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Confessions of the Higher Desire Wife with J. Parker Ep. 699

Awesome Marriage Podcast

Release Date: 10/14/2025

Wider Lens: All Things Together: Apprenticeship to Jesus in a Fragmented World with Heath Hardesty show art Wider Lens: All Things Together: Apprenticeship to Jesus in a Fragmented World with Heath Hardesty

Awesome Marriage Podcast

In this episode, Dr. Kim talks with author and pastor Heath Hardesty about his new book, All Things Together. Heath shares how his time apprenticing under his earthly father became a living picture of what it means to be an apprentice of our Heavenly Father. They discuss what it looks like to live as image bearers in a fragmented world, why discipleship is more than “extra credit,” and how God redeems, not erases, our humanity. Together, they unpack how to see with wonder again, order our imagination around Christ, and live a whole, beautiful life that reflects Him.   Episode...

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Awesome Marriage Podcast

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Awesome Marriage Podcast

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Awesome Marriage Podcast

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Awesome Marriage Podcast

We are quick to label selfish or defensive behavior as “narcissism,” but what if the issue runs deeper than personality? In this episode, we explore how disordered desires, our need for control, comfort, or validation, shape the way we relate to others and quietly erode connection. This conversation unpacks the difference between healthy self-awareness and self-absorption, why freedom begins when we stop defending ourselves, and how real change doesn’t come from trying harder—but from surrendering deeper. You’ll be challenged to look beneath behavior and consider what your heart is...

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Mismatched sex drives in marriage? You're not alone—and it's not a problem to fix, but an opportunity to grow together.

Most couples (up to 90%!) will experience periods where their sexual desires don't line up perfectly. It's completely normal—and it's a chance to build deeper understanding, communication, and compassion in your relationship. Getting honest about differences means you can meet each other where you are, as a team.

This conversation is full of encouragement for the couple (or the spouse) who is feeling the disconnect from the different drives. Join Dr. Kim and J. Parker as they talk about normalizing this topic and making your marriage (and sex life) awesome.

Episode Highlights:

Majority of couples face the struggle of mismatched sex drives.

It’s important that the lines of communication are open when talking about desire, frequency and expectation.

Open, ongoing communication is key to building intimacy. 

The way we think about intimacy is often shaped by cultural messages, church teaching, or our upbringing.

 

Quotes from Today’s Episode:

Mismatched sex drives aren't the exception—they're the norm.

Instead of seeing it as a sign something's wrong, view it as an opportunity to communicate, show compassion, and navigate intimacy as a team.

The old script that ‘men want sex and women want romance' sells everyone short. You can crave both romance and intimacy, regardless of who in your marriage has the higher desire.

A thriving sex life isn't automatic—it's something you cultivate over time, through learning, honesty, and growth together.

Sometimes a gap in desire isn't about your relationship at all, but about real-life pressures.

There are times when speaking up isn't nagging—it's partnership. Express what you need, but do it out of love and with respect, seeking to connect and understand, not just correct.

 

Questions for Reflection:

  1. When was the last time you and your spouse had a conversation about frequency? 
  2. Do you feel comfortable telling your spouse what you need in regards to physical intimacy? 
  3. What’s one small step you could take this week to communicate more openly about your needs and create healthier intimacy together?

 

Mentioned in this Episode: