Awesome Marriage Podcast

Far too many couples are just surviving their marriage when it was meant to thrive. This is the place for practical tips on how to build an awesome marriage. Our passion is to help you strengthen your marriage. Dr. Kim Kimberling hosts the show. Dr. Kim is the President of Awesome Marriage, has been married for over 50 years, and has been a professional counselor for 40+ years. He is the author of 7 Secrets to An Awesome Marriage ,14 Keys To Lasting Love, and most recently Love, Intimacy and Sex in the Second Half. Dr. Kim will be joined once a month by his wife of 55 years, Nancy Kimberling. He will also host other great guests that will teach and encourage you as you intentionally pursue an awesome marriage. Tune in each week to hear practical advice from Dr. Kim. This podcast is brought to you by the ministry of Awesome Marriage.

Spiritual Warfare in the Calm: Staying Alert in the Good Seasons of Marriage Ep. 704 11/18/2025

Spiritual Warfare in the Calm: Staying Alert in the Good Seasons of Marriage Ep. 704 When life feels peaceful and marriage is running smoothly, it’s easy to let your guard down—but what if those “good seasons” are actually when spiritual warfare works most subtly? In this episode, Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy talk about how the enemy can creep in through comfort and complacency, why couples should stay spiritually alert even when things feel calm, and how to build rhythms that keep you rooted in God and each other. From prayer and gratitude practices to regular marriage check-ins, we’ll explore how to protect your marriage from drifting and use the good seasons as opportunities for growth, connection, and deeper faith. Main Takeaways: Spiritual warfare doesn’t stop in the good seasons. Comfort can lead to drift if couples aren’t intentional. Good seasons are opportunities for spiritual strengthening. Quotes from This Episode: Complacency is the quiet thief in marriage—it's the gradual drifting apart that happens when you think everything is okay. The enemy attacks most fiercely when we let our guard down in times of comfort; be vigilant, even in the good seasons. Spiritual battles aren't always sudden explosions. Sometimes, it's the everyday neglect that chips away at your relationship, step by step. Your marriage is always on a journey—it's either moving forward or sliding backward. Choose to advance, even if you stumble. Use seasons of peace to intentionally invest and protect your relationship. Couples’ Conversation Guide: When things are going really well for us, do you ever notice ways we might start drifting spiritually or emotionally? How can we stay alert together?" Are there small habits or signs you’ve noticed in our marriage that show we’re getting a little complacent? What could we do to course-correct? "During the good seasons, what’s one thing we could start doing together—like prayer, gratitude, or reading Scripture—that would help strengthen our marriage and faith?" Mentioned in this episode: Need to establish the rhythm of intentionality in your marriage? Use our We gathered all 685 answers, organized them into the top 10 themes, and added 1 practical step for each theme so husbands can better meet their wife's needs. Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word with your spouse? Find . Intentionally pray over your marriage with If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at , and browse our online courses at ! Sign up for for practical weekly marriage tips! /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/38928825

Spiritual Warfare in the Calm: Staying Alert in the Good Seasons of Marriage Ep. 704 11/18/2025

Gradually, Then Suddenly with Mark Batterson Ep. 703 11/11/2025

Gradually, Then Suddenly with Mark Batterson Ep. 703 What if the biggest breakthroughs in your life and marriage don’t happen overnight—but gradually, then suddenly? In this episode, we sit down with bestselling author and pastor Mark Batterson to talk about his new book Gradually, Then Suddenly and how God’s long-game approach shapes everything from our dreams to our relationships. Mark unpacks what it means to play the long game in faith, how to take every thought captive to Christ, and why success—whether in ministry or marriage—always grows at the “speed of a seed.” We’ll also explore how small, intentional choices today can create generational impact tomorrow. If you’ve ever felt like growth is too slow or that your prayers are taking too long to be answered, this conversation will remind you that God is always working—gradually, then suddenly. Episode Takeaways: Instead of focusing on how long something takes, we’re invited to stay faithful to His good, pleasing, and perfect will—even when the outcome isn’t immediate. Success isn’t about avoiding failure—it’s about learning to manage it. We don’t need to see the whole plan to take the first step. Quotes from Today’s Episode: "Whatever it is God's called you to do, it's probably going to take longer than you like and be harder than you hope for." "We overestimate what we can do in a year or two, but we underestimate what God can do in 10 or 20 or 30." "The cure for the fear of failure is not success. It's failure in small enough doses that you build up an immunity to it." Success is usually well-managed failure. It's not about pinpointing dates. It's about being faithful to his good pleasing and perfect will. Whatever it is God is calling you to do is probably going to take longer than you like and be harder than you hoped for. Good ideas are good but God ideas change the course of history. By faith you take the first step, even if God hasn’t revealed the second step. You aren’t going to be married very long without some curveballs. Couples Conversation Starters: How can we support each other in staying patient and faithful when God’s timing feels slower than we hoped in our marriage or personal goals? What are some “small failures” we’ve experienced together, and how can we use them to grow stronger as a couple rather than letting them discourage us? Is there a step of faith—big or small—that God might be calling us to take together, even if we don’t see the full path yet? Mentioned in this Episode: and connect with him on socials. Mark Batterson’s new book is out! We gathered all 685 answers, organized them into the top 10 themes, and added 1 practical step for each theme so husbands can better meet their wife's needs. Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word with your spouse? Find . Want to shift your perspective about your spouse and your marriage, check out If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at , and browse our online courses at ! Sign up for for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our . Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to receive our /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/38850185

5 Things That Aren't Really Communication Ep. 702 11/04/2025

5 Things That Aren't Really Communication Ep. 702 We all know communication is key to a healthy marriage—but what if what you think is communication… really isn’t? In this solo episode, Dr. Kim unpacks five common habits couples mistake for communication and how these patterns can quietly erode connection over time. Learn how to create safety in your conversations, break unhealthy rhythms from your past, and build new habits that foster real understanding. Because clarity is kind, connection takes intention, and communication is about more than just words—it’s about being truly heard. Episode Highlights: Communication is the number one struggle couples mention in counseling. Talking at someone isn’t the same as talking to someone. Unhealthy rhythms stem from our past experiences. The first step in breaking these patterns is recognizing they are there. Clarity is kind. It’s important that both spouses feel safe to hear and be heard. Digital communication cannot replace connection. Daily touch points and weekly check-ins can help combat the negative rhythms. Quotes from Today’s Episode: When couples say they can’t communicate, what they mean is “we can’t connect.” We tend to overestimate how well we communicate. We think our spouse should just know what we want to say. Silence communicates rejection and punishment. Your spouse can’t read your mind. Unmet expectations are just resentments waiting to happen. Sarcasm is a shield that prevents real intimacy. Use technology to enhance communication not to replace it. Don’t wait for problems to arise before you communicate. Pause before you react. James 1:19 that’s countercultural advice in a world that rewards quick comeback and hot takes but it’s exactly what healthy communication looks like. Couple’s Conversation Starters: Which of the “five things that aren’t really communication” do we each tend to slip into most often, and how can we help each other recognize it with grace? When was the last time one of us felt unheard or misunderstood, and what could we do differently next time to make both of us feel safe to share honestly? How can we build more intentional rhythms of connection—like daily touch points or weekly check-ins—to keep our communication strong and consistent? Mentioned in this Episode: If Communication is a struggle in your marriage, check out this free webinar: We gathered all 685 answers, organized them into the top 10 themes, and added 1 practical step for each theme so husbands can better meet their wife's needs. Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word with your spouse? Find . Want to see what God’s Word says about what your wife needs? Or maybe, women, you don’t know how to put to words what you need. Check out . If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at , and browse our online courses at ! Sign up for for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our . Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to receive our /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/38795795

The Mindful Marriage: Breaking Cycles and Building Connection in Christ with Ron Deal Ep.701 10/28/2025

The Mindful Marriage: Breaking Cycles and Building Connection in Christ with Ron Deal Ep.701 In this episode, Dr. Kim sits down with Ron Deal to talk about what it really means to build a mindful marriage. Ron shares lessons from his new book, Mindful Marriage, and how restoration therapy helped him and his wife Nan find healing and deeper connection. Together, they explore how faith, self-awareness, and emotional regulation can transform your relationship from the inside out. Episode Insights: Authenticity is the foundation of lasting happiness. Emotional dysregulation is normal. Our brains respond to threat, not fairness. Pain cycles drive repeated conflict. Growth and redemption matter more than blame. Quotes from Today’s Episode: 'Happy wife, happy life' sounds catchy, but in reality, it's an empty promise. Lasting happiness in marriage comes from authenticity, not performance or pretending everything is okay. Every single one of us gets thrown off-balance emotionally. Some stay there longer, others move through it quickly, but emotional dysregulation is part of the human experience. There's nothing wrong about you because you get dysregulated. The brain can't tell the difference between a rattlesnake, a near-miss in traffic, or your spouse's criticism. Threat is threat. Our brains are wired for survival, not perfect communication. You don't have fifty different fights in marriage. You just have one ongoing pain cycle. Once you identify and understand your pain cycle, you can finally move beyond it together. Ignoring your pain doesn't make it go away—if anything, it makes your pain stronger, more insistent, and harder to escape. It's easy to point out the flaw in someone else, but it's vital to focus on your own growth. You may not forget your pain, but you can redeem what it does in your life. Choosing redemption over resentment is liberating. Couples Conversation Guide: Are there areas in our marriage where we tend to “perform” or pretend things are okay instead of being real with each other? When conflict or hurt arises between you, how aware are you of what’s really going on beneath the surface—your emotions, triggers, or past experiences? What’s one practical step you can take this week to be more mindful in your marriage—whether that’s pausing before reacting, praying together, or choosing to listen with empathy? Mentioned in this episode: #1 Amazon Bestseller is available! (designed for every marriage). What's your reactive coping style? We all have one. (15 minutes). Find Need help starting the practice of prayer in your marriage? Here's a great resource: Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word with your spouse? Find . We even have a plan for praying as a couple! Check out . on the Elevate Your Marriage Communication Course & L.O.V.E Your Way Through Conflict Course. If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at , and browse our online courses at ! Sign up for for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our . Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to receive our /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/38648500

The Power of Praying Together as a Couple and Pursuing Spiritual Growth Together Ep. 70 10/21/2025

The Power of Praying Together as a Couple and Pursuing Spiritual Growth Together Ep. 70 700 episodes! What better way than to do this episode with Nancy who has been here with me through all of the seasons and cohosts and guests on the Awesome Marriage podcast. And there is no better topic for us than to talk about how powerful prayer is for your marriage and the daily rhythm of praying together. Nancy initiated praying together on our first night as a married couple and we’ve kept it going ever since. Not only does it serve to protect our marriage, but it serves to grow us each closer to the Lord and one another. Join us as we talk about the power of a praying couple and how to pursue spiritual growth together. Episode Highlights: If you feel uncomfortable, start with silent or guided prayers- just start somewhere. Prayer becomes a rhythm that allows you to partner with God. Prayer becomes the glue that helps you withstand the seasons of marriage and life together. Hard times have been some of the biggest seasons of growth individually and in our marriage. Quotes from Today’s Episode: Praying together can feel intimidating at first, but it's not about perfection—it's about inviting God into your story, one honest word at a time. It's hard to pray when you're angry—and hard to stay angry when you start to pray. There is power in the prayer—and even greater power in the One we pray to. When couples choose to consistently pray and grow together, it changes everything—your marriage, your family, and generations to come will be transformed. Let God lead you, one small step at a time. Habits of faith begin with intentional choices. If you miss a day, don't quit. The habit matters more than perfection—keep pursuing God together. There is nothing like drawing close to your spouse in spiritual intimacy—it's a bond deeper than anything else. Take time to talk honestly about where you are spiritually as a couple, without judgment. Then choose just one thing to pursue together. Couples Conversation Guide: What fears or awkward feelings do we have about praying together, and how could we take a first step to make it a natural part of our relationship? How has our prayer life (or the lack of it) shaped the emotional and spiritual climate of our marriage so far? In what ways can we set spiritual goals together that encourage growth without feeling like a checklist or competition? How can we support each other through seasons of spiritual dryness or difference in faith, and what role can Scripture or prayer rhythms play in that? Mentioned in this Episode: Find Need help starting the practice of prayer in your marriage? Here's a great resource: Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word with your spouse? Find . We even have a plan for praying as a couple! Check out . on the Elevate Your Marriage Communication Course & L.O.V.E Your Way Through Conflict Course. If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at , and browse our online courses at ! Sign up for for practical weekly marriage tips. /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/38598675

Confessions of the Higher Desire Wife with J. Parker Ep. 699 10/14/2025

Confessions of the Higher Desire Wife with J. Parker Ep. 699 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: When was the last time you and your spouse had a conversation about frequency? Do you feel comfortable telling your spouse what you need in regards to physical intimacy? 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: If you are the lower drive spouse, consider taking our . Our brain is a powerful sex organ and sometimes we have to take the time to “think sex”. Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word with your spouse? Find . Fight the chaos of culture and keep your marriage grounded in Biblical truth. Check out . If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at , and browse our online courses at ! Sign up for for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our . Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to receive our /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/38458985

How to Rekindle Intimacy & Guarding your Marriage from Emotional Affairs Ep. 698 10/07/2025

How to Rekindle Intimacy & Guarding your Marriage from Emotional Affairs Ep. 698 What do you do when intimacy and connection in your marriage start to fade? How can you rekindle the spark, or better yet, keep it burning strong? In this episode, we talk about practical and biblical ways to nurture intimacy in all its forms. When you intentionally protect and prioritize closeness with your spouse, you not only build a marriage you truly enjoy, but you also guard your relationship against the dangers of emotional affairs. Episode Highlights: Identify the different types of intimacy shared within marriage. The wholeness of your marriage matters. All forms of intimacy must be invested in. Boundaries keep your marriage protected. Quotes from this episode: Your sex life is a thermometer, not a thermostat—it reflects the health of your relationship, but it can't set it. When couples neglect emotional and spiritual intimacy, their physical relationship becomes hollow—a beautiful house with no foundation. Sooner or later, the cracks will show. Without emotional intimacy, sex loses its power to truly bond you together. Without spiritual intimacy, you miss God's vision for marriage—a reflection of Christ and the Church. If you wouldn't say, do, or share it with your spouse present, don't do it. That's your boundary—protect it fiercely. If you have nothing to hide, living transparently should be easy—openness is the glue of trust in marriage. Couple’s Conversation Guide: When you think about intimacy in your marriage, which type (physical, emotional, spiritual, or relational closeness) feels the strongest right now? Which could use more attention? How do you personally feel most connected to me—through words, actions, time together, or something else? What boundaries do we need to set (personally and as a couple) to guard our marriage against the threat of emotional affairs? What’s one thing you’d love for us to do together that would bring more joy, fun, or connection into our marriage? Mentioned in this Episode: Awesome Marriage is on Instagram! This month’s resource targets all the major pain points of communication: Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word with your spouse? Find . Fight the chaos of culture and keep your marriage grounded in Biblical truth. Check out If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at , and browse our online courses at ! Sign up for for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our . Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to receive our /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/38395975

How to Rekindle Intimacy & Guarding your Marriage from Emotional Affairs Ep. 698 10/07/2025

Reclaimed: The Story of Healing with Stephanie Boersma Ep. 697 09/30/2025

Reclaimed: The Story of Healing with Stephanie Boersma Ep. 697 I’m so thankful for this conversation with Stephanie Broersma about her brand-new resource: Reclaimed: A Course to Guide You Through Betrayal and Infidelity Trauma. This powerful resource is designed for those walking through the trauma of betrayal, offering hope, healing, and a path forward. In our conversation, Stephanie shares how the course helps you stay connected to the Lord in the midst of grief, while also providing practical next steps and long-term rhythms to move toward restoration. She reminds us that your spouse’s decisions do not define your worth and that there is a real enemy fighting against both your marriage and your identity in Christ. If you’ve been hurting, this conversation will point you back to truth, hope, and healing. Episode Highlights: What fires together, wires together. You have options when triggers begin to surface. Triggers don’t equate to a lack of forgiveness. There’s no need to rush. Give yourself time to get your emotions regulated before making a major decision. Allow the Lord the space to work in the midst of the grief and in the midst of the stillness and heaviness. Quotes from Today’s Episode: Give yourself time to grieve and heal the right way. -Dr. Kim God designed emotions to inform us about our world. They are not bad. They give us language to express what we are feeling.- Stephanie Triggers point you to an experienced trauma in your life and then you have an option. You have a choice. What am I going to do with this trigger?-Stephanie As you heal, the triggers become less damaging. -Dr. Kim Sexual addiction, at its deepest level, is a spiritual issue. A disorder of worship, not to God but to self.- Stephanie Healing does not happen in isolation. You are not meant to be alone in this journey.-Stephanie Forgiveness is a posture of surrender that says, 'I can't fix him. I don't want to fix him.'- Stephanie Your spouse does not define you or your future. As long as God leaves, as long as you get that breath, God's got a plan for you.- Dr. Kim If you’re going to get healthy, there has to be boundaries in place. And they have to be consistent.- Dr. Kim Hope chooses faith even in the mess. Questions for Reflection: In what ways have you been tempted to let someone else’s choices define your worth, and how can you replace those lies with God’s truth about your identity? What is one practical rhythm you can begin this week to stay connected to the Lord as you process pain or grief? How can you recognize the enemy’s attempts to attack your marriage or identity, and what steps can you take to guard against them? Mentioned in this Episode: This month’s resource targets all the major pain points of communication: Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word with your spouse? Find . Fight the chaos of culture and keep your marriage grounded in Biblical truth. Check out . If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at , and browse our online courses at ! Sign up for for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our . Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to receive our /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/38346130

Heart Rehab with Jerry Flowers: Breaking Patterns, Building Disciplines and Finding Your True Self 09/26/2025

Heart Rehab with Jerry Flowers: Breaking Patterns, Building Disciplines and Finding Your True Self This is such an incredible conversation to wrap up our Fridays in the Fall, Wider Lens series. Jerry Flowers is bringing encouragement about the patterns of your life and posture of your heart as we talk through his new book Heart Rehab: Finding the You God Created You to Be. Lean into the discomfort, create disciplines for preparedness, and surrender your need for control in order to step into your true calling as a son or daughter of the Lord Almighty. He loves you, he is for you, and we can trust him with our hearts! Episode Highlights: Stop blaming everyone else. Take time for self reflection. If we invite God in, He can use all seasons for our good and growth. Intimacy with the Lord allows us to grow into the people God created us to be. Discipline and preparation go hand in hand. The more disciplined you are, the more prepared you are for what God has next. Culture influences us to mislabel our fears, thoughts and anxieties. Make sure you are labeling them correctly. Strong core beliefs help us combat the lies of society and satan. Quotes from Today’s Episode: I recognize many times, our placement in life isn't just because of problems, it's because of patterns. -Jerry Flowers Patterns reveal character. -Jerry Flowers Patterns are one of the ushers to certain seasons. -Jerry Flowers We want to blame the enemy, but we have to look at ourselves too. -Jerry Flowers Be aware of the enemy, for sure. But I think sometimes that keeps us from taking responsibility for our part. -Jerry Flowers It may not make sense right then, but later it’ll make sense. -Jerry Flowers I see things that God put me through, before we got married, that helped me when I got married. -Dr. Kim We want to be whole enough where the Lord can pour into us and we can pour back out.- Jerry Flowers If you want results, you lean into discomfort.- Jerry Flowers What changed for me is realizing that my mind can lie to me. -Jerry Flowers A Wider Lens: Questions for Self Reflection Look at your daily life and identify one unhealthy pattern you’ve grown comfortable with. What one discipline could you start practicing to combat this pattern and prepare for what God has next? Identify an area of your life you haven’t fully surrendered to the Lord. Choose a Scripture verse to meditate on as you commit to trusting Him completely. Mentioned in this Episode: Website: Jerryflowersministries.com ; Facebook: ; facebook.com/@redefinedtv Instagram: ; YouTube: TikTok: /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/38300795

Breaking Free from Cultural Captivity in Marriage with Dr. John West Ep. 696 09/23/2025

Breaking Free from Cultural Captivity in Marriage with Dr. John West Ep. 696 In this episode, Dr. Kim and John West discuss “Stockholm Syndrome Christianity” and how cultural captivity can pull Christians away from biblical truth. They explore the impact of these influences on marriage, from weakened faithfulness to the generational effects of broken promises on children. The conversation highlights the need for intentionality in guarding our hearts, shaping our children’s worldview, and staying rooted in truth. Listeners will be encouraged to build marriages that mutually support, advocate, and thrive in a world that often pulls in the opposite direction. Episode Highlights: As believers, what we are consuming directly affects how boldly we live out our faith. Too many believers aren’t prioritizing biblical truth and their relationships reflect their culture more than their faith. The church has not been immune to cultural influences. Culture tells us that feelings trump biblical truth. Quotes from Today’s Episode: If you live your life oriented towards God's truth, it's designed for our flourishing.- John West Every spouse needs to be their partner's biggest advocate.- John West The impact on kids from broken marriages is traumatic. - John West If you have a certain feeling, you don't have to act it out. - John West If you're listening to a never-ending stream of lies, you're going to become very reticent about speaking up or living based on your Christian beliefs.- John West What I saw in the christian community is a lot of christians being culturally captive. - John West If you’re a christian, especially in industries, you spend a lot of your life around cultural captors. Many christians have adopted this secular view that sex isn’t to be reserved for marriage.- John West If you have a diet in your entertainment consumption for you and your kids, that everyone’s doing it- it’s normalized, it’s going to affect how you live. -John West It’s really important to be in the world, not of the world. -Dr. Kim You need to be wise enough and intentional enough to know that putting that stuff inside of you is going to have an impact- and impact your kids.- John West The number 1 thing is you need to ask yourself- who is really raising your kids? Couples’ Conversation Guide: As you reflect on your marriage relationship, where do you see culture influencing you the most? Are there biblical truths you’ve found harder to live out in today’s world? Why? Do you believe there are any “outdated” parts of the Bible? Who or what has the largest influence on your marriage? Who or what has the largest influence on your children? Mentioned in this Episode: Find ! Money issues don’t have to be an issue for your marriage. Check out this free course from Centsei. This month’s resource gives you the opportunity to show your spouse the appreciation they long for: Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word with your spouse? Find . Fight the chaos of culture and keep your marriage grounded in Biblical truth. Check out . If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at , and browse our online courses at ! Sign up for for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our . Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to receive our /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/38293180

Don't Bench Yourself with Kent Evans 09/19/2025

Don't Bench Yourself with Kent Evans Today we’re diving into Kent’s brand-new book, Don’t Bench Yourself. In it, Kent challenges readers to take an honest look at their lives, at the opportunities they might be missing, the risks they’re avoiding, and the goals left sitting on the table. His message is clear: it’s time to get off the bench and stay in the game. Whether it’s in your career, your marriage, or your parenting journey, you can’t afford to sit on the sidelines. This book will inspire you to move past fear, let go of shame, and trust God’s perfect timing as you keep pressing forward. Episode Highlights: What is slow quitting? Fear paralyzes us from stepping into deeper connections. Shame kicks in when we try and fail and then we believe the lie that it’ll never get better than this. Criticism can inhibit someone’s desire to continue pressing forward. Motivation can decrease when we don’t see quick results. Quotes from Today’s Episode: For some of us, what we need to see with our eyes of faith, is a life lived and ended in faith. - Kent Evans You pull yourself out of the game because you think you no longer qualify to play. - Kent Evans We get impatient with God so we quit. We draw ourselves out of the game. -Kent Evans Fear is causing you to be stuck. - Dr. Kim One of the fastest ways out of a problem is clearly labeling the problem. - Kent Evans It’s so much easier to point the finger, but yet it doesn’t resolve anything. -Dr. Kim We have a tendency as guys, when things aren't going well, we have a tendency to withdraw. -Dr. Kim A big temptation for me is to spend time and energy where there is a really clear report card, a really clear measurable level of success. - Kent Evans We so desperately want to measure growth and success. However, some of the best things in life can’t be measured. - Kent Evans We have a tendency to go where we are being affirmed and people think we’re great. - Dr. Kim A Wider Lens: Questions for Self Reflection In 12 months how do you want your relationship with your husband or wife to be better? In 12 months how do you want your relationship with your children to be better? Name one part of your life where failure kept you from trying again. Now that you’ve named it- go try again! Mentioned in this Episode: Find on Instagram Check out his ministry: . /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/38226040

One-Sided Love: How to Fight for Your Marriage When Your Spouse Won’t Ep. 695 09/16/2025

One-Sided Love: How to Fight for Your Marriage When Your Spouse Won’t Ep. 695 Nancy and I are back together to discuss a topic that frequently shows up in our inbox: one-sided marriages. These are spouses who reach out because, even in the midst of disconnect and hurt, they still desire a healthy, God-honoring marriage, but feel like they’re the only one who cares or the only one willing to put in the work. How do you reconcile and reconnect? That’s the focus of our conversation today. I’m praying this episode encourages those who feel alone and offers hope and next steps for fighting for your marriage. Episode Highlights: Love like Christ without enabling. Communicate with curiosity, not accusation. Persevere in prayer and faithful action. Seek God’s glory above all else Quotes from Today’s Episode: Fighting for your marriage as a Christian means pursuing Christ-like love even when it's not reciprocated This isn't about becoming a doormat or enabling destructive behavior, but rather embodying the gospel in your relationship. Approach with curiosity rather than accusation: "I've noticed you seem really tired lately. How can I support you?" Continue showing love through actions without demanding emotional reciprocation. Don't take the bait to defend yourself constantly or prove your spouse wrong—this keeps you stuck in an unhealthy cycle. But remember, you can't force insight or repentance—that's between them and God. Humility doesn't mean accepting mistreatment or pretending everything is fine. Your humble confidence in who God created you to be can actually challenge your spouse to rise up rather than settle. Standing in the gap means interceding in prayer, maintaining hope when your spouse has lost it, and continuing to live out your marriage vows even when they're not. The goal is always God's glory and following His heart, which deeply desires reconciliation. Couples’ Conversation Guide: How connected do you feel to your spouse on a scale of 1-10? Do you feel like you are trying to shoulder the burden of your marriage alone? Are there unhealthy patterns in your marriage that need to be addressed? Are there areas of your marriage that you’ve settled for mediocrity or disconnect? Mentioned in this Episode: Find ! Money issues don’t have to be an issue for your marriage. Check out this free course from Centsei. Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word with your spouse? Find . Need some encouragement to keep fighting for your marriage? You’ll love this FREE YouVersion plan: If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at , and browse our online courses at ! Sign up for for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our . Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to receive our /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/38205995

One-Sided Love: How to Fight for Your Marriage When Your Spouse Won’t Ep. 695 09/16/2025

Addiction, Sanctification, and the God Who Heals: Wider Lens with Jonathon M. Seidl 09/12/2025

Addiction, Sanctification, and the God Who Heals: Wider Lens with Jonathon M. Seidl It's week two of Wider Lens. This week, Jonathon shares his story of recognizing his addiction, confronting the root causes beneath it, and finding freedom through Christ. From misordered priorities to the hidden struggles many Christians face, this conversation explores recovery, sanctification, and the hope that healing is possible. We are praying that this episode encourages you to reflect, reprioritize and hold tightly to the hope of Jesus! Episode Highlights: Understanding addiction as a spectrum allows for earlier intervention and support. Acknowledging one's addiction is the first step towards healing and transformation. True recovery requires deep honesty and accountability beyond surface-level admissions. Embracing those with messy sanctification stories fosters healing and growth. Identifying and correcting disordered priorities is crucial for recovery. Quotes from Today’s Episode: Part of what kept me in a disordered relationship with alcohol is what the devil uses “I don’t look or act like what I think an alcoholic looks like.” - J. Seidl Radical vulnerability, when you start practicing it, it's contagious and the devil hates it. -J. Seidl Anything that is misordered is disordered.-J. Seidl The mommy wine juice culture, mommy needs this to be mommy, right? It's become accepted.-J. Seidl I finally was able to stop drinking when I stopped trying to stop drinking. When I shot for Jesus, I got sobriety thrown in.-J. Seidl If you don’t get to the root of those, it’s just going to be something else. -J. Seidl Jesus is always going to meet us there. He's not going to let us down.- Dr. Kim I was ultimately addicted to escapism. -J. Seidl The muscle memory was forged and formed at a very young age. -J. Seidl A Wider Lens: Questions for Self Reflection What habits or priorities in my life might be “good things” that I’ve elevated above God, and how are they shaping my heart? Where might I be numbing pain or avoiding deeper heart work instead of bringing it honestly before the Lord? What step of accountability, surrender, or fellowship could I take this week to move closer to freedom and wholeness in Christ? Mentioned in this Episode: Find Jonathon on Instagram Buy Check out his . . Dr. Kim goes broader than just marriage. You can get wisdom, personal stories, and godly encouragement from him weekly. Sign up today! /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/38121840

Our Marriage is Struggling, But My Spouse Thinks Everything’s Fine Ep. 694 09/09/2025

Our Marriage is Struggling, But My Spouse Thinks Everything’s Fine Ep. 694 Every marriage goes through seasons where spouses see the health of their relationship differently. Our unique physical needs, emotional capacities, and family backgrounds shape the expectations we bring into marriage and the ways we handle conflict. If you’re in a season where you feel unheard or disconnected, this episode offers practical ways to pursue your spouse, tools for having the hard conversations, and encouragement to take ownership of your part in the struggle. Most importantly, it will remind you that God cares deeply about you and your marriage, and you can trust Him to guide and protect it. Episode Highlights: Each spouse has different emotional needs and brings different emotional baggage into a marriage. It’s important to approach the content spouse with grace. Men and women have different relational needs. Just because you don’t talk about, or acknowledge issues, doesn’t mean they will just go away. Even if you feel lonely and isolated and unheard in your marriage, you can trust the Lord with your heart. Quotes from Today’s Episode: Some people have a higher tolerance for dysfunction or distance in relationships. Couples may be sharing responsibilities without sharing their hearts. Sometimes the content spouse is suppressing their emotions. Acknowledging your part opens up the door for real conversation. It’s ok to feel angry or frustrated, but don’t let that cause you to sin. You're responsible for learning to manage your emotions. A healthy marriage requires two people who are both willing to grow. Timing and approach are everything. Scripture should be a guide not a weapon. Couples’ Conversation Guide: How do you rate the health of your marriage right now? What do you think your spouse would rate your marriage? (If you don’t know, ask them!) How safe do you feel to be vulnerable in your marriage? What do you think your spouse would rate how safe they feel in your marriage? (If you don’t know, ask them!) How can you show your spouse that their feelings matter to you, even when you don’t understand them? Can you identify an unhealthy pattern or rhythm in your marriage? What one positive step can you take toward changing that pattern or rhythm together? This week’s challenge: Write your spouse a letter and share something you’ve had a hard time communicating in the past. Mentioned in this Episode: Find ! A unified family mission can help the work/ family balance. Check out our . Help your children write God’s Word on their hearts with our FREE Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word with your spouse? Find . If work seems to take priority over your marriage, you’ll love this FREE YouVersion plan: If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at , and browse our online courses at ! Sign up for for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our . Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to receive our . /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/38037885

How God is For You When All Seems Against You-Rich Lessons from the Life of Jesus with Joshua Ryan Butler 09/05/2025

How God is For You When All Seems Against You-Rich Lessons from the Life of Jesus with Joshua Ryan Butler The next four Fridays I’m getting the opportunity to go a little broader than the topic of marriage and interview some incredible men who are authors, leaders, and strong men of faith. To kick it off, we are interviewing Mr. Joshua Ryan Butler to discuss his new book. . In this episode, we explore what it really means to receive from Jesus instead of striving on our own. From the healing at the pool in John 5 to the picture of Barabbas’ pardon, we talk about how the gospel frees us from self-sufficiency, restores us in our failures, and feeds us when we feel empty. Together we wrestle with why we resist His help, how to cultivate spiritual hunger in a distracted world, and what it looks like to let Jesus shepherd us through shame, wounds, and wilderness seasons. It’s my prayer that this episode encourages you to believe God is on your side. Episode Highlights: The Lord’s love is a freely given love. Earthly relationships may feel transactional, but God offers freedom from the burden of that. Our God is accessible and He wants to redeem the broken parts of our lives. Quotes from Today’s Episode: "God is on your side, particularly when it most feels like life is against you." - Josh Ryan Butler "Before I called you to use you, I called you to love you." - Josh Ryan Butler "In the darkest moments, I found God ministering to me through His word and Spirit." - Josh Ryan Butler "Jesus calls himself the bread of life, and the only requirement to come is that you're hungry and thirsty." - Josh Ryan Butler "Our deepest hunger is meant to drive us towards God first and foremost." - Josh Ryan Butler "God's no to our sin is embedded within His bigger yes to who we are created to be." - Josh Ryan Butler We live in a culture where everybody is rewarded for what they do, and it's hard to believe that God just loves us." - Dr. Kim "It's almost like it's too good to be true, but it is true." - Dr. Kim Go Deeper: Are there parts of your life or your heart you feel like you need to keep hidden from the Lord? When’s the last time you felt lonely or alone? Are there places in your life you’re denying restoration because you’re stuck in the cycle of shame? Mentioned in this Episode: Find . Buy his book: . Dr. Kim goes broader than just marriage. You can get wisdom, personal stories, and godly encouragement from him weekly. Sign up today! /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/38036780

Everything is Never Enough with Bobby Jamieson Ep. 693 09/02/2025

Everything is Never Enough with Bobby Jamieson Ep. 693 Are you truly satisfied, or always chasing more? This week we sit down with author Bobby Jamieson to talk about his book Everything Is Never Enough and the wisdom of Ecclesiastes. We’ll unpack why your spouse can’t be your joy, your job can’t be your purpose, and your family can’t give ultimate meaning. Real joy comes only from God; the giver, sustainer, and comforter. Anything else leaves us empty. Our hope is this conversation points you back to the only source who satisfies. Episode Highlights: We are searching the world for a satisfaction that only comes from Him. It’s a crushing weight to expect our spouse to meet needs that only the Lord can meet. Desiring happiness and trying to create it will never work. A life of ease doesn’t equal a life of joy. Marriage is a gift to be nurtured. It’s daily decisions to care for, to provide for, to invest in your marriage. Quotes from Today’s Episode: Happiness is a byproduct. If you just try to chase happiness directly, you're not really gonna get it. The world leaves us wanting. That eternity in our hearts is ultimately a longing for God. Only He can satisfy. Only He can fill our hearts. We are often tempted to seek that total good from our spouse. If you bring that expectation to your husband or wife, you will crush them. A lot of the joy of marriage arises as your laboring, as your communicating, as your toiling together. If you view all of life as a gift of God then you can give up that need for control. Marriage a whole lot of daily little kindnesses. Couples’ Conversation Guide: When’s the last time you thanked God for your spouse? Where do you find it difficult to enjoy your “lot”? When you consider your spouse, do you consider the fact they are a “gift” from the Lord? What’s one way you can serve your spouse today? Mentioned in this Episode: You need a copy of Find Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word with your spouse? Find . Have you believed the lied that marriage should be your source of happiness? is the reading plan for you. If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at , and browse our online courses at ! Sign up for for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our . Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to receive our /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/37999915

Help! My Spouse is Married to Their Job Ep. 692 08/26/2025

Help! My Spouse is Married to Their Job Ep. 692 Is your spouse married to their job, or are you? In today’s episode, we’re talking about what happens when work takes priority over marriage and how couples can recognize the signs before it causes lasting damage. Let’s talk about why this is such a common struggle, what Scripture says about balancing work and marriage, and how to reconnect when work has created distance. If you’re feeling like your relationship is playing second to a career, this one’s for you. Let’s dive in. Episode Highlights: God gave us ambition and talents for a reason. Work balance in marriage is a common struggle. We tried to look at struggles as growth opportunities instead of failures Society adds to the pressure we feel to pursue success first. If conversations become logistical or date nights become extinct you may be prioritizing work over your marriage. There’s a biblical order, that when we get that order right, everything else finds its proper place. Prayer reminds us who our work is truly for. Quotes from Today’s Episode: The issue is when our ambition becomes our identity. When we believe our value comes from our next promotion. We are sacrificing our family for our ego. Our culture has us believe rest is laziness. Providing isn’t just about money. Your spouse needs your presence, your attention, and your emotional availability. Scripture makes it clear that work is good. We are created in the image of a working God. Bu work has its place in the greater order, and that place isn’t first.. Rest and relationship are sacred. Boundaries aren’t restrictions. They are protections. Create rituals that prioritize connections. Our ultimate provision isn’t in our performance, it’s in God’s faithfulness. See what happens when you’re physically forced to be present with one another. Couples’ Conversation Guide: What one daily ritual can you begin this week to show your spouse and your marriage the energy it deserves. (coffee in the morning, lunch time phone call, prayer in the evening, etc.) When you hear the word “boundaries” do you automatically feel restricted? How can we implement some boundaries that feel like protection instead? Does our calendar reflect our heart for keeping our marriage first? If not, where can you begin to say “no” so that you can say “yes” to your marriage? What are some physical distractions we can remove during our time together? Mentioned in this Episode: Find ! A unified family mission can help the work/ family balance. Check out our . Help your children write God’s Word on their hearts with our FREE Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word with your spouse? Find . If work seems to take priority over your marriage, you’ll love this FREE YouVersion plan: If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at , and browse our online courses at ! Sign up for for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our . Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to . receive our Raising Faithful Kids in a Cancel Culture. /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/37924485

How to Speak to Your Husband when All You Want to Do is Yell at Him with Ann and Dave Wilson Ep. 691 08/19/2025

How to Speak to Your Husband when All You Want to Do is Yell at Him with Ann and Dave Wilson Ep. 691 Joining me today are Dave and Ann Wilson who have written a brand new book about what it looks like to speak life into our marriages; not just with the words we say, but also in the thoughts we choose to dwell on. We’ll talk about why trying to be your spouse’s Holy Spirit never works, why kindness is actually one of the most rebellious things we can do in today’s world, and how reframing our inner dialogue can change the way we manage conflict. Whether you’ve been shouting to be heard, or quietly holding back the pain of unspoken expectations, today’s conversation will offer biblical wisdom, practical tools, and fresh hope for building a marriage that reflects Christ’s love. We pray this episode encourages you! Episode Highlights: How you approach the conversation matters. Hope and joy can only be in the Lord. Your words have the power to build up or tear down your spouse. Gratitude for your spouse can change your perspective of your spouse. Quotes from Today’s Episode: Men go where they're affirmed. They go there. - Dave Wilson I realize like when I'm in the Word, I look at things different. I look at the world different. I look at Dave different. And it started, God's Word started to change me. - Ann Wilson But there's something that's really holy about seeing greatness in a person and being able to communicate it in some way. - Ann Wilson I had put all my hopes and dreams in Dave. I'd taken them off of Jesus and I was like, you could make me happy. And it's easy to get into that rut of like, if you would just do X, Y, Z, I could be more content. - Ann Wilson God’s given us to each other to sharpen one another- Dave Wilson Speak life to your husband. Bring him back to be the man God created him to be. We can help shape how our husbands and how our kids feel about themselves, but we have to first connect with Jesus. - Ann Wilson What good does it do to only think of the negative? You can’t say everything you feel! Couples’ Conversation Guide: How do we typically approach hard conversations with each other—and what could we do to make those moments feel safer and more affirming? Have we unintentionally placed our hope or happiness in each other instead of in God? What would it look like to shift that back to Jesus as our source of joy? What is one thing I genuinely admire or am grateful for in you that I may not say often enough? How can we be more intentional about calling out the good in each other? Mentioned in this Episode: Find on Amazon Dave and Ann Wilson’s podcast: Help your children write God’s Word on their hearts with our FREE Set the tone for your home and your family culture with our . Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word as you work toward growing the gratitude in your marriage, find . Try this FREE YouVersion plan: If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at , and browse our online courses at ! Sign up for for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our . Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to receive our Raising Faithful Kids in a Cancel Culture. /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/37741365

Forgiveness and Grace in Daily Life with Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy Ep. 690 08/12/2025

Forgiveness and Grace in Daily Life with Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy Ep. 690 Welcome back to the podcast, Nancy is joining me again today. These have become some of my favorite episodes, getting to do this with her! Today we’re talking about something every marriage needs, and that's forgiveness and grace. We know that even in the best marriages, we hurt each other, sometimes in small ways, sometimes in big ways. The question isn’t if we’ll need to forgive, but how we can forgive well, and extend grace like God extends grace to us. Our prayer is that this is relatable and encouraging, but also that it inspires you to evaluate the opportunities you have every day to extend grace and forgiveness to your spouse. Episode Highlights: It’s important to acknowledge where you are storing up resentment. Forgiveness is key in the big things, but even more important in the little nuances of life. Marriage isn’t a game to keep score. When you know what a great sacrifice our Savior made, you’re able to come before Him and allow His forgiveness to pour through you onto our spouse. Both spouses must own their part of the conflict. Quotes from Today’s Episode: It’s easy to get in the habit of score keeping. We have opportunities every day to forgive. If it's a big deal I need to address it, if it’s not then I need to let it go. Your marriage is so much happier if you don’t let something derail you. This is our marriage, we have to figure out what works for us. When you forgive, it doesn’t make the sin okay. The Holy Spirit has the job of conviction, it’s not my job. Couples’ Conversation Guide: Where in our marriage might we be unintentionally "keeping score”? In what areas do you find it difficult to extend grace? How can we shift our mindset? How can we better reflect God’s forgiveness towards us in the way we respond to each other’s mistakes Mentioned in this Episode: Find Find Help your children write God’s Word on their hearts with our FREE Parenting in today’s society can feel overwhelming, especially when you desire to intentionally shepherd your children toward Christ in a world that preaches quite the opposite. Create a Christ-centered culture at home with our Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word as you work toward having a forgiving and graceful marriage, find . Try this FREE YouVersion plan: If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at , and browse our online courses at ! Sign up for for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our . Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to . receive our . /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/37741215

The Fight for Us with Rebekah and Gabe Lyons Ep. 689 08/05/2025

The Fight for Us with Rebekah and Gabe Lyons Ep. 689 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 fighting for your marriage. Episode Highlights: Husbands and wives are going to bring different levels of emotional maturity into the marriage. Don’t make an agreement with the idea of “it is what it is.” It will take daily, intentional effort to give your marriage the nurturing it needs. Effective communication is at the cornerstone of a strong marriage. Differing expectations aren’t bad, they’re different. Quotes from Today’s Episode: I want to normalize the fact that, yeah, there's conflict in marriage, but the bigger part is the repair and staying together and fighting for each other. A wife or a husband is a mirror and you're going to see parts of yourself that are not healed, that are not whole. We're all longing to be seen and known and loved fully in the absence of shame. And women are going to just keep hunting that down until they find it. You're not healing unless you're talking. It’s not that it’s right or wrong- it’s different. Sin separates, it's the whole goal of sin is to separate and break relationship. We need to be all in. Couples’ Conversation Guide: Have you resolved to believe the lie that it is what it is? Are you giving your spouse space to share their emotions, free from shame and judgement? On a scale of 1-10 how intentional are you being right now in fighting for your marriage? What is one practical thing from today’s episode that you can begin implementing in your marriage to aid in the fight for an awesome marriage? Mentioned in this Episode: Find Find Help your children write God’s Word on their hearts with our FREE Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word as you work toward handling conflict in a biblical way, find . Try this FREE YouVersion plan: If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at , and browse our online courses at ! Sign up for for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our . 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. /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/37598515

Crushing Chaos: God’s Design for Order in Marriage with Manny Arango Ep 688 07/29/2025

Crushing Chaos: God’s Design for Order in Marriage with Manny Arango Ep 688 What if the chaos in your life and marriage isn’t random, but the result of living out of sync with God’s divine order? In this powerful episode, Dr. Kim welcomes pastor, author, and Bible teacher Manny Arango to the show for the first time. Drawing from his book Crushing Chaos, Manny shares how God brings peace by establishing order and how that same truth can transform our marriages. From understanding “Sequence, Authority, Rhythm” to identifying the chaos we invite into our homes, this conversation is full of practical wisdom and biblical depth. Whether you're navigating stress, disconnection, or just longing for more peace at home, this episode will help you move toward order, unity, and rest. Episode Highlights: God’s first works calm the chaos. Understanding God’s context changes the way we read the Bible. God is an expert at not just blessing people with peace, but giving people order. We can’t make lasting decisions in our marriage based on a temporary rhythm. Boundaries are necessary for proper order. Quotes from Today's Episode: Alot of times we are really good at knowing what the Bible says, but not good at knowing what the Bible means. He takes our lives which are naturally chaotic and dysfunctional and God begins to create order. Most people think the opposite of chaos is peace, but the reality is the opposite of chaos is order. Life is full of rhythm. You can’t fight against the rhythm of life. God does healthy, biblically inspired boundaries. Your feelings aren’t a good indicator of whether or not something is godly or biblical. The Word of God has to have preeminence. Couples’ Conversation Guide: Where might we be living out of sync with God’s order in our marriage or home? How do we define peace in our marriage? Do you feel like it is based on emotions or God’s order? What boundaries might we need to set to protect the rhythm and health of our relationship? Mentioned in this Episode: Find A book worth reading. is powerful and challenging in the best way. Order yours today! We believe that keeping marriage fun means date night can’t be boring. Check out our . Reignite the fun and intimacy in your date nights with your spouse. is now LIVE! Grab a gift for you, your spouse or another couple. There’s something for everyone. Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word as you intentionally choose to prevent the chaos from taking over your marriage, find . Try this FREE YouVersion plan: If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at , and browse our online courses at ! Sign up for for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our . 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. /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/37548125

Help! My Spouse’s Coworker Is a Problem Ep. 687 07/22/2025

Help! My Spouse’s Coworker Is a Problem Ep. 687 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 corrupt good character, as warned in scripture. It's essential to communicate concerns with love and honesty. Praying for wisdom and protection is crucial in navigating these situations. Strengthening the marriage bond is the best defense against outside influences. Being a positive influence in your spouse's life can counteract negative coworkers. Setting healthy boundaries for workplace relationships is necessary. Knowing when to step back and trust God is important. Focus on building a positive atmosphere at home. Each person is responsible for their own choices before God. 24/7 365 Foreplay Quotes from this Episode: Walk with the wise and become wise. The company we keep matters. Addressing the situation requires discernment not knee jerk reactions. Even in marriage, where two become one flesh, each person remains an individual. A spouse is to be respected. Communicate with love and honesty. Sometimes the most effective communication comes through questions rather than direct confrontation. The most important thing Nancy and I have done in our marriage is prayer daily. Be that uplifting thing that your spouse needs. Know when to step back. Anytime we are in a situation where we could compromise our relationship with our spouse we have to run. Workplace relationships are significant but they aren’t all powerful. Couple's Conversation Guide: Are there relationships at your workplace that are taking time or emotional energy away from your connection with your spouse? How can you set healthy boundaries? Do any coworkers influence your attitudes or behaviors in ways that conflict with the values you and your spouse have established for your marriage and home? How can your faith guide you in responding to difficult or questionable coworkers while maintaining peace and integrity? What steps can you take to protect your marriage from workplace stress and distractions, ensuring your spouse remains your first priority? Mentioned in this Episode: If you strengthen your marriage at home, the affects of work will lessen! 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. is now LIVE! Grab a gift for you, your spouse or another couple. There’s something for everyone. Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word as you intentionally choose to build a thriving marriage, find . If you’re realizing work relationships are interfering with your marriage this FREE YouVersion plan is for you: If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at , and browse our online courses at ! Sign up for for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our . 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. /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/37353885

Marriage, Ministry & the Mess: God in Every Season with Amie Seiffert Ep. 686 07/15/2025

Marriage, Ministry & the Mess: God in Every Season with Amie Seiffert Ep. 686 In this episode of the Awesome Marriage Podcast, Dr. Kim sits down with special guest Amie Seiffert, author, speaker, and pastor, for a rich and real conversation about enjoying and engaging with God in every season. Amie shares her journey of faith and the ups and downs of pursuing her calling while raising a family. Together, they unpack the beauty of grace, the power of humor, and the comfort found in Scripture during life’s hardest seasons. Whether you’re navigating parenting, ministry, or marriage, this episode will remind you that God is present in every season. Episode Highlights: Grace is a central theme in ministry and relationships. Find opportunities to laugh together. Seasons of life are temporary and ever-changing. Quotes from this Episode: This for now is not forever. We are held by grace. Humor is such a way to bring things back down to earth. I don’t want to live offended. We have buzz words that bring each other back to reality. If I feel overwhelmed, I learned this at therapy, I will give a number on a scale of 1-10. It’s hard to say you need help, but it’s rewarding. Couple’s Conversation Guide: How do you think grace shows up in our marriage—and where could we use more of it? Amie talked about humor being important in marriage—what are some ways we could be more intentional about laughing together? What does open communication look like for us during stressful or busy seasons? Do we need to make changes? Have you ever struggled with self-doubt in your calling or role in our family? How can I better support you in those moments? What season of life are we in right now, and how can we stay grounded in God while walking through it together? How can we better support one another in balancing our individual callings with our family life? Mentioned in this Episode: 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. is now LIVE! Grab a gift for you, your spouse or another couple. There’s something for everyone. Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word as you intentionally choose to build a thriving marriage, find . If you’re realizing work relationships are interfering with your marriage this FREE YouVersion plan is for you: If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at , and browse our online courses at ! Sign up for for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our . 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. /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/37353695

Built to Last: What Makes (or Breaks) a Thriving Marriage 07/08/2025

Built to Last: What Makes (or Breaks) a Thriving Marriage 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 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: What part of Dr. Kim and Nancy’s story felt most relatable or surprising to you? Why? Have you ever assumed love alone would be enough to fix everything? How has your view of love and commitment changed over time? Have there been moments where one (or both) of you felt alone in your marriage? What helped reconnect you—or what could help now? 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? How can you better prioritize keeping God first in your marriage this week? What’s one thing you want to be intentional about after listening to this episode—together or individually? Mentioned in this episode: We believe that keeping marriage fun means date night can’t be boring. Check out our . Reignite the fun and intimacy in your date nights with your spouse. is now LIVE! Grab a gift for you, your spouse or another couple. There’s something for everyone. Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word as you intentionally choose to build a thriving marriage, find . Try this FREE YouVersion plan: If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at , and browse our online courses at ! Sign up for for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our . 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. /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/37092760

Keeping Your Spouse First and Your Marriage Fun with Arlene Pellicane 07/01/2025

Keeping Your Spouse First and Your Marriage Fun with Arlene Pellicane 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 is the marriage rate. Men are marrying later and less frequently than in the past. Gray divorce is on the rise, with more older couples divorcing. Couples often stay together for the kids but drift apart afterward. Awareness of vulnerability in marriage is crucial. Gratitude can transform how you view your spouse. Serving your spouse should be unconditional, regardless of their actions. Fun is essential in maintaining a healthy marriage. Finding common interests can strengthen the bond between spouses. Be creative in finding fun activities together. Family meals are essential for daily connection. Prioritizing your spouse can enhance the marriage. It's important to forgive quickly in a marriage. Express gratitude for your spouse regularly. Shared experiences create lasting memories. Nurturing the marriage benefits the entire family. Every day together is a gift to cherish. The book 'Making Marriage Easier' offers practical insights. Quotes from this Episode: "It's never too late to turn that around." "We want to avoid drifting apart." "Play by God's rules in your marriage." "Who can out-serve the other?" "I will try it, even if I'm not good at it." "What can we do all together?" "You don't have to do it like everyone else." "It blesses your kids." "Every day is a gift that we have together." Questions for Conversation: What practical steps can you take this week to put your marriage first, even amidst busy schedules and family demands? How can you create more opportunities for fun and laughter with your spouse, making your relationship a joyful priority? In what ways can prioritizing your spouse help you both feel more connected and valued in your daily life? What new or creative activities can you plan together to bring more excitement and shared enjoyment into your marriage? Mentioned in this Episode: on IG. We believe that keeping marriage fun means date night can’t be boring. Check out our . Reignite the fun and intimacy in your date nights with your spouse. Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word as you intentionally choose to pursue the marriage God intended, find . Try this FREE YouVersion plan: If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at , and browse our online courses at ! Sign up for for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our . 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. /episode/index/show/awesomemarriage/id/37092555

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