Stronger Marriage Connection

Greg Denning shares his journey from a troubled childhood to creating an extraordinary marriage and family life while traveling to over 60 countries with his wife and seven children. His positive energy and unique ability to inspire others stems from his personal transformation after leaving home at 16 and experiencing homelessness before discovering the secrets to creating a happy life.• Making marriage the true priority by saying no to anything that competes with the relationship• Using micro deposits (daily acts of connection) and macro deposits (regular getaways and annual honeymoon trips) to invest in marriage• Applying the "Silent Film Test" – asking if observers would know your spouse is your priority based only on actions• Working on yourself first – resolving personal issues that create obstacles in your marriage• Understanding that men can increase their capacity to handle pressure through mindset shifts and physical health• Learning to truly listen to your spouse without trying to fix or respond• Strategically creating systems that enable you to manage complex family life without burnout• Remembering the marriage equation: as you improve yourself, the relationship improves even if only one partner is initially working on itWe live at the level of our habits, not our hopes. Don't settle for a mediocre marriage – keep pursuing your dream of a phenomenal relationship through consistent small adjustments that create big differences over time.Cultural Curriculum Chat with Jebeh EdmundsWelcome to the Cultural Curriculum Chat Podcast—an inclusive space for educators,...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifyVisit 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

Struggling to understand what makes a relationship flourish over time? In this eye-opening episode with Dutch-American psychologist Julie Sharon, we uncover the science-backed secrets that separate thriving marriages from those that falter.When couples find themselves locked in the same frustrating conflict patterns, the answer might be surprisingly physiological. Julie reveals how a racing heart (over 100 BPM) signals we've entered "fight or flight" mode—a state where productive communication becomes nearly impossible. Learn why taking a structured 20-30 minute break can transform heated arguments into constructive conversations, and why agreeing to return to difficult topics builds crucial trust.The episode dives deep into the Gottmans' groundbreaking research on "bids for connection"—those small moments when we reach toward our partner for acknowledgment or engagement. Julie explains why couples who respond positively to these bids 86% of the time stay happily married, while those responding only 33% of the time face relationship breakdown. These seemingly minor interactions create what she calls an "emotional bank account" that buffers relationships during inevitable conflicts.Beyond the research, Julie shares practical tools you can implement today: the stress-reducing conversation (listening without solving), effective repair attempts after conflicts, and creating a culture of appreciation and kindness. She emphasizes that healthy relationships aren't conflict-free—they simply maintain a 5:1 ratio of positive to negative interactions during disagreements.Ready to transform your relationship? Start by looking inward at your own contributions rather than focusing on your partner's shortcomings. As Julie reminds us: "Slow down, take a look inside. Don't respond too quickly. Think before you act, think before you speak, feel before you speak."Cultural Curriculum Chat with Jebeh EdmundsWelcome to the Cultural Curriculum Chat Podcast—an inclusive space for educators,...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifyVisit 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

Dr. Ryan Seedall draws on his 20+ years of experience as a therapist to share insights about relationship conflict patterns and the role of attachment in marriage dynamics. He provides practical pointers to strengthen marriage connections, including how to navigate the demand-withdraw cycle and use anger productively.• Healthy marriages require not just absence of negative interactions but presence of positive ones• Couples need to recover from conflict, not just learn how to argue better• The demand-withdraw pattern creates a cycle where one person's behavior triggers the exact response they're trying to avoid• "Signal and respond" describes how partners communicate needs and respond to each other• Anger serves as a protest signal that something needs attention, not necessarily a destructive force• Technology creates new challenges for couples, with text arguments losing crucial nonverbal cues• Mixed-faith marriages require special navigation of differing beliefs and values• Early intervention is crucial - addressing small issues before they become entrenched patterns• Attunement to partner's emotional state builds trust and connection• Vulnerability, when met with responsiveness, creates deeper intimacyRemember, it's the small things that create a stronger marriage connection. Find more resources at StrongerMarriage.org, including workshops, e-courses, webinars and relationship surveys.Cultural Curriculum Chat with Jebeh EdmundsWelcome to the Cultural Curriculum Chat Podcast—an inclusive space for educators,...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifyVisit 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

Mary Kay Cocharo shares how Imago therapy helps transform relationship conflicts into opportunities for healing childhood wounds through a structured dialogue process that fosters safety, understanding, and deep connection. • Imago theory suggests we're unconsciously attracted to partners who possess both positive and negative traits of our childhood caretakers• Relationships typically move from a romantic stage (lasting about two years) to a power struggle phase where childhood wounds emerge• 50% of married couples divorce during the power struggle phase after about six years of conflict• The Intentional Dialogue process involves mirroring (reflecting what was said), validating (acknowledging the other's perspective makes sense), and empathizing• Surface conflicts often mask deeper childhood wounds, as illustrated by a couple fighting about a dog that actually connected to grief over a mother's death• Sitting 18 inches apart with eye contact calms the limbic brain and activates the cortex, creating a neurobiological state conducive to problem-solving• People typically respond to conflict by either "hyper-arousing" (getting louder/more expressive) or "hypo-arousing" (withdrawing/shutting down)• Three key elements for a stronger marriage connection: touch/physical affection, safe/respectful communication, and shared activities• Focus on the dynamic in the space between you rather than blaming your partner• Simple eye gazing for a few minutes can rebuild connection when words have become triggeringMary Kay's Resourceshttps://www.mkcocharo.com/ Cultural Curriculum Chat with Jebeh EdmundsWelcome to the Cultural Curriculum Chat Podcast—an inclusive space for educators,...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifyVisit 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

Dr. Brian Doss shares a science-backed digital resource called Our Relationship that helps couples identify relationship challenges and implement effective solutions through a structured framework.• Our Relationship program has been continuously funded by the NIH for 15 years and helped tens of thousands of couples• The DEEP framework helps couples understand Differences, Emotions, External stress, and Patterns of communication• Surface emotions like anger often mask hidden emotions like hurt, loneliness, or feeling disconnected• "Invisible support" like doing household tasks before your partner notices can significantly reduce relationship stress• Expressing gratitude for small actions helps maintain positive connections with your partner• The program takes approximately 8-10 hours and offers optional coaching support• Free versions are available for military families and qualifying households based on income• Research shows the program improves not just relationships but also mental health, physical health, and family functioningVisit OurRelationship.com to learn more about the program, which is available both online and through app stores.Brian's Resourceshttps://www.ourrelationship.com/Cultural Curriculum Chat with Jebeh EdmundsWelcome to the Cultural Curriculum Chat Podcast—an inclusive space for educators,...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifyVisit 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

Relationship churning—the pattern of breaking up and getting back together with the same partner—affects nearly half of young adults and creates emotional whiplash for couples, children, and their support networks. Dr. Sarah Halpern-Meekin shares her groundbreaking research on this common relationship phenomenon, explaining why couples fall into these patterns and what it means for their wellbeing.• Relationship churning comes in two main forms: breaking up and getting back together, and having sex with an ex• Nearly half of young adults report churning in their current or most recent relationship• Churning relationships show higher psychological distress, lower satisfaction, and worse communication, but surprisingly higher intimate self-disclosure• Fathers in churning relationships stay more involved with their children than those who permanently break up• Economic distress, incarceration history, and one-sided breakups increase likelihood of churning• The key to healthy relationships includes investing time in connection, developing conflict management skills, and setting clear expectations• Before reconciling after a breakup, ask if what caused the original breakup has actually changedSarah's Resourceshttps://www.irp.wisc.edu/staff/halpern-meekin-sarah/ Cultural Curriculum Chat with Jebeh EdmundsWelcome to the Cultural Curriculum Chat Podcast—an inclusive space for educators,...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifyVisit 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

Adam Dorsay, a licensed psychologist and executive coach from Silicon Valley, discusses the importance of connection in our lives. He reveals the four types of connections we need: with ourselves, others, nature, and something greater. Dorsay explains how modern distractions can hinder meaningful relationships and shares insights on cultivating friendships and shared experiences. He highlights the impact of loneliness on health and emphasizes that self-connection is crucial for forming deeper bonds. Learn how to foster genuine connections and find joy in relationships!

Betrayal trauma occurs when trust is violated within a relationship, creating a profound alteration of reality for the betrayed partner and causing symptoms similar to PTSD. David Jones, a licensed marriage and family therapist, shares insights on the unique challenges of betrayal trauma and offers a three-part framework for healing.• Betrayal trauma is defined as an "alteration of reality" - discovering that what you thought was true about your relationship wasn't• What makes betrayal trauma unique is that the betrayed often must interact with the source of their trauma• The "three legs of the stool" framework for healing: boundaries, individual coping skills/self-care, and connections• Recovery takes significant time - often years - but healing is possible whether the relationship continues or ends• Forgiveness does not equal trust - forgiveness is releasing bitterness while trust must be earned through consistent behavior• Emotional safety forms the foundation for rebuilding connection after betrayal• Support people should be "marriage friendly" if the couple is working toward reconciliationIf you'd like to learn more about the resources discussed in this episode, visit Secure Connection Counseling at secureconnectioncounseling.com or explore the resources available at StrongerMarriage.org.David's Links:https://secureconnectioncounseling.com/About David Jones:David Jones is dedicated to strengthening marriages and families. Growing up with divorced parents and a father in recovery from alcoholism shaped his passion for helping couples navigate challenges. His own blended family of eight children further fuels his commitment to marriage therapy.A Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist, Certified Family Life Educator, and EFT Supervisor Candidate, David specializes in helping couples facing betrayal trauma, infidelity, sexual addiction, and ADHD-related relationship struggles. He also teaches university courses on family relationships and serves as an Army Reserve Chaplain, expanding his real-world perspective.As an AAMFT-Approved Supervisor and EFT Supervisor in Training, David is a leader in his field. He applies attachment theory to therapy, believing that secure relationships not only heal but create lasting transformation. Clients often credit his work with saving their marriages. With a deep well of experience, empathy, and expertise, David is a trusted guide for couples seeking healing and growth.Cultural Curriculum Chat with Jebeh EdmundsWelcome to the Cultural Curriculum Chat Podcast—an inclusive space for educators,...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifyVisit 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

Faith and religion shape marriages by influencing beliefs, practices, and community connections that help couples build "championship marriages" through shared sacred purpose. Dr. Loren Marks shares insights from the American Families of Faith Project, featuring interviews with 300 exemplary couples from 20+ faith traditions.• Shared beliefs create a "family vision" that transcends daily conflicts and provides meaning• Religious practices like family prayer, Shabbat dinners, and observing Ramadan strengthen marital bonds• Faith communities offer support, mentorship, and "friends of the marriage" who invest in couples' success• Even spouses from identical religious backgrounds have different spiritual experiences—every marriage is an "interfaith marriage"• The "divine triangle" concept shows how spouses on individual spiritual journeys converge as they move toward God• Big C Commitment (commitment "no matter what") versus little c commitment (conditional commitment) makes the difference in lasting marriages• Great marriages weren't always great—many couples shared they would have "jumped ship" without faith helping them through early struggles• Religion can harm marriages when it becomes a "time affair" or when applied too rigidly without relational flexibilityMarriage is an invitation to increased holiness, where "you lift me and I'll lift thee, and together we will ascend."Cultural Curriculum Chat with Jebeh EdmundsWelcome to the Cultural Curriculum Chat Podcast—an inclusive space for educators,...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifyVisit 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

Dr. Liz and Dr. Dave welcome Dr. Janet Erickson to discuss the profound impact of marriage on children and families, exploring how parental relationships shape child development and identity formation.• Strong marriages create a sense of wholeness, identity, and belonging for children• Research consistently shows divorce has significant impacts on children of all ages• Children of divorce often face existential questions about their identity and place• Adult children of divorce can overcome challenges by witnessing healthy marriage models• A "good enough" marriage is worth fighting for, though abusive relationships warrant separation• Marriage involves a journey from "loving without knowing" to "being seen, known, and loved"• Maintaining family rituals provides stability during transitions• Personal growth and self-awareness are crucial for healthy relationships• Happiness ultimately comes from deep connection with others"We are relational beings and relationships are worth it, and this is the essence of life. Happiness is love full stop, and our ability to love and to be in loving relationships is worth the growth. It will take growth. It's going to take change in all of us, but that's what we're born for. It's what we desire more than anything."Cultural Curriculum Chat with Jebeh EdmundsWelcome to the Cultural Curriculum Chat Podcast—an inclusive space for educators,...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifyVisit 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