In this episode, I share insights gained from my recent experiences in therapy training, highlighting the importance of emotional safety in relationships. I discuss how a clinician's listening approach influenced my willingness to share and how this relates to fostering emotional intimacy in marriage.  I further explore how being a safe spouse means being present and non-judgmental, which requires self-awareness and understanding of what safety feels like. Join me as I reflect on my personal journey and offer practical advice on how to model this crucial aspect of a healthy marriage. 02:32 Personal Reflections and Training Insights 03:34 Understanding Emotional Safety 06:29 Applying Emotional Safety in Marriage 07:59 Restoration and Final Thoughts Wait!!! Before you go!    Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news.  Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com

In this episode, I address my hiatus from the podcast and the reasons behind it. I discuss my evolving perspective on marriage therapy, shaped by both personal experiences and professional training. Join me as I share insights from my journey, touching on the importance of working on personal issues before tackling couples therapy. This year, my goal is to provide you with tools for achieving security and intimacy in your relationships. Follow along every week as we embark on this journey together. Until next week, my friends!   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some other ways you can become a part of my community! Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news.  Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity

Understanding Grace, Boundaries, and Wisdom in Marriage   In this episode, we revisit episode number two, where I discuss how we can't change our husbands, only ourselves, and the importance of offering grace. Taking it a step further, I address common concerns about feeling like a doormat and emphasize the difference between silence and wisdom. Silence is fear-driven while wisdom involves choosing the right moment to express oneself. We delve into practical steps such as using effective communication, setting boundaries, and regulating emotions to foster a healthy marital environment. Through empowering ourselves, we build stronger, more loving relationships. Join me in our community for more discussions!   02:29 Reflecting on Episode Two 03:08 Understanding Grace in Marriage 04:19 The Difference Between Silence and Wisdom 05:25 Biblical Insights on Fear and Wisdom 08:00 Practical Steps to Change and Communication 11:13 The Power of Boundaries 11:46 Emotional Regulation and Final Thoughts 12:46 Building Community and Closing Remarks   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can become a part of my community! Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news.  Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com

Harnessing the Power of Breathwork to Regulate Emotions and Trauma This week's episode features an enlightening conversation with Samantha Skelly, founder and CEO of Paws Breathwork. Samantha shares her journey from battling anxiety and an eating disorder to discovering the transformative potential of breathwork. She explains how breathwork can help regulate emotions, reduce trauma responses, and create space between triggers and reactions, which can be particularly beneficial in relationships. We explore the science behind breathwork, its spiritual connections, and its practical applications. Samantha also guides us through a brief breathwork exercise, demonstrating its immediate impact. For those interested in further exploring breathwork, Samantha offers resources through her Breathwork app and facilitator training. This episode is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve emotional regulation and overall mental well-being.   00:00 Introduction to Emotional Control 02:03 Meet Samantha Skelly: Breathwork Expert 03:52 Samantha's Journey to Breathwork 07:16 The Science and Impact of Breathwork 11:05 Breathwork in Relationships 24:21 Practical Breathwork Exercise 34:16 Final Thoughts and Resources Learn more about our guest here! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samanthaskelly/   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community! Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news.  Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com

Understanding Emotional Abuse: Disappointing vs. Destructive Marriages In this episode of the Grace Fueled Wife Podcast, I'm delving into the critical difference between disappointing and destructive marriages. Building on last week's discussion about emotional abuse, I reference Leslie Vernick's book, 'Emotionally Destructive Marriage,' to provide clarity. We explore what it means to feel emotionally unsafe and identify when it crosses into abuse. We'll also discuss the importance of fully disclosing your situation to a therapist for proper guidance and support, even if it means going alone. This episode aims to offer insights and resources for those struggling in emotionally abusive relationships and emphasizes that you do not have to live in such a nightmare, even as a Christian. Stay tuned as we navigate these heavy but essential topics together.   00:00 Introduction: The Fear of Speaking Up 00:29 Understanding Emotional Abuse 02:44 Disappointing vs. Destructive Marriages 03:36 Real-Life Examples and Quotes 05:24 Therapist's Role and Client Disclosure 10:59 Mandated Reporting and Emotional Safety 15:14 Concluding Thoughts and Resources Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community! Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news.  Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com

Navigating Marriage Therapy: Tips for Encouraging Your Spouse to Participate This week, we dive into communication strategies, using 'I-statements,' and how to approach the topic with your spouse in a way that makes them feel safe and understood. I'll also share insights on clarifying what you want to achieve in therapy and the common issues couples face, like miscommunication, mistrust, and lack of emotional safety. Plus, we'll discuss options for those whose spouses refuse to go to therapy. Tune in as we explore how to make marriage counseling a more approachable and effective process.   00:00 Introduction and Personal Confession 02:24 Common Issues in Relationships 04:47 Challenges in Seeking Marriage Counseling 06:16 Effective Communication Strategies 12:16 Clarifying the Core Issues 18:37 Taking Action and Seeking Support 21:38 Conclusion and Community Engagement Wait!!! Before you go!    Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community! Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news and ways to work together.  Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com

In this episode of the Gracefield Wife Podcast, I have the distinct honor of hosting Debra Smith Pegues. Debra is a best-selling author, global inspirational speaker, CPA, MBA, certified John Maxwell leadership coach, and Bible teacher who shares 45 years of marital wisdom. We discuss her journey, the secrets to her successful marriage, and the importance of communication and confrontation in maintaining a healthy relationship. Debra provides invaluable insights on how to approach difficult conversations lovingly and respectfully, the significance of prayer alongside confrontation, and the balance between submission and self-respect in marriage. We also touch on practical tips from her book, '30 Days to Taming Your Tongue,' and her guide, '10 Commandments for a Heavenly Marriage.' This episode is packed with wisdom for any woman navigating the complexities of marital relationships. 04:43 Secrets to a Successful Marriage 06:16 Navigating Spiritual Differences in Marriage 08:40 The Power of Words in Marriage 13:22 Effective Communication Strategies 20:34 The Importance of Confrontation 21:14 Effective Communication Techniques 23:02 Setting Boundaries and Consequences 25:22 Balancing Submission and Confrontation 33:06 The Role of Prayer in Conflict Resolution 36:55 Final Thoughts and Resources   Did you love our guest? Here is where to learn more: Website: https://confrontingissues.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deborahsmithpegues/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DeborahSmithPegues/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DeborahSmithPegues   Wait!!! Before you go! These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news.  Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com

Hello, and welcome back to the Grace Field's Wife podcast! After a brief hiatus due to my training as a marriage and family therapist, I'm excited to bring fresh insights to our podcast. This week, we tackle the pressing question: 'How do you stand for your marriage in the midst of trouble or separation?' I'll share three essential Cs: Clarity, Commitment, and Community. We'll discuss identifying whether your relationship is abusive or just disappointing, understanding your and your husband's commitment levels, and the importance of having a supportive community. These steps will equip you with the practical tools to navigate through marital struggles effectively. Join our Facebook group or become an insider to stay connected and find more resources. Until next week!   00:00 Welcome Back to the Grace Field's Wife Podcast 03:53 The Importance of Clarity in Marriage 12:16 Understanding Commitment in Marriage 14:40 The Power of Community Support 20:54 Conclusion and Next Steps   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some other ways you can work with me or become a part of my community! These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news.  Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity

In this episode, we discuss the value that is even more important to your marriage than communication and why. We also talk about the limitations of working on your marriage alone and what skills can be learned even if only one spouse is participating.   For those of you looking to enrich your marriage and become the hero in your marriage story, check out The Marriage Lab and enter GFW in the coupon code to secure $20 off your monthly marriage membership.   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some other ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a FREE discovery call: https://gracefueledwifecall.gr8.com/ My group coaching program - The Grace Fueled Marriage Method: https://gracefueledmarriagemethod.com Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news.  Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity

In this episode, I discuss the importance of establishing healthy boundaries in marriage by reviewing 5 rules for healthy boundaries. Through the examples presented, I illustrate how these principles can help couples navigate the complexities of marriage, empower themselves, and foster mutual respect and love.   00:08 The Importance of Healthy Boundaries in Marriage 04:48 Exploring the Laws of Boundaries in Marriage 06:09 Applying Boundary Laws to Real-Life Scenarios 14:52 The Power of Choice and Respect in Marriage   You've heard me talk about it, now check out The Marriage Lab  and enter GFW in the coupon code to secure $20 off your monthly marriage membership!!   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some other ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a FREE discovery call: https://gracefueledwifecall.gr8.com/ My group coaching program - The Grace Fueled Marriage Method: https://gracefueledmarriagemethod.com Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news.  Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity

In this week’s podcast, we dive deep into the ins and outs of building a sturdy foundation in marriage. I take you through a group coaching exercise, encouraging you to rate your marriages and personal mental health. We discuss the critical role appreciation, taking responsibility, open communication, and self-care play in fostering a healthy, vibrant marriage.    We delve into the 'Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse' concept coined by the Gottman Institute, pinpointing the dangerous behaviors that could mark a marriage heading towards divorce. I also present how to recognize and replace these negative behaviors with healthier alternatives.   00:00 Introduction and Podcast Welcome 00:04 Building a Solid Foundation in Marriage 00:41 The Importance of Self-Assessment in Marriage 00:56 Understanding the Marriage Rating Scale 02:50 The Importance of Self-Care in Marriage 03:57 Marriage Coaching and Self-Study Options 05:53 Envisioning a Level 10 Marriage 06:54 Four Tactical Steps to Improve Your Marriage 08:41 Understanding the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse in Marriage 09:34 Practical Steps to Avoid the Four Horsemen 13:01 The Importance of Timeouts in Conflict Resolution 16:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   The Thrive Marriage Lab by Restory Counseling closes doors for registration on April 7th and will not open again until next year. Enter GFW in the coupon code for $20 off your monthly membership. This is a GREAT way to start building that healthy foundation for your marriage.   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a FREE discovery call: https://gracefueledwifecall.gr8.com/ My group coaching program - The Grace Fueled Marriage Method: https://gracefueledmarriagemethod.com Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news.  Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity  

On this episode of the Grace Fueled Wife, we get to dive into conversations all about marriage, healing, and the power of stories with the exceptional Tracy Johnson. Tracy's work at Restory Counseling inspired me on my own journey to becoming a marriage therapist. She gives us the scoop on what it means to engage our personal stories in marriage and how that can supercharge healing. Tracy shares a deeply moving personal story about the weight of past experiences and the healing power of having someone witness your pain. We then delve into Restory's Year of Good Dates, an awesome tool Tracy's team developed that's all about sparking connection through shared storytelling. Tracy also drops details about what you can expect from the Thrive Marriage Lab, which is like a gym membership for your marriage! This program brings resources, growth opportunities, and a real community spirit straight into your relationship. If you're all about creating a deeper, richer connection in your marriage, this episode is filled with tons of valuable takeaways. Check it out!   00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:24 Exploring Your Marriage Story 01:17 Guest Introduction: Tracy Johnson 03:43 Understanding the Role of Family of Origin in Marriage 06:50 Advice for Reengaging a Disengaged Spouse 09:39 The Importance of Self-Awareness in Marriage 11:03 The Role of Loneliness in Marriage 13:34 The Concept of 'ACK': Awareness, Curiosity, Kindness 16:47 A Year of Good Dates: Engaging Each Other's Story 21:24 A Drive to Dairy Queen: A Personal Story 22:43 Understanding the Impact of Past Experiences 23:36 The Power of Witnessing and Understanding 24:29 The Role of Trauma in Relationships 26:58 Choosing to Remember: A Path to Healing 28:26 The Importance of Personal Work in Relationships 30:10 The Power of Story Work and Witnessing 37:22 The Thrive Marriage Lab: A Resource for Couples 40:51 Closing Thoughts and Appreciation   You can find Tracy’s info here: ReStory Counseling: Website: https://www.restory.life Facebook: facebook.com/ReStory.Life Instagram:  @storyrestored Thrive Marriage Lab: Website: https://www.restory.life/thrive CODE: GFW for 20% off!   FREE 12 Months of Dates: How date nights can lead to connectionSubscribe here: www.restory.life/thrive-dates How healthy is your marriage? Take our FREE marriage assessment here: https://www.restory.life/marriage-assessment Instagram: @ThriveMarriageLab Youtube: @ThriveMarriageLab Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community! Schedule a FREE discovery call: https://gracefueledwifecall.gr8.com/ Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news.  Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity

Communication struggles are one of the most common issues in marriage. You are not alone if this applies to you. In this week’s episode, we discuss the importance of communication, and I share three key ideas for improving your communication in marriage.  First, we recognize that everything a person does or doesn't do communicates something. Second, we look to understand the lens or perspective through which communications are filtered, both when speaking and listening. Lastly, I emphasize the importance of allowing spiritual guidance in communication, particularly in difficult conversations.  We also talk about this month’s Podcast birthday celebration where we are giving away Amazon gift cards to listeners who join the mailing list and submit a review of the podcast.   00:52 The Importance of Communication 01:36 Podcast Birthday Celebration and Giveaway 04:07 Understanding Communication in Relationships 08:02 The Power of Perception in Communication 19:03 The Role of God in Communication   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a FREE discovery call: https://gracefueledwifecall.gr8.com/ My group coaching program - The Grace Fueled Marriage Method: https://gracefueledmarriagemethod.com Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news.  Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com

In this week’s episode, I continue my conversation with Annette Otlmans. Annette takes us into the mind of a chronic abuser and gives us the 4 pillars of emotional abuse which are: Ridgid thinking in these areas: Entitlement Image management Faulty belief system Lower emotional IQ   Annette and I also discuss what the bible says about submission, oppression, and abuse as it relates to being a biblical wife. We talk about toxic masculinity but also acknowledge the ways in which the patriarchy can be benevolent.  Lastly, Annette gives us resources and steps to take if we realize we’re in an abusive relationship but aren’t able to or choose not to leave.  If this episode resonated with you or you think may apply to someone you know, please share it! If you want to learn more about the Mend Project, please visit https://themendproject.com/ or follow them on IG: https://www.instagram.com/themendproject/?hl=en Here are the other resources she mentioned: Website: Natalie Hoffman https://www.flyingfreenow.com/ Book: The Emotionally Destructive Marriage by: Leslie Burnick Book: Dating loving and leaving a narcissist by: Dr. Jamie Zuckerman   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a FREE discovery call: https://gracefueledwifecall.gr8.com/ The Grace Fueled Marriage Method: https://gracefueledmarriagemethod.com Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news.  Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com

Do you ever feel like what is wrong with me? Am I not loveable? Why do we have so many communication problems? Are you wondering why your relationship is so toxic? Have you felt like you’re walking on eggshells and can’t determine if your husband is abusive or just has a cranky demeanor? All these questions are answered in this interview with Annette Oltmans of the Mend Project as she shares her work with us on covert emotional abuse. This is one of my most important episodes to date because as Annette says - “Clarity is the first step to healing.” She answers questions such as: What is emotional abuse?  What is double abuse and what can pastors and therapists do to prevent it? How can we discern if we are in a double abuse situation?  What is the responsibility of the complementarian church as it relates to abuse and telling women to submit to their husbands?  What are common abusive behaviors and red flags we should look out for?  What is the difference between someone with a mean/cranky disposition (or someone raised with bad habits) vs. a chronic abuser?  If this episode resonated with you or you think may apply to someone you know, please share it! If you want to learn more about the Mend Project, please visit https://themendproject.com/   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a FREE discovery call: https://gracefueledwifecall.gr8.com/ The Grace Fueled Marriage Method: https://gracefueledmarriagemethod.com Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news.  Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com

A loving and connected marriage doesn’t happen by accident. It takes work and intention. In fact, all intimacy takes intention!  Whether that be with your husband or the Lord, in today's episode, Rosie Alejandro gives us tips to grow your relationship with God and strengthen your marriage.    If you loved today's guest, you can find out more about her here: Website: https://theintentionalchristianwoman.com/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-intentional-christian-woman-daily-bible-study/id1568177949   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a FREE discovery call: https://gracefueledwifecall.gr8.com/ The Grace Fueled Marriage Method: https://gracefueledmarriagemethod.com Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news.  Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com

Here are 5 of my newest book recommendations to help you achieve a more loving and connected marriage! Listen in to find out why I think these books are special and how I think they can help you in your marriage journey today.   Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a FREE discovery call: https://gracefueledwifecall.gr8.com/ The Grace Fueled Marriage Method: https://gracefueledmarriagemethod.com Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news.  Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com

Most women looking to save their marriages first look to try marriage counseling. While Marriage counseling can be really helpful, there are important things to know before you invest time and money into the process.    Not to mention that I take issue with some things that happen in marriage counseling and think it’s important to know the types of marriage counseling I recommend. This episode will let you know what red flags to look for when searching for a marriage counselor, what types of marriage therapists I encourage you to consider, and what work you can do BEFORE you get to marriage counseling that will help you achieve better results! Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community! Work with me: Schedule a FREE discovery call: https://gracefueledwifecall.gr8.com/ The Grace Fueled Marriage Method: https://gracefueledmarriagemethod.com Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news.  Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com

We’ve all been there, we’ve all prayed for a thing that was in God’s will or truly believed it to be in His will and wondered why that prayer wasn’t answered or wasn’t answered the way we thought it should.  This conversation between friends will fill your cup and encourage you in a profound way in that season. In this episode, my friend shares the story of how she prayed in earnest to save her marriage but still ended up in divorce. She shares how God has brought her through it. What he did, and is still doing. You will be left with hope and peace.    Save this episode and share it. You won’t be disappointed.     Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!   Work with me: Schedule a FREE discovery call: https://gracefueledwifecall.gr8.com/ The Grace Fueled Marriage Method: https://gracefueledmarriagemethod.com Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news.  Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com

Infidelity…Let’s talk about it. For a show on marriages, I’m surprised I don’t talk about it more!  In this week’s episode, we talk about the root cause of infidelity, discern the risk factors that might exist for our own marriages, and explore ways to guard our marriage against it.    Even if - or especially if, you haven’t walked through infidelity before, this episode is for you!!! Wait!!! Before you go!  Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community! Work with me: Schedule a FREE discovery call: https://gracefueledwifecall.gr8.com/ The Grace Fueled Marriage Method: https://gracefueledmarriagemethod.com Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.  Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news.  Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com