Don’t Pretend, Move Forward

Don’t Pretend, Move Forward

Author: Focus on the Family March 24, 2026 Duration: 12:40

Does it feel hard to forgive your spouse when he or she has hurt you? Jim Daly joins Dr. Randy Schroeder to explain why forgiving your mate is necessary for a healthy marriage. Then, John and Greg will encourage you to focus on small improvement points you can make as a couple.

 

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Marriage is a journey filled with both profound joy and real challenges, and Focus on the Family Strengthening Marriage Podcast exists to walk alongside you through all of it. Host John Fuller, together with marriage experts Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley, creates a space for honest conversation about what it takes to build a lasting, fulfilling partnership. Rather than offering abstract theory, each episode delivers practical, down-to-earth insights grounded in a Christian perspective on God's design for marriage. You'll hear discussions on navigating conflict, rebuilding trust, deepening intimacy, and keeping your connection strong amidst life's constant demands. Whether you're newly married, decades in, or simply looking to strengthen your relationship's foundation, this podcast provides thoughtful guidance and genuine encouragement. The format is concise and focused, making it easy to fit meaningful conversation into your daily routine. Tune in for a blend of expert advice, relatable stories, and actionable steps that aim to transform not just your relationship, but your approach to life together. From Focus on the Family, this series is a trusted resource for anyone who believes a strong marriage is worth the intentional effort.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Focus on the Family Marriage Podcast
Podcast Episodes
When You’re Not Getting Along with In-Laws [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:54
In-law relationships can be some of the most complex after you get married. Dr. Gary Chapman joins Jim Daly to talk about responding in a Christ-like manner when your in-laws are not treating you fairly. Also, Erin Small…
What Do You Appreciate About Your Mate? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:14
What would happen in your marriage if you simply told your spouse what you love about them? Kathy Lipp joins Jim Daly to share about an experiment she and her church did with couples. Then, Erin Smalley discusses the dif…
4 Simple Things You Can Do [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 10:58
What if your marriage was only a small adjustment away from going to the next level? Scott and Vanessa Martindale talk to Jim Daly about 4 things you can do that'll keep the communication strong with your spouse. Also, G…
Building Trust & Friendship [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:16
Just like your house needs a solid foundation, your marriage needs trust. Dr. Henry Cloud joins Jim Daly to share about why showing empathy is required for building trust. Then, Erin Smalley explains why trust is necessa…
What Every Woman Wants from a Man [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 13:47
Every wife longs to feel safe in her marriage. Jim Daly and Brant Hansen discuss why women find it so attractive if a man seeks to protect them. Also, Greg Smalley talks about how men need to step up and take responsibil…
The Male & Female Brains [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 13:25
Men and women tend to respond to stress and situations very differently. Jim Daly and Gary Thomas address the differences in brain chemistry between husbands and wives. Then, John and the Smalley's discuss what a husband…
Accepting When Your Mate Says "No" [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 13:09
If you want a good relationship, you sometimes have to tell your spouse, "No." Arlene Pellicane talks about a time where she had to have a tough conversation with her husband on learning to accept her "No." Also, Greg an…
When Kids Get in the Way [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 15:07
Kids are a blessing, but they also require you to be more intentional to spend time with your spouse. John and the Smalley's open up about times they felt disconnected in their marriages when raising children. Plus, Jim…
Dates Don’t Need to be Expensive [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:21
What if some of the best date nights didn't cost money? Jim Daly talks with Jay and Laura Laffoon about how you can have a wonderful date with your spouse for not much money. Also, John asks Greg and Erin how they're lea…
Your Spouse is Still Your Friend [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 14:36
Are you and your mate best friends? Howard and Danielle Taylor join Jim Daly to make the case for why friendship in marriage is necessary for a thriving relationship. Then, Dr. Greg Smalley shares the most important thin…