Stronger Marriage Connection

Dr. Julie Hanks, a licensed therapist and expert in family dynamics, joins the discussion to tackle the tricky topic of household roles. She emphasizes the significance of valuing unpaid labor to foster equitable partnerships. The conversation highlights the pitfalls of traditional gender roles, urging couples to communicate openly about expectations and contributions. Tips on preventing resentment through shared responsibilities are shared, along with strategies to recognize and appreciate the often invisible work each partner does, ultimately strengthening relationships.

Be sure to watch this and every episode of the podcast on YouTube:https://youtu.be/zjuKWgivYNoToday Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a renowned relationship expert, joins Dr. Liz Hale and Dr. Dave Schramm to discuss daily practices for love, relational self-awareness, and fostering intimacy. The conversation dives into overcoming relationship stagnation, understanding family of origin influences, and managing differences in relationship work. Learn how small, intentional actions and curiosity can transform your marriage into a thriving, intimate partnership. About Dr. Solomon:Dr. Alexandra H. Solomon, PhD, is internationally recognized as one of today's most trusted voices in the world of relationships, and her framework of Relational Self-Awareness has reached millions of people around the globe. A couple’s therapist, speaker, author, and professor, Dr. Solomon is passionate about translating cutting-edge research and clinical wisdom into practical tools people can use to bring awareness, curiosity, and authenticity to their relationships. She is a clinician educator and a frequent contributor to academic journals, and she translates her academic and therapeutic experience to the public through her popular Instagram page, which has garnered over 200K followers. She is on faculty in the school of Education and Social Policy at Northwestern University and is a licensed clinical psychologist at The Family Institute at Northwestern University. Her hit podcast, Reimagining Love, reaches tens of thousands of listeners across the globe each week and features high-profile guests from the worlds of therapy, academia, and pop culture. She is the award-winning author of two books: Taking Sexy Back and Loving Bravely, which was featured on the TODAY show. Insights:Alexandra: "Study your reactivity—what makes you tense, urgent, or shut down. Be curious about what it reveals about where you're stuck or what you may need to ask for differently."Liz: "The past shapes us—either we put it in its place, or it runs the show. It’s crucial to explore childhood influences, both your own and your partner’s."Dave: "Consistency in love takes effort. Small, intentional check-ins—‘What’s on your mind? What can I do for you?’—are key to keeping relationships strong." Dr. Solomon's Links:Website: https://dralexandrasolomon.com/Podcast: https://dralexandrasolomon.com/podcast/Instagram:  @dr.alexandra.so1omon  X: @AHSolomon  FB: https://www.facebook.com/dralexandrasolomonVisit 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

Be sure to watch this and every epsidoe of the podcast on YouTube:https://youtu.be/yoBDCp1li2wToday divorce attorney Padideh Jafari shares invaluable insights from her 22 years of experience. She delves into the common challenges marriages face, including financial stress, in-law interference, toxic positivity, and the seven- year itch. Padideh also provides practical tips for better communication, creating healthy boundaries, and the importance of self-awareness in marriage. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to strengthen their relationship or navigate marital challenges with wisdom and grace.About Padideh JafariPadideh Jafari, Esq is the founder and CEO of Jafari Law & Mediation Office, APC, with locations in Los Angeles and Orange County. She earned her B.A. in Communication Studies with a minor in Psychology from Loyola Marymount University and her J.D. from Southwestern University School of Law.During law school, Mrs. Jafari served as a Judicial Extern for the Honorable Michael D. Rutberg of the Los Angeles Superior Court and clerked for the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office, specializing in child abuse cases. She has also been an Adjunct Professor at NYU and the Southern California Institute of Law, teaching Family Law, Community Property, and Real Estate Law.Admitted to the California Bar and the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California in 2003, Mrs. Jafari has over 22 years of experience handling complex Family Law matters, including high-asset property division, business valuation, cash-flow analysis, and high-stakes custody litigation. She is highly regarded in the Los Angeles and Orange County legal communities as a skilled Family Law litigator.In addition to her legal practice, Mrs. Jafari co-hosts The Narcissist Abuse Recovery Channel (NARC), a weekly podcast focused on navigating divorce involving narcissistic partners. She frequently appears on television, YouTube, podcasts, and other media outlets to share her expertise.Insights:Padideh: "I would say that before you decide to file for a divorce, do everything humanly possible in order to see if you can make the marriage work."Liz: "...turn over every stone. Let's make sure that we have looked at this left, right, upside down, backwards, inside out, to know that we've had [no] doubts there is no other way than divorce. I don't want people to leave or five years down the road say, gosh, looking back. What if? What if I found a better therapist? What if I tried harder? I want us to turn over every, every stumbling stone."Links:https://www.jafarilegal.com/Instagram, Threads, TikTok: @JafariLegalhttps://www.jafarilegal.com/narcissist-abuse-recovery-channel-podcast/ Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways: Strongermarriage.org  Podcast.stongermarriage.orgFacebook: 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 engaging discussion, Jason Evert, a renowned author and presenter on purity, dives into the transformative power of chastity in relationships. He defines chastity and its critical role in authentic love, stressing the damaging impact of pornography. Jason provides practical advice for singles and married couples, highlighting the importance of clear communication and shared values. He also emphasizes the significance of cultivating tenderness and patience in modern dating, offering insights that can enhance connections across various faith backgrounds.

Today in this powerful episode, certified sex therapist Natasha Helfer joins Dave Schramm and Liz Hale to discuss the complex relationship between sexual health, faith, and cultural messages. Natasha sheds light on the damaging effects of sexual shame, the influence of purity culture, and the importance of open communication around intimacy. She offers actionable advice for parents, couples, and individuals to foster healthier sexual relationships, overcome shame, and approach intimacy with compassion and understanding. This conversation is filled with insights to help listeners navigate their sexual and relational well-being.About Natasha:The owner and founder of Symmetry Counseling. Natasha Helfer received her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Brigham Young University and her master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Friends University. She also received her certifications as a sex therapist and sex therapist supervisor from the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT). Natasha is licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in Kansas and Utah. She is also an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist. Insights:Natasha: "Sexual shame is a public health crisis, impacting physical and emotional well-being—causing issues like vaginismus, anxiety, and even immune problems. It runs deep and must be addressed."Liz: "For those waiting until marriage, setting realistic expectations is key. Take time—three to six months—to adjust, communicate, and explore your sexuality without shame or pressure."Dave: "Parents must be proactive in shaping healthy conversations about sex. It’s not a one-time talk but an ongoing dialogue that fosters openness and prevents shame."Natasha's Resources:https://www.natashahelfer.com/  https://symcounseling.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

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 #genderrolesAboutDan 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.InsightsDaniel: "Don't overlook the division of labor. It may not be exciting, but discussing expectations with your partner prevents misunderstandings and keeps both of you on the same page."Liz: "Instead of work-life balance, think of work-life justice—respect and communication matter. A simple check-in like, ‘I won’t be home much this week, can we plan for it?’ can make a big difference."Dave: "You can divide responsibilities without dividing the relationship—it's all about 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

Leslie Doares, a marriage and family therapist with over 20 years of experience, discusses the Hero Husband Project aimed at empowering husbands. She emphasizes building emotional safety, effective communication, and creating a 'marriage blueprint.' Leslie challenges the 'happy wife, happy life' mentality, arguing for balanced partnerships instead. The conversation also explores the importance of intimacy and how small, intentional gestures can enhance marital connections. Her insights offer practical advice for nurturing mutual respect and deepening relationships.

Brandon Porter, with his impressive background in family and human development, dives deep into keeping romance alive in marriage. He emphasizes the need for intentionality and creativity in date nights, sharing practical tips for busy couples. From revitalizing romance through simple at-home dates to incorporating novelty and nostalgia, listeners gain inspiring ideas for quality time. Brandon also highlights the significance of anticipation in strengthening connections, proving that even small efforts can reignite the spark in relationships.

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 HaleDr. Liz Hale is a passionate marriage and family therapist with over 30 years of experience helping couples navigate the complexities of their relationships. Whether working with those eager to save their marriage or couples uncertain about their future together, Dr. Liz creates a safe, supportive space to explore the best path forward. Her flexible private practice allows for extended sessions tailored to each couple's unique needs, blending joint and individual consultations 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 LDS herself, she welcomes clients of all backgrounds, incorporating their beliefs and values into a collaborative approach that strengthens their relationships. Dr. Liz is dedicated to guiding couples toward happier, healthier marriages built on mutual respect, trust, and connection. Insights: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 at home. 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 Therapisthttps://www.aamft.org/Psychology Todayhttps://www.psychologytoday.com/usGood Therapyhttps://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/roadmapVisit 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