Every couple has low points, high points, and turning points. In this episode of The Favorite Marriage Podcast, Monty and Jeannine Mora are interviewed by Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley from Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage, where they share a very dark season of marriage where their love was tested and divorced seemed like the only option. They share about "the day", the turning point that redefined their journey.
They remind couples that every marriage story includes:
High points — when love feels effortless and strong.
Low points — when struggles test your faith and unity.
Turning points — when God uses challenges to bring transformation.
Just 5 minutes. One meaningful perspective shift. A better, stronger marriage.
Watch the entire video episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Z1vYlMhsGUw?si=i2qd28rRnt81ublO
In this episode of The Favorite Marriage Podcast, Monty and Jeannine Mora open up a vulnerable conversation about financial secrecy in marriage — when one spouse hides spending out of fear, guilt, or the desire to avoid conflict.
They discuss why couples sometimes keep money secrets, how it damages trust, and what it takes to rebuild openness and teamwork when finances have created distance. Drawing from both personal experiences and biblical truth, Monty and Jeannine remind listeners that honesty is more valuable than any purchase and that transparency leads to true intimacy.
If money fears or secret spending have crept into your relationship, this episode will help you bring everything into the light — together.
Just 5 minutes. One meaningful perspective shift. A better, stronger marriage.
Watch the entire video episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Z1vYlMhsGUw?si=i2qd28rRnt81ublO
In this episode of The Favorite Marriage Podcast, Monty and Jeannine Mora get real about one of the most common causes of tension in marriage — money. From their early years of marriage, when paychecks were tight and emotions even tighter, Monty and Jeannine share how learning to live within a budget tested their patience, priorities, and partnership.
They open up about their own budget battles — the overspending moments, the silent treatments after financial disagreements, and the turning point when they realized that money wasn’t the enemy — miscommunication was.
This candid conversation explores:
How financial stress can divide a couple if they don’t communicate.
Why budgeting together builds unity and trust.
Biblical wisdom on stewardship and contentment in marriage.
Practical tools to manage money as a team, not as opponents.
Whether you’ve been married a few months or a few years, this conversation will help you identify the subtle distractions that compete for your heart and guide you back to building a marriage that’s unshakable—one that thrives on love, unity, and God’s design.
Watch the entire video episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Z1vYlMhsGUw?si=i2qd28rRnt81ublO
This episode is perfect for: Newlyweds, engaged couples, or anyone who wants to revisit the lessons learned in those early years.
Just 5 minutes. One meaningful perspective shift. A better, stronger marriage.
Sadly, many marriages have broken down due to their inability to manage money. On this episode of The Favorite Marriage, Monty and Jeannine tackle one of the biggest marriage topics that can make or break a marriage: Money Talks!
Having healthy conversations about money can make a marriage stronger and bring a sense of on unity. As you listen in, you'll learn about financial triggers and common many problems couples face. Plus, you'll hear some great ideas on how to become a healthy financial couple.
✅ Topics:
If you missed episode 69, Monty and Jeannine were guests on Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage podcast with Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley. "They are reaching millions of couples through their counseling practices, books, events, and work at Focus on the Family. "
https://podcasts.focusonthefamily.com/show/focus-on-marriage-podcast/
🔗 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if you enjoy this episode — and don't forget to follow The Favorite Marriage Podcast for weekly relationship insights that are real, fun, and deeply helpful.
Resources:
To order the KEEP SHOWING UP merchandise visit our website at https://thefavoritemarriage.com/resources
Recent Recognition: The Favorite Marriage podcast was recognized as one of the Top 20 Marriage Podcasts to follow in 2025.
"I would like to personally congratulate you as your podcast, The Favorite Marriage has been selected by our panelist as one of the Top 35 Marriage Podcasts on the web." - Anuj Agarwal Founder of Feedspot. https://blog.feedspot.com/marriage_podcasts/
The Favorite Marriage Podcast: https://thefavoritemarriage.com
Connect with us on social media
▶️ Follow:
Website: https://www.thefavoritemarriage.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thefavoritemarriage?si=oDZQ126jzF3Wymde -
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095217663567
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_favorite_marriage/
Every marriage stands or falls on the foundation it’s built upon. For many young married couples, the challenge isn’t a lack of love—it’s misaligned priorities. In this episode of The Favorite Marriage Podcast, Monty & Jeannine Mora dive into how misplaced priorities can weaken connection, create hidden tension, and ultimately erode trust. You’ll hear real-life examples and practical steps to help you and your spouse realign your marriage around what matters most.
Whether you’ve been married a few months or a few years, this conversation will help you identify the subtle distractions that compete for your heart and guide you back to building a marriage that’s unshakable—one that thrives on love, unity, and God’s design.
Takeaway: When your priorities align, your foundation strengthens. Build wisely, so your marriage can weather any storm.
Watch the entire video episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Z1vYlMhsGUw?si=i2qd28rRnt81ublO
Listen on audio:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6y2wQzKAQvEm8V40SCbWth?si=0dcdc3e53c504d3c
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crazy-little-thing-called-marriage/id1677343929?i=1000727912141
This episode is perfect for: Newlyweds, engaged couples, or anyone who wants to revisit the lessons learned in those early years.
Just 5 minutes. One meaningful perspective shift. A better, stronger marriage.
The first few years of marriage can feel like both a honeymoon and a battlefield. You’re learning how to blend two lives, manage expectations, and build a foundation that lasts. In this episode of The Favorite Marriage, Monty and Jeannine get real about the struggles most couples face in the early years—and how to survive (and thrive) through them.
From disagreements over finances and parenting responsibilities to navigating in-laws, intimacy, and communication breakdowns, Monty & Jeannine share personal stories, biblical wisdom, and practical tools that helped them through their own early years of marriage.
Whether you’re newlyweds or looking back at your early journey, this episode will give you hope, laughter, and encouragement that those first few bumps in the road don’t have to derail your love story.
Watch the entire video episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Z1vYlMhsGUw?si=i2qd28rRnt81ublO
Listen on audio:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6y2wQzKAQvEm8V40SCbWth?si=0dcdc3e53c504d3c
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crazy-little-thing-called-marriage/id1677343929?i=1000727912141
This episode is perfect for:
Newlyweds, engaged couples, or anyone who wants to revisit the lessons learned in those early years.
Just 5 minutes. One meaningful perspective shift. A better, stronger marriage.
On this episode of The Favorite Marriage Podcast, Monty and Jeannine were guests on Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage with Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley, at the Focus on The Family studio.
They discussed overcoming crises in marriage, diving into the difficulties of rebuilding trust after infidelity, dealing with shame, and managing resentment.They also shared their personal journey from the early years as a young pastoral couple, through a major crisis involving misaligned priorities, personal struggles, and suicidal thoughts. Monty & Jeannine highlighted the importance of communication, seeking counseling, and prioritizing individual healing for the success of anyone's marital restoration.This is a great program to share with your spouse, or forward to anyone you know who may be in a rough patch in their marriage.
Watch the video episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Z1vYlMhsGUw?si=Vf66CqMxGOaxLxLb
✅ Topics:
Resources:Hope Restored Marriage Intensives: https://bit.ly/3GWcNBLMarriage Counseling Referrals: https://bit.ly/4cncOKwMonty & Jeannine’s Podcast, The Favorite Marriage: https://thefavoritemarriage.comCrazy Little Thing Called Marriage Podcast: https://bit.ly/4fvCl4rMore Marriage Help: https://bit.ly/3Yz0eRQ
Connect with us on social media
▶️ Follow:
Website: https://www.thefavoritemarriage.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thefavoritemarriage?si=oDZQ126jzF3Wymde -
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095217663567
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_favorite_marriage/#TheFavoriteMarriage #TheFavoriteMarriagePodcast #focusonthefamily #focusonthefamilymarriage #MarriageCrisis #ChristianMarriage #HopeRestored #MarriageRestoration #GregAndErinSmalley #MarriageHealing #HelpingYourFamilyThriveInChrist
When was the last time you celebrated your marriage? In this 5-Minute Friday, we talk about the importance of slowing down and acknowledging those milestones in your marriage. There are 5 to 500 reasons to celebrate your marriage, you just have to look for them. If you made it another year of marriage, celebrate that. Celebrate your victories over the hard times. Celebrating your marriage can truly draw you and your spouse closer together.
Just 5 minutes. One meaningful perspective shift. A better, stronger marriage.
In this episode of The Favorite Marriage Podcast, Monty and Jeannine Mora unpack the power of three simple yet life-changing phrases every husband and wife need to hear regularly: “I love you,” “Forgive me,” and “Thank you.” These aren’t just everyday words — they are the building blocks of intimacy, trust, and connection in marriage.
Discover how expressing love language, speaking words of forgiveness, and showing genuine gratitude can transform your relationship and create deeper emotional intimacy with your spouse. Whether you’ve been married one year or thirty, learning to speak these three phrases with authenticity and creativity can strengthen your bond and reignite your connection.
Coming soon - Monty and Jeannine will be upcoming guests on Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage podcast with Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley. "They are reaching millions of couples through their counseling practices, books, events, and work at Focus on the Family. "
https://podcasts.focusonthefamily.com/show/focus-on-marriage-podcast/
🔗 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if you enjoy this episode — and don't forget to follow The Favorite Marriage Podcast for weekly relationship insights that are real, fun, and deeply helpful.
Resources:
To order the KEEP SHOWING UP merchandise visit our website at https://thefavoritemarriage.com/resources
Recent Recognition: The Favorite Marriage podcast was recognized as one of the 40 Best Marriage Podcasts to follow in 2025.
"I would like to personally congratulate you as your podcast, The Favorite Marriage has been selected by our panelist as one of the Top 35 Marriage Podcasts on the web." - Anuj Agarwal Founder of Feedspot. https://blog.feedspot.com/marriage_podcasts/
The Favorite Marriage podcast was also recognized as one of the Best Christian Marriage Podcasts.
https://www.millionpodcasts.com/christian-marriage-podcasts/
Connect with us on social media:
Website: https://www.thefavoritemarriage.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thefavoritemarriage?si=oDZQ126jzF3Wymde -
Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095217663567
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_favorite_marriage/
They say laughter is the best medicine—but in marriage, it’s also one of the strongest glues. In this episode of The Favorite Marriage, Monty and Jeannine explore how humor can strengthen your marriage, ease tension, and remind you not to take life—or each other—too seriously. From inside jokes to playful teasing, we’ll talk about the power of joy-filled moments and why couples who laugh together really do last together.
We’ll share some of our own laugh-out-loud stories from 30 years of marriage, unpack how humor can turn conflict into connection, and offer practical ways to bring more laughter into your relationship. Because at the end of the day, joy isn’t just a bonus in marriage—it’s essential.
Just 5 minutes. One meaningful perspective shift. A better, stronger marriage.
One of the biggest misconceptions about marriage is that once you’ve made it through the wedding day - you say your “I do’s,” ride off into the sunset, and the rest just magically falls into place. The truth? Nothing could be further from reality. In this week's 5-Minute Friday episode, Monty & Jeannine explore this misconception.
The wedding is a moment; marriage is a lifetime. Too often, couples spend more energy planning for that one day than they do preparing for the countless days that follow. But marriage isn’t sealed by a single “yes” at the altar—it’s sustained by the countless “yeses” you choose every single day. Each morning, you have the opportunity to recommit to your spouse—for better or worse, in the highs and the lows. That’s where the beauty of real love lives: in the daily choice to keep showing up, keep loving, and keep saying “I do,” over and over again.
Just 5 minutes. One meaningful perspective shift. A better, stronger marriage.
In this episode of The Favorite Marriage Podcast, hosts Monty and Jeannine Mora share six valuable lessons in their 30 years of marriage.
With honesty, humor, and biblical wisdom, they reflect on the high points, the low points, and the turning points that shaped their journey together. Listeners will discover practical tools for communication, forgiveness, intimacy, and teamwork that can strengthen any marriage. Whether you’re newlyweds or seasoned partners, this conversation will inspire you to keep growing, laughing, and building a marriage that lasts.
Coming soon - Monty and Jeannine will be upcoming guests on Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage podcast with Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley. "They are reaching millions of couples through their counseling practices, books, events, and work at Focus on the Family. "
https://podcasts.focusonthefamily.com/show/focus-on-marriage-podcast/
🔗 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if you enjoy this episode — and don't forget to follow The Favorite Marriage Podcast for weekly relationship insights that are real, fun, and deeply helpful.
Resources:
To order the KEEP SHOWING UP merchandise visit our website at https://thefavoritemarriage.com/resources
Recent Recognition: The Favorite Marriage podcast was recognized as one of the Top 20 Marriage Podcasts to follow in 2025.
"I would like to personally congratulate you as your podcast, The Favorite Marriage has been selected by our panelist as one of the Top 35 Marriage Podcasts on the web." - Anuj Agarwal Founder of Feedspot. https://blog.feedspot.com/marriage_podcasts/
Connect with us on social media:
Website: https://www.thefavoritemarriage.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thefavoritemarriage?si=oDZQ126jzF3Wymde -
Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095217663567
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_favorite_marriage/
Marriage isn’t built in a day—it’s built with the right tools. In this 5-Minute Friday episode, we unpack why date nights are essential for a healthy marriage and how they strengthen emotional connection, intimacy, and fun.
You will hear practical ways to make dating your spouse a priority, even in the middle of busy schedules, parenting, or financial stress. Whether it’s creative at-home date ideas or intentional nights out, this tool can restore laughter, rekindle romance, and remind you why you fell in love in the first place.
If you’re asking questions like:
How do we keep the spark alive in our marriage?
What are simple date night ideas for couples?
Why is dating important for married couples?
…then this episode is for you.
✨ Tune in, grab some fresh ideas, and start adding the tool of date nights back into your marriage toolbox today.
Just 5 minutes. One meaningful perspective Shift. Step into the favor God designed for your love story.
Marriage is not a solo hike—it’s a mountain climb that takes two committed people working together every step of the way. In this week's 5-Minute Friday episode, Monty & Jeannine explore the powerful picture of marriage as climbing a mountain together. Just like climbing partners rely on trust, communication, and encouragement, husbands and wives must learn to navigate challenges, celebrate victories, and keep moving toward the summit of a thriving marriage.
Join us for this encouraging conversation that will help you and your spouse strengthen your grip, support one another, and keep climbing toward God’s best for your marriage.
Just 5 minutes. One meaningful perspective shift. A better, stronger marriage.
We all have things our spouse does that cause minor irritations. But do those things need to cause fights and quarrels? In this 5-Minute Friday, Monty and Jeannine Mora discuss the difference between overlooking small differences or working through a difficult problem.
It is to our advantage to focus on forgiveness rather than dwelling on the wrong our spouse has done to us. Whether the offense against us is small and easy to forgive, or just a quirky preference that your spouse has. "Don't sweat the small stuff."
Just 5 minutes. One meaningful perspective shift. A better, stronger marriage.
In this powerful episode of The Favorite Marriage Podcast, hosts Monty and Jeannine Mora dive deep into one of the most common challenges couples face: conflict in marriage. When two people with different personalities, backgrounds, and communication styles come together, marriage conflict is inevitable—but it doesn't have to be destructive.
Monty and Jeannine explore 6 essential factors that influence how couples resolve conflict, and how these factors can make or break your relationship. Whether you’re newlyweds or have been married for years, this episode offers practical relationship advice for navigating disagreements, improving marital communication, and building a stronger emotional connection.
Marriage requires intentional effort, self-awareness, and a willingness to grow—both as individuals and as a team. Learn how to create a healthy foundation for your marriage through effective conflict resolution, understanding, and love.
“Perception is reality—except when different expectations are thrown in. When you get clarity, you can go, ‘We’re almost at the same spot’.” – Tony DiLorenzo - ONE Extraordinary Marriage
Listen now to discover:
Many spouses place unhealthy pressure on their partner by transferring their identity on each other. In this 5-Minute Friday, Monty and Jeannine Mora help couples not to place unhealthily burdens on each other when it comes their identity. God created marriage so both the husband and wife can grow together, while you continue growing independent identities as well. Communication and maintaining a sense of personal autonomy can often be essential pieces of the marriage puzzle.
Just 5 minutes. One meaningful perspective shift. A better, stronger marriage.
In this powerful Friday Favorite episode, Monty and Jeannine Mora bravely break the silence around the reality of negative narratives that can spiral in the mind—especially during seasons of marital crisis.
Both Monty and Jeannine share their personal journeys through marital distress, during which each of them grappled with suicidal thoughts.
They speak candidly about how destructive inner voices can feel absolutely real, painting scenarios of despair and hopelessness.
Despite these darkest moments, they show listeners how to step out of that cycle of pain, offering a message of tangible hope.
Negative narratives are real—but they don’t have to be permanent.
One perspective shift—grounded in support, truth, and divine hope—can change everything.
Your marriage is worth fighting for, and transformation is possible—even in the hardest seasons.
Just 5 minutes. One meaningful perspective shift. A better, stronger marriage.
This episode is not just a conversation—it’s a lifeline. If you’ve ever felt isolated, ashamed, or overwhelmed by your own thoughts, this message is especially for you: You are not alone. There is hope. There is help.
If you or someone you care about is experiencing suicidal thoughts:
Call or text 988 (in the U.S.)
Visit www.988lifeline.org for support
In this special cross‑podcast episode, Monty and Jeannine Mora of The Favorite Marriage Podcast join hosts Frank & Lisa on The Be Encouraged Show to unpack what it truly means to build a marriage aligned with God’s design—not shaped by personal preferences or cultural norms. They walk through the foundational principles of a God-honoring marriage, rooted in God’s and unchanging design—regardless of age, background, or marital stage.
They share how marriage becomes a character-building journey. Referencing Gary Thomas’s Sacred Marriage, they describe how God uses the everyday challenges and joys of marriage to deepen faith and sanctify hearts.
Coming soon - Monty and Jeannine will be upcoming guests on Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage podcast with Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley. "They are reaching millions of couples through their counseling practices, books, events, and work at Focus on the Family. "
🔗 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if you enjoy this episode — and don't forget to follow The Favorite Marriage Podcast for weekly relationship insights that are real, fun, and deeply helpful.
Resources:
To order the KEEP SHOWING UP merchandise visit our website at https://thefavoritemarriage.com/resources
Recent Recognition: The Favorite Marriage podcast was recognized as one of the Top 20 Marriage Podcasts to follow in 2025.
"I would like to personally congratulate you as your podcast, The Favorite Marriage has been selected by our panelist as one of the Top 35 Marriage Podcasts on the web." - Anuj Agarwal Founder of Feedspot. https://blog.feedspot.com/marriage_podcasts/
Connect with us on social media:
Website: https://www.thefavoritemarriage.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thefavoritemarriage?si=oDZQ126jzF3Wymde -
Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095217663567
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_favorite_marriage/
In this brief episode, Monty and Jeannine invite couples to courageously share their love story—both the peaks and the valleys—with others. They remind listeners:
That your personal journey of love isn’t just yours—it has the potential to ignite hope and strengthen other couples.
Sharing your story creates connection, transparency, and encouragement for others who may feel unseen in their own struggles or celebrations.
It helps de‑mystify marriage by showing the messy, real-world beauty—the stumbles, the pivots, the trials and triumphs that shape deeper intimacy.
Just 5 minutes. One meaningful perspective shift. A better, stronger marriage.