Bare Marriage

Discover the transformative power of fiction and how it fosters personal growth and empathy. The hosts share their journeys back to reading, discussing the joy it brings and how narratives deepen understanding of complex issues. They highlight the value of flawed characters in children's literature, promoting important conversations about social behavior. The discussion encourages readers to engage with diverse stories for better mental health and relational awareness, culminating in an inspiring poem about women's voices and empowerment.

The discussion tackles whether sex is a want or a need within marriage, emphasizing the importance of nurturing a mutually satisfying sexual relationship. It explores the impact of trauma on intimacy and the misconceptions surrounding female libido, challenging harmful beliefs from purity culture. The hosts advocate for open communication and personalized understandings of relationships rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Ultimately, they encourage couples to build a connection rooted in empathy and mutual fulfillment.

In this engaging discussion, biblical scholar Marg Mowczko, an expert in egalitarian theology, unpacks the concept of 'headship' in Ephesians and 1 Corinthians. She reveals that the Greek term 'kephale' often signifies mutual care rather than authority. Marg also highlights Paul's support for women's roles in ministry, advocating a rethinking of gender dynamics in Christianity. Furthermore, she critiques various English Bible translations, emphasizing the importance of accurate interpretation in understanding scripture and promoting inclusivity.

The hosts dive into the complexities of dating and singleness, urging a shift from passive waiting to proactive engagement. They critique common advice about patience in favor of innovative strategies like the 'Burn the Haystack Method'. Highlighting the need for self-awareness and compatibility, they discuss the hard truths about red flags and the importance of recognizing personal worth. The conversation also emphasizes effective communication and socializing as key elements in finding quality relationships, while advocating for a reflective approach to partner selection.

Joanna Sawatsky, co-author of influential books on sexual health and culture, dives deep into the contentious idea of 'soul ties' and their harmful impact on relationships. She critiques how these beliefs, often rooted in purity culture, perpetuate confusion and emotional distress around intimacy. Joanna also emphasizes the importance of open dialogue about sex education for parents and explores the intersection of faith and psychology, advocating for an evidence-based approach to emotional healing over mystical explanations.

Ngina Otiende, a marriage coach empowering women, teams up with Bethany Jantzi, a mental health expert specializing in coercive control, to dissect Willard Harley's book 'His Needs, Her Needs.' They spotlight its shortcomings, particularly its neglect of trauma in abusive relationships and its reinforcement of harmful gender roles. The duo advocates for a nuanced understanding of marriage, emphasizing women's autonomy, the importance of evidence-based advice, and tackling outdated myths about commitment. Their discussion reveals the need for more inclusive and supportive resources in relationship guidance.

Dr. Andrew Bauman, a licensed therapist and expert on men's sexuality, joins the discussion to unpack the complexities of how church environments can stifle sexual expression. He shares insights from his book, 'Safe Church,' revealing the damaging effects of purity culture and systemic sexism in faith communities. Listeners hear compelling personal stories that highlight the need for accountability and open conversations about intimacy and mutual respect. The episode challenges the blame placed on women and advocates for healthier relationships, sexual autonomy, and healing.

Recent studies reveal intriguing insights into why men cheat, linking infidelity to sexism and power dynamics rather than sexual frequency. The discussion challenges traditional gender roles within evangelicalism and highlights the complexities of benevolent sexism. It emphasizes the importance of egalitarian relationships for emotional connection and lower rates of infidelity. By rethinking men's perspectives on intimacy and marriage, the conversation encourages vulnerability and mutual support, presenting a path to healthier partnerships.

Send us a textIt's an Ask Me Anything episode! Keith and I open talking about the viral video where a woman claims that she felt called by God to iron her husband's clothes before he left for the weekend to be with his mistress. And then Rebecca and I answer your questions about drawing boundaries, dating, protecting kids from abuse in church, and more!OUR SPONSOR:Thank you to our sponsor, Zondervan and the book Saving Face. The church needs to get away from harmful tropes, and call us towards true community based on vulnerability and safety. Aimee Byrd points the way! TO SUPPORT US: Join our Patreon for as little as $5 a month to support our workFor tax deductible donations in the U.S., support Good Fruit Faith Initiative through the Bosko FoundationAnd check out our Merch, or any of our courses!Join our email list!LINKS MENTIONED:Our book She Deserves BetterOur new book The Marriage You WantLast week's podcast on rumination and our one-sheet download for The Love DareSupport the showJoin Sheila at Bare Marriage.com!Check out her books: The Great Sex Rescue She Deserves Better The Good Girl's Guide to Great Sex and The Good Guy's Guide to Great Sex And she has an Orgasm Course and a Libido course too!Check out all her courses, FREE resources, social media, books, and so much more at Sheila's LinkTree.

The discussion critically examines the popular book The Love Dare, arguing it perpetuates harmful marriage myths. It highlights how reliance on unrealistic advice can blind couples to deeper issues, particularly in abusive situations. The hosts advocate for open communication and accountability instead of superficial solutions. They explore the complexity of selfishness and the dangers of misinterpreting intentions in relationships. Emphasizing the need for genuine intimacy and self-reflection, they encourage couples to seek healthier guidance in their marriage.