Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage

Ron and Nan Deal, a marriage therapist and former teacher duo, share their journey of healing through emotional triggers in marriage. They discuss the importance of identifying these triggers to improve conflict management. The couple recounts their initial counseling experience that unveiled deeper pain beneath their arguments. Ron emphasizes humility as a precursor to change, while Nan shares how their new practices foster peace and understanding. By modeling trustworthiness, they explore building safety and connection, offering practical steps for couples seeking growth.

Whether you're newlywed or if you've been married for years, you may have unspoken and sometimes unrealistic expectations that can lead to disappointment, conflict, and resentment. On this episode, Greg and Erin help couples develop better conflict resolution techniques such as pausing during escalated arguments, leaning in during moments of conflict, and utilizing empathy in apologies with Christian counselors Chris and Jamie Bailey. They underscore the importance of mutual support, adjustment to changing life circumstances, and maintaining fun and friendship throughout marriage. We also have a tool to help you set boundaries in your marriage, and we answer a listener question about how to encourage a husband to lead his family.   Newlywed Couple's Devotional   12 Pieces of Advice I'd Tell Newlywed Me   5 Traditional Marriage Vows: What They Mean & Why They're Still Important   Contact the show!   Sign up for our FREE Marriage Newsletter   Send us your email or voice mail here!   Send Us A Review!   Support the show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage podcast with Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley, please give us your feedback.

MERRY CHRISTMAS from everyone at Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage! This episode features a special presentation by Liz Curtis Higgs, who shares faith-filled stories of Zechariah, Elizabeth, Mary, and the miraculous births in the Bible, emphasizing that nothing is impossible for God! Greg and Erin encourage you to look for the love languages of your friends and family at Christmas, and we answer an email from a listener who wonders if she and her husband are managing conflict correctly because they DON'T fight; which leads to a conversation encouraging couples to communicate effectively and grow spiritually together.   The Women of Christmas   New Year, New Purpose In Your Marriage article   Mastering Your Spouse's Love Language article   Call our Counseling Line at 1-800-A-FAMILY   Sign up for our FREE Marriage Newsletter   Send us your email or voice mail here!   Send Us A Review!   Support the show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage podcast with Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley, please give us your feedback.

We're continuing our conversation with Dr. Juli Slattery on how God designed sex and sexuality. We're going to discuss the detrimental effects of pornography on both individuals and marriages, as well as highlight the importance of addressing sexual issues through a Christ-centered identity and real, accountable recovery programs. Have you ever thought about how Christians need to differentiate discussions about sexual ethics based on people's beliefs about God and creation? If you're wanting healthier intimacy in marriage and a deeper spiritual relationship; if you're confused about your sexual identity, or know someone who is, listen to this episode and let us know your thoughts.   Surrendered Sexuality: How Knowing Jesus Changes Everything   Help For A Pornography Addiction   Gen Z's Marriage Misunderstanding Article   Biblical View on Transgender Identity: A Primer - Focus on the Family   Sign up for our FREE Marriage Newsletter   Send us your email or voice mail here!   Send Us A Review!   Support the show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage podcast with Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley, please give us your feedback.

Dr. Juli Slattery, a pioneer in Christian sexuality and founder of Authentic Intimacy, joins the Smalleys to explore the profound meaning behind sex in marriage. They delve into the covenantal symbolism of intimacy, emphasizing that sex reflects God’s love and commitment. The discussion touches on common sexual struggles couples face, the impact of trauma, and practical steps for rebuilding intimacy. Juli also provides insights on fostering healthy communication around sex, addressing shame, and cultivating a shared vision for a fulfilling sexual relationship.

Dr. Greg Smalley and Erin Smalley delve into the critical issue of supporting friends in abusive or oppressive marriages with Darby Strickland, an expert counselor and author. Darby explains an insightful definition of abuse as 'oppression,' framing it as the antithesis of God's design for marriage. The discussion addresses the common mistakes helpers make, identifies the patterns of abuse, and offers practical advice for those who may be abusing subconsciously.   Is It Abuse?   Article: What You Need To Know About Domestic Violence and Abuse   Domestic Abuse Hotline 800-799-7233 - Text BEGIN to 88788   Sign up for our FREE Marriage Newsletter   Send us your email or voice mail here!   Send Us A Review!   Support the show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage podcast with Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley, please give us your feedback.

Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley continue with the great conversation they had with Dr. Randy Schroeder about simple habits couples can adopt to strengthen their marriage. Starting with the critical role of forgiveness in healing and sustaining relationships, with specific language that you can use. We also touch on managing conflict, expressing kindness, and the value of having specific disagreement guidelines. If your marriage needs help, pick up Dr. Shroeder's book, and call our counseling line. We'd love to help you.   Simple Habits for Marital Happiness   Take the Free Marriage Assessment   Take The Free Reactive Cycle Assessment   Conversation Starters   Send us your email or voice mail here!   Send Us A Review!   Support the show!   If you enjoyed listening to the Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage podcast with Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley, please give us your feedback.

Dr. Randy Schroeder, a seasoned marriage therapist and author of 'Simple Habits for Marital Happiness', shares invaluable insights for couples. He emphasizes the significance of clear expectations and practical habits like meaningful hugs and eye contact. Randy suggests couples list their top expectations and frame them as requests, enhancing communication and reducing defensiveness. He also discusses essential habits for connection, respectful conflict resolution strategies, and the importance of continuous learning in marriage, making this a must-listen for all couples!

Greg and Erin Smalley discuss the importance of maintaining relational skills in marriage with Roger and Kathy Lipp, who discuss their blended family and their adventures in team-building. We delve into the importance of carving out couple time, how chronic illness can reshape a marriage, and the importance of gratitude and flexibility.   Happy Habits for Every Couple   How to Fight Busyness in Marriage   Sign Up For Our Weekly E-Newsletter And Be a Marriage Champion   20 Dates For Less Than $20   Support the show!   Sign up for our FREE Marriage Newsletter   If you enjoyed listening to the Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage podcast with Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley, please give us your feedback.

Do you think repairing your marriage is hopeless? On this episode of Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage, Greg and Erin feature a presentation by Bob and Jenni Paul, who explain that underneath all marital conflicts is a common cycle of reactive behavior triggered by deeper, often unrecognized wounds or buttons. Our goal is to bring awareness to these patterns so that couples are able to respond with understanding, and improve their relationships by addressing their core desires and fears. Sound complicated? It really isn't! You'll learn a lot from this episode. We also answer a listener Q & A about gambling.   9 Lies That Will Destroy Your Marriage   Support the show!   Sign Up For Our Weekly E-Newsletter And Be a Marriage Champion   Check Out Our Reactive Cycle Assessment   ENGAGE WITH US   If you enjoyed listening to the Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage podcast with Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley, please give us your feedback.