationship therapy. Insights: Heather: "The more aware you are of where you are emotionally, what kind of outside stressors are impacting your mental health and mood can really be a big factor in how you're showing up in your relationships. So take care of yourself. Take care of yourself. It's not selfish, it is self care, and that helps us be much more effective in our relationships. And you know, secondarily, I feel like I have to say that listening is anart, and if we think we're good at communicating, we have to ask ourselves, how good am I at really listening to understand at relationally attuning." Liz: "Just thinking about speaking of being generous and kind. I think listening is one of the more generous and kindest things that we can do." Dave: "I think it's when you're talking about the pause. I just think that there's a power in the pause. The power in the pause to be able to not react, to be able to gives us at least a chance, pause, take a breath, allow our hearts, our minds, our brains, to be able to okay, I'm going to reflect and respond instead of react right now." Links: https://simplemodern.org/ https://www.instagram.com/simplemoderntherapy/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/SimpleModernTherapy https://www.linkedin.com/company/simple-modern-therapy/   Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:  Strongermarriage.org  Podcast.stongermarriage.org  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strongermarriage/  Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongermarriagelife/    Dr. Dave Schramm:  http://drdaveschramm.com  http://drdavespeaks.com    Dr. Liz Hale:  http://www.drlizhale.com