Explore every episode of the podcast Relational Skills in Real Life
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| E166 The VLE: Making Sense of Our Experiences | 24 Aug 2026 | 00:13:37 | |
Have you ever wondered how your brain makes sense of your feelings and the world around you? Meet your Verbal Logical Explainer, aka: VLE.Ā In this episode, we unpack how this internal mechanism dictates your perception of life and relationshipsāand what happens when it gets hijacked by past pain. Learn how to spot the lies your VLE tells you when you're hurting, break free from negative mental patterns, and start walking down the path of awareness toward what God has for you. š Check out the book Outsmarting Yourself by Dr Karl Lehman: https://humble-shack.myshopify.com/products/outsmarting-yourself š Explore our online Habit Builder course on Relational Circuits: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/skill-0-habit-builder š The Thrive Premier Theory Course 3 is more advanced but Dr Jim Wilder goes into detail on this topic: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/theory-3 Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E165 Five Consequences of Dismissing Emotions | 17 Aug 2026 | 00:12:05 | |
Dismissing your emotions can have lasting consequencesābut emotions are meant to be felt, understood, and shared. When we express what we're feeling in safe, supportive relationships, it becomes easier to calm our minds, regulate our emotions, and process our experiences. Emotions play a vital role in our growth, relationships, and overall well-being.Ā Tune in to discover whether you've been dismissing your emotions, how that may be impacting your life, and practical steps you can take to develop healthier emotional habits.You can begin learning to navigate your emotions in a healthy, life-giving way today. š Check out our Return to Joy (skill 11) courses: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/collections/skill-11 š Explore our online membership for more access to online courses: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/pages/thrivetoday-practice-people-membership š Are you looking to live in a more relational way where you can be more present and connected to others? Practice relational skills in a supportive group setting for 1 hour and get a taste of practice by joining one of our upcoming classes: https://thrivetoday.org/practice-class Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E164 Relational Skills and Emotional Intelligence | 10 Aug 2026 | 00:11:59 | |
At THRIVEtoday, we describe relational skills as emotional intelligence put into practice through an attachment-based, Christ-centered framework. While emotional intelligence helps us understand emotions, relational skills help us stay connectedāto God, to ourselves, and to othersāespecially in the midst of life's challenges. š Check out our online course, "Tools for Navigating Emotions": https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/navigating-emotions š Explore our online membership for more access to online courses: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/pages/thrivetoday-practice-people-membership š Are you looking to live in a more relational way where you can be more present and connected to others? Practice relational skills in a supportive group setting for 1 hour and get a taste of practice by joining one of our upcoming classes: https://thrivetoday.org/practice-class Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E163 The Value of Repetition | 03 Aug 2026 | 00:16:21 | |
Why can't learning relational skills be a one-and-done experience?Ā In this episode, we explore how God designed our brains to grow and change through repeated, meaningful relationships. Discover why lasting transformation happens through consistent, positive experiences rather than a single moment of insight. We'll also discuss practical ways to joyfully connect with others, build healthier relational patterns, and embrace the lifelong journey of growth to become more like the person God created you to be. š Are you looking to live in a more relational way where you can be more present and connected to others? Practice relational skills in a supportive group setting for 1 hour and get a taste of practice by joining one of our upcoming classes: https://thrivetoday.org/practice-class š Explore our online membership for more practice opportunities: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/pages/thrivetoday-practice-people-membership š Don't forget our FREE 40-min Premier Training Info Session offered throughout the year to help you learn more about Thrive Premier Training - THE best in relational skills training. Check here for upcoming dates: https://thrivetoday.org/events Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E162 Six Ways Relational Skills Help Marriages Stay Strong | 27 Jul 2026 | 00:12:33 | |
Most marriages donāt drift apart because of a major crisis, but because they lose their daily rhythm of connection. In this episode, discover six practical ways relational skills help couples sustain joy, navigate conflict, and protect their marriage from emotional drifting. Tune in to discover how small, everyday interactions build lasting resilience, and stick around for a simple connection exercise you and your spouse can start practicing tonight. š The 4 Habits of Joy-Filled Marriages book: https://thrivetoday.org/4-habits-marriage š Our Marriage Course takes you and your spouse through The 4 Habits of Joy-Filled Marriages book over 6 sessions with videos from the authors and their wives: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/marriage-for-couples š Download our free Emotions Wheel: https://thrivetoday.org/emotions š Explore our Habit Builder Courses: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/collections/skill-practice š See more marriage resources here: https://thrivetoday.org/marriage Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E161 How Relational Skills Help a New Marriage Start Strong | 20 Jul 2026 | 00:12:05 | |
We spend months planning a wedding, but how much time do we invest in preparing our brains for a lifetime of connection?Ā This episode explores how newlywed couples can build rock-solid emotional habits right from the start. Youāll discover why becoming a "repair expert" matters far more than avoiding conflict entirely, and how practicing joy when life is easy protects your bond when the train inevitably goes off the tracks. š The 4 Habits of Joy-Filled Marriages book: https://thrivetoday.org/4-habits-marriage š Download our free Emotions Wheel: https://thrivetoday.org/emotions š Join us for a live Practice Class: https://thrivetoday.org/practice-class š See more marriage resources here: https://thrivetoday.org/marriage Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E160 Understanding the People We Love | 13 Jul 2026 | 00:11:40 | |
Some relationships feel natural, while others can be challenging. By learning to read the signals people communicate, we can better understand others, build meaningful connections, and offer the gift of being truly seen. Join us as we explore a practical path toward fulfilling the commandment to love our neighbors. š Learn more Thrive Premier Training: https://thrivetoday.org/premier-training Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E159 Relational Skills are the Missing Puzzle Piece | 06 Jul 2026 | 00:12:52 | |
The evidence is clear: loneliness is on the rise, and the loss of meaningful social connection is taking a toll on both our mental and physical well-being. But it doesnāt have to stay that way. Join us as we discuss how we can push back against this cultural trend and equip ourselvesāand the next generationāwith the skills needed for healthy, thriving relationships. At THRIVEtoday, we help people build emotional capacity, recover joy, and become skilled at reconciliation. Weāre excited to share these transformative practices and inspire lasting change in the lives of individuals, families, and communities. š Learn more Thrive Premier Training: https://thrivetoday.org/premier-training š Explore our Habit Builder Courses: https://thrivetoday.org/skill-practice-courses Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E158 Tips for Building Family Joy During Busy Summers [Extended Episode] | 29 Jun 2026 | 00:16:41 | |
Summer can pass in a blur of activities, leaving little room for meaningful connection with the people who matter most. In this episode, Chris shares practical ways to slow down, savor the moments, strengthen relationships, and keep joy at the center of your summer. š Take the 28-Day Joy Challenge: https://4habits.org š Check out the 4 Habit book series: https://thrivetoday.org/4-habits-series š Learn more about Relational Skills: https://thrivetoday.org/relationalskills Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E157 Why Good Information Isn't Enough | 22 Jun 2026 | 00:13:57 | |
Have you ever wondered why reading a "how-to" book doesn't instantly make you an expert on that subject? Information alone doesn't equal transformation.Ā In this episode, we go on a deep dive into brain science to uncover the mechanics of how our brains actually change, develop skills, and build habits. Join us as we explore the neurological bridge between knowing what to do and actually doing it, giving you the practical keys to unlock lasting change and growth in your life. š Practice relational skills in a supportive group setting for 1 hour. Learn more about Practice Classes: https://thrivetoday.org/practice-class š Learn more Thrive Premier Training: https://thrivetoday.org/premier-training Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E156 Are Relational Skills Biblical? | 15 Jun 2026 | 00:11:29 | |
Is focusing on relational skills actually Biblical, or is it just modern psychology? In this episode, Chris dives into the crucial difference between simply pursuing Bible knowledge and actually living out those truths in our daily interactions. Listen in as we explore the vital role relational skills play in our faith, and how mastering them allows us to truly reflect the character of God to a world desperate for hope. š Explore our books on this topic:
š Learn more about relational skills: https://thrivetoday.org/relationalskills/ Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E155 Truth and Emotions | 08 Jun 2026 | 00:11:27 | |
In a world that often pits logic against emotion, we are frequently taught that our feelings cannot be trusted. Many faith circles suggest that the ultimate fix for emotional struggle is to suppress our anxiety or sadness and simply declare biblical truth over ourselves. But is that how our mindsāor our faithāwere actually designed to function? Today we'll explore how emotions and truth work together in our brains and how to be both Biblically literate as well as relationally equipped.Ā š Explore our online course, "Inviting Jesus into Our Emotions": https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/inviting-jesus-habit-builder š See more resources on Emotions: https://thrivetoday.org/emotions Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E154 How Security with Immanuel Increases Tolerance for Relational Risk | 01 Jun 2026 | 00:11:13 | |
Experiencing a breach of trust from someone close to us can cause profound emotional pain. Navigating the road to healing and rebuilding relationships is challenging but possible. Our friend Wendy shares her personal journey through a betrayal situation. Discover how she connected with God to process her emotions, maintain healthy relationships, and move forward with wholeness. š Dive deeper into this topic in our most recent online course, "The Pain of Disappointment": https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/pain-of-disappointment š Practice the foundational relational skills in our "Foundational 5 Introductory Course": https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/f5 š Join a live practice class and start practicing with a small group online - classes 2-3 times a month: https://thrivetoday.org/practice-class Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E153 How to Measure and Grow Your Peace Levels | 25 May 2026 | 00:12:35 | |
Why do mental health professionals consider the ability to quiet ourselves a key predictor of lifelong mental health? In this episode, Chris explores the importance of learning to rest and quiet ourselves, and why this practice is emphasized so often at THRIVEtoday. He also highlights a resource from Life Model Works designed to help us assess how well we truly rest and quiet ourselvesāand recognize when we rely on distractions that offer only false peace. š Take the first JoyQĀ® Assessment and then you'll have the option to take more assessments: https://lifemodelworks.org/resources/joyq š Explore our 'Simple Quiet Habit Builder' course for 12 lessons full of practice exercises designed to increase your peace!Ā
Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E152 How to Measure and Grow Your Joy Levels | 18 May 2026 | 00:11:08 | |
Did you know itās possible to measure not only your level of joy, but even signs of āfalse joyā? While you can pay thousands of dollars for a brain scans, in this episode weāre sharing a free joy assessment resource you can use to get started as well as simple, practical ways to begin intentional strengthening your joy levels today. Understanding your current level of joy can help you identify where more practice is needed and help you connect with Jesus, our source of joy! š Take the JoyQĀ® Assessment: https://lifemodelworks.org/resources/joyq š Explore our 'Share Joy Habit Builder' course for 12 lessons full of practice exercises designed to increase your JOY!Ā
Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E151 Becoming a Safe Leader | 11 May 2026 | 00:13:03 | |
On the heels of our event "The Pain of Disappointment: When Leaders Let us Down", this episode talks about how we can grow and become leaders who tenderly care for the people we shepherd. All leaders will make mistakes, but there are key skills and areas of growth we can pursue to become more like Jesus and lead with His heart. š Read the Rare Leadership book: https://www.amazon.com/Rare-Leadership-Uncommon-Increasing-Engagement/dp/0802414540 š Miss the live event? Watch the recording! This event was designed to help you understand and navigate the pain and offense that surface when leaders fail us: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/pain-of-disappointment Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E150 Practicing Skills in Every Stage of Life | 04 May 2026 | 00:15:10 | |
Tune in to hear our friend Steve tell about his journey to becoming a mature, safe elder for his children and grandchildren. He reminds us that itās never too late to grow and become the person God created us to be! š Our 5-day in-person training is the most immersive experience we offer ā designed to strengthen your skills through live practice in an intentional, joy-filled environment. Learn more about these in-person events we run twice a year in Michigan and Colorado: https://thrivetoday.org/premier-training/ We have a partial missionary scholarship available for training - email us for details: events@thrivetoday.org Don't forget our FREE 40-min Premier Training Info Session offered throughout the year. Check here for upcoming dates: https://thrivetoday.org/events š Are you looking to live in a more relational way where you can be more present and connected to others? Practice relational skills in a supportive group setting for 1 hour and get a taste of practice by joining one of our upcoming classes: https://thrivetoday.org/practice-class š Explore our online membership for more practice opportunities: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/pages/thrivetoday-practice-people-membership Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E149 Is It Unspiritual to Deal with Emotions? | 27 Apr 2026 | 00:09:10 | |
Chris explores how people have understood and dealt with human emotions throughout history, highlighting how different philosophies have shaped both hearts and lives. Turning to the Bible, he examines healthy ways to respond to strong emotions and gently guides us through an interaction with Immanuel, helping us process our own deep feelings in a meaningful way. š Tools for Navigating Emotions practice course: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/navigating-emotions š Return to Joy theory course: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/theory-2 š Check out The Solution of Choice book: https://shop.lifemodelworks.org/products/the-solution-of-choice Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E148 Discerning Enemy Mode in Offense | 20 Apr 2026 | 00:14:26 | |
Chris and Jen explore moments when theyāor the people theyāre engaging withāslip into āenemy modeā during conflict. They discuss what it feels like, how it shapes our thinking, how to recognize it in others, and practical ways to shift back into a more relational, compassionate mindset. š LIVE on May 7th: "The Pain of Disappointment: When Leaders Let Us Down" Join Chris Coursey for a 3 1ā2āhour event designed to help you understand and navigate the pain and offense that surface when leaders fail us.Ā Register: https://thrivetoday.org/disappointment/ š The Joy Switch book: https://thrivetoday.org/joyswitch/ š Escaping Enemy Mode book: https://escapingenemymode.com/ Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E147 Spreading Skills All Over the World | 13 Apr 2026 | 00:11:43 | |
How can practicing relational skills enhance your everyday interactions? What impact might they have on evangelism and representing Jesus to others? In this episode, Chris and one of our Thrive missionary friends share personal stories highlighting the transformative difference these skills have made as they integrate them into both daily life and ministry. š Our 5-day in-person training is the most immersive experience we offer ā designed to strengthen your skills through live practice in an intentional, joy-filled environment: https://thrivetoday.org/premier-training/Ā We have a partial missionary scholarship available for training - email us for details: events@thrivetoday.org Don't forget our FREE 40-min Premier Training Info Session offered throughout the year. Check here for upcoming dates: https://thrivetoday.myflodesk.com/tptinfo š Go through our Spreading Skills course Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E146 Online vs In-Person Learning | 06 Apr 2026 | 00:11:41 | |
Can you learn relational skills online? In this episode, Chris explores research on how intentional choices can shape unconscious habitsāhabits that help us live each day more in line with who God created us to be. Tune in to discover which aspects of this growth can be developed through online learning and which require the depth of face-to-face connection. š Our 5-day in-person training is the most immersive experience we offer ā designed to strengthen your skills through live practice in an intentional, joy-filled environment: https://thrivetoday.org/premier-training/ Don't forget our FREE 40-min Premier Training Info Session offered throughout the year. Check here for upcoming dates: https://thrivetoday.myflodesk.com/tptinfo š Check out The Joy Switch book: https://thrivetoday.org/joyswitch/ š Explore our library of online courses that range from our Intro course, topical theory courses to give you education on how relational skills interact with certain areas, and Habit Builder practice courses to take you deeper. No matter where you are on the relational skills journey, we have a course for you: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/Ā š If you like learning online, consider our membership which gives you access to 8 courses, an Exercise of the Week, and if you pick the Practice Plus tier, FREE Practice Classes with replays. Learn more: https://bit.ly/practice-people Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E145 Why is Offense so Hard to Recover From? | 30 Mar 2026 | 00:10:31 | |
If you have experienced offense, you know how difficult it can be to recoverāespecially when the hurt comes from someone you trust. As imperfect people, even those we respect and look up to can cause deep pain. In this episode, we explore how our heart characteristics, emotions, and attachments contribute to experiences of offense, and offer encouragement and validation, highlighting a pathway toward reconciliation and healing. š LIVE on May 7th: "The Pain of Disappointment: When Leaders Let Us Down" Relational disappointment touches all of us. But when those we trust ā especially leaders ā let us down, the pain can feel confusing, disorienting, and hard to process. Join Chris Coursey for a 3 1ā2āhour event designed to help you understand and navigate the pain and offense that surface when leaders fail us.Ā https://thrivetoday.org/disappointment/ š Start or continue your journey with relational skills: https://thrivetoday.org/ Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E144 Spiritual vs Unprocessed Pain | 23 Mar 2026 | 00:12:51 | |
How do we know if something is spiritual/demonic vs just unprocessed pain? When encountering difficulty while helping someone, it can be hard to discern whether the challenge stems from trauma and underdeveloped relational skills or from spiritual warfare. Chris takes us through some examples of what each of these can look like, and shares some next steps of ways to respond while staying relational and connected to Immanuel ourselves. š Check out the book "Breakthrough! 5 Essential Strategies for Freedom, Healing and Wholeness" by Marcus Warner: š Start or continue your journey with relational skills: https://thrivetoday.org/ Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E143 Why the Basics Never Grow Old | 16 Mar 2026 | 00:12:09 | |
There are foundational skills we will continue practicing and developing throughout our lives. Chris shares research on how practice shapes our brains and strengthens our abilities, and explains how beginning with growth in peace and joy lays the groundwork for more complex relational skills ā equipping us to show up at our best, even in difficult situations. š Learn more about our 5-week Foundational 5 Group offered periodically. Check here for upcoming dates: https://thrivetoday.org/f5group/ š Start or continue your journey with relational skills: https://thrivetoday.org/ Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E142 Learning from Others Who Have Relational Skills | 09 Mar 2026 | 00:14:29 | |
When we notice weāre lacking a relational skill, we can intentionally look for someone in our lives who demonstrates that strength. Rather than comparing ourselves and feeling shame about what we donāt yet have, we can choose to learn from one another. In this episode, weāll explore how to recognize safe people to learn from ā and how to stay curious and keep growing. š Start or continue your journey with relational skills: https://thrivetoday.org/ š Learn more about our in-person Thrive Premier Training: https://thrivetoday.org/premier-training/ š Explore our Habit Builder Courses: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/collections/skill-practice Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E141 Reconciliation - Part 3 | 02 Mar 2026 | 00:13:03 | |
How can relational skills help us heal from church hurtāand remain relational in the process? Many of us know this kind of pain firsthand, and we also know how difficult it can be to stay connected when weāve been wounded. Pastor and Thrive trainer Dana Bryan shares his personal story of a painful church experience. He walks us through the hurt, his journey of processing it, the relational skills he intentionally practiced, and ultimately the peace and healing he found. His story offers a powerful and hope-filled example for anyone longing to heal without losing connection. š Learn more about Skill 13 at: https://thrivetoday.org/skill13 š Explore our Skill 13 Godsight course: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/skill-13-godsight-habit-builder Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E140 Using Skills To Bring Reconciliation Between The Old And New Testament - Part 2 | 23 Feb 2026 | 00:10:47 | |
Many people experience a sense of dissonance between the God portrayed in the Old Testament and the God revealed in the New Testament. This can create deep attachment pain as they try to hold these images together. Certain Old Testament stories may evoke hurt or misunderstanding, causing doubts about Godās relationship toward us today. Rather than immediately engaging in theological debate, how can we acknowledge and validate this pain with tenderness? Loving people well often begins right here. š Explore our Skill 13 Godsight course: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/skill-13-godsight-habit-builder š Explore our Skill 11 Return to Joy course: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/navigating-emotions š Explore our theory course on Conflict: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/conflict Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E139 Using Skills To Bring Reconciliation - Part 1 | 16 Feb 2026 | 00:12:06 | |
This is the first episode in a series on using relational skills to bring reconciliation to painful situations within the church. When people are wounded by those who represent God, that pain often becomes associated with God Himself. In this series, we will explore how such wounds can be healed, how to sit with people in their pain, and how to help them reconnect with Immanuel in a way that restores trust and relationship. Weāll also look at practical ways to heal our own hearts so we can carry Godās grace and peace to others. š Explore our Skill 13 Godsight course: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/skill-13-godsight-habit-builder š Explore our Skill 11 Return to Joy course: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/navigating-emotions š Explore our theory course on Conflict: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/conflict Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E138 Marriage Series Part 3: Healing Your Marriage with Relational Skills | 09 Feb 2026 | 00:11:52 | |
Nikki and Clinton tell the story of what led to difficulty in their marriage and how, as they gained relational skills and pursued healing together, they learned to keep their relationship bigger than the problem. š Nikki and Clinton's book: "Glory from the Ashes" https://a.co/d/4ouzrPj š Explore our theory course based on Conflict: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/conflict š The 4 Habits of Joy-Filled Marriages book: https://thrivetoday.org/4-habits-marriage/ š Our Marriage Course takes you and your spouse through The 4 Habits of Joy-Filled Marriages book over 6 sessions with videos from the authors and their wives: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/marriage-for-couples š Thrive Premier Training is the very best relational skills training we offer. Learn more about these in-person events we run twice a year in Michigan and Colorado: https://thrivetoday.org/premier-training/ Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E137 Marriage Series Part 2: Marriage and Maturity | 02 Feb 2026 | 00:12:28 | |
No matter where you are in life, growing in relational skills and emotional maturity can be transformational. In this episode, Lori shares her personal journey of developing maturity in the middle of real life and ministry. Along the way, she came to a powerful realization: you can't teach what you don't know. Tune in to hear Loriās story of growth and how that transformed her life and her marriage. Starting at the beginning? Check out our marriage book or Foundational 5 Intro Course: š The 4 Habits of Joy-Filled Marriages book: https://thrivetoday.org/4-habits-marriage/ š Our Marriage Course takes you and your spouse through The 4 Habits of Joy-Filled Marriages book over 6 sessions with videos from the authors and their wives: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/marriage-for-couples š The Foundational 5 Intro Course: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/f5 Curious about the deeper theory behind maturity? Check out Dr. Wilderās Growing Series on Amazon:Ā š https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFZN9YK7 Ready to dive deeper? Thrive Premier Training is the very best relational skills training we offer. Learn more about these in-person events we run twice a year in Michigan and Colorado. š Thrive Premier Training: https://thrivetoday.org/premier-training/ Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E136 Marriage Series Part 1: Relational Skills and Marriage | 26 Jan 2026 | 00:09:29 | |
The relationships closest to our hearts, like marriage, often carry both the greatest meaning and the greatest challenges. In Part 1 of our marriage podcast series, Chris reflects on why marriage can be so hard and offers insights on how we can grow, practice healthier connection, and protect what matters most. š Learn more about relational skills: https://thrivetoday.org/relationalskills/ š Explore our theory course based on Conflict: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/conflict š The 4 Habits of Joy-Filled Marriages book: https://thrivetoday.org/4-habits-marriage/ š Our Marriage Course takes you and your spouse through The 4 Habits of Joy-Filled Marriages book over 6 sessions with videos from the authors and their wives: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/marriage-for-couples Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E135 Value of Practice - Part 2 | 19 Jan 2026 | 00:10:02 | |
Our friend and Thrive teammate, Kami, shares how practicing relational skills has strengthened her ability to use them in everyday life. Sheās also discovered that the more she practices these skills in her interactions with others, the more she sees our abundantly loving God reflected through her life. š Explore our library of online courses that range from our Intro course, topical theory courses to give you education on how relational skills interact with certain areas, and Habit Builder practice courses to take you deeper. No matter where you are on the relational skills journey, we have a course for you: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/Ā š Check our upcoming events throughout the year and join us online or in person: https://thrivetoday.org/upcomingevents š Keep your eyes open for details on our upcoming online memberships. Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E134 Value of Practice - Part 1 | 12 Jan 2026 | 00:14:11 | |
Why is it important to practice relational skills? At THRIVEtoday, we value helping people build healthy habits by embedding these skills into our character so we can reflect Jesus in the best version of ourselves. Chris and Kristy compare practicing relational skills to exercising our bodiesāsimply reading about them doesnāt make them show up in real life. Through daily practice, we can form new pathways in our brains so godly character becomes our natural, first response in any situation. š Registration for Premier Training is open for both 2026 events! Learn more: https://thrivetoday.org/premier-training/ š Keep your eyes open for details on our upcoming online memberships. Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E133 Reflecting a Profoundly Loving God | 05 Jan 2026 | 00:10:26 | |
At THRIVEtoday, weāve been focusing on experiencing our profoundly loving God. As we enter the new year, weāre invited to reflect that love in our relationships. Practicing relational skills helps us grow in our capacity to reflect Godās presence and character, strengthening relationships, building community, and bringing forgiveness and hopeāeven in difficult moments and with the people we care about the most. š Learn more about the free PDF Facilitator Tips that accompany 4 of our books: https://thrivetoday.org/facilitator-resources/ š Registration for Premier Training is open for both 2026 events! Learn more: https://thrivetoday.org/premier-training/ š Keep your eyes open for details on our upcoming online memberships. Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E132 Wrapping Up 2025 | 29 Dec 2025 | 00:07:51 | |
As this year comes to a close, we turn our hearts toward the year ahead. We reflect on what God has taught us over the past year and look forward with anticipation to what is to come.Ā When we seek Godās perspective, He helps us cultivate appreciation and discover the hidden treasure of peace He places in every moment.Ā Chris shares practical ways to practice peace, appreciation, joy, and Godsight as we reflect on the past and step into the future with God's peace. š Learn more about Habit Builder Courses: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/collections/skill-practice Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E131 Immanuel During the Holidays: Seeing Family and Friends Through the Eyes of Heaven | 22 Dec 2025 | 00:12:55 | |
Immanuel means āGod with us,ā and what a gift that is during the busy, stressful, or grief-filled moments of the holidays. The relational skill of GodsightāSeeing What God Seesāhelps us view life through Godās loving perspective and remember we are never alone. Someone is glad to be with us. Someone delights in us. This is the Jesus we celebrate. Thrive trainer Dana shares how he uses Godsight to offer his family the gift of Godās tender, joyful view of them. š Learn more about the skill of "See What God Sees" aka "Godsight" at www.thrivetoday.org/skill13 š The 5-Day Appreciation Journal walks you through daily prompts that will help you build appreciation, tune into your body, increase awareness of what you feel, and connect with Jesus in those feelings. Download yours here: https://thrivetoday.org/freebies/#journalĀ ** Tambien en EspaƱol: Descargar ** Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E130 Quieting During the Holidays: Challenging Family Situations | 15 Dec 2025 | 00:10:25 | |
The holidays can bring joy for some and stress or grief for others. Relational skillsāespecially the skill of quietingāhelp us stay grounded whether weāre navigating big joy or big emotions. Our friend Shannon shares how she planned intentional quiet moments into her familyās holiday gathering to help everyone connect more deeply. Stay tuned to the very end as Chris coaches us how to implement this intentionality into our own holiday plans. š Get your Holiday Peace Toolkit PDF. The holidays can be a time for slowing down and finding more quiet and rest, but it can also be a season of travel, parties, family gatherings, and relational stress. Here is a free gift to help you bring strategy to maintaining your internal peace: https://thrivetoday.org/freebies/#peace š Learn more about the skill of "Simple Quiet" at www.thrivetoday.org/skill2 Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E129 Joy During the Holidays: Building Joy and Capturing Memories | 08 Dec 2025 | 00:11:13 | |
During the holidays, we talk about joy, look forward to joy, and surround ourselves with decorations that highlight joy. But how can we use the brain skill of "sharing joy" (aka Skill 1) to genuinely increase joy in our own lives and in the lives of those we love? This episode dives into the āshare joyā brain skill and provides practical ideas for putting it into action during the holiday season. Hear from Rebecca and Chris. š This time of year is supposed to be all about being with loved ones and relational connection, but for many of us it brings a mixed bag of joy and pain. Watch this short segment as Chris shares tips for how you can build connections with the people in your life in the midst of obstacles you might be facing: https://youtu.be/3k0XT5Y6ReA š Check out our Holiday Connection Bingo PDF which offers several ideas for building connections when you are short on time or are away from loved ones - choose the page that works best for you this year. Get it here: https://bit.ly/holidayconnectionbingo š Learn more about the skill of "Share Joy" at www.thrivetoday.org/skill1 Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E128 Experiencing a Profoundly Loving God | 01 Dec 2025 | 00:11:05 | |
In this episode, Lynn shares how she uses the skill of appreciation to experience the presence and love of God. Chris also explains how relational skills can help you overcome barriers to sensing Godās peace, and he offers guidance on discovering which skills will help you mostāand how to practice them in your daily life. š Learn more about Skill 13 - Godsight: https://www.thrivetoday.org/skill13 š Explore our topical online course - Defeating Your Barriers to Jesus: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/courses/defeating-barriers Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E127 Appreciation Fun! | 24 Nov 2025 | 00:08:27 | |
Appreciation is all about remembering the good things, feeling the good things, and sharing the good things! Chris shares some fun activities he did with a group of friends in person to help them build joy and remember meaningful moments in their lives. These exercises can help us live with greater joy and peace, strengthening our ability to handle tough situations and conversationsāeven on hard days or when weāre not feeling our best. Reliving appreciation allows us to revisit joyful memories and bring that same joy into the present! š PDF Freebie - Download this free exercise you can use during any Thanksgiving with your friends and family, in person or from afar: https://bit.ly/thanksgivingappreciation Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E126 Staying Ourselves During Big Emotions | 17 Nov 2025 | 00:11:50 | |
We all want to live as the best versions of ourselvesāthe way God designed us to beāeven when weāre experiencing big emotions. But that takes practice! Our friend Rivers shares stories about times when he felt overwhelmed and stressed, how he recognized what was happening, and what he did to respond with peace and strength instead of reacting from that stress. Hearing these real-life storiesāones we can all relate toāgives us hope and reminds us that living in shalom is truly possible. š See more stories for navigating emotions with our Free webinar; Stories of Emotions: https://youtu.be/EbI1AEpU5X8 š Work on your emotions at home with one of our Return to Joy courses: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/collections/skill-11 š And consider joining us at a Thrive Premier Training: https://thrivetoday.org/premier-training/ Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E125 Strengthening Satisfaction In Ourselves And Our Kids | 10 Nov 2025 | 00:12:30 | |
One of the skills that is learned in the child level of maturity is to discover what satisfies us, so that we can become adults who know how to fulfill our needs and desires in a life-giving way and live a life of contentment. Do we, as adults, have this skill? How can we help our children learn? This episode shares stories about recognizing true satisfaction and how to step through that process, so that we can care for ourselves and others. š See the book series from Dr Jim Wilder: Growing a More Human Community: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFZN9YK7 š Learn more about our 4 Habits book series: https://thrivetoday.org/4-habits-series/ Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E124 Reflecting on What We Appreciate | 03 Nov 2025 | 00:10:03 | |
Chris and Jen share an update on their year, offering a perspective shaped by appreciation. They walk us through how theyāve learned to recognize gratitude, even in situations that initially feel discouraging. They also offer a glimpse into how they continually practice the skill of appreciation, helping them remain rooted in hope and connected to Immanuel. š Visit https://thrivetoday.org/skill4 to explore our resources on the skill of "Create Appreciation". š Join our upcoming online event "From Shame to Strength" on November 10, 2025: https://thrivetoday.org/shame-to-strength Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E123 Learning to Deal with Shame | 27 Oct 2025 | 00:11:22 | |
In this episode, Kristy shares her personal journey through the complex terrain of shameāhow it shaped her and how she found healing. Then, Chris dives into various signs that we struggle with this difficult emotion, and shares practical, compassionate strategies for breaking free and growing through it. If you've ever felt weighed down by self-doubt or hidden pain, this episode is for you. š Join our upcoming online event "From Shame to Strength" on November 10, 2025: https://thrivetoday.org/shame-to-strength š Head to https://thrivetoday.org/skill11 to explore our resources on emotions. Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E122 Connection, Psuedo Joy, and AI | 20 Oct 2025 | 00:12:57 | |
A new, and increasing common trend in our society, has been to turn to AI companions for validation and friendship. Is this healthy and helpful longterm? Why is this happening and what do people need? Chris takes a look at the underlying needs that everyone has. š Joy Starts Here: https://bit.ly/joystartsherebook š Habit Builder Courses: https://thrivetoday.org/skill-practice-courses/ š Thrive Premier Training: https://thrivetoday.org/premier-training/ š Learn more about Relational Skills: https://thrivetoday.org/relationalskills/ Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E121 Understanding the Gift of Unpleasant Emotions | 13 Oct 2025 | 00:14:11 | |
In this eye-opening episode, Chris Coursey and Kristy Harrang explore the surprising blessing of unpleasant emotions. From anger to hopeless despair, they look at how our most difficult feelings can become unexpected gifts. Through stories from their own lives, they reveal how embracing emotional discomfort can guide us toward growth, healing, and deeper connection. š Join our upcoming online event "From Shame to Strength" on November 10, 2025: https://thrivetoday.org/shame-to-strength š Head to https://thrivetoday.org/skill11 to explore our resources on emotions. Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E120 High Energy Emotions | 06 Oct 2025 | 00:13:11 | |
What are high energy emotions? When do our brains go to these high energy responses and why? Chris answers these questions and more as he looks at how God designed our brains and bodies to work and how we can develop life-giving response patterns to the stresses of life.Ā š Check out our Return to Joy (skill 11) courses: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/collections/skill-11 š Our Premier Training focuses on returning to joy from negative emotions in Track 2 of the training. You can learn more here: https://thrivetoday.org/premier-training/ Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E119 Low Energy Emotions | 29 Sep 2025 | 00:13:52 | |
In this episode Chris discusses the topic of low energy emotions, which emotions fit into this category, and signs that we are experiencing them. You will also hear from Amy, as she shares a story of a time she was feeling the low-energy emotion of sadness.Ā š Check out our Return to Joy (skill 11) courses: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/collections/skill-11 š Learn more about Premier Training: https://thrivetoday.org/premier-training/ Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E118 Why Awareness Is Key For Navigating Emotions | 22 Sep 2025 | 00:13:05 | |
In this episode, Chris makes the connection between awareness and conscientiousness, which is a more important character trait than we may have thought.Ā Our ability to distinguish finely between our emotions results in increased flexibility when regulating emotions and a decreased likelihood that we'll turn to alcohol when stressed or retaliate against people who hurt us? Listen in and learn more about why emotional awareness matters!Ā š Check out our Return to Joy (skill 11) courses: https://thrivetoday.thinkific.com/collections/skill-11 š Learn more about Premier Training: https://thrivetoday.org/premier-training/ š Download your THRIVEtoday Emotions Wheel: https://thrivetoday.org/freebies/#wheel *Our NEW Emotions Assessment will be out on Oct 31st!* Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||
| E117 The Grief That Often Comes with Earned Maturity | 15 Sep 2025 | 00:15:00 | |
There can be some grief that accompanies growing in maturity. When we begin to grow, we start to notice how our growth has been stunted by missing maturity needs and tasks. That can bring up sorrowful feelings, both for ourselves and for our lack of ability to pass on good things to our children. Listen in to hear what is it like us, as mature people, to do when these feelings come up, and how to move forward in our God-given identity as we grow. š Learn more about Thrive premier Training, specifically check out Track 1: https://thrivetoday.org/premier-training š Listen to these Podcast episodes: E66 Psuedo Maturity & Attachments Styles š Explore the Growing book series by Dr Wilder: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFZN9YK7 Thank you for listening! Subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. | |||