Stronger Marriage Connection

It's often said that marriage takes work. The Stronger Marriage Connection podcast wants to help because a happy marriage is worth the effort. USU Family Life Professor Dr. Dave Schramm and Clinical Psychologist Dr. Liz Hale talk with experts about the principles and practices that will enhance your commitment, compassion, and emotional connection. 

More than ever before, marriages face obstacles, from the busyness of work and daily hassles to disagreements and digital distractions. It's no wonder couples sometimes drift apart, growing resentful, lonely, and isolated.

The Utah Marriage Commission invites you to listen and discover new ways to strengthen and protect your marriage connection today!

Episodes

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    November 4, 2024

    Listening and Emotional Regulation | Heather Holmgren | #105

    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-year
    career to understanding what makes a modern relationship thrive.Through it all she has found
    this much to be true: if you aren't happy with yourself, your intimate and professional
    relationships 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 in
    downtown Salt Lake City (and Utah, virtually). All Simple Modern therapists have additional
    training 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 last
    ten years. She is a strong advocate for the practice of good mental hygiene, and can be found
    speaking on this topic, as well as relationship related issues on Good Things Utah, at Edison
    House and for corporations across the state. You can also find Heather, with her colleague
    Andrès Brown, providing training, support and consultation to the larger therapeutic
    community, 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 an
      art, 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/

     

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    October 28, 2024

    Love for Mental Illness | Andy Hogan | #104

    Dr. Dave Schramm and Dr. Liz Hale welcome licensed mental health counselor Andy Hogan, who shares his personal journey with mental illness and how it has influenced his work with others. Andy introduces his REACH acronym—a powerful tool designed to support both those living with mental illness and their loved ones. The discussion dives into the importance of love over fear in the healing journey, methods to recognize and manage symptoms, and ways to build empathy and connection. Learn how to better support mental health with compassion and understanding.

    About Andy Hogan:

    Andrew personally suffered a manic psychosis breakdown while serving a mission in Taiwan. He was tranquilized and woke up in a hospital in Provo. During a month-stay in the hospital, his high school sweetheart decided to end their relationship. They never talked about why, she just slowly made less and less contact and avoided him over a period of time. 3 years later, Andrew became so desperate for an answer, he proposed. She said, "I can't." This was his rock bottom moment, where the choice was either stop living or start to REACH.

    REACH is the acronym for the steps Andrew took personally, and the steps he later would teach professionally of how to find love for mental illness.
    1. Recognize the source of my symptoms.
    2. Emerge from denial and isolation.
    3. Authenticate self and mental illness.
    4. Control the disorder as we are able.
    5. Heighten our lives.

    While learning to REACH, Andrew started dating again. On jod first date with Sariah who had also served a mission in Taiwan, he told her he was the one who went crazy on the island. She replied, "That was you?" She had served in a different mission over a year after his breakdown, but she had heard about the missionary who went crazy. After our date, Sariah talked to her parents who said, "If you decide to love him, we will love him too." They chose to give love for mental illness and Sariah courageously decided to keep dating me. Their marriage started as a choice for love instead of a reaction to fear of mental illness. Making that choice again and again for going-on 30 years now, is how REACH has made for happiness and growing connection in their relationship.

    Insights:

    • Andy: "the thing you can do to help someone with mental illness or to help yourself, if you're the one, if you recognize mental illness in yourself, the thing you can do is to face your fears and learn to love in yourn thoughts, in your beliefs and in your actions, there is something you can do, and it works, it helps. That is the thing you can do for mental illness, is give love. Give love for mental illness."
    • Liz: " love this whole fear, this whole idea about fear really creates more pain, creates more separation, but that love and acceptance would create, that's what creates health and connection. They stuff that was really beautiful. I'm going to think differently about mental illness because of our time with you, Andy."
    • Dave: "I love the reach acronym. Our illness doesn't define us. It is our feelings. All that we're struggling with doesn't define us."

    Links:

    www.ReachAndyHogan.com

    https://www.youtube.com/@reachandyhogan

     

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways: 

    Strongermarriage.org 

    Podcast.stongermarriage.org 

     

    Dr. Dave Schramm: 

     

    Dr. Liz Hale: 

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    October 21, 2024

    Infertility Trauma, Reproductive Health, and Therapy | Amelia Hopkin | #103

    In this episode of Stronger Marriage Connection, Dr. Liz Hale and Dr. Dave Schramm talk with licensed clinical social worker Amelia Hopkin about the emotional and physical struggles associated with infertility. Amelia shares how fertility issues impact relationships, the role of
    family support, and the healing power of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy) for couples dealing with reproductive health trauma. She also provides guidance on navigating infertility treatments and offers valuable resources for those on this difficult journey.

    About Amelia Hopkin:

    Amelia Hopkin has spent the last 23 years providing help and building relationships with medical providers, community organizations, researchers, educators and most importantly, families who experience one of the hardest kinds of experiences... Infant or pregnancy loss, infertility, unexpected birth experiences, various degrees and types of postpartum depression, NICU stays as well as sexual or health related trauma. She has been a speaker and trainer at both national and international conferences (ask her about speaking to the UN and her month at the HRC!), a published researcher, is certified in EMDR and trained in ART (the therapy kind, she's a horrible artist and needs to label her stick figures). As one of the only trained EMDR intensive providers in the state of Utah, she helps those who have limited time and significant trauma find deep and meaningful healing. Click on the EMDR tab for more info on that. When not in the office, Amelia may be getting in over her head on a DIY project, reading books, dreaming up a new travel adventure, finding nature, looking for ways to avoid doing laundry or trying out a new restaurant or recipe.

    Insights:

    • Amelia: "...if you're experiencing fertility struggles, you are not alone, that number is one in six. There are some really fantastic resources."
    • Liz: "the thought of getting comfortable with being uncomfortable, right with whatever it is that is troubling us..."
    • Dave" "I think my takeaway the day really is the no shame, no blaming of yourself through this journey, I'm sure, so easily to turn inward and then to have those suffocating feelings that can feel overwhelming, that affect your marriage and your outlook, your life, your eating, sleeping every this will affect your life
      in so many ways. I hope people won't go there or stay there too long. Did you realize this is nothing you did you know anything so not that. Avoid that blame and shame game. Keep those eyes up and looking for resources and help."

    Links:

    https://www.growing-the-good.com/

     

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways: 

    Strongermarriage.org 

    Podcast.stongermarriage.org 

     

    Dr. Dave Schramm: 

     

    Dr. Liz Hale: 

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    October 14, 2024

    Establishing Healthy Boundaries in Marriage | Boone Christianson & Kaprena Moore | #102

    In this episode of Stronger Marriage Connection, Dr. Dave Schramm and Dr. Liz Hale sit down with marriage therapists Boone Christensen and Kaprena Moore to discuss how couples can establish and maintain healthy boundaries in their relationships. They explain what boundaries look like in marriage, why they’re important, and how to effectively communicate them. Boone and Kaprena share real-life examples and provide tips on dealing with common boundary issues, including emotional safety, parenting, and handling conflicts. The episode highlights how boundaries can foster love, respect, and protection, rather than control.

     

    About Boone & Kaprena:

    Boone and Kaprena own Steps Family Therapy in Spanish Fork, where they conduct individual, couple, and family therapy. They both performed qualitative research in graduate school on the role of clergy in mental health and relational issues. When not doing therapy or spending time with their two kids, Boone loves camping, fishing, and reading research on therapist development. Kaprena loves planning events, writing music, and yoga. They are both consultants for the mental health company, Mindless.

    Insights:

    • Boone: "I'd say boundaries are the things you do to protect yourself and keep yourself healthy. They are nothing that you expect anybody else to do anything about."
    • Kaprena: "When boundaries are about changing and manipulating your partner, they are poisonous. When they are about protecting yourself, they can convey love."
    • Liz: "I think boundaries really are about safety. It's not just my feelings, but my partner's feelings. I just I do think of a cocoon a little bit when I think of a boundary or fenced in area where we're both inside, and it's not about the rupture, it's about making room for both of us."
    • Dave: "I think that the boundaries perhaps can change. Is that possible over time? Is more understanding and his development and his relationship changes, still to have protection, but there may not be boundaries now we're okay. We need to adjust this. If I have a child that's living at home, or if there's a an accident or mental health or struggles or things okay, we need to adjust the boundaries here of what's happening to keep that protection in place."

    Links:

    https://stepsfamilytherapy.blogspot.com

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@boonechristianson

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapy_with_boone_lmft/?hl=en

     

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways: 

    Strongermarriage.org 

    Podcast.stongermarriage.org 

     

    Dr. Dave Schramm: 

     

    Dr. Liz Hale: 

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    October 7, 2024

    Learning To Manage & Love Motherhood | Rachel Nielson | #101

    In this episode of Stronger Marriage Connection, Dr. Dave Schramm and Dr. Liz Hale sit down with Rachel Nielson, host of the podcast Three in 30 Takeaways for Moms. Rachel opens up about her personal journey through motherhood, from the struggles of balancing expectations to finding joy in her role. She shares insights from therapy, practical strategies for decluttering your mental and emotional space, and ways to set healthy boundaries. Rachel also discusses how couples can support one another in parenting and offers actionable steps to bring more joy into motherhood and family life.

    About Rachel Nielson:

    3 in 30 Takeaways for Moms is a podcast hosted by Rachel Nielson, a lover of practical ideas, conversations with kindred spirits, and her two wild miracle children who keep life interesting.
    After a long fight to become a mother through adoption and IVF, Rachel truly believed that she would thrive as a mom from day one. Her transition into motherhood was a little bumpier than she had imagined, and she sought the help of professionals for actionable advice.
     
    3 in 30 is for moms who are short on time and brain space. In each 30-minute episode, Rachel and her guests share three actionable takeaways to help you be less overwhelmed and more self-assured in your motherhood. Rachel covers a wide variety of topics– from emotional resilience, to productivity and time management tips, to talking to your kids about racism, disability, mental health, and so much more.
     
    Insights:
    • Rachel: "The key for me has been the realization that I can examine my thoughts and choose thoughts that are more helpful and uplifting and empowering and make me feel like the best version of myself."
    • Dave: "There are many ways to be a good mom."
    • Liz: "I love that first step of cleaning out, decluttering the motherhood closet. I'm not a mother, but I certainly have a clutter closet in my mind, the brain dump and listing all the should"

    Links:

    3in30Podcast

     

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways: 

    Strongermarriage.org 

    Podcast.stongermarriage.org 

     

    Dr. Dave Schramm: 

     

    Dr. Liz Hale: 

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    September 30, 2024

    Resilience Makes Marriage Last | Dr. Christian and Dr. Caroline Heim | #100

    Dr. Dave Schramm and Dr. Liz Hale welcome renowned marriage experts, Dr. Christian Heim and Dr. Caroline Heim, from Australia. They discuss insights from the largest global study on long-term relationships, revealing the key elements that make marriages last. The conversation highlights the importance of commitment, altruism, and shared values while addressing the challenges of hyper-individualism, social isolation, and mental health struggles. Whether you're single, married, or in a long-term relationship, this episode offers invaluable tools and perspectives to strengthen your relationship.

    #marraigeadvice #resilience #marraigeresilience #makingmarriagework

    About:

    Christian Heim FRANZCP, PhD is a psychiatrist, a Clinical Director in Mental Health Services, Senior Lecturer in the School of Medicine at the University of Queensland and a Churchill Fellow. Christian gives keynotes internationally on preventative mental health. In private psychiatry, he subspecializes in war-related and severe childhood sexual trauma, and couple therapy where mental illness is prominent. Christian publishes books and journal articles in the area of preventative mental health. His latest book was co-authored with Caroline Heim: Resilient Relationships: techniques for surviving hyper-individualism, social isolation and a mental health crisis. (Routledge, 2023).

    Caroline Heim is an Associate Professor at Queensland University of Technology. She has published two books in theatre studies and is a global authority on the psychology of relationships in the theatre. Caroline gives keynotes internationally and her numerous articles cover various topics from audiences to the mental health of university students. Specialising in empirical research, she has interviewed over 300 people internationally. Before entering academia, Caroline studied theatre and worked in New York winning a Drama League Award.

    Insights:

    • Christian: "it doesn't matter how you do it. There are different ways to do things however your relationship works, is the way that your relationship works. Don't feel that you've got to find a formula, but the key to me is that your relationship is your greatest asset, and that means that it'll take some nurturing, it'll take some investment, it'll take time, energy and effort, but gosh, it's worthwhile."

    • Caroline: "'I'd say probably, is altruism, our second finding. Because, as I said, it's not much in the literature. And these couples that put the others needs before there's I could see that they had, again, this strong connection. And. So as we said, it's hard to do that in a in a society that says that everything's got to be about me, and it's about my needs, and if I'm not getting what I want from this relationship, then I'm out of here. But as one, as many of the couples actually said it's much easier to walk away and then to stay and fight for your marriage, you and me against the world, basically."

    • Dave: "At so many levels, I love this idea of, I'll call it search inward, turn outward. That's how I like to think of this searching or what are my values and what are our values, and then turning outward with that altruism and how, what can I do for my spouse or my partner today to make their day better? It's this outward mindset, really, of thinking about the we rather than the me. I haven't heard that term hyper individualism, but man, I think that's, that's spot on. I feel like that's like the number one killer in relationships today."

    • Liz: "You know what I'm really happy to hear Caroline and Christian say is that has benefited their marriage, because this five year study, I doubt there was a lot of income they were getting from this study. There was a lot of giving and listening and noting, and so I'm so pleased that there was this flip effect of blessing your own marriage. Really happy to hear that for you and another takeaway, I mean, one of my favorite events with the recent Olympic Olympics was synchronized diving, and I never thought about it to go for the gold. That the more difficult, the more points, the more opportunity for gold. I thought that was just brilliant."

    Links:

    Resilient Relationships

    Dr. Christian Heim

     

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways: 

    Strongermarriage.org 

    Podcast.stongermarriage.org 

     

    Dr. Dave Schramm: 

     

    Dr. Liz Hale: 

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    September 23, 2024

    Helping Women Have Better Marriages | Maggie Reyes | #99

    In this episode of Stronger Marriage Connection, Dr. Dave Schramm and Dr. Liz
    Hale chat with Maggie Reyes, a master certified life coach and marriage mentor. Maggie shares five powerful questions that women can use to improve their marriages, without needing their partner to change. These questions help women shift their mindset, engage their emotional intelligence, and create positive change in their relationships. Maggie emphasizes the importance of understanding our emotions, managing expectations, and grieving unmet hopes while building strong, lasting connections. Learn how asking the right questions can transform your marriage and empower you as a partner.

    About Maggie:

    Maggie Reyes is a Master Certified Life Coach and Modern Marriage Mentor who specializes in helping driven, ambitious women create their best marriages, without waiting for their partners to change or adding more work to their lives.

    She is the creator of The Marriage MBA Program, a 6 month mentorship in creating a successful marriage using principles from positive psychology, cognitive science and simple coaching tools that you can learn today and apply tomorrow.

    Maggie is the author of the best selling Questions for Couples Journal which has over 3,000 4 star ratings on Amazon. And she is the host of the The Marriage Life Coach Podcast which is consistently ranked among the top 2 percent podcasts out of over 2 million podcasts tracked by ListenNotes. When she isn’t teaching or coaching she loves obsessing over Formula 1 Racing, Bridgerton, reading fan fiction, sexy romance novels and watching superhero movies and Mexican Rom Coms with her hubby.

    Insights:

    • Maggie: "That you have choices, that you can think about what you want in your relationship and then take positive forward action towards that. I think that's the core of everything that I teach. And if someone is listening to us today and feeling frustrated or feeling sad, if I could just be that voice in your ear that says you have choices."
    • Dave: "I'm going to actually combine both of your takeaways. I love that generosity Liz and the choices Maggie. I often call this, and it's been re iterated today. I think a challenge of lifetime. There are probably many challenges of lifetime. One of the those who stuck my mind lately, and it relates to what we're talking about today, is feeling disappointed, feeling feeling stressed, feeling worried, feeling irritated, even feeling angry, all those right, natural emotions we're going to feel those in our relationships. I believe this is difficult. That's why it's the challenge of a lifetime to feel all of that and still be kind, and still be generous."

    • Liz: "That generosity is the highest form of love, being generous. And like you said, sometimes it doesn't, life doesn't call for that, right? But I think, especially in love and in marriage, generosity is often, I think, the call of the day. So I love that."

    Links:

    https://maggiereyes.com/

     

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways: 

    Strongermarriage.org 

    Podcast.stongermarriage.org 

     

    Dr. Dave Schramm: 

     

    Dr. Liz Hale: 

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    September 16, 2024

    Overcoming The Trauma of Betrayal | Crystal Hollenbeck | #98

    In this episode of the Stronger Marriage Connection, Dr. Dave Schramm and Dr. Liz Hale welcome betrayal trauma expert Dr. Crystal Hollenbeck to discuss the emotional complexities and recovery strategies for betrayal trauma. The conversation dives into the impact of betrayal, particularly the intense anger experienced by the betrayed partner, and how to navigate the healing process. Dr. Hollenbeck outlines therapeutic techniques, including her self-regulation model, and discusses why many partners remain in relationships post-betrayal. This episode is filled with practical advice, research-backed insights, and hope for those struggling to overcome the devastating effects of betrayal in relationships.

    About:

    Dr. Crystal Hollenbeck is a Betrayal Trauma Specialist and helps couples heal the wounds of
    betrayal trauma. Her article recently published in the Journal of Sex and Marital Therapy
    provides recommendations for clinicians to help betrayed partners manage the complexity of
    betrayal trauma anger. Her book entitled, "Betrayal Trauma Anger: You are not crazy, you are
    angry, and you should be" is coming soon.


    Crystal is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Florida State Qualified Supervisor for those seeking a license in Mental Health Counseling or Marriage and Family Therapy. In addition, she is also a Certified Professional Life Coach. Being a Therapist and a Life Coach gives her the unique ability to help clients heal from the past and live their best life today. Her approach to counseling and coaching is non-judgmental, caring, and solution focused. She believes counseling and coaching are an essential part of a person’s ability to live the life they desire and she strives to provide a counseling setting where you can feel safe to work through the difficulty you are facing with hope. Dedicating her life to helping others as a therapist and
    coach is a result of post traumatic growth from her own personal life experiences.

    Insights:

    • Crystal - "Betrayal is a devastating injustice. And although you're going to feel like you're crazy, you're not crazy, you're angry and you should be."

    • Dave - "I think the take home for me, at least one of the many, is that avoiding that self-blame, it's that all of a sudden that inward right and anger, anger turns this inward, and then it's some of this, you know, maybe outward at first, but then it's this inward of what? What did I do? Am I not skinny enough? Why? Why did they do kind of searching for the why and then blaming themselves for this? I love that message."

    • Liz - "I've never heard the great advice around self-harm regarding using an ice cube, rubber band, rubber band, I've heard, but Ice Cube I haven't. I really love both of those, actually. So, thank you for that. Because as I get that, I get that you're just trying to use access to physical pain to release the emotional pain. Makes perfect sense, actually, but harmful. We're just continuing the on the harm, so we have to stop, and I really appreciate you bringing that to our attention."

    Links:

    https://crystalhollenbeck.com/

     

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways: 

    Strongermarriage.org 

    Podcast.stongermarriage.org 

     

    Dr. Dave Schramm: 

     

    Dr. Liz Hale: 

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    September 9, 2024

    Emotion Focused Therapy and Our Inner Critic | Dr. Debi Gilmore | #97

    In this episode of Stronger Marriage Connection, hosts Dr. Dave Schramm and Dr. Liz Hale sit down with Dr. Debi Gilmore, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, to discuss Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). Dr. Gilmore shares insights into how EFT helps couples strengthen their emotional bonds, navigate pain, and foster connection. She also offers practical tips couples can use to improve their relationships, including the “Four Mantras of Love” and the “ARE” model (Accessible, Responsive, Engaged). This episode is packed with strategies to help couples rediscover connection and navigate challenges in their relationships.

    About Dr. Debi Gilmore:

    Dr. Debi Gilmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, public speaker, professional educator, author, and co-owner of The EFT Counseling and Education Center, a large mental health clinic specializing in couples therapy serving Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, Nevada, and Arizona. Debi trains therapists seeking licensure or certification as an Emotionally Focused Therapist. She is co-founder and developer of the Building A Lasting Connection™ and Lasting Connection System™ mats. The Building A Lasting Connection™ (BLC) relationship program is based on her doctoral dissertation focused on premarital education. The Lasting Connection System™ mats and BLC program are being used by therapists and workshop facilitators across the world.

    Insights:

    • Debi: "The takeaway is I need to be better. I need to listen more intently, I need to love more abundantly, and I need to forgive more swiftly. So I'm going to say what I'm taking away is I will apply those things to myself."
    • Dave: "I love acronyms. It's the R, the A, R, E, is it? Make sure I got to write the accessible, responsive and engaged."
    • Liz: "It's really a combination of what the two of you have both talked about, I love that. What's the glory in your story? Dave, that's so beautiful. And for Debbie to suggest, when she first sits down with a couple, is to say, tell me about the first time you saw her. Tell me about the first time you saw him. For any of us to really go back in time, whether we've been married a year, 10 years, 30 years, 50 years, to remember those earlier times. They're precious, right? And they're powerful at the same time."

    Debi Gilmore’s Resources:

    www.drdebigilmore.com

    www.eftcounseling.org

    Instagram: thttps://www.instagram.com/the_love.therapist/?hl=en

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/degilmo/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdebigilmore/

     

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways: 

    Strongermarriage.org 

    Podcast.stongermarriage.org 

     

    Dr. Dave Schramm: 

     

    Dr. Liz Hale: 

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    September 2, 2024

    Healing Male Childhood Trauma and How to Fix its Impact on Marriage | Christian St. Jacques | #96

    In this episode of the Stronger Marriage Connection podcast, hosts Dr. Dave Schramm and Dr. Liz Hale sit down with Christian St. Jacques, a holistic men's and relationship counselor, to explore the challenges men face in prioritizing mental health. Christian shares his journey of overcoming a dysfunctional family background, highlighting the importance of grounding oneself in purpose-driven values rather than performance-based identities. He discusses common obstacles men encounter, such as societal expectations and the struggle to balance roles as husbands and fathers. The conversation offers practical advice for men to achieve intentional growth and foster stronger connections in their relationships and communities.

    About Christian St. Jaques:

    bout Christian St. Jacques: Christian St. Jacques is a licensed mental health care associate (LMHCA) in Washington State who received his Masters in Counseling and Mental Health at Northwest University. He specializes in working with teens, young and older adult males, and couples. Christian draws from a variety of evidence-based approaches including Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Attachment, Family Systems model, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy.

    He addresses every client holistically by evaluating all biological, psychological, social, and spiritual variables that factor in an individual's mental health. Working within a variety of therapeutic frameworks that are adapted based on the needs of the individual or couple.

    The issues and challenges that you bring to counseling will provide the context for our work. In your time together, you will explore any one or a combination but not limited to your cognitive mental models, current and past relational patterns to gain insight into the origins of your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.

    Christian St. Jacques Links:

    https://www.narrative-counseling.com/

     

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways: 

    Strongermarriage.org 

    Podcast.stongermarriage.org 

     

    Dr. Dave Schramm: 

     

    Dr. Liz Hale: 

     

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    August 26, 2024

    Debunking Common Myths About Sexuality: What The Science Really Says | Dean Busby | #95

    Today Dr. Dave Schramm and Dr. Liz Hale sit down with Dr. Dean Busby, a seasoned professor from Brigham Young University, to delve into the truths and myths surrounding human sexuality. The discussion covers a wide range of topics, from gender differences and the impact of religiosity on sexual experiences to the challenges couples face across different life stages, including pregnancy and menopause. Dr. Busby offers expert advice on improving sexual relationships, emphasizing the importance of communication and understanding in fostering a strong, intimate connection.

    About:

    Dean M. Busby, Ph.D. is a professor in the School of Family Life at Brigham Young University. He received his Ph.D. in Family Therapy from Brigham Young University. Following his schooling he taught at Syracuse University and Texas Tech University, where he was the department chair, before returning to Brigham Young University. He is a published author of books, book chapters, and research articles in the area of marriage relationships, sexuality, assessment of couples, and relationship trauma. His research has garnered university and national awards and been funded by federal and state grants. Dr. Busby has taught at the university level for more than thirty years, primarily in the area of dating and marriage relationships, sexuality, and research methods. His courses are popular and well-received. Dr. Busby has been married for 40 years and he and his wife Colleen are the parents of three sons and the grandparents of 10 grandchildren.

    Insights:

    • Dean - “Start talking about sexuality; in your families and in your relationships. There isn’t a semester that goes by where I don’t cry with a student about the damage that has been done to their lives because a parent has felt like, “we can’t talk about that because that means they might experiment with it.” So they have had very difficult and unnecessary experiences just because of basic levels of ignorance. You have to stat talking to your kids. Fathers in-particular have to start doing a better job. They are the worst in the whole family as to who talks the least about sexuality -and they need to be in the middle of this conversation; for so many reasons that we know from research. Start talking with your children. Help them to feel comfortable that you are a trusted place to come and have a conversation about these bodies that they have and what’s going on with them."
    • Liz - "“The sexual debut. How important that is for the man and the woman. What this responsibility is for us as parents – to talk to our young people about the expectations of that. Ladies first, we really base our sexual experience on the woman and that is such a responsibility for men; for their patience and their turning towards a woman. And, a woman also has a responsibility to ready herself for love making. So we both have responsibilities in this wonderful cycle of life and sexuality.”
    • Dave - "“There is hope in any relationship if people – create a safe space and open up and communicate regardless of time passed.”

    Dean’s Key To A Stronger Marriage Connection:

    “You can’t change another person, you can only invite them to be in a relationship with the better you.” If you want to move your relationship, move yourself, then your partner because they love you, they will move with you. You can’t do it by pushing them in a particular direction, it just doesn’t work. "

    Links:

    google scholar; https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=YAThg_4AAAAJ&hl=en Chelom Leavitt; https://chelomleavitt.com

     

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways: 

    Strongermarriage.org 

    Podcast.stongermarriage.org 

     

    Dr. Dave Schramm: 

     

    Dr. Liz Hale: 

     

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    August 19, 2024

    Parenting Tips for Fathers of Daughters | Ray Christner | #94

    Today Dr. Liz Hale and Dr. Ray Christner discuss the pivotal role fathers play in their daughters' lives. They explore how dads can empower their daughters, the significance of role models, and the importance of emotional intelligence. Dr. Christner shares practical examples and personal experiences, emphasizing the impact of everyday choices and the modeling of respectful behavior.

    parenting #girldad #fatherdaughter

    About Ray
    Dr. Christner received a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the California University of Pennsylvania (now Pennsylvania Western University, California), where he continued to complete a Master’s degree and certification in School Psychology. He worked as a school psychologist for several years before returning to school for further education. He earned his Masters and Doctoral degrees in Clinical Psychology from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM; now The PCOM School of Professional and Applied Psychology).

    Insights:

    • Ray: Being a father is probably the most important job I've ever had, and maybe many ever will have. So just remembering our small everyday choices really do pave the way to our daughters having a refined definition of what their future looks like. So focus on those little, those little everyday choices.
    • Liz: Creating that safety for when things don't go well. And being there before, during and after. For a child for a daughter. It's just that's just really beautiful. I think it's so crucial.

    Links:

    https://drraychristner.com

    https://psychedtopractice.com

     

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways: 

    Strongermarriage.org 

    Podcast.stongermarriage.org 

     

    Dr. Dave Schramm: 

     

    Dr. Liz Hale: 

     

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    August 12, 2024

    Positive Habits For A Stronger Marriage Connection | Vagdevi Meunier | #93

    Today hosts Dave Schramm and Liz Hale discuss the intersection of positive psychology and Gottman research on marriage with Dr. Vagdevi Meunier. Dr. Meunier, a licensed psychologist and clinical assistant professor, shares insights on how couples can increase positivity in their relationships, explains the PERMA model from positive psychology, and discusses why 85% of couples report not having fun in their marriage anymore. Learn practical tips for fostering positivity, engagement, and connection in your relationship, and discover the importance of buffering your relationship from external stress. 

    #marriageadvice #marriageandfamilytherapist #marriage #marriagecounselling

    About:

    Dr. Vagdevi Meunier (“Dr. V”) is a licensed clinical psychologist & Certified Master Gottman Therapist with over 30 years of experience in counseling, education & clinical consultation. Since 2000, she has held a Clinical Assistant Professorship at The University of Texas in Austin & previously taught as a professor at St. Edwards University for over 10 years. Dr. Meunier specializes in relationship therapy, specifically with couples & families. She has an extensive history & passion for multicultural psychology, especially eastern influences on psychological practice & cross-cultural relationship research.

    As a Master Gottman Couples therapist & Professional Trainer for The Gottman Institute since 2006, Dr. Vagdevi Meunier leads “The Art and Science of Love” couples workshops locally in Austin, throughout the United States, as well as, Internationally. Dr. V has presented professionally in the US, Canada & India & incorporates mindfulness, neurobiology & positive psychology into her psychoeducational lectures. Dr. V published a chapter on Positive Couple Relationships from evidence based research around the world and has written several articles on the Gottman method of couples therapy.

    Dr. Vagdevi Meunier is the founder & Executive Director of The Center for Relationships. She is the Advisor to all TCFR doctoral level trainees & therapist team members. Her mission behind TCFR is to promote and provide a community counseling, training & outreach center that specializes in helping relationships to flourish based on leading best practices and relationship science. The Counseling services & educational programs at TCFR include couples intensives, retreats, groups & community forums to support healthy relationships, conflict management & trust recovery.

    Insights:

    • Vagdevi: "It doesn't take a lot of time to make a difference, to increase positivity in your relationship, whether you're separated from your partner or in the same room with them. You can harness technology or you can just practice that engagement and positive emotions when you're face to face. And a little bit goes a long way. And our motto in Gottman work is "small things often."

    • Dave: Couples can manage external stress effectively by working together as a team, preventing it from affecting their relationship. Despite coming home stressed, it's crucial not to take it out on each other. Although challenging, it's possible to remain kind even when frustrated or angry, highlighting the importance of choosing kindness in maintaining a strong relationship.

    • Liz: I love the statement, "Darling, I'm hurting. Will you help me?" That was quite beautiful instead of the attack. It's just like, and having really that good feeling between us. Right? Like, I know you love me and I love you. Trust. That's trust, I believe.

    Vagdevi Links:

    https://www.findmycenter.org/

     

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways: 

    Strongermarriage.org 

    Podcast.stongermarriage.org 

     

    Dr. Dave Schramm: 

     

    Dr. Liz Hale: 

     

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    August 5, 2024

    The Savvy Wedding Budget | Jessica Bishop | #92

    Today Dr. Liz Hale and Dr. Dave Schramm sit down with Jessica Bishop, creator of Budget Savvy Bride. Jessica shares her knowledge on planning a beautiful wedding without breaking the bank. With practical tips on everything from using silk flowers to DIY projects, Jessica explains how couples can save money while still having a memorable day. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on the marriage itself rather than just the wedding day. Listeners will gain valuable insights on budgeting, planning, and prioritizing for their special day.

     

    About:

    Jessica Bishop is the founder of TheBudgetSavvyBride.com, the #1 online resource to help couples all across the world plan a beautiful wedding on a budget they can actually afford. Jessica is a wedding industry veteran and wedding budget expert. Jessica has seen weddings from nearly every angle throughout her career– from her early days working at a wedding cake bakery at the age of 15 to doing catering service, wedding photography, invitation designing, and day-of coordination… to being a bride herself! She’s infused her 360-degree wedding experiences from the last 25 years to build a comprehensive wedding planning resource to help couples through the planning process with less expense *and* less stress! In 2018, Jessica squeezed all her best tips, advice, and checklists into her book, The Budget- Savvy Wedding Planner & Organizer, which has been a #1 Best Seller on Amazon many times over! Over 225,000 copies have been sold to date.

    Insights:

    • Jessica: Wedding planning serves as a valuable testing ground for marriage, teaching lessons in decision-making, prioritizing, compromising, and communication, ultimately helping to build a strong relationship foundation. Enjoy the process and be intentional in your efforts.
    • Dave: To reduce stress and avoid misunderstandings, couples should openly share their expectations and visions for their wedding from the start. Understanding each other's perspectives and maintaining constant communication about decisions and finances will help manage differences and foster compromise throughout the planning process.
    • Liz: Dr. Bill Doherty suggests that the process of wedding planning marks the beginning of the marriage itself, serving as a significant test for the couple. Each wedding, like a marriage, is unique, reflecting the personalities and histories of the couple. It’s important to remember that minimizing time, money, and stress are key factors in making the experience memorable.

    Jessica Bishop Links:

    https://thebudgetsavvybride.com/

    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-bouquet-toss-a-wedding-planning-podcast/id1539773975

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/budgetsavvybride/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=%40thebudgetsavvybride

    The Budget Savvy Wedding Planner & Organizer 

     

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways: 

    Strongermarriage.org 

    Podcast.stongermarriage.org 

     

    Dr. Dave Schramm: 

     

    Dr. Liz Hale: 

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    July 1, 2024

    Bonus Content On YouTube Announcement

    Starting July 1, we will be releasing bonus content from previously unreleased discussions from select season two episodes. 

    go to: https://www.youtube.com/@utahmarriagecommission

     

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    June 24, 2024

    Answering Audience Questions | Dave & Liz | #91

    In this episode, the Stronger Marriage Connection team—Dr. Dave Schramm, Dr. Liz Hale, Sarah Gowans, and Rex Polanis—wrap up Season 2 with a mailbag episode. They address various audience questions about managing transitions to parenthood, dealing with mental health issues, navigating infertility, and handling physical illness in relationships. The team provides insightful advice and personal stories, emphasizing the importance of communication, support, and mutual understanding. Tune in for valuable tips and heartfelt discussions to strengthen your marriage and relationships. 

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways: 

    Strongermarriage.org 

    Podcast.stongermarriage.org 

     

    Dr. Dave Schramm: 

     

    Dr. Liz Hale: 

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    June 17, 2024

    Side Hustles for Married Couples | Alec Atkinson | #90

    Today Dr. Dave and Dr. Liz welcome Alec Atkinson, founder and CEO of Harvest React, to discuss side hustles for married couples. Alec shares insights on starting and managing side hustles, the importance of financial freedom, and the impact on relationships. He provides valuable advice on avoiding scams and ensuring both partners are on the same page. The discussion also highlights success stories and the potential benefits of e-commerce side hustles.

    About Alec Atkinson:

    Alec Atkinson is the founder and CEO of HarvestReact, a social media marketing and e-
    commerce company he founded in June 2021. HarvestReact helps people thrive in e-
    commerce, having hundreds of clients in its flagship program. Before his entrepreneurial
    journey, Alec served as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in
    Chicago, Illinois, from 2019 to 2021. Alec graduated from BYU in Business Strategy this past
    December. Alec also helps oversee the deployment of capital for two niche hedge funds and a family office in the private banking world.

    Insights:

    • Alec: You can feel encouraged to pursue a side hustle, as it can be a great opportunity. Be careful and vigilant, seek best practices, and educate yourself thoroughly. Once you're ready, dive in and enjoy the journey. It might be challenging, but it will be either rewarding or a valuable learning experience. Find the benefit and joy in everything you do.
    • Dave: You might find the idea of side hustles for couples intriguing, especially if you enjoy thinking about new ideas and taking them to the next level. While the creative process can be exciting, it's important to remember that it's not for everyone. People have different personalities and risk tolerances, and side hustles can sometimes cause stress and strain relationships. It's crucial to be on the same page with your partner, do your homework, and work as a team to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience.
    • Liz: There are ways to pursue a side hustle and to do it fairly safely, where you can really minimize some of the risk. If it is in someone's heart and mind to really find ways to access extra money and finances because you have a dream for your family, I'm all about it and it sounds like Harvest React would really be something to look into.

    Alec Atkinson Links:

    https://harvestreact.com/

    Email: alec@harvestreact.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

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    June 10, 2024

    How To Keep Your Marriage Couple-Centered | Sean Grover | #89

    Today, we are joined by, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist Sean Grover to discusses the challenges of maintaining a couple-centered marriage amidst the demands of parenting. Grover, an expert with over 25 years of experience, shares insights from his books and provides practical tips for preventing parent burnout. The episode emphasizes the importance of self-care, creativity, and effective communication in strengthening marital bonds and fostering a happier family life.

    About Sean:

    Sean Grover is a psychotherapist and best-selling author with over 25 years of experience.
    Sean has appeared on the Today Show and over 200 podcasts and radio shows, and leads one
    of the largest group therapy practices in the United States.

    Insights:

    • Sean:Don't give up. It's never too late to start again. You can retrain your brain, even after years of chronic illness. I was reading about people who overcame 22 years of illness by retraining their minds. I have a young patient with an incurable intestinal disease who has been symptom and medication-free for two years now. Remember, people are more adaptable than we think. You can challenge and change behaviors and rewire your brain. So, don't give up.
    • Liz: Your happiness as a panent is so important to your child. It's everything. When you, as a parent, genuinely enjoy parenting your child, it sends positive messages that you might not even realize. Even if you're a newlywed or haven't had children yet, it's never too early to focus on what kind of parent you want to be. Think about what you want to embrace and how you want to show up in the world of parenting.

    Sean's Links:

    https://www.seangrover.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

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    June 3, 2024

    Building Trust and Emotional Safety | Kyle Barth | #88

    In this episode of the Stronger Marriage Connection Podcast, hosts Dr. Dave Schramm and Dr. Liz Hale sit down with licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Kyle Barth. They discuss the foundation of healthy relationships, focusing on trust, boundaries, and overcoming obstacles. Kyle Barth shares his professional journey and personal insights into creating safe, connected, and value-based relationships. Listeners will gain valuable tools and perspectives for improving their relationships and understanding the complexities of trauma and trust.

    #marriage #buildingtrust #relationshipgoals #couplestherapy

    About Kyle Barth:

    I'm not your typical relationship therapist. Yes, I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist with over a decade of experience, but here's the twist: I've been through divorce myself. Unexpected, right? Life has a funny way of steering us in unexpected directions. However, this experience further ignited my passion to help others build safe, secure, and connected relationships. 

    My mission is to empower individuals to cultivate confidence and foster healthy,
    empowering, and connected relationships. By incorporating trauma-informed and
    evidenced based therapy practices, I create a safe haven for healing, honesty, and
    growth. I'll walk alongside you as you rewrite the script of your story. But beyond my role as a therapist, my proudest title is "dad." Nothing brings me more joy than spending quality time with my kids. When I'm not immersed in the world of therapy, I indulge my love for the great outdoors, cheer on the Utah Jazz, and love reading. Let's embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation, unlocking your potential for meaningful connections and personal growth. You matter!

    Insights:

    • Kyle: You're capable of having the relationship of your dreams, no matter your current situation or past experiences. Whether you're 60 years old and have never been married, have never had a long-term relationship, or have been divorced three times, you can still achieve that dream relationship. It may not look like what you envisioned earlier in life or even right now, but it can become a reality for you. It might require letting go of past relationships or changing how you've been doing things, but you're capable of making it happen.
    • Dave: One thing that might stand out about ways of thinking is the concept of the marriage of your dreams. Initially, you might think of a fairy tale, like a Disney ending with music, dancing, and everyone focusing on the couple. However, that's not reality. The marriage of your dreams can mean feeling safe, happy, and connected, with your partner as your best friend, by your side through all the ups and downs. That's what many truly want and long for.
    • Liz: We are always changing, and I think that's really great. To try something new, we often talk about marriage 2.0, but I've even had a couple say this is marriage 10.0 because of constant change. We need to be willing to let go of old patterns. Just as our internal bodies and organs are changing, we are part of that process, and we need to embrace it intentionally in our marriages.

    Kyle Barth Links:

    https://impactfulcounseling.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

     

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    May 27, 2024

    Marriage and Relationship Check-ups | Dr. James Cordova #87

    In today’s episode of Stronger Marriage Connection, hosts Dr. Dave Schramm and Dr. Liz Hale welcome Dr. James Cordova to discuss the concept of relationship checkups. Just like regular doctor or dental checkups, Dr. Cordova advocates for regular relationship checkups to prevent relationship deterioration and enhance mental and physical health. They explore the importance of proactive relationship health care and the development of Arammu, The Relationship Checkup Inc., aimed at improving relationship health in both military and civilian populations.

    About Dr. James Cordova:

    Dr. James Cordova is Department Chair and Professor of Psychology at Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts. Dr. Cordova is a leading figure in the field of Couples Research and Therapy. He is the developer of The Relationship Checkup, a preventative relationship healthcare intervention designed to prevent relationship deterioration through the relationship health equivalent of the annual physical health checkup.

    Dr. Cordova was co-PI, with retired Lt. Colonel Jeffrey Cigrang, and their Air Force team, on a recently completed $1.3M DoD-funded grant to conduct a full-scale randomized control trial of the Relationship Checkup in the Air Force’s integrated behavioral healthcare settings. The study demonstrated that the Checkup is easily adapted to primary care settings in the Air Force and has a significant positive effect on the relationship health and depression of Airmen and their spouses.

    Dr. Cordova is the founder and President of Arammu: The Relationship Checkup, Inc., a university-based startup company created to disseminate the Checkup throughout both military and civilian populations and improve the overall relationship health of the country as a whole. Arammu Inc. currently partners with the Office of the Secretary of Defense to train over one thousand Military and Family Life Counselors serving all branches of the military.

    Insights:

    • Dr. Cordova: We need to shift our perspective on relationships to view them as a form of health care that requires regular checkups. Just like physical health, regular preventative relationship checkups are crucial for maintaining long-term relationship health.
    • Dave: Investing in relationships through regular checkups is one of the most important investments one can make. It’s comparable to maintaining physical health through good nutrition, exercise, and regular doctor visits. Without intentional and planned efforts, relationships can naturally drift apart, so there is a necessity of consistent investment in maintaining strong relationships.
    • Liz: Love the porcupine analogy in marriage, it’s important to recognizing that both partners can unintentionally cause pain. Focus on addressing the impact of our actions rather than the intent, and remember the need to respond with care and healing when hurt occurs, as both partners are vulnerable to causing and feeling pain.

     

    Dr. James Cordova’s Resources:
    https://arammu.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

     

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    May 20, 2024

    Finding Help for Eating Disorders | Dr. Lauren Barnes | #86

    Today In this important episode of the Stronger Marriage Connection podcast,
    Dr. Lauren Barnes shares her extensive knowledge about eating disorders and body image,
    exploring their impact on individuals and relationships. Offering hope and healing, Dr. Barnes
    discusses the prevalence, recovery, and the critical importance of addressing these issues
    within marriages. Listeners will learn from an expert in the field about the signs, effects, and
    treatment options for eating disorders, making this a valuable resource for those seeking to
    understand or cope with these conditions.

    About Lauren Barnes:

    Dr. Lauren A. Barnes, LMFT is an Associate Clinical Professor in the School of Family
    Life and the Clinical Director for BYU’s Marriage & Family Therapy graduate program.
    Prior to her faculty appointment at BYU in 2013, she worked as a therapist at Center for
    Change treating girls and women struggling with eating disorders within a residential
    treatment setting. She maintains a small private practice where she primarily works with
    those struggling with body image, eating disorders, and life challenges within their
    families. Dr. Barnes grew up in a multicultural multigenerational home with her native
    Cuban grandparents, mom, dad, and siblings in the Pacific Northwest. During her free
    time, Lauren loves baking (especially cakes and cookies) walking or hiking, playing
    piano, and loves socializing with good friends and family. One of her current passions is
    speaking at women’s body image retreats because it combines her love of connecting
    with people, learning, and engaging in fun activities. She is married to Aaron and they
    have a son and daughter

    Insights:

    • Lauren: Eating disorders are widespread, affecting up to 9% of the population. Eating disorders are complex and they are not solely about food consumption or exercise habits. Instead, they require well-researched, specialized care and attention. Anyone struggling with an eating disorder is encouraged to seek help, as numerous resources and support options are available.
    • Dave: There is significant and prolonged stress that both partners in a relationship can experience when dealing with an eating disorder. It is important to acknowledging the struggle and the impact it can have on a relationship. It is important to seek help, learn more about eating disorders, and communicate concerns to a partner in a caring and supportive manner.
    • Liz: The thought of function over feature is quite beautiful. Even in just talking about it to our kids, the focus is on your body is so strong, we can go run now let's go run this hill. Isn't that wonderful? Our bodies can do this. And we're breathing and we don't even know it and our whole, all these organs are working in unison, and without us having to direct them. The body is phenomenal.

    Links:

    Instagram: @drlaurenabarneslmft
    Email: Lauren_Barnes@byu.edu

     

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:

    StrongerMarriage.org
    podcast.strongermarriage.org
    Facebook: StrongerMarriage.org
    Instagram: @strongermarriagelife

    Dr. Dave Schramm:

    https://drdaveschramm.com

    https://drdavespeaks.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU

    Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579

    Facebook Parenting Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/542067440314642

    Dr. Liz Hale:

    http://www.drlizhale.com/

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    May 13, 2024

    Resources For Positivity | Dr. Dave Schramm | #85

    In Episode 85 of "Stronger Marriage Connection," Dr. Dave Schramm talks with Dr. Liz about his extensive experience and the wealth of resources available for enhancing family and marital relationships. He shares insights on various tools and methods, such as positive psychology and educational resources, aimed at helping individuals improve their happiness and relational dynamics. This episode serves as a valuable resource for anyone looking to foster better relationships and personal growth.

    Insights:

    • Mallory: The daily structure of the journal, and the small daily prompts encourage personal growth and mood enhancement. This principle of making small, consistent efforts, such as exercising or eating well, extends beyond journaling to improve one's overall quality of life and maintain positivity.
    • Dave: Small, frequent actions are important in improving one's life. There is an abundance of virtual resources available today for support in various aspects of life, such as parenting and marriage. As an extension specialist, Dave’s role involves curating and recommending the best research-based resources to the public, ensuring that people have access to high-quality support materials.
    • Liz: The journal is a great resource for college students. We might not think the drip, drip, drip is enough, but just a little bit, consistently. It goes a very long way.

    Episode Links:

    https://impactsuite.com/

    https://www.joinclimb.com/

    https://www.joinraise.com/the-raise-app

    https://www.malouffoundation.org/

    https://extension.usu.edu/relationships/

    https://extension.usu.edu/strongermarriage/

    https://www.youtube.com/@drdaveschramm

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:

    StrongerMarriage.org
    podcast.strongermarriage.org
    Facebook: StrongerMarriage.org
    Instagram: @strongermarriagelife

    Dr. Dave Schramm:

    https://drdaveschramm.com

    https://drdavespeaks.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU

    Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579

    Facebook Parenting Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/542067440314642

    Dr. Liz Hale:

    http://www.drlizhale.com/

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    May 6, 2024

    Sexual Intimacy for High and Low Desire Partners | Jessa Zimmerman | #84

    In this episode of the "Stronger Marriage Connection" podcast, hosts Dave Schramm and Liz Hale are joined by certified sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman. They delve into common sexual issues faced by couples, focusing on sexual desire discrepancies and strategies for maintaining a strong marital connection. Jessa provides invaluable insights into reactive and proactive desires, the sexual avoidance cycle, and the impacts of pressure and expectations on sexual intimacy.

    About Jessa Zimmerman:

    Jessa Zimmerman is a licensed couples’ counselor and nationally certified sex therapist. She
    works in private practice in Seattle, WA. Over the course of her therapy career, she has focused almost exclusively on helping couples with their emotional and sexual intimacy. In her years of clinical experience, Zimmerman has treated hundreds of couples who have struggled to feel sexual desire and fulfillment. Her clients describe having a good relationship in other ways, but their sex life has become difficult to the point that they start to avoid sex. These are people who love each other but are struggling to have a sex life they both enjoy. She specializes in helping these couples who find that sex has become stressful, negative, disappointing, or pressured. She educates, coaches, and supports people as they go through her 4 pillar experiential process that allows them real world practice in changing their relationship and their sex life, guiding them to become easily intimate.


    Zimmerman received her Master’s in Psychology from LIOS college of Saybrook University and
    Sex Therapist certification from the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors,
    and Therapists (AASECT). She has done extensive training in couples’ therapy, with a focus on
    Crucible® Therapy with Dr. David Schnarch. She is the author of Sex Without Stress; A Couple’s Guide to Overcoming Disappointment, Avoidance & Pressure. She is the host of the Better Sex Podcast and has appeared on numerous other podcasts as an expert guest. She is the creator of the Intimacy With Ease Method and founder of The Desire Spa, an online course for women with little to no libido. She is a regularly featured expert in the media, including Refinery29, Marriage.com, Business Insider, and Mind Body Green. She lives in Seattle with her partner.

    Insights:

    • Jessa: One cannot fail in sex if they shift their mindset to view it simply as a source of pleasure and connection, without attaching to specific outcomes. By embracing this approach, sexual experiences can become easy and enjoyable, even if they differ from previous expectations or desires. The key lies in accepting and adapting to these differences, which opens limitless possibilities for enjoyment and satisfaction.
    • Dave: Moods for sexual activity evolve over time, there is a contrast between the constant readiness (proactive mood) in early stages of relationships with the need to actively engage or transition into feeling ready (reactive mood) as time progresses. If couples only engaged in sex when both partners were spontaneously in the mood, they might seldom have sex. Love the concepts of reactive and proactive desire, and engaging physically can lead to a physiological response where the body releases dopamine and serotonin, aligning physical readiness with emotional desire.
    • Liz: Sex is like going to a playground, we don't know how long we're going to stay. We're not sure what we're going to enjoy once we get there. But we are going to enjoy it. It's not about the outcome or the goal.

    Jessa Zimmerman Links:

    https://intimacywithease.com

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:

    StrongerMarriage.org
    podcast.strongermarriage.org
    Facebook: StrongerMarriage.org
    Instagram: @strongermarriagelife

    Dr. Dave Schramm:

    https://drdaveschramm.com

    https://drdavespeaks.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU

    Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579

    Facebook Parenting Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/542067440314642

    Dr. Liz Hale:

    http://www.drlizhale.com/

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    April 29, 2024

    Keeping Your Marriage Strong | Arlene Pellicane | #83

    Today hosts Liz Hale and Dave Schramm talk with Arlene Pellicane, an author and speaker specializing in marriage and parenting. As the national spokesperson for National Marriage Week, Arlene shares insightful tips for nurturing a strong marital connection. The discussion emphasizes daily connections, weekly date nights, and the significance of prioritizing marriage in today's world.

    About Arlene Pellicane

    Arlene Pellicane is the National Spokesperson for National Marriage Week. She's a top
    marriage and parenting author and speaker, and has appeared on several media outlets
    like the Today Show, Wall Street Journal, Focus on the Family, Fox & Friends, TLC’s
    Home Made Simple, FamilyLife Today, and The 700 Club. She’s also the host of the
    Happy Home podcast and the author of several books including 31 Days to a Happy
    Husband, and 31 Days to Becoming a Happier Wife. She is married to James, her
    husband of more than 25 years, and they have three children - Ethan, Noelle and Lucy.

    Insights:

    • Arlene: the importance of having a service-oriented attitude in marriage, one that
      asks, "What can I do for you?" rather than "What can you do for me?" By focusing on small acts of kindness, like bringing a glass of water or leaving a loving note, you can demonstrate love and commitment to your spouse. This approach leads to an active and controllable part in the relationship, fostering appreciation and reciprocation from your partner. Arlene underscores the need to consistently prioritize your spouse's needs and to take the initiative in showing care and service. She expresses hope that listeners will recognize the value in their marriages, take active steps to cherish them, and thereby inspire future generations to value the institution of marriage
    • Dave appreciates Arlene's insights on maintaining an outward mindset and the importance of being intentional in marriage. He reflects on his parents' impressive 58-year marriage, recognizing it as a model for what he strives to achieve in his own family life. With his spouse and their four children, they make a concerted effort to show the importance of their marriage. They prioritize their relationship, with regular date nights, emphasizing to their children that their partnership is a priority. Dave acknowledges the need for planning and intentionality to prevent drifting apart in marriage, valuing daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly connections.
    • Liz appreciates the concept that individuals can often get caught up in a mindset of expecting more from their partners without recognizing their own contributions. In her marriage therapy sessions, she frequently observes that when a person perceives they're not receiving enough from their partner, it's typically reflective of not giving enough themselves. This realization is a good foundation for addressing marital issues. Liz also highlights the decline in marriage rates from previous generations to millennials, and says that aunts, uncles, and parents bear a significant responsibility to promote the value of marriage. She stresses that it is crucial for them to model strong marriages themselves, to reinforce the positive message about marriage.

    Arlene Pellicane Links:

    https://www.nationalmarriageweekusa.org/

    https://www.facebook.com/nationalmarriageweek

    https://twitter.com/ArlenePellicane

    https://www.instagram.com/nationalmarriageweekusa

    https://arlenepellicane.com/

     

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:

    StrongerMarriage.org
    podcast.strongermarriage.org
    Facebook: StrongerMarriage.org
    Instagram: @strongermarriagelife

    Dr. Dave Schramm:

    https://drdaveschramm.com

    https://drdavespeaks.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU

    Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579

    Facebook Parenting Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/542067440314642

    Dr. Liz Hale:

    http://www.drlizhale.com/

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    April 22, 2024

    Gottman's 7 Day Love Prescription | Dr. Dave Schramm & Dr. Liz Hale | #82

    Today Dave Schramm and Liz Hale explore the profound insights of doctors John and Julie Gottman's latest book, "The Seven Day Love Prescription". They delve into practical advice taken from extensive research on thousands of couples, focusing on strengthening relationships through simple actions and deeper understanding. They discuss the significance of turning towards your partner, the power of touch, the importance of asking open-ended questions, and the brain's tendency to focus on negativity. This episode provides valuable tips for fostering a deeper connection and revitalizing your marriage by incorporating daily habits that enhance love and affection.

    Insights:

    • Dave: Slowing down and understanding your partner’s world takes humility. I love the word compassion, as we've talked about humility. And let me add gratitude; expressions of appreciation for the little things of being thoughtful. Kindness and gratitude is two sides of the same coin. When someone is kind, hopefully the other person is grateful. And they recognize that and understand each other's worlds. It’s hard to settle on one thing, but kindness could change a marriage. Slow down and be a little more kind, little more gentle, a little more thoughtful.
    • Liz: You know, what I have loved is how we've talked about how healthy "we" consists of healthy "me" and I'm really the only person in the relationship that can really guarantee how I show up right? I am only in control of me. So I think when I show up paramount with kindness, I think that is the key.

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:

    StrongerMarriage.org
    podcast.strongermarriage.org
    Facebook: StrongerMarriage.org
    Instagram: @strongermarriagelife

    Dr. Dave Schramm:

    https://drdaveschramm.com

    https://drdavespeaks.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU

    Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579

    Facebook Parenting Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/542067440314642

    Dr. Liz Hale:

    http://www.drlizhale.com/

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    April 15, 2024

    The Soulmate Myth | Jason Carroll | #81

    In this eye-opening episode, hosts Dave Schramm and Liz Hale talk with Dr. Jason Carroll to debunk the soulmate myth. They explore the impact of soulmate thinking on relationships and discuss how lasting connections are forged through intentional effort and growth. Drawing on the report "The Soulmate Trap," the conversation highlights the importance of virtues, responsible behaviors, and shared life goals over predestined destiny beliefs.

    About Jason Carroll

    Jason S. Carroll is an internationally recognized expert on flourishing marriages and readiness
    for marriage among young adults. He currently serves as the Director of the Family Initiative at
    the Wheatley Institute at Brigham Young University, and he is also a Senior Fellow of the
    Institute for Family Studies. He has also been a faculty member in BYU’s School of Family for the last 23 years. In 2014, Dr. Carroll received the Berscheid-Hatfield Award for Distinguished Mid-Career Achievement, a biennial award given for distinguished scientific achievement by the International Association for Relationship Research (IARR). This award was given to him
    primarily to acknowledge his significant theoretical contributions to the field of marriage
    studies. Dr. Carroll is best known professionally for his development of the “Developmental
    Model of Marital Competence,” the widely used “Marital Horizon Theory” of young adult
    readiness for marriage, and “Sexual Restraint Theory” which has been used to demonstrate the
    benefits to couples who wait until they are married to begin their sexual relationship. Most
    recently, Dr. Carroll has received recognition for his new “STRIVE-4 Model of Virtue” that
    provides a comprehensive model to organize and guide a mature science of virtue.

    Insights

    • Jason, "We need to actively mentor the younger generation within our spheres of influence, like in family and in work spaces. Think about how we can collectively restore the confidence and the sense of agency and choice. By sharing the realities of a genuine relationship—its challenges and its rewards—we can help restore the younger generation's confidence in and aspiration for enduring, loving marriage."
    • Dave, "Mature love in healthy relationships is characterized by outward focus and contribution, whereas immature love fixates inwardly on personal needs and disappointments. With mature love and immature love, there is always a choice."
    • Liz, "The focus is not so much on happiness, but on meaningfulness. All parts of our relationships, the highs and the lows, that’s why we're here. That's what gives us meaning. And I love the idea of the growth belief versus the destiny belief."

    Jason's Links

    https://wheatley.byu.edu/

    Beyond the Myth of Marital Happiness by Blaine J. Fowers

     

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:

    StrongerMarriage.org
    podcast.strongermarriage.org
    Facebook: StrongerMarriage.org
    Instagram: @strongermarriagelife

    Dr. Dave Schramm:

    https://drdaveschramm.com

    https://drdavespeaks.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU

    Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579

    Facebook Parenting Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/542067440314642

    Dr. Liz Hale:

    http://www.drlizhale.com/

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    April 1, 2024

    Marriage and Raising Children with Autism | Sage Allen | #79

    Today Sage Allen discusses the stresses and challenges she's encountered with her son who has severe autism and how this affects her marriage. Sage opens up about the raw realities of day-to-day care, and how important it is to make time for both self-care and date nights. Sage shares tips for other parents who find themselves overwhelmed and exhausted, including intentionally finding the good in each day and reaching out for support systems, including online groups.

    About Sage Allen
    Sage Erickson Allen has a master's degree in marriage family human development from BYU. ,
    She taught marriage preparation at BYU and marriage enrichment classes for USU Extension in
    St. George, UT for a few years. She stopped teaching when her first child was diagnosed with
    severe autism around age two. That child is seven years old now and is completely nonverbal
    with low functioning autism and ADHD. In her spare time, Sage likes ballroom dancing and
    writing for her casual blog, sagerelationshipadvice.com. She also enjoys advocating for people
    with disabilities and families that need more help managing the stresses that accompany raising a child with a disability.

    Insights:

    • Sage: "I'd like to tell everyone that you really can have a great fulfilling marriage with a disabled child. At feels impossible. And it kind of feels like you'll never be happy again when you have that big of a trial, but then it really does get better. And you can have a great marriage and a great life.
    • Dave: "An internal insight is, I can't be, my feelings. I'm going to feel things but I've got to learn to feel it but not follow it, if that makes sense. And not let it spill over and into my parenting or into my marriage or, or how I see the situation or complain about this or that in my life because it can always be poisonous, right? And how that that spills over."
    • Liz: "I was pretty naive; I still am with autism. Thank you for the reminder of the three stages and that Utah has a way to go. That saddens me and it also gives me great hope with advocates like you and people who are willing to speak out and speak up for their loved ones or children. With that, I hope things do continue to grow and change."

    Sage Allen Links:

    https://sagerelationshipadvice.com

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:

    StrongerMarriage.org
    podcast.strongermarriage.org
    Facebook: StrongerMarriage.org
    Instagram: @strongermarriagelife

    Dr. Dave Schramm:

    https://drdaveschramm.com

    https://drdavespeaks.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU

    Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579

    Facebook Parenting Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/542067440314642

    Dr. Liz Hale:

    http://www.drlizhale.com/

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    March 25, 2024

    Making Your Marriage Work | Mark & Jill Savage | #78

    This episode highlights Mark and Jill Savage, a couple who have worked through some very difficult challenges in their marriage, including infidelity. They have been married nearly 40 years now. Together they share why they decided to make things work rather than divorce and open up about how they've been able to make their marriage stronger. Whether you've experienced infidelity or you're just going through some rough patches, you'll benefit from the many insights from our discussion.

    About Mark & Jill Savage:

    Mark and Jill Savage are passionate about encouraging, educating, and equipping families and marriages. After serving in church ministry for twenty years, the Savage’s are now meeting the needs of families as authors, speakers, and coaches. Known for their honesty, humor, and
    practical teaching, Mark and Jill bring hope and encouragement to every audience.

    Jill is the host of the No More Perfect Podcast and the author of fourteen books, including the
    bestselling No More Perfect Moms. Together Mark and Jill have created five online marriage
    courses and authored several books including No More Perfect Marriages, I Really Messed Up,
    and My Heart Is Broken. The parents of five adult children, and grandparents of six, the
    Savage’s make their home in Normal, IL.

     

    Insights:

    • Mark - Mine is on of a faith response. Its to humble yourself. Grab hold of the hand of Daddy God, and let Him lead you through the mess.
    • Jill - There is hope and, and redemption available. Whether a marriage makes it or not, there's hope and redemption available. And so I think that it's, you know, that's kind of where I sat, you know, whether my marriage makes it or not, I have some growth to do.
    • Dave - Having humility, compassion, positivity; fundamental values for relationships, and I can't echo that enough. And that no matter where you are in your relationship, that we're going to hit these rough patches, some more serious than others. I feel like if we would forget the person that we thought we married and get to work on the relationship with the person that we did marry and focus we’d find enjoyment and remind ourselves, the principal that we remember what we rehearse, we remember what we review. And if we're reviewing the negative, and the mess and the yuckiness that we don't like, then that's what we will remember. But if we can flip the script that you talked about, refocus, change that heart, and search inward and turn outward.
    • Liz - Let work to flip the script, to crucify the negative and celebrate the positive. Because whatever I do focus on grows, and I'll find the evidence of whatever I believe I'll find it.

    Mark & Jill Link:

    https://www.jillsavage.org/

     

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:

    StrongerMarriage.org
    podcast.strongermarriage.org
    Facebook: StrongerMarriage.org
    Instagram: @strongermarriagelife

    Dr. Dave Schramm:

    https://drdaveschramm.com

    https://drdavespeaks.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU

    Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579

    Facebook Parenting Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/542067440314642

    Dr. Liz Hale:

    http://www.drlizhale.com/

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    March 18, 2024

    Prioritizing Fun in Your Marriage | Amberly Lambertsen | #77

    Dave and Liz talk with Amberly Lambertsen about the importance of prioritizing fun in your relationship. From laughing at the little things and making time for fun date nights to sharing silly memes to planning and talking about your next fun getaway. Couples who laugh and play together are more likely to stay together.

    About Amberly Lambertsen:
    Amberly Lambertsen is a Certified Family Life Educator. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Family Studies and her Master's of Education with an emphasis in Family Life Education. Amberly has a specific passion for marriage relationships and helping couples make their marriage a priority throughout every stage of life. She believes that by making time for the personal and romantic side of your marriage every day you are creating a strong foundation for the other pieces of your partnership to thrive and your relationship to last a lifetime. In addition to creating a long lasting marriage, Amberly believes couples should create a relationship they enjoy and want to continue to be part of. With creative date night solutions, tips for increased emotional and physical intimacy, ideas for creating more fun, and practical ways couples can focus on their marriage, Amberly helps couples make time to build and enjoy their marriage relationship every single day throughout every stage of life.

    Insights:

    • Amberly: "Just find one thing you can do today to have fun together. What's one thing you can do this week, or you can do today to have fun together, and then do it again tomorrow and find something new or find something old, whatever that is just take an opportunity to have fun.
    • Dave: "Make your relationship a priority. If you don't, then you naturally have this natural flow to isolation that you naturally will drift apart. So, couples who are intentionally creating the fun, whether it's spontaneous or let's plan something, those are the couples who I think will thrive rather than just trying to survive in their in their marriages and their relationships."
    • Liz: "There’s no one I'd rather laugh with than my husband. I love laughing with him. He is one of my favorite people to laugh with. And I really want it to continue to be that safe harbor for him."

    Amberly Lambertsen Links:
    https://aprioritizedmarriage.com
    https://facebook.com/aprioritizedmarriage
    https://instagram.com/aprioritizedmarriage
    https://tiktok.com/@aprioritizedmarriage
    Podcast: Prioritize Your Marriage - https://open.spotify.com/show/5P5lHa1PjhLinOCwIIZaCk

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:

    StrongerMarriage.org
    podcast.strongermarriage.org
    Facebook: StrongerMarriage.org
    Instagram: @strongermarriagelife

    Dr. Dave Schramm:

    https://drdaveschramm.com

    https://drdavespeaks.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU

    Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579

    Facebook Parenting Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/542067440314642

    Dr. Liz Hale:

    http://www.drlizhale.com/

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    March 11, 2024

    How To Get What You Want In Your Relationship | Monica Tanner | #76

    Monica Tanner joins Liz and Dave to talk about getting what you want in your relationship. She’ll tackle how to manage strong emotions, moving from complaints to requests, and the importance of compassionate curiosity. She will also share a four-step framework for getting what you want in your relationship. Her mission is to lower the divorce rate and improve marital satisfaction through her engaging podcast vibrant social media, community, and practical programs.

    About Monica Tanner:
    Monica Tanner, Relationship Coach and host of the Secrets of Happily Ever After podcast,
    transforms marriages with simple communication, connection, conflict resolution and
    commitment strategies. Her mission is to lower the divorce rate and improve marital
    satisfaction. Through her engaging podcast, vibrant social media community, and practical
    programs, Monica's expert guidance has impacted thousands of couples, by helping them ditch resentment and roommate syndrome and get back to living their happily ever after love story.

    Insights:

    • Monica: "You know, there's a lot of things that you can't control in this life, but you can always control your experience inside of your circumstances. I find it to be a law of connection kind of like, matter is governed by the laws of gravity, you don't have to know that if I throw this pen up in the air, it's gonna come down. But if I do know it, it makes life a lot more predictable, it's easier to know what's going to happen, right. And so if you understand that you have full control over the experience you're having in any given circumstance, you become way more powerful, empowered, probably as the right word, you become way more empowered, to fight for the things that you want in this life, when you understand that you may not be able to, to control all the circumstances, but you can control your experience."
    • Dave: "I love the idea of this compassionate curiosity. I've never heard it quite put like, but getting compassionately curious about that, not in a you know, I'm holier than thou and I'm not going to jump into this because I'm not that type of a person, but genuinely compassionate, getting curious, really wanting to understand them and to hear that to hear what they need. Rather than reacting to their emotions you have very powerful."
    • Liz: "I think that is so interesting the idea of asking for what we want or what we need, it's really quite a compliment to our partner that I want to have. I want us to have it all right, I don't want to settle for me mediocrity. I really want to climb for that and reach for that top echelon of happy marriage."

    Monica Tanner Links:

    https://www.monicatanner.com/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monitanner1/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/secretsofhappilyeverafter
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@secretsofhappilyeverafter

     

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:

    StrongerMarriage.org
    podcast.strongermarriage.org
    Facebook: StrongerMarriage.org
    Instagram: @strongermarriagelife

    Dr. Dave Schramm:

    https://drdaveschramm.com

    https://drdavespeaks.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU

    Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579

    Facebook Parenting Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/542067440314642

    Dr. Liz Hale:

    http://www.drlizhale.com/

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    March 4, 2024

    Simple Ways To Improve Your Marriage | Jeff Forte | #75

    Today, Jeff Forte joins us to chat about everything from parenting and relationship stress to 10 second hugs and intentionally making the most of every interaction with your spouse or partner. Jeff Forte is a relationship expert and author of the books, the 90 Minute marriage miracle and be happy forever. Jeff has experienced both a divorce and the death of his second wife.

    About Jeff Forte:
    Jeff Forte, is an Executive Peak Performance Coach, Leadership Expert, Author, and Speaker. He writes about the areas of his life that he's had to improve by overcoming adversity. His ability to relate to the reader comes from his genuine desire to give the reader immediately useful tools, skills, and strategies that they can put to work right away. The ideas you'll read about in his books contain powerful secrets that begin to shift the odds of success quickly in your favor. His work is highly proprietary in nature. He's the creator of The Magenta System for personal transformation, The Magenta Process for emotional wellness, The Rising Love Marriage Repair Process for fixing marriage and divorce prevention, and The Leadership Alliance for creating a transnational shift in global leadership. His clients include Fortune 500 Executives, Professional Athletes, High Tech Visionaries, Emmy Award Winners, Global Leaders, Business Professionals, Couples and Teams.

    Insights:

    • Jeff: I hope listeners remember that every interaction with each other is a chance for a fresh start. It’s a chance to improve things between you as a chance to deepen connection is a chance to reconnect to resolve conflicts a chance to apologize every single interaction can be utilized to improve your relations.
    • Dave: What does my partner need from me right now. Right now, in this moment, what can I do to relieve stress from their life?
    • Liz: The whole idea about distractions affecting attractions. Even Jeff, as you were so kind to talk about, you know, after the passing of your wife and then trying to date again, and how that distraction was really kind of hurtful to your son. And I, I wish more parents would pause and understand that who are either divorce or were also widows widowers to understand that, well, maybe there is a time and a place and the most important thing right now is the well being of that child.

    Invites:

    • Take notice of how you can help reduce some of your partner’s stress; like doing the
      dishes, helping to cook dinner, picking up dinner….
    • Be mindful of all the little distractions in your daily life that could be a cause of less
      attraction; ie: your children seeing you on your phone may prevent them from coming
      up and talking about something they’d like to share with you.
    • It’s the simple things that help build a stronger marriage, try to do one simple thing
      today to show them that you care. Like write a note, make the bed, start the dishwasher…

    Jeff Forte Links:

    https://90minutemarriagemiracle.com/
    https://www.facebook.com/peakresultscoaching

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:

    StrongerMarriage.org
    podcast.strongermarriage.org
    Facebook: StrongerMarriage.org
    Instagram: @strongermarriagelife

    Dr. Dave Schramm:

    https://drdaveschramm.com

    https://drdavespeaks.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU

    Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579

    Facebook Parenting Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/542067440314642

    Dr. Liz Hale:

    http://www.drlizhale.com/

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    February 26, 2024

    Dave Dollahite | Faith & Marriage | #74

    Today Dr. David Dollahite joins Dr. Dave Schramm and Dr. Liz Hale to discuss the connection between faith and marriage.

    About David Dollahite:
    Dr. David Dollahite, is a professor of family life at Brigham Young University. He received an MS and MFT and as a family life coach. He is co director of the American families of faith project. He has more than 200 publications for scholarly and public audiences. He has written or edited nine books on Family Life and Religion, including Home Centered Gospel learning and Living Strengths and Diverse Families of Faith, Religion and Families, and Successful Marriages and Families among other books. He and his wife Mary had been married for 40 years and have seven children and four grandchildren.

    Insights:

    • “Personal religious choices, beliefs, values, commitments, obviously impact individuals but they also strongly impact other people; siblings, parents, couples, kids or spouses, kids." -Dave Dollahite
    • "I think when each person in a marriage is humble about their own perspectives, their own attitudes, their own ideas about what should happen in a marriage, I think humility is sort of that, that core virtue that allows people to see good, see truth, see meaning and value in the other person." -Dave Dollahite

    Invites:

    • Learn more about how shared religion can bring you closer to your partner.
    • Find time to chat with your partner about both humility and commitment in your relationship.

    David’s Resources:
    Website: americanfamiliesoffaith.byu.edu
    YouTube: American Families of Faith
    Podcast: American Families of Faith Project

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:

    StrongerMarriage.org
    podcast.strongermarriage.org
    Facebook: StrongerMarriage.org
    Instagram: @strongermarriagelife

    Dr. Dave Schramm:

    https://drdaveschramm.com

    https://drdavespeaks.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU

    Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579

    Facebook Parenting Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/542067440314642

    Dr. Liz Hale:

    http://www.drlizhale.com/

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    February 19, 2024

    Jeff & Tammy Hill | Tips for Remarriage and Stepfamilies | #73

    Today Jeff and Tammy join Dr. Dave Schramm and Dr. Liz Hale to discuss helpful tips for
    blended or “stewed” families.

    About Jeff and Tammy Hill:
    Jeff and Tammy Hill have been enjoying the ups and downs of remarriage and stepfamily living for 17 years. Together, they have 12 children and both recently retired from teaching at
    Brigham Young University. They both continue to stay busy. Jeff helps with money workshops,
    and Tammy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and conducts love retreats, honeymoon workshops and dating boot camps. Most importantly, the hills love being parents, step parents and grandparents.

    Insights:

    • “I think the fundamental principle is to honor the previous family, honor the original family honor to recognize that nobody wished that that didn't work out with that original family.”-Jeff Hill
    • “If you really are grounded and know who you are, and are living aligned with who you want to be, you're gonna be a great marriage partner.” -Tammy Hill
    • “Having a step family isn't something that happens overnight. It doesn't even happen within a year or two. A lot of the research says it takes between four and seven years until a step family, big blended family or our small blended family but anyway that this type of a family actually gets cohesive.” - Tammy Hill

    Invites:

    • Chat with your partner about ways that you have moments to slip away from your family or home to just focus on your relationship.
    • Listen to Tammy’s podcast “Live your Why” on spotify or apple podcasts

    Jeff and Tammy’s Resources
    Website: tammyhill.com
    Instagram: @tammy_hill_lmft
    Podcast: Live Your Why

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:

    StrongerMarriage.org
    podcast.strongermarriage.org
    Facebook: StrongerMarriage.org
    Instagram: @strongermarriagelife

    Dr. Dave Schramm:

    https://drdaveschramm.com

    https://drdavespeaks.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU

    Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579

    Facebook Parenting Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/542067440314642

    Dr. Liz Hale:

    http://www.drlizhale.com/

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    February 12, 2024

    Alan Hawkins | The Truth About Open Relationships | #72

    Today Utah Marriage Commission Manager, Alan Hawkins joins Dr. Dave Schramm and Dr. Liz Hale to discuss the challenges of an open relationship.

    About Alan Hawkins:
    Alan Hawkins is the manager of the Utah Marriage Commission. He recently retired after 33
    years as a professor at Brigham Young University. He earned a PhD in Human Development and Family Studies at Pennsylvania State University in 1990. Professor Hawkins scholarship and
    outreach efforts focused on educational interventions and policies to help couples form and
    sustain healthy marriages and relationships and to help fathers be engaged in the lives of their children. Since 2000, he has been intricately involved in state and federal policy efforts to
    support relationship education programs for disadvantaged families. He has served on the Utah marriage commission since 2004. And as a past chair of the Utah marriage commission. He currently serves as vice chair on the board for the National Association for Relationship and Marriage Education.

    Insights:

    • “ I believe marriage is a relationship that asks you to give your all to each other mentally,
      emotionally, sexually, give your all to another person. I think that kind of depth in a relationship leads to a richness and a beauty and a power that you can't achieve by dividing your heart.” - Alan Hawkins
    • “Go deeper with one person instead of broader with others.” - Dave Schramm
    • “The deeper you get, the more you understand, which then means the more you love.” - Alan Hawkins

    Invites:
    -“Go Deeper” with your partner by downloading the Gottman Card Deck app.
    -Learn about ways that you can create a stronger marriage connection by attending the
    webinars held by the Utah Marriage Commission.

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:

    StrongerMarriage.org
    podcast.strongermarriage.org
    Facebook: StrongerMarriage.org
    Instagram: @strongermarriagelife

    Dr. Dave Schramm:

    https://drdaveschramm.com

    https://drdavespeaks.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU

    Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579

    Facebook Parenting Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/542067440314642

    Dr. Liz Hale:

    http://www.drlizhale.com/

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    February 5, 2024

    Gray Divorce | Lori Schade | #71

    Lori joins Dr. Dave Schramm and Dr. Liz Hale to discuss the common issues that
    result in a mid-life or “gray” divorce.

    About Lori Schade:
    Lori Schade is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and AAMFT approved therapy
    supervisor running a therapy practice in Pleasant Grove Utah called Compassionate
    Connections Counseling. She specializes in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and
    supervises therapists towards certification in the model. She has been an adjunct faculty
    member in the Marriage and Family Therapy Department at Brigham Young University as well
    as Utah Valley University. For over three decades she has practiced therapy alternately with
    raising seven children and has published several peer reviewed materials related to her
    profession. In her spare time she enjoys running, traveling, tandem bike riding with her
    husband, knitting and playing the organ. She is convinced the grandchildren are one of life's
    best kept secrets.

    Insights:

    • “There's always hope. I have a very easy time being hopeful for married couples, sometimes I have to say, ‘borrow my hope.’ I actually got that from Dr. Rebecca Jorgensen. And I think it's so lovely. And a lot of times small changes bring about really large changes in dynamics in marriage.” - Lori Schade
    • “There are two kinds of commitment. One is personal commitment, where you feel free to exercise where you want to put your loyalty. The term is kind of like restraint. It's actually called constraint commitment, and constraint commitment are all of those variables that keep people feeling stuck. It might be religious beliefs, it might be children in the home, it might be financial constraints, but there are those things where people might divorce but they stay there because they feel these barriers to divorce? And so sometimes at midlife, those are removed. And so I think it's quite possible that that's also why we might see a resurgence of divorce and at that time.” -Lori Schade

    Invites:

    • Find time in your week to have a connection check-in with your partner by asking these three questions. How connected are we from last time we checked? More or less or the same? What's been happening in our lives that may have impacted the level of connection? What is one small thing that would help me feel more connected?"
    • Reach out to a therapist to learn more about Emotionally Focused Therapy to see if it could potentially strengthen your relationship with your partner.

    Lori’s Links:

    Compassionate Connections Counseling Website
    Book mentioned by Lori: The Lost Love Chronicles: Reunions & Memories of First Love by Nancy Kalish

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:

    StrongerMarriage.org
    podcast.strongermarriage.org
    Facebook: StrongerMarriage.org
    Instagram: @strongermarriagelife

    Dr. Dave Schramm:

    https://drdaveschramm.com

    https://drdavespeaks.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU

    Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579

    Facebook Parenting Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/542067440314642

    Dr. Liz Hale:

    http://www.drlizhale.com/

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    January 29, 2024

    Sex is for Women Too | Ariel Finlinson | #70

    Ariel joins Dr. Dave Schramm and Dr. Liz Hale to discuss the complex dynamics of sex
    in a relationship and how women can feel empowered in their sexuality.

    Sign up for Ariel's FREE MASTERCLASS NOW THRU February 12, 2024: https://outlook.office.com/mail/safelink.html?url=https://ladiestalkinglove.com/masterclass&corid=6a8a53f5-c147-1b8a-d10f-5cc24b4e1cb5

    Starting February 5, 2024 earn a special $20 discount from using this link: https://ladies-talking-love.ck.page/products/womens-sexuality-course-registration?promo=DAVE

    About Ariel Finlinson:

    Ariel Finlayson is a women's sexuality educator and the host of the ladies talking love podcast.
    She recently earned her master's in Human Development and Family Studies at Utah State
    University. A native of northern Wisconsin, she can't get enough of forests or fresh squeaky
    cheese curds. Her online course from pressure to passion empowers women to live up to the
    joy and fulfillment they deserve in their relationships. She is currently living in Utah with her
    husband, Kyle, and their four young children.

    • Insights:
      “I think just recognizing number one, that it is a really important part of your relationship to foster. And then number two, that it isn't all of your relationship but with that connection and sex, you are going to be able to have a more thriving and flourishing and beautiful empowering relationship than you thought possible.” -Ariel Finlinson 22:38-22:57
    • “To ask ourselves as women "Where did I get my information?" Where did I get this belief that sex is for men, for instance, or that ‘good girls don't,’ right? Many of us have heard through them  years? Where did I get that information? And can I explore something different?” -Dr. Liz Hale 28:44-29:00

    Invites:

    • Download Ariel’s free resource, “10 Questions to ask your spouse about Sex”
    • Find a time to discuss with your partner the stereotypes that you believe are affecting your relationship.

    Ariel’s Links:
    Instagram: @ladies.talkinglove
    Website: https://www.ladiestalkinglove.com

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:

    StrongerMarriage.org
    podcast.strongermarriage.org
    Facebook: StrongerMarriage.org
    Instagram: @strongermarriagelife

    Dr. Dave Schramm:

    https://drdaveschramm.com

    https://drdavespeaks.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU

    Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579

    Facebook Parenting Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/542067440314642

    Dr. Liz Hale:

    http://www.drlizhale.com/

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    January 22, 2024

    Struggling With Inadequacy | Natasha Dansie | #69

    Natasha joins Dr. Dave Schramm and Dr. Liz Hale to talk about the struggles that
    women face with feelings of inadequacy and simple tips to overcoming these feelings.

    About Natasha Dansie:
    Natasha offers concrete tips and real life examples of everyday interactions that often lead to
    mothers thinking they aren't enough. Natasha Dansie is a certified family life educator. She has taught relationship education classes through Utah State University for the past 11 years,
    working with a variety of audiences from high school students and retreats for women to
    inmates in the maximum security unit and everything in between. She loves traveling, learning
    and snuggling. Natasha and her husband Jeff are raising their five children ages 7 to 19
    alongside a variety of farm animals in central Utah.

    Insights:

    • “It's hard to be grateful and resentful.” -Dr. Liz Hale
    • “Observe and then serve.” -Dr. Dave Schramm
    • “One of the actions that I've personally seen the power of in my own life is the intentional practice of gratitude. So when I feel my stuff, my brain starts slipping into this negative vortex that starts to get dark. And I just have to pause. And when I start practicing gratitude, it's like, I can reverse the effects of that.” -Natasha Dansie

    Invites:

    • Find a moment to pause after you have a feeling of inadequacy.
    • If someone shares the way that they are feeling, instead of stating why they shouldn’t be
      feeling that way, validate their feelings by saying something like, “that must be really
      difficult” or “I see how you could feel that way.”

    Natasha’s Links:
    Email: ariseworkshops@gmail.com
    Instagram: @natashadansie

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:

    StrongerMarriage.org
    podcast.strongermarriage.org
    Facebook: StrongerMarriage.org
    Instagram: @strongermarriagelife

    Dr. Dave Schramm:

    https://drdaveschramm.com

    https://drdavespeaks.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU

    Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579

    Facebook Parenting Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/542067440314642

    Dr. Liz Hale:

    http://www.drlizhale.com/

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    January 15, 2024

    How To Conquer Addiction and Shame in Marriage | Tyler Patrick | #68

    Tyler joins Dr. Dave Schramm to talk about the challenges of addiction and shame in
    marriage and the skill set required to overcome addictions with a stronger marriage connection.

    About Tyler Patrick:

    Tyler is a Marriage and Family Therapist has dedicated his career to mastering and
    understanding of recovery from sexual addiction and betrayal trauma. He has come to believe
    that the men and women who embrace and live the principles of recovery do far more than get
    their lives back. They become the best kinds of husbands and wives, fathers and mothers. He
    has been married for over 20 years to an incredible woman and as a father to four amazing
    daughters. His hobbies away from work include supporting his children's interests, fly fishing,
    backpacking, and training River, his German Shorthaired Pointer.

    Insights:

    "I'm going to pursue a life where I understand what's going on in my mind and my heart, and
    then choosing to live from that sort of centered, sort of gut place. And then that allows me to
    live my life on, you know, on life's terms, if I'm having a bad moment, I can trust that I have the tools to do that. I can trust that I'm human.” -Tyler Patrick

    “When you have two people who know who they are and can be vulnerable with one another,
    and they choose to be with one another. That's where the deepest levels of connection
    happen.” -Tyler Patrick

    “If you're sitting there listening to this feeling like it's hopeless or it's dark, it's not, your story is not finished. It's just begun and you're sitting on a goldmine if you're willing to do the work.” -Tyler Patrick

    Invites:

    • Check out the podcast of Brian and Tyler
    •  Sign up for a first free session with Tyler.
    • Talk with your partner about the importance of humility and honesty in your
      relationship.

    Tyler’s Links:

    Website: https://lovestrong.com
    Instagram: @the.wandering.therapist

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:

    StrongerMarriage.org
    podcast.strongermarriage.org
    Facebook: StrongerMarriage.org
    Instagram: @strongermarriagelife

    Dr. Dave Schramm:

    https://drdaveschramm.com

    https://drdavespeaks.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU

    Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579

    Facebook Parenting Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/542067440314642

    Dr. Liz Hale:

    http://www.drlizhale.com/

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    January 8, 2024

    Sexual Mindfulness | Dr. Chelom Leavitt | #67

    On today’s episode of the stronger marriage connection, Dr. Chelom Leavitt, J.D., Ph.D., will explore with Dr. Dave and Dr. Liz how to intentionally slow your mind and body to build awareness and create better connection during sex.

    About Chelom Leavitt:

    Dr. Chelom Leavitt, J.D., Ph.D. teaches in the School of Family Life at Brigham Young University. Dr. Leavitt received her Ph.D. from Penn State where she focused her research on how mindfulness is linked to sexual functioning and satisfaction. Dr. Leavitt’s findings have been published in top research journals and books. Her research has helped uncover what couples experience during sex, and what factors contribute to connection. Along with her work in Sexual Mindfulness, Dr. Leavitt hosts interventions that teach couples how to slow down and be more aware and create greater connection during sex. She regularly blogs for Psychology Today as well her website www.chelomleavitt.com, where she shares with readers the latest research on meaningful sex, slowing down to experience greater connection, and being more curious in romantic and sexual relationships. Dr. Chelom Leavitt is married to David Leavitt and they are the parents of nine children.

    Insights:

    • Chelom: Slow down, be gentle and be curious.
    • Dave: Media does not portray sex correctly, making time to breathe, slow down, and raise awareness will benefit your relationship in all ways.
    • Liz: Normalizing emotions in our life and bringing awareness can increase our sexual pleasure and lives.

    Invites: •

    • Practice the mindful embrace and heads together exercise Chelom discussed with your partner.
    • Start mindfulness exercises. The next time you have 2 minutes of breathing room, sit down, practice how it feels to just breathe and be. Implement this routine more and more into your schedule.
    • Notice what happens when you are physically connecting with your partner. A hug can tell you a lot about how your relationship looks and what you and your partner need.

    Chelom Leavitt Links:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexualmindfulnessproject/

    https://www.chelomleavitt.com/

     

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:

    StrongerMarriage.org
    podcast.strongermarriage.org
    Facebook: StrongerMarriage.org
    Instagram: @strongermarriagelife

    Dr. Dave Schramm:

    https://drdaveschramm.com

    https://drdavespeaks.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU

    Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579

    Facebook Parenting Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/542067440314642

    Dr. Liz Hale:

    http://www.drlizhale.com/

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    January 1, 2024

    Overcoming Sexual Frustration | Tammy Hill | #66

    On today’s episode of the stronger marriage connection, Dave and Liz with Tammy
    Hill, educator, LMFT, ASSECT, and author discuss how to overcome rejection, desire difference,
    and stale sex. Explore new ways to replenish your partner and build beauty in your sexual
    connection.

    About Tammy Hill:

    Tammy Hill is passionate about strengthening marriage relationships. She is a Licensed
    Marriage and Family Therapist and an active member of the American Association of Sexual
    Educators, Counselors and Therapists (ASSECT). Tammy enjoys being an adjunct faculty
    member at Brigham Young University in the School of Family Life where she teaches hundreds
    of students each semester in Marriage Preparation, Marriage Enhancement and Healthy
    Sexuality in Marriage courses. Tammy owns a private counseling practice where she largely
    works with couples. She has free resources available on her website
    (http://www.tammyhill.com) where she also offers numerous Making Love Retreats,
    Honeymoon Workshops and Dating Bootcamps each year. Published in 2021, Tammy’s first
    book, “God Made Girls and Boys” is a beautiful children’s book addressing agency, gender,
    accountability, and hope in our Heavenly Parent’s eternal plan. Her second book, “Replenish:
    Creating Sexual Fulfillment in Marriage”, was published earlier this year. Most importantly
    Tammy is forever grateful to be a wife, mother and grandmother.

    Insights:

    Tammy: Humans are created with a capacity to have amazing sexual pleasure. Push yourself to
    learn how to replenish each other.

    Dave: Make time to intentionally have sex with your partner.

    Liz: Monogamous does not have to mean monotonous.

    Invites:

    • Instead of waiting for your partner to change, recognize the part you play in
      conflict and seek to change it without any guarantee that your partner will do the
      same. You may find that your partner’s response to your change is exactly what you
      hoped.
    • Examine whether there is contempt in your relationship. If you “horibilize” your
      partner by objectifying them and only seeing their faults and their weaknesses, you
      might be guilty of contempt.
    • As yourself, “ If I were to give my whole heart to my partner, what would it occur
      to me to do?”. Be still and then heed that inner call to connect

    Tammy Hill Links:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tammy_hill_lmft/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/replenishyourmarriage

    Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5wSW6CZ431e8nJFCVMUyeZ

     

     

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:

    StrongerMarriage.org
    podcast.strongermarriage.org
    Facebook: StrongerMarriage.org
    Instagram: @strongermarriagelife

    Dr. Dave Schramm:

    https://drdaveschramm.com

    https://drdavespeaks.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU

    Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579

    Facebook Parenting Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/542067440314642

    Dr. Liz Hale:

    http://www.drlizhale.com/

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    December 25, 2023

    Christmas Memories & Traditions | Dave & Liz | #65

    Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas. Today, Liz, Dave, and Rex share family traditions, memories of celebrations past, and relationship insights.

    December is a time of celebration for many that include cultural traditions. The holidays can be many things for many people: great joy, chaos, solemn reflection or new beginnings. Join us as we discuss Christmas memories, traditions, and share some tips to help you navigate your relationship during the holidays. 

     

    Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:

    StrongerMarriage.org
    podcast.strongermarriage.org
    Facebook: StrongerMarriage.org
    Instagram: @strongermarriagelife

    Dr. Dave Schramm:

    https://drdaveschramm.com

    https://drdavespeaks.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU

    Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579

    Facebook Parenting Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/542067440314642

    Dr. Liz Hale:

    http://www.drlizhale.com/

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    December 18, 2023

    Tips For Managing In-laws & Family Gatherings | Dave & Liz | #64

    Rex joins Dave and Liz today to discuss tips for managing In-laws and family gatherings.

    Relationships with extended family can be tricky or sometimes difficult and anxiety inducing. Dr. John Gottman says, "Every marriage is a cross-cultural experience." Whether we come from similar cultures or not, together we create a brand new culture within our new families. 

    The holidays bring opportunities to spend time with our extended family. Though these gatherings can bring many emotions to the service, here are four tips to help settle in and make the best of the time for you and them.

    1. Speak Kindly: Speak kindly to your partner about their family and friends. Share concerns or issues with a compassion mindfulness and heart.
    2. Get Curious: When you bring an open curiosity to your family gatherings, you can learn things about your extended family, your spouse, and yourself. Being curious also creates the opportunity for bids for connection and leads to relationship building. People love to share stories, likes, and things about themselves. So take a moment to get curious about your extended family and treasure the experience.
    3. Lean In: Leaning in creates situations where everyone can be included and participate in a comfortable way. It's a good idea to prepare at least one activity, topic, or item to bring to the gathering that will get everyone wanting to contribute or participate. This could be a simple game, social activity, food or recipe or possibly even a toy of some sort. When the moment arrives, rise to the occasion and lean in.
    4. Plan Your Exit: Sometimes we can only contain so much joy at family gathering before problems may arise. Have an exit plan or strategy in place so that you and your spouse can discretely signal each other that you have reached your quota