Built to Last: What Makes (or Breaks) a Thriving Marriage
Release Date: 07/08/2025
Awesome Marriage Podcast
Today on the Awesome Marriage podcast, Dr. Kim is joined by Gabe and Rebekah Lyons to discuss their latest book The Fight for Us. Through 28 years of marriage, they realized as time went on that each of them brought their own differing perspectives, expectations, and emotional maturity to the marriage. The one common thread to connecting through all the differences is and will always be clear and effective communication. It will take a fight and it will take intentionality, but your marriage will thrive and it will absolutely be worth it. We are praying this episode encourages you to keep...
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In this episode, Dr. Kim opens up about how workplace relationships, especially dealing with negative and/or flirtatious coworkers, can impact marriage. He encourages couples to recognize these concerns, lean on biblical truth, and take intentional, practical steps to protect and strengthen their relationship. This episode reminds us of the power of open communication, the importance of setting healthy boundaries, and the hope we can find in trusting God through every season of marriage. Episode Highlights: Concern about coworkers is a valid issue in marriages. Bad company can...
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Just when you thought you couldn’t love Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy more—this episode takes things to a whole new level. With honesty and heart, they open up about the real journey of their marriage—sharing the intentional choices, tough seasons, and deep faith that carried them through. From early challenges that could have pulled them apart to the daily decisions that drew them closer, their story reflects what’s possible when a couple chooses to build on the foundation of Christ. Their marriage is both relatable and inspiring—a powerful reminder that when God is kept first, a marriage...
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This is the perfect episode to kick off July, as this month at Awesome Marriage we’re highlighting the importance of dating your spouse. Arlene Pellicane joins me in the studio to talk about keeping your spouse first and your marriage fun! But what does that actually look like? In the midst of life’s demands, Arlene shares practical tips and loads of wisdom to help you keep investing in your marriage and enjoying your spouse. We pray this episode encourages your marriage. Episode Takeaways: Marriage and parenting are common pain points for many people. The divorce rate is down, but so...
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In today’s episode, we explore how constant connectivity and work stress can quietly invade our marriages. When work becomes all-consuming, it can turn into an idol and create emotional distance between spouses. We discuss why learning to leave work at work is a spiritual discipline and how true support means walking alongside your spouse, not having all the answers. You’ll hear practical wisdom on setting boundaries together, sharing burdens, and seeking counsel early. Marriage is about more than success—it’s about not facing struggles alone. Episode Highlights: ...
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In this special Father’s Day edition of the podcast, I’m joined by my good friend Larry Hagner. While we’re focusing on fatherhood, this episode is packed with wisdom for every married couple. From building a stronger marriage, to deepening your connection with your kids, to taking care of your own well-being—Larry shares wisdom that every family can benefit from. Episode Highlights: Community and support are essential for fathers. The relationship between husband and father roles is interconnected. Children learn about relationships from their parents' marriage. Legacy...
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In this week’s episode, Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy unpack the powerful topic of expectations—focusing on how to clearly express what you need from your spouse. With honest conversation, a willingness to listen, and an open heart, you can transform how you communicate and connect in your relationship. Quotes from this episode: “I just thought you knew. And when you didn’t I would go along and get resentful” “We were trying to fit each other in the mold.” “Our first big argument scared the heck out of me. My unrealistic expectation was that we would never fight.” ...
info_outlineJust when you thought you couldn’t love Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy more—this episode takes things to a whole new level. With honesty and heart, they open up about the real journey of their marriage—sharing the intentional choices, tough seasons, and deep faith that carried them through. From early challenges that could have pulled them apart to the daily decisions that drew them closer, their story reflects what’s possible when a couple chooses to build on the foundation of Christ. Their marriage is both relatable and inspiring—a powerful reminder that when God is kept first, a marriage doesn’t just survive—it thrives.
Episode Highlights:
Intentionality is key.
Marriages won't thrive naturally.
Taking ownership and openly communicating are important tools for successful marriages.
Quotes from this Episode:
Don’t be negative.
I think we were in lust not in love.
I think we had to build true love in our marriage.
We’ve learned to build bit by bit.
I thought if I loved you enough everything was going to be ok.
Until you realize how much God loves you as a person you aren’t truly free to love another person.
Divorce isn’t a word in our vocabulary anymore, commitment is!
We realize now what we were missing.
Just getting married doesn’t mean you won’t feel alone.
Questions for Conversation:
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What part of Dr. Kim and Nancy’s story felt most relatable or surprising to you? Why?
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Have you ever assumed love alone would be enough to fix everything? How has your view of love and commitment changed over time?
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Have there been moments where one (or both) of you felt alone in your marriage? What helped reconnect you—or what could help now?
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Is “divorce” or emotional withdrawal ever subtly present as an option in your mindset or language? What does it look like to choose commitment every day?
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How can you better prioritize keeping God first in your marriage this week?
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What’s one thing you want to be intentional about after listening to this episode—together or individually?
Mentioned in this episode:
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We believe that keeping marriage fun means date night can’t be boring. Check out our Date Night Boosters. Reignite the fun and intimacy in your date nights with your spouse.
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Awesome Marriage swag is now LIVE! Grab a gift for you, your spouse or another couple. There’s something for everyone.
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Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word as you intentionally choose to build a thriving marriage, find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Try this FREE YouVersion plan: Celebrating Differences in Marriage
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If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !
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Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips!
- Now is the perfect time to join our Marriage Changers program. Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to . receive our Date Night Boosters.