Is your marriage built to last—or to be left when it no longer meets your expectations?
This week on A Purpose Driven Marriage, we’re unpacking a foundational question:
👉 Are you living out your marriage as a contract… or a covenant?

In a culture that glorifies self-fulfillment and exits at the first sign of discomfort, we’re diving into the difference between the world’s view of marriage and God’s design. Through candid conversation, biblical truth, coaching insights, and real-life reflection, Duane and Nadine walk you through:

• What it means to have a contractual mindset vs. a covenantal mindset

• How contract-thinking leads to insecurity, conditional love, and emotional distance

• What the Bible teaches about covenant love (Genesis 2:24, Ephesians 5, Malachi 2:14)

• Why covenant love is about giving, not receiving

• How even secular studies—including those from Dr. John Gottman—support the benefits of covenant-style commitment

• How your view of marriage shapes your communication, intimacy, and long-term resilience

• Why covenant marriages don’t just bless the couple—they shape generations

• Contract marriages say: “If you do this, I’ll do that.”
  Covenant marriages say: “Even if you don’t, I’m still here.”

• God's model for marriage is sacrificial, not transactional.

• The covenant mindset provides security, purpose, and spiritual alignment.

• You can shift from self-protection to selfless love—and your marriage will thrive for it.

• 0:00 – Intro: Marriage by God’s Design

• 2:45 – Culture’s Contractual View of Marriage

• 6:15 – “I’ll stay as long as I’m happy” – The Danger of Conditions

• 9:00 – How a contract mindset creates emotional insecurity

• 12:40 – What is a covenant marriage, really?

• 14:00 – God’s blueprint: Ephesians 5 & sacrificial love

• 17:30 – When one spouse is struggling—what covenant commitment looks like

• 20:50 – Even if you’re not a Christian, covenant principles still apply

• 21:45 – Research: Commitment = Relationship Success (Gottman, UVA, JFP)

• 24:00 – “Interested” vs. “Committed” mindsets

• 30:00 – Choosing love rooted in God, not performance

• 32:00 – A marriage that builds legacy for generations

• 34:00 – Listener challenge + closing encouragement

✨ Follow us on Instagram & TikTok (@apurposedrivenmarriage) for daily marriage tips
✨ Want to work together? Book a coaching session at https://apurposedrivenmarriage.com/
✨ Found this helpful? Send it to a friend or leave a review! It seriously means so much 💛

After 26 years of marriage, I’ve learned a lot—about love, family, communication, intimacy, faith, and what it really means to grow through every season together.

In this heartfelt episode, I’m sharing 26 real, honest, and practical tips I’d give to any wife who wants a stronger, more connected, and purpose-driven marriage. Some are serious. Some are funny. All of them are real-life tested and come from lessons I’ve learned as a wife, a mother, and a woman determined to keep building a marriage that thrives.

Whether you’ve been married two years or twenty, there’s something here for you.

✔️ Why your marriage foundation matters more than anything
✔️ The truth about sex and connection after decades together
✔️ How to fight fair and know when to call a timeout
✔️ Why your husband needs to feel respected, appreciated, and desired
✔️ The power of believing the best about your spouse
✔️ How friendship, support, and laughter make all the difference
✔️ And so much more…

💖 This episode is for every wife who’s serious about building a marriage that lasts. And if you’ve got a notebook nearby, you might want to take a few notes!

💌 What’s one tip that’s helped you in your marriage? Hit reply and share—I’d love to hear from you.

✨ Follow us on Instagram & TikTok (@apurposedrivenmarriage) for daily marriage tips
✨ Want to work together? Book a coaching session at https://apurposedrivenmarriage.com/
✨ Found this helpful? Send it to a friend or leave a review! It seriously means so much 💛

What if we told you that one of the secrets to a thriving marriage lies in one simple—but often overlooked—skill? In this episode of A Purpose Driven Marriage, we dive into the transformative power of listening to understand.

Active listening isn’t just a corporate buzzword; it’s a game-changer for relationships. Research shows that couples who prioritize listening experience increased satisfaction, stronger emotional connections, and are less likely to divorce. Tune in as we share personal stories, practical strategies, and proven techniques to help you become a better listener in your marriage.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. The Difference Between Hearing and Listening to Understand

   • Why your spouse needs more than a quick “I heard you.”
   • How listening to understand builds trust and intimacy.

2. The Science of Listening in Relationships

   • Studies reveal that active listening can increase marital satisfaction by 30%.
   • Emotional attunement: Why it’s key to resolving conflicts.

3. Challenges to Effective Listening

   • Overcoming distractions in our busy lives.
   • Handling defensiveness and keeping emotions in check.

4. Practical Tips to Improve Your Listening Skills Today

   • The “Witnessing” technique to ensure your partner feels heard.
   • Creating designated spaces for undistracted conversations.
   • How to call a respectful “time out” when emotions run high.

🌐 Visit https://www.apurposedrivenmarriage.com for more resources on strengthening your marriage.
📲 Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok: @apurposedrivenmarriage.
💌 Email us at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com.

Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform. And if you loved this episode, leave us a review—it helps more couples find our show!

Does it feel like your communication with your spouse could use a tune-up? In this episode, we tackle five common communication mistakes couples often make—and, more importantly, how to fix them! From poor listening habits to unrealistic expectations, we’re breaking down the barriers to understanding and offering practical solutions to help you and your partner connect on a deeper level. Whether you've been married for decades or are newlyweds, this episode is packed with relatable scenarios, laughter, and actionable insights to strengthen your relationship.

Key Takeaways:

1. Poor Listening: Learn how to listen to understand rather than just respond, and why this skill is the ultimate relationship game-changer.
2. Assuming Mind-Reading Abilities: Discover the importance of clear, direct communication and why your spouse isn’t a psychic!
3. Reacting Emotionally Instead of Responding Thoughtfully: Master the art of pausing before reacting to create a more empathetic and constructive dialogue.
4. Sweeping Issues Under the Rug: Find out how to address conflicts head-on while respecting each other's communication styles.
5. Using Negative Communication Patterns: We dive into Dr. John Gottman’s “Four Horsemen” (criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling) and their antidotes to protect your marriage.

Resources Mentioned:

• Communication Style Quiz: [Click here to take the quiz]
• Conflict Style Quiz: [Click here to take the quiz]

🌐 Visit https://www.apurposedrivenmarriage.com for more resources on strengthening your marriage.
📲 Follow us on Instagram and TikTok: @apurposedrivenmarriage.
💌 Email us your favorite memory as a couple, or let us know how this episode resonated with you at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com.

Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform. And if you loved this episode, leave us a review—it helps more couples find our show!

Do fights in your relationship leave you feeling disconnected, frustrated, or unsure of how to move forward? You’re not alone! In this episode, we tackle one of the most challenging aspects of any marriage: resolving conflicts in a way that not only heals wounds but strengthens your bond.

We dive into why conflict is a natural part of relationships and how it can become an opportunity to deepen connection. Learn our 5 proven steps to navigate post-fight resolution, from understanding your spouse’s perspective to rebuilding trust and creating a plan to avoid future misunderstandings.

If you’ve ever struggled to truly move past an argument or want to transform conflict into growth, this episode is for you!

1. Why Communication Issues Often Stem from Connection Problems – Discover how addressing disconnection can make communication smoother.

2. The Power of Vulnerability and Empathy – Learn how to validate your spouse’s feelings and uncover the “need behind the need.”

3. 5-Step Framework for Healing After a Fight:

   • Step 1: Share your feelings without blame.
   • Step 2: Describe your realities and perceptions calmly.
   • Step 3: Use empathy and validation to connect.
   • Step 4: Take responsibility for your role in the conflict.
   • Step 5: Plan constructive ways to avoid repeating the same issues.

4. Why Skipping Steps Can Sabotage Trust – Hear why jumping straight to “I’m sorry” without understanding the deeper issue can backfire.

🌐 Visit https://www.apurposedrivenmarriage.com for more resources on strengthening your marriage.
📲 Follow us on Instagram and TikTok: @apurposedrivenmarriage.
💌 Email us your favorite memory as a couple, or let us know how this episode resonated with you at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com.

Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform. And if you loved this episode, leave us a review—it helps more couples find our show!

As we close out another year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the journey you and your spouse have traveled together. In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of reminiscing and how looking back on shared memories can actually bring you closer as a couple. Whether it’s revisiting the day you first met, reflecting on challenges you’ve overcome, or celebrating the wins of the past year, reminiscing strengthens your connection and deepens your love.

We’ll explore:

• Why reminiscing is often overlooked but vital for marital happiness.
• How to use shared memories to rebuild intimacy and rekindle your spark.
• Dr. John Gottman’s insights on reminiscing and its impact on emotional connection.
• Practical tips to reflect on your past year together and set the stage for an even stronger future.

Grab a cozy spot, your favorite beverage, and your spouse—let’s reminisce and reconnect!

1. The Science of Reminiscing: Why shared memories improve marital satisfaction and protect against negativity.
2. The Reset Button Effect: How reflecting on your relationship’s “origin story” can reignite love and understanding.
3. Overcoming Challenges Together: Using memories of tough times to foster gratitude, growth, and resilience.
4. Practical Tools for Reflection: Thoughtful questions and exercises to start reminiscing with your spouse today.
5. A Biblical Perspective: How remembering God’s faithfulness in your marriage can guide and inspire your journey forward.

💬 “Reminiscing isn’t just about the past—it’s a way to reconnect in the present and strengthen your bond for the future.”
💬 “When couples reflect on their shared journey, they rediscover their ‘why’ and reignite the love that brought them together in the first place.”

• Set aside time this week to reflect on 2024 with your spouse. Start with questions like, “What was our greatest challenge this year, and how did we grow from it?”
• Try creating an annual end-of-year tradition where you celebrate wins, reflect on lessons, and set goals for the year ahead.
• Keep it simple: Reminiscing doesn’t require a big production. A heartfelt conversation over coffee or a walk down memory lane with old photos can make a huge difference.

🌐 Visit https://www.apurposedrivenmarriage.com for more resources on strengthening your marriage.
📲 Follow us on Instagram and TikTok: @apurposedrivenmarriage.
💌 Email us your favorite memory as a couple, or let us know how this episode resonated with you at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com.

Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform. And if you loved this episode, leave us a review—it helps more couples find our show!

What’s your favorite memory as a couple? Share it on social media and tag us with #MarriageReflections #ReminisceTogether

What if one simple habit could transform your marriage, deepen your connection with your spouse, and bring lasting peace to your relationship? In today’s episode, we’re diving into the life-changing practice of praying together as a couple.

Join us as we explore:
✨ Why praying together strengthens your bond and invites God into your marriage.
✨ The powerful findings from the 1997 Gallup study on prayer and marriage (hint: couples who pray together have a divorce rate of less than 1%!).
✨ Practical tips for starting a prayer routine, even if it feels intimidating or awkward at first.
✨ How prayer fosters intimacy, trust, and unity—even in tough seasons of life.

We also share personal stories from our own marriage, including a season when prayer brought us closer together during one of the hardest times we’ve faced.

If you’ve ever wondered how to keep God at the center of your relationship or felt unsure about how to start praying as a couple, this episode is for you.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. The Biblical foundation for praying as a couple.
2. Research-backed benefits of prayer in marriage.
3. Simple, practical steps to start praying together daily.
4. How to overcome common roadblocks to couple prayer.

Resources and References Mentioned:
📖 Scripture Highlights:

• 1 Thessalonians 5:17 – "Pray without ceasing."
• Romans 8:26 – The Spirit helps us in our weakness and intercedes for us.

📊 Studies Cited:

• 1997 Gallup study on divorce rates among couples who pray together.
• 2010 Study from University of Texas at San Antonio "The Couple That Prays Together: Race and Ethnicity, Religion, and Relationship Quality Among Working-Age Adults"

💡 Recommended Reading:

• Atomic Habits by James Clear (for building consistent habits).

Challenge of the Week:
Take five minutes this week to pray with your spouse. Whether it’s before bed, in the car, or over coffee, start small and stay consistent. Trust us—it’s worth it!

Connect With Us:
🌐 Visit our website
📸 Follow us on Instagram

Rate & Review:
If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving us a review on Apple Podcast or wherever you listen to your podcasts! It helps us reach more couples and share the message of Christ-centered marriage.

In this festive yet demanding season, the holidays can sometimes bring more stress than joy—especially for couples juggling family dynamics, hosting duties, and endless to-do lists. In this episode, Duane and Nadine share their personal experiences of navigating holiday stress as a couple, offering practical tips and biblical wisdom to help you manage the season without burning out.

Discover how to prioritize your marriage, set realistic expectations, and foster traditions that bring your family closer together. You'll also learn creative ways to handle financial pressures, host without the overwhelm, and stay focused on the true reason for the season: celebrating Christ's birth.

Whether you're hosting a full house or trying to navigate blended family obligations, this episode is packed with tools to help your marriage thrive during the holidays.

1. What is holiday burnout, and how does it affect couples?

   • Common stressors during the holiday season and how to address them.

2. Prioritizing your marriage during busy times:

   • Why scheduling intentional moments with your spouse is essential.
   • How to create "reset time" as a couple—even in a house full of guests.

3. Embracing and creating meaningful traditions:

   • The importance of family-centered traditions and how they strengthen bonds.
   • Practical ideas to make your holidays memorable without added stress.

4. Managing expectations and setting boundaries:

   • How to avoid financial strain with budgeting and gift-giving strategies.
   • Tips for hosting large gatherings without burning out.

5. Remembering the reason for the season:

   • Keeping Christ at the center of your celebrations and teaching your family to focus on faith.

• Join the 12 Days of Christmas Spark Challenge!
  Add fun to your marriage this season with daily prompts to prioritize your relationship. It's not too late to join—sign up here!

• Connect with Us:

  • Instagram: @APurposeDrivenMarriage
  • TikTok: @APurposeDrivenMarriage
  • Website: www.APurposeDrivenMarriage.com

If you found this episode helpful, please leave us a review and share it with a friend who could use some holiday stress relief! Your support means the world to us.

Welcome to another episode of A Purpose Driven Marriage Podcast with your hosts, Duane and Nadine Stewart! Today, we’re diving into an eye-opening and heartfelt discussion about what husbands really want from their wife. Whether you're looking to deepen your connection or gain a better understanding of your spouse, this episode will offer practical wisdom delivered by Duane himself.

1:23 - What Do Husbands Really Want?
Discover the core desires of a husband and how they can transform a marriage when recognized and nurtured.

3:09 - The Need for Respect
Why respect is foundational for husbands and how showing it builds trust and intimacy.

6:24 - Encouragement and Leadership
Explore the ways wives can affirm their husband’s leadership while fostering a supportive dynamic.

11:23 - Desire and Intimacy
Uncover the importance of a husband feeling desired and, ladies, it's not what you think.

16:29 - Allowing Men to Be Men
Learn how to encourage your husband to step into and carry out his role as the man in the relationship

29:21 - Communication Styles and Emotions
Bridge the gap in communication differences and create a space for honest emotional expression.

• Husbands deeply value respect, encouragement, and the freedom to express themselves without judgment.
• Feeling desired and supported empowers men to thrive as husbands and leaders in the home.

✨ Our BLACK FRIDAY SALE is extended for our Podcast Listeners

Get 50% off the Guide to Goal Setting for Christian Couples with BONUS Guide to Creating a Marriage Mission Statement. Click on this link to get our  special Black Friday offer. Hurry because this 50% off offer for our listeners will only be around until December 5th!

👉 Subscribe and leave a review to support our mission of helping couples build thriving, God-centered marriages.

✨ Get your FREE Feelings Word List here

Follow us for more helpful tools, encouragement and resources for your relationship!

A Purpose Driven Marriage Website

Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage

Follow us on Facebook @apurposedrivenmarriage

To contact Nadine about Relationship Coaching, Premarital Counseling, speaking at your event, or hosting a workshop, email nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com.

Join Duane and Nadine Stewart as they dive deep into the incredible, and transformative impact of gratitude on your marriage. Learn why expressing thankfulness goes beyond politeness—it’s a foundational practice that can strengthen your emotional connection and is the "secret sauce" in most thriving lasting relationships.

In this episode, we explore:
🌟 3 lasting benefits of incorporating gratitude in your marriage.
🌟 The science behind gratitude and its ability to combat negativity and anxiety.
🌟 Practical tips to build habits of thankfulness that can transform your relationship.

Packed with heartfelt stories, biblical wisdom, and actionable advice, this episode will inspire you to reframe your perspective and prioritize gratitude in your marriage. Plus, hear how you can take advantage of our special Black Friday deal on the Goal-Setting Guide for Couples—an essential resource for dreaming big and growing together.

Episode Highlights:
00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Validation in Marriage
00:45 Welcome to Purpose Driven Marriage Podcast
01:26 The Transformative Power of Gratitude
02:29 Timeless Lessons from Elderly Couples
04:43 Overcoming Negative Thought Patterns
06:34 Developing Habits That Build Positivity
08:36 Gratitude as a Key to Emotional Connection
15:38 A Long-Term Perspective on Building a Thriving Marriage
17:14 The Impact of Unkindness and Negative Cycles
17:53 Real-Life Transformation Through Compassion and Gratitude
20:27 How Gratitude Can Be a Game-Changer in Relationships
21:00 Cultivating Joy and Satisfaction Through Thankfulness
22:55 Gratitude as a Tool to Combat Anxiety
29:55 Dream Big Together: The Importance of Setting Goals
31:41 Closing Thoughts and a Sneak Peek at the Next Episode

Don’t Miss Out!
Listen now and start unlocking the power of gratitude to transform your marriage today. 💑

✨ BLACK FRIDAY SALE 

Plus, don’t miss out on our special Black Friday offer exclusively for our podcast listeners. Get 50% off the Guide to Goal Setting for Christian Couples with BONUS Guide to Creating a Marriage Mission Statement. Hurry because this 50% off offer for our listeners will only be around until December 5th!

👉 Subscribe and leave a review to support our mission of helping couples build thriving, God-centered marriages.

Follow us for more helpful tools, encouragement and resources for your relationship!

A Purpose Driven Marriage Website

Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage

Follow us on Facebook @apurposedrivenmarriage

To contact Nadine about Relationship Coaching, Premarital Counseling, speaking at your event, or hosting a workshop, email nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com.

Have you ever taken the time to craft a mission statement for you marriage?

In this episode, we're diving into why a marriage mission statement is an absolute game-changer for couples. Many people have heard of setting goals and many even take the time to do it. But a marriage mission statement is that important missing piece that will actually give you direction so your goals can make sense.

Listen in as we discuss practical steps for goal setting as a couple, and how to create a Marriage Mission Statement that can span generations.

And if you prefer to go the easy route, where you just basically fill in the blanks, check out our done-for-you template called "A Guide to Goal Setting for Christian Couples with BONUS Guide to Creating a Marriage Mission Statement." It's a super easy to follow template where you literally just fill in the blanks.

BLACK FRIDAY SALE 

Plus, don’t miss out on our special Black Friday offer exclusively for our podcast listeners. Get 50% off the Guide to Goal Setting for Christian Couples with BONUS Guide to Creating a Marriage Mission Statement. Hurry because this 50% off offer for our listeners will only be around until December 5th!

Tune in to this episode and start crafting your path to a purpose-driven marriage!

00:00 Introduction to Marriage Mission Statements

00:18 Welcome to the Podcast

00:52 Holiday Season and Goal Setting

03:14 The Importance of a Marriage Mission Statement

05:47 Creating and Aligning Goals

07:51 Crafting Your Marriage Mission Statement

16:01 The Legacy of a Marriage Mission Statement

17:56 Special Offer and Conclusion

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

A Purpose Driven Marriage Website

Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage

Follow us on Facebook @apurposedrivenmarriage

To contact Nadine about Relationship Coaching, Premarital Counseling, speaking at your event, or hosting a workshop, email nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com.

In this episode of A Purpose Driven Marriage Podcast, Duane and Nadine Stewart come together to share their wisdom on safeguarding your marriage from infidelity. They discuss five impactful strategies: setting guardrails around your relationship, nourishing your marriage with quality time and intimacy, maintaining a positive mindset, and staying vigilant against potential threats. The Stewarts delve into the importance of setting clear boundaries, fostering open communication, and embracing physical intimacy.

Along the way, they share personal anecdotes and actionable tips, all aimed at helping you build a strong, faithful relationship. Join Duane and Nadine as they guide you on the journey to a purpose-driven marriage, filled with trust, respect, and love.

02:15 Guardrails Around Your Relationship

03:22 The Role of Communication and Boundaries

05:24 Social Media and Privacy

10:10 Friends of the Opposite Sex

16:59 Nourishing Your Relationship

18:13 The Misconception of Marriage and Work

19:07 Avoiding Transactional Relationships

20:43 The Importance of Physical Intimacy

22:44 Praying Together for a Stronger Bond

24:17 Maintaining Physical Attractiveness

27:58 Guarding Your Mindset

31:16 Staying Vigilant Against Temptation

34:50 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Curious about what your conflict style is?

Take The Conflict Style Quiz

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

A Purpose Driven Marriage Website

Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage

Follow us on Facebook @apurposedrivenmarriage

Get a FREE copy of “31 Conversation Starters to Improve Communication” here: https://resources.apurposedrivenmarriage.com/conversationstarters

To contact Nadine about Relationship Coaching, Premarital Counseling, speaking at your event, or hosting a workshop, email

🎉 We’re celebrating 26 years of marriage! 🎉

In this special anniversary episode, Duane shares 26 powerful lessons he’s learned as a husband over the past 26 years of marriage. From leadership and communication to the importance of date nights, conflict resolution, and even why sharing food is an act of love (apparently!), this episode is packed with wisdom, laughter, and real-life marriage truths.

If you're a husband, this is your must-listen playbook for growing in marriage. And wives—feel free to share this with your spouse! Who knows? He might just pick up a few gems. 😉

🔥 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
✔️ The #1 thing every wife wants from her husband (even if she doesn’t say it!)
✔️ Why saying “I’m sorry” doesn’t make you weak—it makes you a better man
✔️ The surprising connection between chores and romance (hint: “choreplay” is a real thing!)
✔️ How to keep your wife feeling loved and cherished—even after decades together
✔️ The importance of protecting your marriage from outside influences
✔️ And so much more!

We’d love to hear from you! Husbands, what’s a marriage lesson you’ve learned that has strengthened your relationship? Drop us a comment or send us a message!

📌 Stay Tuned! Next week, Nadine will share her 26 lessons from 26 years of marriage! You don’t want to miss it.

✨ Follow us on Instagram & TikTok (@apurposedrivenmarriage) for daily marriage tips
✨ Want to work together? Book a coaching session at https://apurposedrivenmarriage.com/
✨ Found this helpful? Send it to a friend or leave a review! It seriously means so much 💛

We're Back! In this comeback episode, Duane and Nadine Stewart reveal why they've been MIA and share their own wild ride of balancing marriage, careers, and kids. They highlight the importance of a rock-solid foundation in your relationship and how sticking together with God's help can turn challenges into triumphs. Plus, get a sneak peek into their exciting future plans, like launching a video version of the podcast and diving into the much-awaited 'What Men Want' episode. Join the Stewarts as they reconnect and inspire you to build a purpose-driven marriage that's built to last! 

00:00 Introduction to Relationship Challenges

00:26 Welcome Back to the Podcast

01:08 Apologies and Listener Appreciation

02:58 Life Updates and New Beginnings

06:27 Balancing Family and Career

07:33 The Importance of a Solid Foundation

11:15 Faith and Overcoming Obstacles

13:16 Exciting Future Plans

14:29 Conclusion and Gratitude

Curious about what your conflict style is?

Take The Conflict Style Quiz

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

A Purpose Driven Marriage Website

Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage

Follow us on Facebook @apurposedrivenmarriage

Get a FREE copy of “31 Conversation Starters to Improve Communication” here: https://resources.apurposedrivenmarriage.com/conversationstarters

To contact Nadine about Relationship Coaching, Premarital Counseling, speaking at your event, or hosting a workshop, email

Join us in this engaging and insightful podcast episode where we dive deep into the mysterious realm of what women truly desire in their relationships and marriages. Hosted by your favorite duo, Duane and Nadine, this episode takes a unique twist as Duane is away, leaving his wife to navigate the microphone solo for the first time.

With humor, vulnerability, and practical advice, Nadine embarks on a mission to decode the secrets of women's hearts, offering invaluable insights to both men and women alike. Men, get ready to discover what your wife needs from you and gain newfound understanding of her world. Ladies, don't miss out on sharing this eye-opening episode with your husband.

Through personal anecdotes and professional coaching experience, our host explores the importance of effective communication and understanding in relationships. Discover how men and women often speak different emotional languages, leaving needs unmet and frustrations unaddressed. Prepare for a lightbulb moment as you realize the power of a common language in bridging the communication gap.

From the foundational need for love and affection to the significance of emotional connection, trust, and security, this episode covers it all. Unravel the intricacies of women's desire for appreciation and support, and gain insights into the importance of true partnership and shared responsibilities in a thriving relationship.

Tune in to A Purpose Driven Marriage's "What Women Want," and embark on a journey of understanding, growth, and stronger connections. Whether you're a man seeking to decode the needs of your wife or a woman yearning for better communication, this episode promises valuable wisdom and practical advice for everyone.

Curious about what your conflict style is?

Take The Conflict Style Quiz

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

A Purpose Driven Marriage Website

Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage

Follow us on Facebook @apurposedrivenmarriage

Get a FREE copy of “31 Conversation Starters to Improve Communication” here: https://resources.apurposedrivenmarriage.com/conversationstarters

To contact Nadine about Relationship Coaching, Premarital Counseling, speaking at your event, or hosting a workshop, email

After taking some much needed vacation ourselves, we're giving you this extended episode to talk about why getting away as a couple is an absolute must! We cover all the ways it benefits your relationship, like reducing stress, increasing connection, and experiencing opportunities for amazing vacation sex!

PLUS we will include a big bonus by revealing how we - a large family of eight - can afford to travel frequently using several of the travel hacks we talk about on this episode. By the time you finish listening, we hope you're taking down your suitcase and getting ready to book that much needed trip as a couple.

You won't want to miss this one!

Curious about what your conflict style is?

Take The Conflict Style Quiz

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

A Purpose Driven Marriage Website

Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage

Follow us on Facebook @apurposedrivenmarriage

Get a FREE copy of “31 Conversation Starters to Improve Communication” here: https://resources.apurposedrivenmarriage.com/conversationstarters

To contact Nadine about Relationship Coaching, Premarital Counseling, speaking at your event, or hosting a workshop, email us at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com.

Did you know that the way you fight or how you resolve conflict can predict whether or not you'll have a successful marriage? That's right. According to Dr. John Gottman of the Gottman Institute,  the single greatest predictor for a successful marriage is repairing skills. Repairing skills refers to a couple's ability to resolve conflict. 

Episodes 19 of A Purpose Driven Marriage Podcast is the second of a two-part series where Duane and Nadine break down the five different conflict styles that we tend to default to.

They'll cover the pros, the cons, and the usual characteristics of the conflict styles: Accommodator, Avoider, Competer, Collaborator, and Compromiser.

You'll learn about how you can use each one in the right ways that serve the needs of the relationship, ultimately leading to greater intimacy and connection.

Curious about what your conflict style might be? Listen to the podcast and then take the quiz to learn what your relationship conflict style is.

Be sure and have your partner take the quiz as well!

Get the resources mentioned on this episode!

Take The Conflict Style Quiz

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

A Purpose Driven Marriage Website

Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage

Follow us on Facebook @apurposedrivenmarriage

Get a FREE copy of “31 Conversation Starters to Improve Communication” here: https://resources.apurposedrivenmarriage.com/conversationstarters

To contact Nadine about Relationship Coaching, Premarital Counseling, speaking at your event, or hosting a workshop, email us at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com.

Did you know that the way you fight or how you resolve conflict can predict whether or not you'll have a successful marriage? That's right. According to Dr. John Gottman of the Gottman Institute,  the single greatest predictor for a successful marriage is repairing skills. Repairing skills refers to a couple's ability to resolve conflict. 

Episodes 18 and 19 of A Purpose Driven Marriage Podcast is a two-part series where Duane and Nadine break down the five different conflict styles that we tend to default to.

They'll cover the pros, the cons, and the usual characteristics of the conflict styles: Accommodator, Avoider, Competer, Collaborator, and Compromiser.

You'll learn about how you can use each one in the right ways that serve the needs of the relationship, ultimately leading to greater intimacy and connection.

Curious about what your conflict style might be? Listen to the podcast and then take the quiz to learn what your relationship conflict style is.

Be sure and have your partner take the quiz as well!

Get the resources mentioned on this episode!

Take The Conflict Style Quiz

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

A Purpose Driven Marriage Website

Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage

Follow us on Facebook @apurposedrivenmarriage

Get a FREE copy of “31 Conversation Starters to Improve Communication” here: https://resources.apurposedrivenmarriage.com/conversationstarters

To contact Nadine about Relationship Coaching, Premarital Counseling, speaking at your event, or hosting a workshop, email us at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com.

If someone wrongs you and says, “I’m sorry,” do you believe them? Or do you need them to say and do more to show the sincerity of their apology?

According to Gary Chapman, author of the popular book "The 5 Love Languages," there are five distinct ways in which people apologize.

If you’ve ever had a situation with your spouse where they’ve said they apologized, but you don’t think they did, you may be speaking two different languages of apology.

Tune in to this week's podcast to hear Duane and Nadine break down the 5 apology languages, and the framework for a perfect apology!

Thanks for tuning in!

Get the resources mentioned on this episode!

Buy "The 5 Apology Languages Book" by Gary Chapman

Take The 5 Love Languages Quiz

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

A Purpose Driven Marriage Website

Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage

Follow us on Facebook @apurposedrivenmarriage

Get a FREE copy of “31 Conversation Starters to Improve Communication” here: https://resources.apurposedrivenmarriage.com/conversationstarters

To contact Nadine about Relationship Coaching, Premarital Counseling, speaking at your event, or hosting a workshop, email us at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com.

If you've ever felt like your partner just doesn't understand what you need to feel loved and appreciated, or maybe it's you that needs a little brushing up on how to show love to your spouse in a way that resonates with them. Either way, this episode is for you.

We'll break down each of the 5 love languages that Gary Chapman lists in his book of the same name - words of affirmation, quality time, receiving gifts, acts of service, and physical touch - and explore how you can identify which one(s) resonate with you and your partner.

So whether you're a words of affirmation person, a quality time junkie, or a physical touch aficionado, join us for this fun and lighthearted episode as we decode the mysteries of the 5 love languages. And who knows, you might just discover a new way to show your love and improve your marriage along the way!

Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave us a review on your favorite platform. Thanks for tuning in!

Get the resources mentioned on this episode!

Buy "The 5 Love Languages Book" by Gary Chapman

Take The 5 Love Languages Quiz

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

A Purpose Driven Marriage Website

Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage

Follow us on Facebook @apurposedrivenmarriage

Get a FREE copy of “31 Conversation Starters to Improve Communication” here: https://resources.apurposedrivenmarriage.com/conversationstarters

To contact Nadine about Relationship Coaching, Premarital Counseling, speaking at your event, or hosting a workshop, email us at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com.

81% of married couples say that trust is one of the most important factors in a successful marriage, yet so many struggle with it in their own relationship.

It was no different for our podcast hosts early in their relationship when Nadine admittedly struggled with trusting her then boyfriend, Duane.

Tune in to episode 15 of A Purpose Driven Marriage Podcast to hear how Duane and Nadine overcame their trust issues to enjoy a healthy, thriving marriage today.

Plus, they discuss how to build a foundation of trust in any relationship and the key things they recommend couples avoid if they want to maintain that trust.

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

A Purpose Driven Marriage Website

Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage

Follow us on Facebook @apurposedrivenmarriage

Get a FREE copy of “31 Conversation Starters to Improve Communication” here: https://resources.apurposedrivenmarriage.com/conversationstarters

To contact Nadine about Relationship Coaching, Premarital Counseling, speaking at your event, or hosting a workshop, email us at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com.

The terms "work wife" and "work husband" have become all too common in today's corporate environment. But is it simply a harmless term of endearment with potential career benefits? Or is it a dangerous threat to marriage that could create opportunities to boundaries being crossed?

Tune in to Episode 14 of A Purpose Driven Marriage Podcast to hear what research has to say about this, as well as hear Duane and Nadine's perspective.

And if you have any experience with this (or know someone who does), we'd love to hear your thoughts. Send us a message on Instagram at www.instagram.com/apurposedrivenmarriage or an email at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com and let us know what you think or what your experience has been.

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

A Purpose Driven Marriage Website

Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage

Follow us on Facebook @apurposedrivenmarriage

Get a FREE copy of “31 Conversation Starters to Improve Communication” here: https://resources.apurposedrivenmarriage.com/conversationstarters

To contact Nadine about Relationship Coaching, Premarital Counseling, speaking at your event, or hosting a workshop, email us at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com.

What happens to a couple's sex life after they've been married a long time? Does it grow stale? Does it get boring?

Well if you've been married fewer than 15 years, you'll be happy to know that the best is yet to come! Listen to this latest episode to find out some great news for couples looking to make their marriage a lifetime commitment.

And just to be on the safe side, listen to our proven tips to ensure you always keep the flames of romance burning in your relationship!

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

A Purpose Driven Marriage Website

Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage

Follow us on Facebook @apurposedrivenmarriage

Get a FREE copy of “31 Conversation Starters to Improve Communication” here: https://resources.apurposedrivenmarriage.com/conversationstarters

To contact Nadine about Relationship Coaching, Premarital Counseling, speaking at your event, or hosting a workshop, email us at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com.

Do you ever feel like you and your spouse are two ships passing in the night? Between work, kids, responsibilities, and life’s never-ending demands, finding quality time together can feel impossible. But it doesn’t have to be that way!

In this episode, we’re sharing five powerful, time-management hacks to help busy couples stay connected and keep their marriage thriving—even when life gets hectic. From weekly marriage meetings to no-tech family time, these strategies will help you prioritize your relationship without sacrificing your responsibilities.

Whether you’re juggling careers, parenting, or just struggling to find quality time together, these tips will help you make time for love, deepen your connection, and create a marriage that lasts.

✅ Why busyness can trick you into feeling productive while damaging your relationship
✅ The #1 mindset shift that makes balancing love and life easier
✅ 5 time-saving hacks to ensure you stay connected with your spouse
✅ Practical ways to schedule and protect quality couple time
✅ How to automate, delegate, and outsource to create more margin for love

✨ Follow us on Instagram & TikTok (@apurposedrivenmarriage) for daily marriage tips
✨ Want to work together? Book a coaching session at https://apurposedrivenmarriage.com/
✨ Found this helpful? Send it to a friend or leave a review! It seriously means so much 💛

It's our anniversary week! This week, Duane and I are celebrating our 24th year of marriage and 30 years together.  And as a challenge to each other, we each came up with 3 lessons or best practice that we feel have been absolute game changers for our relationship. Now let me tell you, this was NOT an easy task. We could have chosen any of a number of different lessons that have truly impacted our relationship, but for this particular episode, we came up with these three. And there's at least one that I know many couples wouldn't have thought to put in their top 3! Tune in to find out which one.

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

A Purpose Driven Marriage Website

Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage

Follow us on Facebook @apurposedrivenmarriage

Get a FREE copy of “31 Conversation Starters to Improve Communication” here: https://resources.apurposedrivenmarriage.com/conversationstarters

To contact Nadine about Relationship Coaching, Premarital Counseling, speaking at your event, or hosting a workshop, email us at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com.

In today's episode, Duane and Nadine dig deep into 5 of the most common topics couples fight about.

Of course, there are always more and other issues - this is not an exhaustive list! But if you find that money, parenting, intimacy and housework are recurring themes, take a listen.

And you will not believe what topic #5 is! (And we'd love to hear your reaction to it...)

Find complete show notes here: https://apurposedrivenmarriage.com/podcast-ep10/

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

• A Purpose Driven Marriage website
• Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage
• Follow us on Facebook
• Get a FREE copy of “31 Conversation Starters to Improve Communication” here: https://resources.apurposedrivenmarriage.com/conversationstarters
• To contact me about coaching, speaking, or hosting a workshop, email me at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com

This is the second of a two-part interview with Brad & Lisa Valencia, as they describe their journey through and back from infidelity. 

In this episode, Lisa continues their story by talking about how she was able to allow God to have His way in her life, and what His redemption, grace, and mercy looked like in the process. This interview was incredibly raw and absolutely beautiful. Today we conclude the amazing story of a marriage that continues to heal and thrive - after infidelity.

Find complete show notes here: https://apurposedrivenmarriage.com/podcast-ep9/

Contact Brad & Lisa:

• their website: Unrelenting Pursuit 
• their podcast - Unrelenting Pursuit  Check out episodes 80-89, mentioned in this episode, where they specifically discuss details about getting through infidelity
• on Instagram @unrelentingpursuit_

Find complete show notes here: https://apurposedrivenmarriage.com/podcast-epX/

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

• A Purpose Driven Marriage website
• Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage
• Follow us on Facebook
• Get a FREE copy of “31 Conversation Starters to Improve Communication” here: https://resources.apurposedrivenmarriage.com/conversationstarters
• To contact me about coaching, speaking, or hosting a workshop, email me at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com

This is the first part of a two-part interview with Brad & Lisa Valencia, as they describe their journey through and back from infidelity. It’s a very real scenario that many couples are facing.

In this episode, we discover how one gets to that point. How does a couple go from loving each other to one of them committing the ultimate betrayal in a marriage? And then, what do redemption, recovery, and renewal look like on the other side? This interview was incredibly raw and absolutely beautiful. And today we begin talking about the amazing story of the process they went through - and continue to go through - to heal their marriage after infidelity.

Find complete show notes here: https://apurposedrivenmarriage.com/podcast-ep8/

Contact Brad & Lisa:

• their website: Unrelenting Pursuit 
• their podcast - Unrelenting Pursuit  Check out episodes 80-89, mentioned in this episode, where they specifically discuss details about getting through infidelity
• on Instagram @unrelentingpursuit_

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

• A Purpose Driven Marriage website
• Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage
• Follow us on Facebook
• Get a FREE copy of “31 Conversation Starters to Improve Communication” here: https://resources.apurposedrivenmarriage.com/conversationstarters
• To contact me about coaching, speaking, or hosting a workshop, email me at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com

You did it! This is the last of our 3-part series, Keeping The Romance Alive.

If you’ve been intentional about prioritizing your marriage through the earlier years of parenting, this season with teens and young adults can offer excellent opportunities to build your relationship up even further.

However, even if you weren’t intentional earlier on, it’s not too late to bring back the romance at this stage.

During this season, you'll find you can be a bit more flexible and have the time and space to be more creative.

In this episode we talk about:

• the importance of rekindling your friendship with your spouse,
• the necessity of creating healthy boundaries with your teen/young adults (these will not only benefit you as a couple but serve as a healthy role model for them),
• a characteristic of your teen's life stage that may mean you have to be proactive, and
• when all else fails, a slogan you'll "just have to steal" ;-)

Find complete show notes here: https://apurposedrivenmarriage.com/podcast-ep7/

** Learn more about and get on the waitlist for The Ultimate Communication Course for Couples here! **

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

• A Purpose Driven Marriage website

• Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage

• Follow us on Facebook

• Get a FREE copy of “31 Conversation Starters to Improve Communication” here: https://resources.apurposedrivenmarriage.com/conversationstarters

• To contact me about coaching, speaking, or hosting a workshop, email me at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com

In part 2 of our series, Keeping the Romance Alive, we're speaking to parents with kiddos in grade school - or who will be someday!

This season is a different kind of busy because the kids are too old to be placed in a crib or swing and just stay there, but too young to be able to drive themselves places.

Once again, we're gonna remind you that creating or maintaining romance is going to require intentionality.

(And you may want to take notes and try out the solution Duane came up with for ensuring some couple-privacy in the bedroom!) You're welcome! ;-)

Find complete show notes here: https://apurposedrivenmarriage.com/podcast-ep6/

** Learn more about and get on the waitlist for The Ultimate Communication Course for Couples here! **

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

• A Purpose Driven Marriage website

• Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage

• Follow us on Facebook

• Get a FREE copy of “31 Conversation Starters to Improve Communication” here: https://resources.apurposedrivenmarriage.com/conversationstarters

• To contact me about coaching, speaking, or hosting a workshop, email me at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com

Welcome to Part 1 in our 3-part series, Keeping The Romance Alive.

In this episode, we'll discuss tips and strategies that will help you not only survive but thrive as a couple during these all-too-busy new parent years.

The keyword for maintaining romance through the parenting years is intentionality.

You’ll find that being intentional is going to be your secret weapon to making sure the romance never dies, no matter the season of life you may be in or how many kids you may have.

Find complete show notes here: https://apurposedrivenmarriage.com/podcast-ep5/

** Learn more about and get on the waitlist for The Ultimate Communication Course for Couples here! **

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

• A Purpose Driven Marriage website

• Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage

• Follow us on Facebook

• Get a FREE copy of “31 Conversation Starters to Improve Communication” here: https://resources.apurposedrivenmarriage.com/conversationstarters

• To contact me about coaching, speaking, or hosting a workshop, email me at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com

Duane and Nadine discuss some of the ways that their culture of origins influenced their marriage - but you may be surprised to learn that YOU, too, have your own cultural influences.

In this episode, we offer 3 tips to help you adapt the beliefs and behaviors you grew up with in your own birth family, and combine them with your spouse's to create your unique family culture!

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

• A Purpose Driven Marriage website

• Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage

• Follow us on Facebook

• Get a FREE copy of “31 Conversation Starters to Improve Communication” here: https://resources.apurposedrivenmarriage.com/conversationstarters

• To contact me about coaching, speaking or hosting a workshop, email me at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com

Do you set goals as a couple?

Much like business owners do, it’s important to set goals in your marriage. It helps you understand your values together, what’s important, and where you want to go!

There’s no “best time” to set a goal, friends. Sure, it may make sense to do it in January, or maybe your anniversary, or some other significant date. The bottom line is to DO IT!

In this episode, we discuss:

• the importance of goals,

• how to define goals well,

• what setting them does for you as a couple,

• how to follow through with them, and

• our process!

Duane also presents some interesting statistics on goals and goal-setting.

And don’t forget to grab a copy of our freebie: Goal Setting for Couples!

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

• A Purpose Driven Marriage website

• Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage

• Follow us on Facebook

• Get a FREE copy of “31 Conversation Starters to Improve Communication” here: https://resources.apurposedrivenmarriage.com/conversationstarters

• To contact me about coaching, speaking, or hosting a workshop, email me at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com

Yes, there are a TON of myths about marriage. We picked out 5 common ones and replaced them with the TRUTHs that can strengthen your marriage!

Listen in and see if you believed any of them, too!

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

• A Purpose Driven Marriage website

• Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage

• Follow us on Facebook

• Get a FREE copy of “31 Conversation Starters to Improve Communication” here: https://resources.apurposedrivenmarriage.com/conversationstarters

• To contact me about coaching, speaking or hosting a workshop, email me at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com

Hey friends! 👋 It’s just me today—Duane is out of town—but I’m excited to spend this time with you because we’re talking about something that comes up all the time in my coaching sessions: those frustrating, never-ending arguments that go absolutely nowhere.

You know the ones—where you and your spouse keep going in circles, saying the same things, but somehow you’re both still frustrated and nothing actually gets resolved? 😩 Yeah, we’re getting to the bottom of that today!

After working with hundreds of couples, I’ve seen the same patterns keep people stuck in these unproductive arguments. And in this episode, I’m breaking down the four biggest communication roadblocks that lead to these cycles—plus how you and your spouse can overcome them together.

💡 Why men tend to go into "fix-it" mode while women want to process—and how to bridge the gap
💡 The "intentions vs. impact" trap—why good intentions don’t always equal good communication
💡 How couples often fight about completely different things without realizing it (seriously, this happens ALL the time!)
💡 Why it’s hard to see past your own emotions when you’re upset—and how to create space for BOTH of you to be heard

Listen, communication is a skill—it’s not something we’re all just born knowing how to do. But that means it’s something we can learn and get better at! So if you’re ready to break the cycle of frustrating, never-ending arguments, this episode is for you.

✨ Follow me on Instagram & TikTok (@apurposedrivenmarriage) for daily marriage tips
✨ Want to work together? Book a coaching session at https://apurposedrivenmarriage.com/
✨ Found this helpful? Send it to a friend or leave a review! It seriously means so much 💛

🎧 Press play and let’s work on having more productive, meaningful conversations in your marriage!

Welcome to the very first episode of A Purpose Driven Marriage Podcast! We’re Duane and Nadine Stewart and we’re so excited to have you joining us.

Today, we’re going to talk a little bit about:

Who we are

Why we started this podcast

And answer the question: what is A Purpose Driven Marriage?

Follow us for more helpful tools and resources!

• A Purpose Driven Marriage website

• Connect with us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage

• Follow us on Facebook

• Get a FREE copy of “31 Conversation Starters to Improve Communication” here: https://resources.apurposedrivenmarriage.com/conversationstarters

• To contact me about coaching, speaking, or hosting a workshop, email me at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com

Are you looking for real answers to the real-life challenges in your marriage?

A Purpose Driven Marriage is the podcast for couples seeking real help and real solutions, to take their marriage from barely surviving to amazing and thriving! Married for 23 years and parents of six, their mission is to help you deepen your marriage on the basis of faith, friendship, family, and fun. You'll find so much to relate to and learn from in each episode, as they help couples strive for marriage as God designed it and not as the world has defined it. 

Join us every Tuesday as we help you focus on actionable, practical solutions to take your marriage from good to great.

**Reach out to Duane and Nadine:**
Our website - https://apurposedrivenmarriage.com/
On Instagram - @apurposedrivenmarriage/
Grab our free "Goal Setting for Couples" Guide - https://apurposedrivenmarriage.com/goal-setting-for-couples-template/
Schedule a complimentary 15-minute coaching consultation - https://calendly.com/apdmarriage/15min?month=2023-01

Is your marriage slowly drifting apart without you realizing it? In this powerful episode of A Purpose Driven Marriage, we sit down with David and Meg Robbins to discuss the three biggest threats that can weaken any marriage—and, more importantly, how to fight back and stay connected.

At the time of this interview, David was the president of Family Life, but since then, he has stepped into a new role as the president of Campus Crusade for Christ International and Cru. While his title has changed, his heart for strengthening marriages remains the same.

David and Meg share deep insights, biblical wisdom, and real-life stories to help couples recognize and overcome:
✅ The Internal Threat – How our own selfishness and busyness create distance
✅ The External Threat – The hidden influences (like technology and culture) pulling couples apart
✅ The Invisible Threat – The spiritual battle against oneness in marriage

Plus, they introduce the newly reimagined Art of Marriage series, designed to help couples strengthen their relationship through faith-centered community.

🎙️ Tune in to hear:
✔️ How to identify if one of these threats is affecting your marriage
✔️ Simple, practical ways to reconnect and stay united
✔️ Why your marriage matters beyond just the two of you—it can change the world!

🔗 Resources & Links:

• Family Life Website: www.familylife.com
• The Art of Marriage
• Follow Family Life on Instagram: @familylifeinsta
• Weekend to Remember

👉 Did this episode resonate with you? Share it with another couple and tag us on Instagram @apurposedrivenmarriage!

Are your in-laws a little too involved in your marriage? Do you or your spouse feel like you're competing for attention, struggling with boundaries, or dealing with a parent who just won’t let go? You're not alone!

In this episode of A Purpose Driven Marriage, we dive into the challenges of unhealthy parental attachments—when in-laws mean well but unintentionally create tension, division, and conflict in a marriage. We’ll help you recognize the signs, understand the impact, and most importantly, set healthy boundaries without starting a family feud.

✅ Common signs of unhealthy parent-child attachment in marriage
✅ How this dynamic creates loyalty conflicts and weakens connection
✅ Biblical wisdom on leaving and cleaving (Genesis 2:24, Mark 10:7)
✅ Practical strategies to set firm but loving boundaries
✅ How to redirect in-law relationships while protecting your marriage
✅ What to do when boundaries are ignored or met with resistance

Let’s Connect:
📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook: @APurposeDrivenMarriage
📧 Have a question or story to share? Email us at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com

💌 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it!

Valentine's Day is often associated with roses, chocolates, and fancy dinners—but it doesn’t have to be about spending big or doing the same old thing. In this episode of A Purpose Driven Marriage, Duane and Nadine share 7 creative ideas to rekindle the romance and make your Valentine’s Day (or any day) extra special.

Whether you're planning a fun scavenger hunt, reminiscing on cherished memories, or learning to dance together, these thoughtful and playful ideas will help you reconnect and celebrate your love in meaningful ways. Plus, hear about some personal stories from Duane and Nadine’s own relationship as they dive into each idea, showing how you can build intimacy and joy—no matter the day!

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• How to create a memory lane date that celebrates your unique journey together
• The benefits of writing heartfelt love letters and why it's a perfect Valentine’s tradition
• Fun and easy ways to plan a tech-free day focused on deepening conversation
• How a DIY spa day or even a dance class can spice up your Valentine’s celebration
• The importance of focusing on love every day, not just on Valentine’s Day

Creative Ideas for a Special Valentine’s:

1. Memory Lane Date: Revisit places from your past and look through old photos or memorabilia.
2. Cooking Class Together: Learn a new recipe together and enjoy the bonding experience.
3. Valentine’s Day Scavenger Hunt: Leave little notes or gifts to surprise your spouse throughout the day.
4. Write Love Letters: Express your feelings through heartfelt words and read them to each other.
5. Tech-Free Day: Spend the day fully focused on each other with fun games and deep conversations.
6. DIY Spa Day: Pamper each other with massages, facials, and candles to set a romantic mood.
7. Dance Class (or App Dance Challenge): Take a dance lesson or try some fun choreography at home.

Call to Action: If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! We’d love to hear how you and your spouse are celebrating Valentine’s Day, or any creative ways you nurture your relationship year-round.

Let’s Connect:
📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook: @APurposeDrivenMarriage
📧 Have a question or story to share? Email us at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com

💌 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it!

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Episode Description:
In this episode of A Purpose Driven Marriage Podcast, Duane and Nadine Stewart dive into the transformative concept of the Five Love Languages. Rooted in Dr. Gary Chapman’s groundbreaking book The Five Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts, they explore how understanding and speaking your spouse's love language can lead to fewer conflicts, deeper emotional connections, and greater marital satisfaction. 💖

You'll hear relatable stories, expert-backed insights, and actionable tips on how to identify and speak your spouse's love language effectively—even when it feels unnatural at first.

What You'll Learn:
✅ The Five Love Languages: Words of Affirmation, Acts of Service, Receiving Gifts, Quality Time, and Physical Touch
✅ Why we naturally express love the way we want to receive it—and how that can create misunderstandings
✅ Practical examples of how couples can align their love expressions
✅ Research-based insights into the benefits of love language communication
✅ Tips to discover your spouse’s primary love language

Episode Highlights:

• [00:03:45] How Dr. Gary Chapman’s counseling experience led to identifying love language mismatches
• [00:10:22] Real-life couple stories where love languages created breakthroughs
• [00:20:11] Discovering your spouse’s love language by observing their behavior and complaints
• [00:27:00] How love languages impact conflict resolution and emotional connection

Challenge of the Week:
Take 10 minutes with your spouse to discuss your love languages. Don’t know them yet? Take the quiz together! Links are in the show notes. Once you discover each other's love languages, talk about practical ways to show love that resonates deeply.

Resources Mentioned:
📚 The Five Love Languages by Dr. Gary Chapman 
🧩 Take the Love Language Quiz

Let’s Connect:
📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook: @APurposeDrivenMarriage
📧 Have a question or story to share? Email us at nadine@apurposedrivenmarriage.com

💌 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it!

If you've ever found yourself overwhelmed by the countless invisible tasks of running a home and family, you're not alone. This week on A Purpose Driven Marriage, we’re joined by author and relationship expert Dr. Morgan Cutlip for an eye-opening conversation about the mental load—what it is, why it disproportionately affects women, and how it silently strains marriages.

Dr. Morgan unpacks the emotional toll of carrying the mental load and offers compassionate, research-based tools for couples who want to create a better balance at home. From understanding why women often absorb more of the household responsibilities, to practical ways to bring your spouse into the conversation without blame, this episode is filled with wisdom, encouragement, and real solutions.

We also dive into her new book, A Better Share: How Couples Can Tackle the Mental Load for More Fun, Less Resentment, and Great Sex, where Dr. Morgan helps couples tackle mental load for more connection, less resentment, and yes—even better sex. Whether you’re a wife who feels unseen or a husband who wants to better understand and support your spouse, this episode will deepen your empathy and strengthen your relationship.

🟡 In This Episode, We Cover:

• What the mental load really is—and how to recognize it

• Why women tend to carry the bulk of it (even when both partners work)

• How the mental load impacts emotional and sexual intimacy

• The parent-child dynamic that drains desire and closeness

• A powerful script for starting the “mental load” conversation without conflict

• Why “oneness” means tackling this challenge together

• Dr. Morgan’s heart behind writing A Better Share

Dr. Morgan Cutlip is an author, relationship expert, and cofounder of MyLoveThinks.com. Known for her down-to-earth and research-backed approach, she empowers couples to navigate the hardest parts of relationships with clarity and compassion. Dr. Morgan holds a master’s in Human Development and Family Science and a doctorate in Counseling Psychology. She’s the author of Love Your Kids Without Losing Yourself and her latest book, A Better Share, releases nationwide April 8, 2025.

Follow her on Instagram at @drmorgancutlip and learn more at www.drmorgancutlip.com.

📘 Get your copy of A Better Share
🔗 Learn more and follow Dr. Morgan: https://drmorgancutlip.com
📲 Follow her on Instagram: @drmorgancutlip

Know someone who’s carrying more than their share of the mental load? Send them this episode! Let’s help more couples understand the invisible weight—and how to lighten it together.

In this eye-opening episode of A Purpose Driven Marriage, we explore the emotionally charged and often misunderstood topic of gaslighting. Is it happening in your marriage? Could you be unintentionally gaslighting your spouse? Or are you the one being gaslit? Join us as we break down what gaslighting really is, how to recognize it, and most importantly, how to respond in a way that builds trust and restores emotional safety.

What You’ll Learn:

• What gaslighting is (and what it isn’t)

• Common phrases that may indicate gaslighting

• How to know if you’re being gaslit

• How to recognize if you might be gaslighting

• Practical steps to stop gaslighting behaviors

• What to do if you're experiencing gaslighting

• Why accountability and validation are crucial to healing

If this episode hit home, take a moment to reflect on your communication patterns. Share this episode with someone who may need it, and subscribe for more real-life conversations that strengthen your marriage.

✨ Follow us on Instagram & TikTok (@apurposedrivenmarriage) for daily marriage tips
✨ Want to work together? Book a coaching session at https://apurposedrivenmarriage.com/
✨ Found this helpful? Send it to a friend or leave a review! It seriously means so much 💛

Feeling disconnected from your spouse? You're not alone. Life’s busy seasons — raising kids, careers, and constant responsibilities — can slowly erode intimacy and connection. But what if one of the most effective ways to reignite your relationship was simpler than you thought?

In this episode of A Purpose Driven Marriage, we explore how taking intentional time away together — whether a weekend staycation or a full-blown getaway — can deeply impact your marriage. It may be surprising, but intentional time together has been shown to help:

• Rekindle intimacy

• Improve communication

• Increase relationship satisfaction

• Build lasting memories that strengthen your bond

If your marriage feels dry or disconnected, this episode is your permission slip to prioritize your relationship and make time for just the two of you. Let’s dive in!

✨ Follow us on Instagram & TikTok (@apurposedrivenmarriage) for daily marriage tips
✨ Want to work together? Book a coaching session at https://apurposedrivenmarriage.com/
✨ Found this helpful? Send it to a friend or leave a review! It seriously means so much 💛

• Research from U.S. Travel Association: Travel Effect Project

• 2024 Study: Kim et al. — Annals of Tourism Research: Couples who travel together experience lasting improvements in relationship satisfaction, intimacy, and communication.

• Hammitt, William E. (2000). Couples and Recreation: Benefits of Shared Leisure Experiences. Leisure Sciences
• Graham, J. M., & Conoley, C. W. (2006). The Relationship Benefits of Shared Leisure Activities: A Meta-Analysis. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships.

In this episode of A Purpose Driven Marriage, we’re tackling one of the most crucial issues couples face—trust. Whether you’re working to rebuild trust after betrayal or simply want to maintain a strong, healthy foundation, this conversation is for you.

Join Duane and Nadine as they explore:

• What causes trust to break down in a marriage

• How to rebuild trust one brick at a time

• The power of consistency and overcommunication

• How transparency, follow-through, and grace build long-term security

• Why impatience can sabotage the healing process

• Faith-based encouragement for couples walking through trust issues

If you've ever wondered how to move forward after dishonesty, or how to protect the trust you already have, this honest and hope-filled conversation will give you the tools and perspective you need.

✨ Follow us on Instagram & TikTok (@apurposedrivenmarriage) for daily marriage tips
✨ Want to work together? Book a coaching session at https://apurposedrivenmarriage.com/
✨ Found this helpful? Send it to a friend or leave a review! It seriously means so much 💛

Do money conversations in your marriage feel more like battlegrounds than building blocks?
You're not alone—and today’s guests are here to help.

In this episode of A Purpose Driven Marriage Podcast, we’re joined by Dan and Kay Ockey, financial coaches and founders of Centsei Financial, who open up about their journey from debt, secrecy, and daily arguments… to building a thriving financial coaching practice—and a stronger marriage—together.

You’ll learn:

• Why most financial fights are not really about money

• The weekly habit that can radically improve your relationship and your bank account

• How to rebuild trust after financial mistakes or hidden spending

• What shared financial responsibility actually looks like in a healthy Christian marriage

• How to start money conversations with your spouse—even if it feels awkward or tense

Dan and Kay don’t just share theory—they walk you through the exact system they used (and now teach others) to reduce stress, eliminate confusion, and create financial unity in marriage.

Want to stop fighting about money and start building your future—together?
Dan and Kay are offering our listeners a FREE budgeting class that breaks down the same principles and tools they’ve used to help over 1,100 households find financial clarity and peace.

📲 Sign up for the free class here:
👉 https://www.centseifinance.com/duane-and-nadine-a-purpose-driven-marriage/

Whether you’re just starting out or trying to recover from past money wounds, this class will give you the practical steps to move forward with confidence and unity.