Explore every episode of the podcast IMbetween Podcast on Marriage, Parenting, Faith, and Everything In Between

We interview Chris Janssen, an author, life coach, and sobriety advocate. Chris shares her personal journey to sobriety, discusses her new book Grace Yourself: How to Show Up for the Sober Life You Want, and explores how addiction extends beyond substances to behaviours and thought patterns. She offers practical coaching tools for self-reflection and change, emphasizing self-compassion and the importance of defining sobriety individually. The conversation highlights the costs of numbing behaviours, the value of choosing growth over comfort, and encourages us to pursue authentic, fulfilling lives with grace and resilience. Meet Chris Janssen: Chris Janssen, MA, BCC, is a leading results coach in performance and mindset and a bestselling, award-winning author. She has worked with hundreds of sought-after athletes, creatives, soldiers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses internationally, helping them to close the gap between where they are and where they want to be. In addition to her academic achievements, Chris trained with and worked on Tony Robbins’ team of results coaches at the #1 personal development and peak performance strategy company in the world. As a board-certified coach with a master’s in counseling psychology and over 25 years of experience, Chris excels in helping high-achieving perfectionists navigate performance pressure, overcome self-sabotage and rewrite narratives. Through her successful and sustainable Living All In methods, clients learn to attach meaning to life events and circumstances beyond their control. A California native, Chris and her husband, Scott have been married for nearly 30 years. Together, they raised three children, now thriving young adults. Chris and Scott split their time between Los Angeles and Colorado and love to ski, golf, be with their horses and adventure outside. For the full show notes go to IMbetween.org/epsiode197 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We interview Sarah Boyd, author of Turn Down the Noise, about overstimulation as an invisible epidemic impacting children, parents, and educators. Sarah explains how sensory overload affects mental health and family dynamics, distinguishing between tantrums and sensory overwhelm. She offers practical strategies for building resilience, including intentional downtime, playful family moments, and screen-free periods. Our conversation emphasizes understanding individual sensory needs, managing parental stress, and creating supportive environments. In This Episode, You'll Hear About: Overstimulation as an invisible epidemic affecting mental health in children and families. The rise of anxiety, depression, and attention-related diagnoses in children and adolescents. The importance of environmental factors in supporting mental well-being. Sensory sensitivity as a personality trait and its prevalence among neurodivergent individuals. Differentiating between tantrums and sensory overwhelm in children. The impact of parental stress and emotional regulation on children's behavior. Strategies for increasing sensory capacity and managing overstimulation. The role of humor and lightheartedness in fostering resilience within families. The significance of creating intentional downtime and media-free periods for families. Practical tools for parents to create supportive environments and improve family dynamics. Meet Sarah Boyd: Sarah Boyd is a writer, child and adolescent development expert, and founder of educational company Resilient Little Hearts. She holds a Masters degree in Educational Psychology and a Diploma in the Neuroscience of Leadership. A native Australian, she now lives in California with her husband and two children.  For the full show notes, including journal prompts and discussion questions for couples, go to IMbetween.org/episode196 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 195 is one you won’t want to miss. Cassandra Speer—co-author of Ready As You Are—joins us for a powerful conversation on growth, purpose, and faith. Cass opens up about her journey from feeling completely unqualified tostepping into her calling as a Bible teacher and author. Her story is a reminder that God often calls us into spaces we never thought we could step into. We also discuss the courage it takes to navigate seasons of change, the beauty of supportive partnerships, how to foster unity in marriage, and what it means to silence feelings of inadequacy. Cass’s words will leave you encouraged to trust God’s provision and step boldly into your own calling—because you are more ready than you think. In This Episode, You'll Hear The Following:  The concept of being "ready" for one's calling Overcoming limitations and fear in pursuing purpose Discussion of imposter syndrome and its impact Discerning God's purpose versus personal pride Navigating relationships and callings in different life stages Importance of supportive partnerships in pursuing dreams Challenges of navigating change and uncertainty in life transitions Necessity of unity and communication in marriage Encouragement for personal growth and embracing one's unique path Meet Cassandra Speer:  Cassandra is a bestselling author, dynamic Bible teacher, host of the Hard and Holy podcast, and vice president of Her True Worth, a global ministry encouraging women to find their identity and validation in Christ alone. With a deep passion for the weary and wounded, Cass writes to offer hope and practical biblical encouragement to those searching for faith in the midst of life’s challenges. In addition to her writing and ministry work, Cass is pursuing a Master's in Biblical and Theological Studies at Denver Seminary. She lives in Oklahoma City with her husband and their three rowdy and wonderful children. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Daniel and Christina delve into the topic of emotions, especially in the context of parenting, with their guest Alicia Michelle, a certified Christian life coach. Alicia provides insights from her book "Emotional Confidence: Three Simple Steps to Manage Emotions with Science and Scripture," where she underscores the importance of acknowledging, discerning, and deciding how to respond to emotions. The discussion emphasizes the crucial role of understanding and managing emotions for personal development and fostering healthier family dynamics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Daniel and Christina chat with Shannon Brink, a nurse practitioner and author. The episode delves into the theme of waiting, particularly through personal struggles and relationships. Shannon shares her battle with insomnia and the lessons she has learned about waiting on God, emphasizing empathy and support for loved ones in similar situations. The discussion highlights the emotional and spiritual dimensions of waiting, its impact on personal growth, and the importance of community and genuine connection during challenging times. In This Episode, You'll Hear About: The theme of waiting in life and its emotional impact. Personal struggles, particularly insomnia, and their influence on faith. The importance of empathy in relationships during waiting periods. Supporting loved ones who are also experiencing waiting. The dual nature of hope: for the present and the future. The challenges faced by couples during prolonged suffering. The significance of community and shared experiences in times of waiting. The role of vulnerability and honesty in relationships and parenting. The transformative potential of waiting for personal growth. Trusting in God's timing and presence amidst uncertainty. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Waiting is the Night: Finding Hope When You’re Stuck on the Other Side of Dawn by Shannon Brink Shannonbrink.org Meet Shannon Brink: Shannon Brink is a Nurse Practitioner living on the Canadian West Coast. She has 4 children and spent 5 years recently as a missionary nurse in East Africa. She writes on Shannonbrink.org and you can follow her various publications there including free devotionals and real conversations with others waiting on God. For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple, go to: IMbetween.org/episode193 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Daniel interviews Mindy Caliguire, the leader of Soul Care and author of Ignite Your Soul, to discuss the state of people's souls in today's culture. Mindy shares insights from a "listening tour," highlighting a growing awareness of the inner life and a rejection of hustle culture. We explore the challenges of soul care, skepticism around spiritual formation, and the need for an integrated approach to well-being. Mindy uses wildfire metaphors to illustrate the fragility of the soul and emphasizes the importance of practices like journaling, prayer, and embracing hobbies to nurture one's inner life. In This Episode, You'll Hear About: The current state of people's souls in the cultural climate. Insights from a "listening tour" about the importance of inner life and soul care. The rejection of hustle culture and its impact on well-being. The rise of skepticism regarding spiritual formation and soul care. The need for an integrated approach to mental, physical, and spiritual health. The metaphor of wildfires to illustrate the fragility of the soul. The significance of personal reflection and journaling for soul care. The importance of nurturing joy and interests in children for their soul health. The role of spiritual practices in cultivating a healthy soul. Resources: Ignite Your Soul: When Exhaustion, Isolation, and Burnout Light a Path to Flourishing by Mindy Caliguire Soul Care Meet Mindy Caliguire: Mindy Caliguire is the co-founder and president of Soul Care, an organization dedicated to helping leaders both personally flourish and achieve missional impact. Her latest book, Ignite Your Soul: When Exhaustion, Isolation, and Burnout Light a Path to Flourishing, is a powerful guide for recovering soul health in any and all circumstances.  For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple, go to: IMbetween.org/episode192 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We interview Christa Hardin, a relationship expert, author, and podcaster about the role of Enneagram types in intimacy and sexual relationships within marriage. Christa explains how understanding each type's natural tendencies can help couples navigate conflicts and enhance their intimate lives. She offers specific advice for every Enneagram type, emphasizing the importance of open communication, vulnerability, and emotional connection. The episode provides practical insights for couples to foster deeper connections and improve their intimate relationships by leveraging the Enneagram framework. In This Episode, You'll Hear About: Understanding the Enneagram and its relevance to intimacy in marriage. Natural states of intimacy for different Enneagram types and potential conflicts. Creating a safe environment for open communication about intimacy. Navigating differences in sexual desires and preferences between partners. Insights into the strengths and growth areas of each Enneagram type regarding intimacy. The importance of vulnerability and emotional connection in intimate relationships. Strategies for addressing and overcoming intimacy challenges specific to each Enneagram type. Encouragement for couples to explore deeper connections through understanding their Enneagram types. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: The Enneagram in Marriage: Your Guide to Thriving Together in Your Unique Pairing + Link for Bonus Chapter by Christa Hardin Enneagram and Marriage Listen to our previous Enneagram episodes: 155: THE ENNEAGRAM FOR UNDERSTANDING YOUR SPOUSE WITH DANI COOPER 134: ENNEAGRAM AND PARENTING: TIPS FOR CULTIVATING A CLOSER RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR KIDS BASED ON YOUR TYPE 121: NINE ENNEAGRAM QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU MAKE WISER DECISIONS WITH DR. DREW MOSER 98: HOW THE ENNEAGRAM CAN DEEPEN YOUR MARRIAGE CONNECTION WITH JEFF AND BETH MCCORD 70: RESOLVING CONFLICT WITH THE ENNEAGRAM WITH LAUREN GRAY 69: ENNEAGRAM AND COMMUNICATION STYLES WITH LAUREN GRAY 51: THE PERFECT GIFT FOR EVERY ENNEAGRAM TYPE WITH DR. DREW MOSER Take a look at our Enneagram printables. They are completely free! E-Book: The Perfect Gift For Every Enneagram Type The Enneagram Guide To Better Relationships Looking for an Enneagram test to find out your type? For a free Enneagram Test, please click here  For a paid Enneagram Test (which will be more accurate), check out The Enneagram Institute Testing Center Meet Christa Hardin: Christa Hardin, MA is a relationship expert, author, as well as host of the popular Enneagram & Marriage Podcast. Christa has been working with and researching marriage for two decades, providing hope for couples struggling to find their light, love, and mission together in any relationship season. Her most recent Amazon best-selling title, "The Enneagram in Marriage: Your Guide to Thriving Together in Your Unique Pairing," is now available wherever you buy books. You can catch up with her on the podcast at @enneagramandmarriage on Instagram, Substack at "Of Light and Joy". You can find her website, blog, and Enneagram & Marriage podcast links at www.enneagramandmarriage.com. For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple, go to: IMbetween.org/episode191 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trillia Newbell, the author of Celebrating Around the Table, unpacks the book's themes of food, fellowship, and faith. Trillia shares how her family's tradition of exploring different cultures through meals inspired her book. She highlights key figures like Elizabeth Freeman and Ruby Bridges, emphasizing courage and resilience. The conversation underscores the importance of intentional family time, even with simple meals, and the educational value of learning diverse histories. The episode concludes with encouragement for families to cultivate deeper connections and celebrate their unique stories through shared experiences. In This Episode, You'll Hear About:  The importance of food, fellowship, and faith in celebrating cultural stories. Impact of cultural exploration on family dynamics and appreciation for diversity. Highlighting significant figures in Black Christian history, such as Elizabeth Freeman and Ruby Bridges. Discussion of courage, resilience, and faith as central themes in the stories. Encouragement for families to engage in meaningful conversations around the dinner table. Practical advice for simplifying family meals while prioritizing connection. Resources Mentioned In The Episode: Celebrating Around the Table: Learning the Stories of Black Christians Through Readings, Fellowship, Food, and Faith trillianewbell.com Meet Trillia Newbell: Trillia Newbell is the author of several books including, 52 Weeks in the Word, A Great Cloud of Witnesses, Sacred Endurance, If God is For Us, Fear and Faith, and the children's books Creative God, Colorful Us, God's Very Good Idea, and Jesus and the Gift of Friendship. She is the host of the podcast 52 Weeks in the Word and hosts the weekly radio program Living by Faith from Moody Radio. When she isn’t writing, she’s encouraging and supporting other writers as the Acquisitions and Editorial Director at Moody Publishers. Trillia is married to her best friend, Thern, and they reside with their two children near Nashville, TN where they enjoy hiking and eating lots of bbq.  For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple, go to: IMbetween.org/episode190 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In Episode 189, Daniel and Christina chat with Caroline Fausel, a health coach and wellness expert, about her newly released book, Simply Healthy Life. Caroline discusses the concept of a thriving life, emphasizing a holistic approach to health that includes physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. The episode covers practical steps for making healthy changes, the emotional connections people have with food, and the importance of sleep and exercise. Caroline also shares tips for developing consistent habits and the significance of Sabbath practices for overall wellness. In This Episode, You'll Hear About: Definition of a thriving life and its multi-dimensional aspects (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual). The emotional connections people have with food and how it affects eating habits. Practical steps for making healthy lifestyle changes, including the "magic wand exercise." The importance of creating a healthy home environment and understanding toxins in household products. The concept of "all the time" foods versus "sometimes" foods to promote a balanced diet. Strategies for improving sleep hygiene and its critical role in overall health. The significance of exercise and developing consistent habits for physical well-being. The role of self-awareness in understanding eating habits and emotional triggers. Incorporating Sabbath practices as a means of reconnecting with oneself and loved ones. The holistic approach to health that encompasses food, exercise, sleep, and emotional well-being. Links Mentioned In This Episode: A Simply Healthy Life: Your Guide to Cultivating a Happy, Connected, and Intentional Life by Caroline Fausel Olive You Whole Episode 111: What Your Doctor Wishes You Knew About Rest with Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith Mini Episode 4: When You Can't Sleep, Try This Meet Caroline Fausel: Caroline Fausel is the owner and blogger behind Olive You Whole, a successful clean-eating and lifestyle blog. She is passionate about helping women live healthier, more intentional lives. As a nationally certified health coach, she has developed a loyal community of followers who love her recipes and guidance on living a toxic-free lifestyle. Caroline is married to her college sweetheart, Chaz, and they have two precious kiddos, Ella Rae and Owen. For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple, go to IMbetween.org/episode189 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Daniel and Christina talk with Steve Carter, who shares his journey through grief and insights from his new book, "Grieve, Breathe, Receive." Steve discusses his complex relationships with his adoptive and biological fathers, emphasizing the importance of processing grief with hope. He introduces a framework for navigating grief, encouraging listeners to honour their feelings and remain open to the beautiful surprises that life can bring. The episode offers valuable perspectives on healing, reconciliation, and the transformative power of hope. In This Episode, You'll Hear About The Following: Exploration of grief and its complexities. Personal experiences of loss, particularly related to adoptive and biological fathers. A framework for processing grief. Navigating forgiveness in the context of loss. The role of hope and reconciliation in healing relationships. The impact of societal expectations on emotional expression, especially for men. The significance of community and support during grief. The relationship between grief, faith, and the anticipation of God's goodness. Meet Steve Carter: Steve Carter hosts Craft and Character, a Preaching Today podcast for pastors and communicators focused on developing powerful communication and strong character. Each episode features conversations with ministry leaders on balancing skill with integrity. Steve is a personal and executive coach, mentoring communicators to find their voice and guiding organizations through transitions. Passionate about bringing the way of Jesus into every setting, he teaches, writes, and crafts messages to inspire others in their faith journey. Steve serves as a teaching pastor at Forest City Church and speaks globally, based near Chicago with his wife and two kids. For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple, go to IMbetween.org/episode188 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In Episode 187, Daniel and Christina chat with Erin Loechner—once a social media influencer with over a million followers—who made the radical choice to step away from the digital spotlight and embrace a low-tech lifestyle. Erin reflects on the impact of social media on her mental health, identity, and parenting, sharing how the constant pressure to stay “connected” was eroding what mattered most. In this conversation, she offers practical tips for reducing tech dependence, from simplifying devices to creating meaningful offline moments with loved ones, all while reminding us that true connection thrives in real life, not on screens. In This Episode, You'll Hear About The Following: The impact of social media on mental health and personal relationships. The decision to opt out of social media for family well-being. The evolution of social media from sharing to attention-seeking platforms. Experiences and benefits of living without social media. The importance of community and real-life connections. Practical steps for families to create a healthier relationship with technology. The role of parental controls and intentional tech use. The dangers of social media algorithms, especially for young users. The significance of authentic relationships over digital interactions. Encouragement for families to reflect on their technology use and its implications. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Pick up a copy of Erin's latest book, The Opt-Out Family: How To Give Your Kids What Technology Can't Read Erin's first book, Chasing Slow: Courage To Journey Off The Beaten Path Erin's Website Listen to our other episodes about raising kids in this tech era:  Parenting In Our Digital Age Unplugging for Connection: How To Break The Distracted Parenting Cycle Netiquette: Teaching Our Kids Online Manners Breaking Up With Our Phones Meet Erin Loechner: Founder of global tech-free movement The Opt-Out Family, Erin Loechner is a former social media influencer who walked away from a million fans to live a low-tech lifestyle—and is now teaching others how to do the same. Her cutting-edge work has been praised in the New York Times, the Washington Post, the Wall Street Journal, the Huffington Post, and the Today Show. When she’s not scrawling on her trusty steno pad, Erin, her husband, and their three kids spend their days chasing alpenglow, reading Kipling, and biking to town for more tortillas. For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple, go to: IMbetween.org/episode187 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In Episode 186, Daniel and Christina Im engage in a profound conversation with Chuck De Groat, a licensed therapist and author of "Healing What's Within." The discussion centers on themes of loneliness, healing, and the integration of spiritual and psychological insights. Chuck shares his journey in writing his book and emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with oneself. The episode explores practical tools for self-examination and highlights the significance of understanding and addressing deeper longings for connection and fulfillment. In This Episode, You'll Hear About: Exploration of themes of loneliness and disconnection. Discussion on the healing process and its significance. Integration of spiritual and psychological insights. The importance of self-awareness and introspection. The role of community in the healing journey. Examination of internal conflicts and desires. Reflection on the biblical concept of "coming home to oneself." Practical tools for self-examination based on biblical questions. Encouragement to engage in contemplative practices and connect with God. Meet Chuck DeGroat: Chuck DeGroat is a professor of pastoral care and Christian spirituality at Western Theological Seminary in Holland, Michigan, where he also serves as the founding executive director of the clinical mental health counseling program. He is a licensed therapist, spiritual director, author, retreat leader speaker, and faculty member with the Soul Care Institute.  As a therapist, he specializes in navigating issues of abuse and trauma, pastoral (and leadership) health, and doubt and darknights on the faith journey. He trains clergy in handling issues of abuse and trauma, conducts pastor and planter assessments, and facilitates church consultations and investigations of abuse.  Before transitioning to training and forming pastors, Chuck served as a pastor in Orlando and San Francisco. He and his wife, Sara, have been married for 30 years and have two adult daughters. For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple, go to IMbetween.org/episode186 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We interview Dr. Charles Fay, president of the Love and Logic Institute, about parenting strategies from his book "Raising Mentally Strong Kids." Dr. Fay emphasizes allowing children to experience and learn from mistakes, fostering resilience, confidence, kindness, and responsibility. He discusses the negative side effects of overprotective parenting and introduces practical techniques for encouraging problem-solving and independence. The episode also explores the role of mental hygiene, highlighting the need to challenge automatic negative thoughts and promote truthful thinking to support children's mental health. In This Episode, You Will Hear About The Following:  Parenting strategies for building resilience in children and teens. The importance of fostering confidence, kindness, and responsibility in youth. Current trends in youth mental health and their implications for parenting. The significance of allowing children to experience small failures for growth. The role of empathy in effective parenting and problem-solving. Differentiating between healthy and unhealthy struggles for children. The concept of "mental hygiene" and managing negative thoughts. Encouraging open discussions about parenting challenges and strategies. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Pick up a copy of Dr. Charles Fay's book Raising Mentally Strong Kids Listen to our previous episode about Why We Need To Teach Our Kids to Fail Listen more about the importance of joy in your children's lives: The 4 Habits of Raising Joy-Filled Kids Meet Dr. Charles Fay: Dr. Charles is an internationally recognized author, consultant, and public speaker. He is also president of the Love and Logic Institute, which became part of Amen Clinics in 2020. Millions of educators, mental health professionals, and parents worldwide have benefited from Dr. Fay's down-to-earth solutions to the most common and frustrating behaviors displayed by youth of all ages. These methods come directly from years of experience serving severely disturbed youth and their families in psychiatric hospitals, public and private schools, homes, and other settings. For more information, visit loveandlogic.com For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple, go to IMbetween.org/episode185 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is it possible to recover from an affair? Can you learn to trust your spouse again? Josh and Katie Walters candidly discuss their journey through betrayal and the rebuilding of trust in their marriage. Katie opens up about her emotional affair and the subsequent guilt and self-reflection she faced. Josh shares his initial shock and the struggle to process the betrayal, highlighting the importance of his decision to forgive and stay committed to the marriage. They explore the emotional cost involved in healing, the role of their faith in guiding them towards forgiveness and restoration, and the beauty that awaited them on the other side of the betrayal. It's not just their story; it's an invitation to anyone wrestling with forgiveness to find solace in the shared experience and redemptive power of grace.  In This Episode, You'll Hear About: What is an emotional affair and its impact on a marriage Emotional journey and reevaluating priorities in marriage Process of forgiveness and rebuilding trust Complexity of forgiveness, trust, and transformative power of love and grace Highlighting a different narrative of hope and staying in a relationship despite challenges For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode184 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Daniel and Christina discuss the intricacies of marriage with Brian and Jen Goins and how marriage is like a living art form that demands creativity, evolves, and requires a blending of different perspectives and experiences. The episode highlights the re-release of "The Art of Marriage" series, which encourages couples to engage in open dialogue about love, intimacy, and the divine representation of God's love in marriage. In This Episode, You'll Hear About: Marriage as an art and the re-release of "The Art of Marriage" series The intention behind the creation of marriage and its purpose as a representation of God's love Importance of love, forgiveness, and intimacy in marriage Having healthy and transparent conversations about sensitive topics like sex and intimacy The "Art of Marriage" program as a platform for couples to grow together Stories of transformation and growth in marriages through the "Art of Marriage" program Emphasizing the power of humility, learning, and actively working towards building a strong and healthy marriage For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode183 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever caught yourself scrolling through your phone while your child's voice fades into the background? Yup! Us too. Let's face it, the era of smartphones has us all hooked. But did you know that this habit might be doing more harm than good to our kids? Distracted parenting isn't just about not hearing their stories—it's about the message we send about their value to us. In Episode 182, Daniel and Christina breakdown the costs of distracted parenting and discuss how we can respond to our children's bids for attention to foster intimacy and connection. In This Episode, You'll Hear About The Following: Distracted parenting and its impact on children Importance of being present and engaged with children Examples of distracted parenting scenarios Emotional impact of distracted parenting on children Responding to children's bids for attention and connection Role of empathy in nurturing intimacy with children Practical tips for parents to improve engagement with children Creating undistracted time to fully engage with children Modeling attentive behavior in interactions with others Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Episode 36: Netiquette: Teaching Our Kids Online Manners Episode 62: Parenting In Our Digital Age The Tech-Wise Family: Everyday Steps for Putting Technology in Its Proper Place by Andy Crouch For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode182 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Daniel and Christina explore the nuances of apologizing in relationships by discussing the 5 Apology Languages by Dr. Gary Chapman. They delve into the emotional depth of expressing regret, the challenge of accepting responsibility without excuses, the significance of making restitution to show sincerity, and the commitment required for planned change to rebuild trust. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, they underscore the importance of understanding and using these apology languages to foster forgiveness and reconciliation with the ones you love. In This Episode, You'll Hear About The Following: Importance of apologies in relationships What "fake" apologies are and what to watch out for The 5 Apology Languages: expressing regret, accepting responsibility, making restitution, planned change, and requesting forgiveness How forgiveness and trust are not to be equated Ways to discover your apology language and the apology language of others Resources Mentioned In This Episode: The 5 Apology Languages: The Secret To Healthy Relationships by Dr. Gary Chapman Why Won't You Apologize? Healing Big Betrayals and Everyday Hurts by Harriet Lerner Listen to our previous episode about The 7 New Love Languages and 4 Steps To Get Your Love Language Heard Do you need more help with learning to apologies? Listen to our previous episode: Do You Suck At Apologies? Here Are 4 Steps To Healing Hurts With Your For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode181 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Daniel and Christina delve into the complexities of resolving conflicts in a marriage, particularly in the presence of children. They discuss the importance of empathy, active listening, and collaboration in handling disagreements, and share personal anecdotes and strategies for effective communication. They also talk about the impact of parental conflict resolution on children, emphasizing the need for transparency and the creation of a safe space for family discussions. The episode offers practical advice for couples to navigate marital conflicts constructively while fostering a positive environment for their kids. In This Episode, You'll Hear About The Following: Healthy conflict resolution within a marriage Impact of conflict on children Importance of active listening and empathy Personal experiences and challenges in conflict resolution Solutions-focused therapy techniques Value of validating and empathizing with one's spouse Developing empathy as a skill Collaborative aspect of conflict resolution Impact of healthy conflict resolution on children Creating a safe environment for discussing conflicts with children Timestamps: Is it okay to fight in front of the kids? (00:00:01) Exploring the impact of parental conflict on children and the nuances of healthy conflict resolution within a marriage. The generational effect of parental conflict (00:00:57) The impact of parental conflict on children's perceptions of relationships and the importance of modeling healthy conflict resolution. The harmful effects of hostile conflicts (00:02:13) The negative impact of frequent hostile conflicts on children and the signs that a relationship needs help. Gottman approach to conflict resolution (00:04:47) Understanding the concept of perpetual problems in relationships and the goal of regulating, rather than resolving, conflicts. Listening and being heard (00:06:00) The importance of active listening and summarization in conflict resolution, fostering constructive dialogue and mutual understanding. Empathy and perspective taking (00:13:33) The role of empathy in conflict resolution, its impact on emotional well-being, and fostering a deeper connection in relationships. Empathy and perspective taking (00:18:39) The importance of empathy and perspective-taking in conflict resolution and share practical techniques for validation and understanding. Collaborative conflict resolution (00:21:13) The significance of collaboration in conflict resolution, highlighting the need for mutual willingness to find sustainable solutions and the benefits of brainstorming together. Transparency and family dynamics (00:25:40) The segment explores the educational value of children witnessing healthy conflict resolution, emphasizing the resilience of relationships and the importance of transparent communication within the family. Repairing relationships (00:28:02) The importance of explicit communication and repair in the aftermath of conflicts, emphasizing the impact of parental transparency on children's understanding and emotional well-being. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Need to learn how to fight well? Listen to our previous episodes about conflict resolution. A Conflict-Free Marriage Is Not The Goal How To Fight With Your Spouse Without Ruining Your Marriage How To Repair Your Relationship After A Big Fight Enneagram and Communication Styles  Resolving Conflict with the Enneagram Fight Right: How Successful Couples Turn Conflict Into Connection by Drs John and Julie Gottman For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode180 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Daniel and Christina discuss strategies for deepening love in your relationship. They explore how to address complaints constructively, repair conflicts, and avoid contempt. They also highlight the role of physical touch, expressing gratitude, and the power of forgiveness in strengthening marital bonds. The episode provides practical advice and personal insights for couples looking to enhance their relationship and foster a deeper connection. In This Episode, You'll Hear About The Following: Addressing complaints without blame in a marriage Repairing conflicts and distinguishing between solvable and perpetual conflicts Sticking to the issues during arguments and avoiding contemptuous behaviour Understanding underlying emotions and addressing unmet needs in relationships Extending the time between feeling, thinking, and speaking in a relationship The significance of physical touch and the impact of oxytocin on reducing stress hormones Growing fondness and admiration in a marriage through gratitude and appreciation Seeking to understand before seeking to be understood and the role of forgiveness Practicing apologizing and forgiving in a marriage Timestamps: Share your complaint without pointing fingers (00:07:41) Discussing the difference between sharing complaints and criticizing your spouse, emphasizing the importance of addressing specific issues. Repair conflicts with skill (00:11:14) Exploring the concept of solvable and perpetual conflicts in relationships and the significance of addressing and bouncing back from disagreements. Stick to talking about the issues at hand (00:12:37) Emphasizing the importance of avoiding name-calling, personal attacks, and contempt in arguments, and the need to understand underlying emotions. The impact of contempt on relationships (00:15:07) Exploring the destructive nature of contempt in relationships, its role as a predictor of divorce, and the need to avoid displaying contemptuous behavior. Recognizing and addressing signs of contempt (00:16:26) Discussing how contempt can develop over time in relationships and the importance of recognizing and addressing signs of contemptuous behavior. Moving toward reconciliation and repairing (00:17:26) Highlighting the significance of acknowledging and apologizing for displaying contemptuous behavior and moving towards reconciliation and repairing the relationship. Extending the space between feelings and thoughts (00:17:48) Discussing how to extend the time between feeling anger and reacting, to respond instead. Showing love through physical touch (00:19:26) Exploring the benefits of physical touch in relationships and the impact of a six-second kiss. Growing fondness and admiration (00:21:18) Encouraging the practice of expressing gratitude and appreciation for one's spouse's positive qualities. Seeking first to understand and then to be understood (00:23:04) Emphasizing the importance of active listening and understanding in communication. Practicing apologizing and forgiving (00:28:19) Discussing the significance of forgiveness and the process of seeking and granting forgiveness in relationships. Conclusion and episode recap (00:31:56) Summarizing the six ways to deepen love in marriage and expressing gratitude to the audience. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Learn the difference between perpetual and solvable conflicts and how to handle each of them:  A Conflict-Free Marriage Is Not The Goal  How To Fight With Your Spouse Without Ruining Your Marriage How To Repair Your Relationship After A Big Fight Learn about the importance of turning toward your spouse and responding to their "bids" What 15 Years Of Marriage Has Taught Us The 4 Keys To Long-Term Sexual Satisfaction For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode179 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jason VanRuler, a therapist and author, discusses the transformative power of facing one's past. He shares his personal journey from a troubled childhood to professional success, highlighting the importance of self-reflection and seeking help to overcome recurring life challenges. Daniel and Christina explore with Jason the various ways individuals can begin addressing their issues, whether through therapy, journaling, or simply talking to a trusted friend. Jason emphasizes that healing from the past involves changing our relationship with it, reducing its emotional intensity, and no longer allowing it to dictate our present and future. In This Episode, You'll Hear About The Following: Importance of confronting brokenness and the past Impact of childhood experiences on adult behaviour Promises individuals make to themselves that may keep them stuck Jason's personal journey from a challenging environment to becoming a therapist and author Why we need to address and change our relationship with the past Paths forward for confronting brokenness, including seeking therapy, journaling, and talking to others Importance of community and connection in the healing process What it looks like to be healed from our past Meet Jason VanRuler: Jason began his career in 2011 and has worked with many populations over the years, ranging from persons who are incarcerated to top CEOs, performers and artists, and just about everyone in between. Jason has extensive experience as a clinician, coach, and speaker and operates a multistate private practice. In 2018, Jason joined Bethesda Workshops in Nashville, TN, where he serves as a group leader and facilitator. Jason is known for his ability to relate and connect with his clients and offer hope to those who have felt hopeless. He has an engaged and rapidly growing online audience for his insightful, short videos sharing practical tips for psychological care, self-help, and healthy relationships. Jason enjoys spending time with his wife and three children playing games and traveling. In his spare time, Jason enjoys cycling, running, music, fly fishing, and all things personal development related. For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode178 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Daniel and Christina discuss the importance of discipleship at home. They emphasize the need for parents to set an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity, and discuss how children can sometimes guide and correct their parents. Sharing personal experiences, they explore the significance of aligning actions with words, as children learn more from what we do than what we say. They also discuss the importance of personal growth and helping children grow in these areas, and the role of spiritual disciplines in this process. They conclude by reflecting on the need for genuine faith and a consistent relationship with God. In this episode, you'll hear about the following: Importance of discipleship at home Setting an example for children in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity Grounding children in the truth of God's word Parents being open to their children as a source of guidance and correction Repairing relationships and apologizing to children Aligning actions with words Importance of personal growth and helping children grow Prioritizing worship and gathering as a church community Practicing spiritual disciplines and developing well-worn pathways in the brain For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode177 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Canadian Certified Counsellor Nadine Crain discusses the impact of purity culture on parenthood. She explains the origins and effects of purity culture, highlighting how it emphasized abstinence and tied a person's worth to their sexual purity. Nadine emphasizes the need to develop a healthier relationship with our bodies. Also, she discusses the importance of communication with our bodies and how to navigate the tension between teaching a biblical ethic around sexuality while avoiding the harmful aspects of purity culture.  In This Episode, You'll Hear About The Following: Impact of purity culture on parenthood Origins and long-term effects of purity culture on individuals How to develop a healthier relationship with our bodies Importance of recognizing and acknowledging our bodies Communication with our bodies and addressing past traumas Navigating the tension between biblical ethics and harmful aspects of purity culture in parenting Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Christian Counsellor's Network Nadine's website Nadine's Instagram Picture/Children’s books: “Bodies are Cool” by Tyler Feder “It’s My Body!” by Elise Gravel Books for Parents Personal Healing and Learning: Faithful: A Theology of Sex, by Beth Felker Jones The Wisdom of Your Body: Finding Healing, Wholeness, and Connection through Embodied Living, by Hillary L. McBride, PhD Unwanted: How Sexual Brokenness Reveals our Way to Healing, by Jay Stringer Meet Nadine Crain: Nadine is a Canadian Certified Counsellor with a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. Nadine is a pastor’s wife, and has served in ministry with her husband Brandon for the past 13 years. They live in Edmonton, AB, and have three daughters. Nadine’s passion is helping Christians connect their mental, emotional, and spiritual health with how they live and experience their bodies. In her counselling practice Nadine works with couples and individuals who are struggling with anxiety, emotional regulation, recovering from religious trauma, or struggling with sexual intimacy and communication. Nadine also offers Pre-Marital Counselling, and presentations for church groups. While completing her Master’s degree, Nadine chose to research “How Purity Culture Has Impacted the Self-Esteem, Sexuality and Spirituality of Evangelical Women.” Her findings from that project have inspired the trajectory of her counselling practice and ministry. For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode176 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We interview Dr. Bob Paul about the concept of intensive marriage therapy and how it differs from traditional counselling. Bob explains the advantages of intensive therapy, such as addressing core issues and providing a focused environment for couples to work through their challenges. He also discusses the person-centred approach of their program, prioritizing the well-being of individuals while building healthy relationships. Bob addresses the suitability of intensive therapy for couples and emphasizes the importance of investing in relationships. In This Episode, You'll Hear About The Following: Intensive marriage therapy vs traditional weekly counselling sessions Advantages of intensive therapy  Importance of individuals being whole and healthy for successful relationships Self-care and honouring God to bring the best selves to marriage and family Suitability for intensive therapy or traditional counselling The definition of a great marriage Resources, opportunities, and aftercare support provided by the program Recognizing when a couple is drifting apart and investing in the relationship Seeking professional help for couples hanging by a thread Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Hope Restored Marriage Intensive in Canada   https://hoperestored.focusonthefamily.ca/ Hope Restored Marriage Intensive in the USA   https://hoperestored.focusonthefamily.com/ The DNA of Relationships for Couples by Greg Smalley and Robert Paul - https://amzn.to/3M9TKng 9 Lies That Will Destroy Your Marriage: And the Truths That Will Save It and Set It Free - Robert Paul and Greg Smalley https://amzn.to/4041D3c Restoring Hope - Robert Paul, Robert Burbee, Christine Arnzen https://amzn.to/3S2knhM Reconnected: Moving from Roommates to Soulmates in Marriage - Greg and Erin Smalley https://amzn.to/3QtDIHz Meet Dr. Bob Paul: Dr. Robert Paul is the vice president of the Focus on the Family Marriage Institute. He is also one of the founders of its highly acclaimed Hope Restored marriage intensive programs. He is a licensed professional counselor, an international speaker, and co-author of a number of books including The DNA of Relationships and 9 Lies That Will Destroy Your Marriage. For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode175 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dannah Gresh shares her personal story of navigating her husband's addiction to pornography in their marriage. She discusses the impact it had on their relationship and the importance of seeking help and support. Dannah emphasizes the role of faith and the Holy Spirit in the healing process, highlighting the need for God's power in overcoming addiction. She also talks about the importance of forgiveness, trust, and the journey she and her husband took together to heal from the hurt and pain of infidelity. In This Episode, You'll Hear About: The Power of Honesty and Accountability: Dannah's emphasizes the importance of open discussions about struggles and establishing accountability. It's crucial to prevent addiction from becoming a source of comfort. The Role of Faith: Dannah's shares a powerful moment of divine intervention that led them to seek help. She underscores the importance of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God in the healing process, believing that without them, traditional therapy has limited efficacy. The Journey of Healing: Dannah's story highlights the need for individual healing. She shares a powerful analogy about taking responsibility for her own healing, rather than relying solely on her husband. The Impact on the Church: Dannah discusses the devastating impact of pornography on the church and the need for open dialogue. She believes the church should be a sanctuary where people can find freedom from addiction. The Process of Rebuilding Trust: Dannah acknowledges that forgiveness and trust are interconnected but do not necessarily happen simultaneously. She uses the analogy of "putting cookies in the cookie jar" to describe the process of rebuilding trust through consistent actions and behaviors. Other Episodes That May Interest You: How to Talk to Your Kids About Porn with Dr. Simon Sheh Will Porn Ruin My Marriage? with Dr. Simon Sheh Porn-Proofing Your Child with Rosie Mackinney My Spouse is Addicted to Porn with Rosie Mackinney For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode174 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In Episode 173, we interview Christa Hardin about the Enneagram and how this tool can deepen the love you have for one another. We discuss the importance of individual work and creating a safe environment in relationships. Christa explains the concept of seasons in marriage, comparing them to the changing seasons in nature. She emphasizes the need for couples to engage in deeper relational work during challenging times. We also discuss Christa's book, "The Enneagram in Marriage," which explores the different pairings of Enneagram types and provides tips for navigating the shadows and afterglow stages of each pairing. She shares how the Enneagram can help couples identify their core fears and work on them together.  In This Episode, You Will Hear About: Importance of doing individual work in relationships Creating a safe environment in relationships The concept of seasons in marriage Comparison of seasons in marriage to changing seasons in nature The stages and seasons of marriage as described in "The Enneagram in Marriage" Engaging in deeper immersion work during difficult seasons in marriage Using Enneagram types to understand and meet emotional needs in marriage Benefits of using the Enneagram in couples' work Meet Christa Hardin: Christa Hardin, MA is a relationship expert, author, as well as host of the popular Enneagram & Marriage Podcast. Christa has been working with and researching marriage for two decades, providing hope for couples who are struggling to find their light, love, and mission together in any season of relationship.  Her most recent title, "The Enneagram in Marriage: Your Guide to Thriving Together in Your Unique Pairing," is due out with Baker Books October 3. You can catch up with her at @enneagramandmarriage on Instagram or find her many resources over at www.enneagramandmarriage.com For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode173 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bonnie Gray knows a thing or two about being stressed. During the first year of the pandemic, Bonnie's once full, black hair began falling out. Overwhelmed by the exhaustion of disrupted routines and pressure to meet expectations at work, parenting, ministry and a bottomless checklist of To Do's, Bonnie focused on meeting everyone else's needs at the expense of neglecting her well-being. With her usual coping mechanisms stripped away, she was drained by worries, stress, and anxiety. On Episode 172, Bonnie describes how using soul care and breath prayers can create healthy habits with God to help restore peace and joy in your life. You'll Hear About: The concept of soul care and the four areas of wellness The importance of social wellness and building meaningful relationships The impact of negative emotions on our bodies and the importance of naming and discussing them Tips for managing burnout and improving sleep quality The practice of breath prayer and its impact on managing stress Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Breathe: 21 Days to Stress Less and Transform Chaos to Calm by Bonnie Gray Sweet Like Jasmine: Finding Identity in a Culture of Loneliness by Bonnie Gray https://thebonniegray.com/soulcarequiz/ Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast Breath as Prayer: Calm Your Anxiety, Focus Your Mind, and Renew Your Soul Meet Bonnie Gray: Bonnie Gray is a Soul Care mentor and the author of Breathe: 21 Days to Stress Less and Transform Chaos to Calm, Whispers of Rest, Finding Spiritual Whitespace and Sweet Like Jasmine, an ECPA 2022 Christian Book Award Finalist. Heaving healed from PTSD, Bonnie is passionate about helping thousands of listeners detox stress and flourish in emotional wellness with God’s love through soul care, Bible Study and prayer.  Bonnie is a trusted voice writing for Proverbs 31, Christianity Today and RelevantMagazine. She is also the host of Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast. Take Bonnie’s Soul Care Quiz to learn which area of wellness you’re missing at SoulCareQuiz.com. She loves hiking and eating waffles with her husband and two teenage boys in Silicon Valley. For all of the show notes, including discussion prompts for your next date night, check out IMbetween.org/episode172 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Anyone feeling tired, stressed, and overwhelmed? Are you looking for a tool to simplify your life and bring back the calm, peace, fun, and love in your home? Us too! In this episode, you will discover how brain science can increase the connection with your spouse and your children. We interview author and speaker Cherilyn Orr on the stoplight approach. You will discover the link between brain science and the Bible, and how you can use this knowledge to cultivate a connected and thriving "green home." In this episode, you'll hear about the following: Explanation of the stoplight approach (red, yellow, green brain states) Connection between the stoplight approach and marriage and parenting Comparison of the stoplight approach to traditional parenting techniques like timeouts Description of a "green home" and its pillars (safety, mutual respect, responsibility) Importance of skill-building and empathy in teaching responsibility Application of the stoplight approach to teenagers and the decision-making process Meet Cherilyn Orr: Cherilyn Orr is an educational consultant, trainer, coach, and resource developer. She has been an educator from pre-school to university level for 35 years. Cherilyn was a teaching professor at Vanguard College in Canada for 14 years and has worked with families and educators in Canada, Uganda, Greece, and England to help build safe schools, safe homes, safe communities, and resilient children. The Stoplight Approach she developed synthesizes the latest research in brain science and her years of experience as a teacher (early childhood, primary, special needs), as a mom to 7 children through birth and adoption, and as a foster mom. Her practical, simple, hands-on approach to understanding children's emotional health and relational needs has helped hundreds of parents, caregivers, and teachers build strong, healthy relationships with their children and their students. For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode171 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, you will learn about the benefits of couples therapy and discover practical steps to inspire your spouse to attend therapy. You will also learn how to approach your spouse who may be resistant to attending therapy, and how you can present therapy as an opportunity rather than an obligation. Overall, this episode emphasizes the importance of communication, understanding, and patience in working through relationship issues. For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode170 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What is an affair, how do they start, and how can you affair proof your marriage? In Episode 169, we interview Braden and Kristen Hafner on common reasons marriages are susceptible to affairs, the role of trust in affair-proofing your marriage, how to identify potential vulnerabilities in your marriage, and how to rebuild trust and recover from infidelity if it has already occurred in your marriage. Meet Braden and Kristen Hafner: Since their parents are friends and they grew up in the same church, Braden and Kristen joke that their marriage was arranged. But the truth is Kristen found Braden to have too much hockey hair for her liking. So Braden cut off his luscious locks and the rest is history. Kristen, a former high school science teacher, and Braden an ordained pastor, have been married for 15 years and live in Edmonton. Together they are the Regional Directors of Alberta for FamilyLife Canada. They run Starting Marriage Strong, FamilyLife's pre-marriage course, and Braden co-hosts Pure Victory Podcast helping individuals get free from porn.  For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode169 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Divorce is a complex and emotional experience and not a "fuzzy feeling" topic. No one wants to think about the possibility of their marriage ending in separation or divorce. However, understanding the potential factors that may contribute to a marital breakdown can help you work to strengthen your relationship and avoid potential pitfalls. In this episode, you will discover the 5 divorce-predicting factors you must watch out for. For the full show notes, including questions and journal prompts about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode168 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Have you ever felt like you're constantly pushing yourself to change, but it never seems to stick? Maybe you've been told that you'll finally see the results you want if you try harder. But what if that's not the case? In Episode 167, we interview Neal and Carly Samudre about what happens when you start with joy. They will challenge the idea that pushing through blood, sweat, and tears is the only way to achieve lasting change in your life. Drawing on insights from the Bible and the latest research in positive psychology, they'll explore the power of joy as a driving force for transformation. They believe that focusing on joy can create positive change in your life without resorting to shame, guilt, or fear. Instead, you'll discover how to cultivate a sense of fun and playfulness that makes the process of change actually enjoyable! Throughout the podcast, Neal and Carly will explore topics such as the difference between happiness and joy, why shame, guilt, and fear aren't good motivators for change, how therapy and theology can go together, how to start from joy when you are suffering, and how to start from joy when it comes to your body image. Join us as we explore a new way of thinking about change—one that starts from joy. Get ready to leave shame, guilt, and fear behind and discover the fulfilling life you were always meant to live. For the full show notes, including questions and journal prompts about this episode, go too IMbetween.org/episode167 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Friendship can enrich your life in many ways. Good friends teach you about yourself and challenge you to be better. They encourage you to keep going when times get tough and celebrate your successes with you. But friends do a lot more than give you a shoulder to cry on; they also positively impact your health. Some research even says friendships are just as crucial to your well-being as eating right and exercising. If friendships are so impactful and beneficial to our lives, shouldn't we be talking about them more often? In episode 166, we talk about three relationships you can cultivate daily: friendship with Jesus, your spouse, and others.  For the full show notes, including date night questions and journal prompts about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode166 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A child dealing with anxiety can be a challenging and unpredictable experience, much like a rollercoaster ride with its ups and downs. Some days may feel manageable as their parent, while others may feel overwhelming. In Episode 165, we interview Licensed Profession Counselor Justine Froelker about how we can connect with our children who deal with anxiety. As parents, one of the most important things we can do is to provide a constant sense of reassurance, connection, and love to our child. We can help them find peace and security amid their struggles by reminding them of God's love.  For the full show notes, including questions to ask your children to further the connection, go to IMbetween.org/episode165 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Meet Justine Froelker: Justine is a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 20 years of experience in traditional mental health and personal and professional development. Justine has been certified in the work of Dr. Brené Brown for eight years. Justine is the author of nine books, including five Amazon bestsellers covering infertility, faith, and grief. She has been honored to do two TEDx Talks, The Permission of the And and The Donut Effect. She travels nationally and presents virtually to global audiences delivering keynotes, workshops, retreats, and training on topics such as leadership, courage, resilience, mental health, preventing and coping with burnout, and courageous and curious conversation, especially in creating cultures of belonging and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are going to give you a framework to be able to set your family's weekly rhythm. You can establish a routine for your family, despite how chaotic or busy your lives are. Just as you may create a family budget to direct where your money goes, you can establish family rhythms to direct where your time goes. If you do not take authority over your time, you risk living in the tornado of whatever events the day or the week throws your way. There is no room for moments, rest, or enjoyment in that kind of life. However, when you live by intentional rhythms, you can live the life God created for you. A life of learning to abide in Him. For the full show notes, including date night questions and journal prompts about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode164 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

No area of a couple's life offers more potential for embarrassment, hurt, and rejection than their sexual relationship. On the other hand, when everything is connected...when relational transparency and emotional honesty meet physical desire...wow...that’s a recipe for great sex. Great sex helps produce greater relational and emotional intimacy, and it just keeps snowballing in the best way possible.  Emotional bonding is key to good sex; when couples feel emotionally connected, they become more likely to share their vulnerabilities, which naturally improves the quality of their sex. Lovers who feel confident in their emotional attachments can tune into one another’s feelings and experiences. This power enables them to notice if their partner is feeling excited, tense or relaxed, which proves highly useful in pleasuring each other sexually. In Episode 163, Daniel and Christina give you the four keys to long-term sexual satisfaction with your spouse.  For the full show notes, go to IMbetween.org/episode163 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are you raising kids who are kind and compassionate? It is critical to demonstrate to our children what it means to include others instead of excluding them. In episode 162, we share with you some ideas of how we can raise kids who are “includers” by modelling what that looks like.  For the full show notes, including date night questions and journal prompts about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode162 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Perhaps you are familiar with Dr. Gary Chapman's The 5 Love Languages. It has been revolutionary to individuals, couples, and families worldwide. Truity, a company that offers a variety of online personality quizzes, wanted to build on Dr. Chapman's work. They surveyed over 500 000 people about what makes them feel loved and discovered that there are seven distinct ways of showing and receiving love. In episode 161, Daniel and Christina break down the seven new love languages and give you four simple steps to get your love language heard.  For the full show notes, including date night questions and journal prompts about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode161 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We were recently asked about what advice we would give to younger couples, and so that’s what we want to unpack today. If we were to write a congratulations card to your wedding or sit down together to chat with you about those first precious years of your marriage, here’s what we would say… For the full show notes, including date night questions and journal prompts about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode160 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hope can seem like such an elusive thing. In Episode 159, Drake Farmer unpacks for us what hope is, where we should put our hope when we are going through a difficult season, and how to be full of love, fueled by faith, and addicted to hope. For the full show notes, including personal journal prompts and discussion questions for you as a couple, go to IMbetween.org/episode159 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sometimes our spouse can feel like our best friend. And, other times, they can drive us crazy! In episode 158, we want to give you 4 ways to stick together when you feel bored, irritated, or frustrated with your spouse. For the full show notes, including date night questions and journal prompts about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode158 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

No one wakes up and decides, "I’m going to ruin my marriage, neglect my kids, and cause mistrust in my family." Yet, sometimes our spouse and children can feel like they have taken second (or last) place to our personal goals and busyness.  In Episode 157, Dr. Josh and Christi Straub share with us how seven core decisions can help us put what’s most important center stage in our lives. If you can carve out 20 minutes a day for your child, it can fuel their soul. Dr. Josh and Christi Straub are speakers, authors, and marriage and leadership coaches. Together they lead Famous at Home, an organization devoted to equipping leaders, organizations, military families, and churches in emotional intelligence and family wellness.  They host the weekly Famous At Home Podcast, lead a yearlong coaching cohort called The Leader’s Heart, and have written children’s books on emotional intelligence. Josh and Christi love spending time on the lake with their three sweet kids and their feisty Goldendoodle, Copper. For the full show notes, go to IMbetween.org/episode157 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the rising costs of gas, groceries, and pretty much everything in life, are you feeling the financial strain like we are? In Episode 156, we’re so thankful to be talking with the founders of SeedTime money, Bob and Linda Lotich. They answer the tough question, "Finances are killing my marriage. What do I do?" Bob and Linda Lotich have spent the last 15 years helping millions discover true financial freedom with their award-winning blog SeedTime.com and SeedTime Money podcast. Unlike most financial experts, they lead with grace over judgement and focus on creating hope while washing away the shame so many carry with money. In their new book Simple Money, Rich Life they share practical steps to save and earn more money in order to fund your God-given purpose and dreams. For the full show notes, go to IMbetween.org/episode156 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The gift of Enneagram for relationships is that it offers us insights and perspectives of others. If you've ever found yourself questioning why your spouse does certain things in some ways or reacts to certain triggers in other ways, this episode is for you. In episode 155, we interview Enneagram coach, Dani Cooper, about how the Enneagram can help you understand your spouse at a deeper level. She also helps you learn how to love your spouse well by discovering the core lies they believe and how you can speak truth to their deepest wounds. Dani Cooper is a Certified Enneagram Teacher and Coach for individuals, couples and teams. She is the author of a new book, The Enneagram For Christian Couples. She is passionate about encouraging others to get on the road to self-discovery, and believes that only as we begin to understand ourselves, can we begin to truly love and care for the people in our lives and grow in our relationship with God and the world around us. For the full show notes, go to IMbetween.org/episode155 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Whether you're a bride-to-be, a mother-in-law-to-be, or a woman who has been braving the in-law relationship for decades, every daughter-in-law and mother-in-law needs help navigating their relationship sometimes. In Episode 154, we chat with mother-in-law and daughter-in-law duo, Barbara and Stacy Reaoch, about practical ways the in-law relationship can genuinely thrive in the midst of difficulty. Barbara Reaoch, author of A Better Than Anything Christmas (2020), is the former director of the children’s division at Bible Study Fellowship International. Her home is Minneapolis, Minn., with her husband Ron. Prior to her role at BSF, Barbara and Ron lived in Cape Town, South Africa, to teach Bible Study Fellowship classes. They also worked with the Rafiki Foundation to train young women in job and life skills. You can connect with her at www.barbarareaoch.com. Stacy Reaoch is a pastor’s wife, mother of four, and the author of Wilderness Wanderings: Finding Contentment in the Desert Times of Life. She has written for various ministries including Desiring God, The Gospel Coalition, and Revive Our Hearts. Stacy and her husband, Ben, (Barbara’s son) live in Pittsburgh, Penn., with their children. You can find more about Stacy and her writings at www.stacyreaoch.com. For the full show notes, go to IMbetween.org/episode154 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Known as 40 days to give up chocolate, alcohol, social media, or a "quick" way to diet before Easter, the Lenten season can easily be misunderstood. It’s not in the Bible and Jesus never told us to do it, yet the ancient Church declared the months before Easter a fasting season, and millions of Christians still observe it today. In Episode 153, we interview best-selling author, Tsh Oxenreider, about celebrating Lent as a family.  Whether you have been celebrating Lent for many years, or you are just wanting to dip your family's toes into this liturgical practice, this episode is full of practical tips and historical background of the why and how of observing Lent. Starting with Ash Wednesday, Tsh guides us to a better understanding of Jesus’s sacrifice as we delight in His ultimate love. She opens up with a brief history of Lent, the importance of Lent’s trifecta: fasting, almsgiving, and prayer, as well as 5 questions to ask yourself when you’re deciding what to give up. She also gives us some practical ideas about how to involve our children in this practice.  So, pull up a chair, get a warm drink, and listen to our conversation with Tsh. Consider this your invitation to go deeper this Lenten season. Tsh Oxenreider is the bestselling author of several books, most notably At Home in the World, her memoir about her family’s year traveling around the world and living out of backpacks. She’s also a travel guide, teacher, and podcaster, and she lives in Georgetown, Texas, with her husband and three children. She is equally happy snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef with her family and putzing around her own backyard. For all the show notes, go to IMbetween.org/episode153 IMBETWEEN FB COMMUNITY: https://www.facebook.com/imbetweenshow IMBETWEEN INSTAGRAM COMMUNITY: https://www.instagram.com/imbetweenshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Whether you realize it or not, parenting happens in habits. We make meals, we get in cars, we answer SO many questions, we discipline, and we do bedtime. So much of our relationship with children happens through these ordinary rhythms of the day, and yet how often do we go through these motions as if they were meaningless? How often do we just blaze through these mundane “chores” to finally get some “me-time?”  In this episode, Justin will show us how ordinary routines are actually extraordinary opportunities to live out the love of God in a profound way. He’ll give us the tools we need for parenting and discover spiritual meaning in the everyday moments of waking, mealtimes, screen time, and bedtimes.  We trust that you'll find this episode inspiring and useful in establishing new habits and intentional rhythms around your everyday routines. We hope that by seeing these mundane moments as spiritual practices, your family will have a greater sense of peace and purpose as your home becomes a place where everyone learns how to love.  Justin Earley is a writer, speaker, and lawyer from Richmond, Virginia, and the author of an award-winning book on habits and spiritual formation. But, most of all, he is a dad who is married to Lauren and spends a lot of time wrestling his four young boys. You can follow him online at justinwhitmelearley.com For the full show notes, go to IMbetween.org/episode152 Connect with us on: Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today, we’re going to be discussing how to support your hurting spouse when you are hurting too. This topic hits close to home because we’ve lived it this past year. In May of last year, we said goodbye to Daniel’s dad after a brave 16 month battle with cancer. Thankfully, we were literally there to say goodbye to him. We had flown into Daniel’s hometown on Sunday and his dad unexpectedly passed away two days later.  We weren’t ready for this kind of grief. No one is.  Many of you have been grieving and hurting as well. Perhaps you’ve lost a loved one too. Maybe you’ve lost your job in these tumultuous times. Perhaps you’ve lost friends or family members over differences of opinion. It’s been a difficult few years, to say the least.  So, how do you support your spouse when you’re hurting too? How do you not ignore your own pain to be there for your spouse? How do you not resent your spouse for needing extra attention when they are not necessarily paying attention to your needs and wants? There are no easy answers, but we wanted to share with you a few tips that have helped us during these difficult times.  For the full show notes, go to IMbetween.org/episode151 IMBETWEEN FB COMMUNITY: https://www.facebook.com/imbetweenshow IMBETWEEN INSTAGRAM COMMUNITY: https://www.instagram.com/imbetweenshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Marcus and Chris have spent years studying human relationships and were previously on our podcast talking about the connection between joy and marriage. Now they offer parenting principles derived from the way our brains are hardwired. As you'll soon find out, joy isn’t some abstract concept, but a neurochemical reality that arises from the choices we make.  Listen to this episode to learn how to make the parenting decisions that bring joy to yourself and then to those young lives in your hands. You’ll never regret investing in joy!  For the full show notes, go to IMbetween.org/episode150 IMBETWEEN FB COMMUNITY: https://www.facebook.com/imbetweenshow IMBETWEEN INSTAGRAM COMMUNITY: https://www.instagram.com/imbetweenshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode is just in time for the holidays! Are you looking for the PERFECT gift to give to your loved one, friend, co-worker, or neighbor? Are you tired of dropping hints to your loved ones about what you want, only to be disappointed by their gift-giving? If you want to give or receive the perfect gift, the Enneagram can help guide you. Dr. Drew Moser takes us through the perfect gifts to indulge and/or to encourage each Enneagram type to grow into a healthier version of themselves. And as an added bonus, go to IMbetween.org/episode51 to grab your FREE Enneagram Gift Guide e-book. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In Episode 149, we chat with Scott James about Celebrating Jesus in the Advent season with your family. For those of you that would like to observe Advent together as a family, but don’t know where to start, this episode is for you. Or, if you have been celebrating Advent together as a family for a number of years, but looking to do something a little different, this interview is for you too.  For the full show notes, go to IMbetween.org/episode149 IMBETWEEN FB COMMUNITY: https://www.facebook.com/imbetweenshow IMBETWEEN INSTAGRAM COMMUNITY: https://www.instagram.com/imbetweenshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices