Let Go of Control, Open Your Heart

Let Go of Control, Open Your Heart

Author: Focus on the Family February 26, 2026 Duration: 11:09

Being successful in marriage sometimes looks like letting go of unrealistic expectations and striving for real connection. Rebecca St. James and Cubbie Fink talk with Jim Daly about a few adjustments they made in their own communication. Also, Greg and Erin provide some hope for husbands who struggle to connect with a really emotional wife.

 

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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: 100

Focus on the Family Marriage Podcast
Podcast Episodes
“What I’m Hearing You Say Is …” [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:04
We've all had moments where we misunderstood our spouse. Greg opens up about some of the ways he's not understood things Erin has said. Then, Jim Daly joins Rob and Gina Flood, who give some practical ways you can clarif…
3 Questions to Make Your Marriage Better [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:47
It's easy to play blame-games in your marriage, but it's better to ask yourself some hard questions. Greg Smalley opens up about some times where he got honest with himself. Then, Dr. Gary Chapman joins Jim Daly to share…
When a Wife Encourages Her Man [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 14:01
One of the most powerful things a wife can do is encourage her husband. Ann Wilson and her husband Dave talk to Jim Daly about a time where she chose to speak words of life into Dave's heart. Also, Greg opens up about ho…
Laugh When Things Go Wrong [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:32
When was the last time you and your spouse laughed at something? Ted Cunningham sits down with Jim Daly to share a few times he and his wife Amy have found reasons to laugh together. You'll also hear from Greg and Erin a…
“What Happened to the Person I Married?” [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:24
Most couples go through a tough season where you wonder, "What happened to the honeymoon phase?" Greg Smalley shares some statistics on how many couples are actually struggling today. Also, Jim Daly speaks with Jay Payle…
Overcome Loneliness by Talking [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:08
We're living in a lonely generation today. Dr. Heather Holleman and her husband Ashley join Jim Daly to address the dangers of isolation and how to form warm connections. Then, John asks Erin Smalley about how you can re…
When He Popped the Question [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 13:46
What was the moment like when you got engaged? Greg and Erin Smalley tell the story of when he asked Erin to marry him. Then, Jim Daly talks to Rebecca St. James and her husband Cubbie on how he popped the question on a…
“Let’s Not Talk Now” [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:19
One of the best lessons in marriage is that you don't have to solve everything this very moment. Sometimes, it's best to take a deep breath. Jim Daly and his wife Jean talk to the Smalley's about why slowing down can hel…
“I Won’t Spend a Dime, Greg” [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:08
Have you ever misunderstood something your spouse said? We've all done it at some point. Jim Daly chats with Greg and Erin about a time they worked through a misunderstanding while moving. Plus, John asks the Smalley's o…
Think Legacy, Not Just this Moment [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:21
You want your marriage to bless future generations to come. Greg opens up about the marriage legacy he comes from, and how that inspires him today. Then, Jim Daly talks with Jerry Jenkins about how being legacy-minded in…