Team Us: A Christian Marriage Podcast

Most marriages don’t fall apart in one big moment. They drift slowly and quietly, often without either person noticing. You can share a house, a life, and a schedule and still end up on relational autopilot.

In this episode, we talk about why connection fades over time and share three simple rhythms that help couples stay emotionally close—not through big gestures, but through small, intentional patterns that gently change the direction of a marriage.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

Why most marriages drift into autopilot without either person realizing it Three simple rhythms that keep a marriage emotionally connected long-term How small, intentional patterns quietly change the direction of your relationship

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Marriages change by direction, not by moments. Small patterns shape where you end up. Connection must be built on purpose and maintained through every season. Repair and emotional openness matter more than perfect communication.

US TIME CHALLENGE

This week, talk honestly about whether you’re drifting into autopilot in any area of your marriage, then choose one small shared connection ritual to add. It doesn’t have to be big or impressive. Something simple and intentional is enough. The point isn’t the activity. The point is choosing each other on purpose.

STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe to Ashleigh’s weekly email newsletter at AshleighSlater.com.

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, we’re talking about adaptability and flexibility in marriage. We discuss those everyday moments when staying open and teachable really matter. It’s not just our big decisions, but our small, ordinary interactions that shape how we live life together. Listen in as we explore what psychological flexibility looks like in marriage and how growing in this area can create more peace, safety, and connection over time.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

What psychological flexibility is and why it matters in marriage Why everyday moments—not just big decisions—often create the most tension Common roadblocks to flexibility, including control, rigidity, and shutdown How inflexibility affects emotional safety and connection over time Practical ways to practice flexibility without losing yourself How awareness creates space for better choices in marriage

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Psychological flexibility isn’t about being passive or agreeable—it’s about staying open and grounded. Inflexibility often shows up as shutdown, control, or resistance rather than overt conflict. Small, everyday interactions shape the emotional climate of a marriage. Control can feel like safety, but it often comes from fear. Awareness doesn’t fix everything, but it does create space for healthier responses.

US TIME CHALLENGE

This week, each of you choose one small area where you’ll intentionally practice flexibility. It might be listening without defending, staying open to a different preference, or pausing instead of shutting down.

At the end of the week, talk about what you noticed—not what you accomplished. The goal isn’t to “do it right,” but to build awareness and connection.

STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss what’s next. And we’d love to hear from you! What’s one way you want to be more open and teachable in your marriage. Share it with us on social media or send us a message at AshleighSlater.com.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“What Is Psychological Flexibility?” from the University of Rochester Medical Center (https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/behavioral-health-partners/bhp-blog/april-2020/what-is-psychological-flexibility.aspx) “Psychological Flexibility in Marriage” from Focus on the Family (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/psychological-flexibility-in-marriage/) “How Psychological Flexibility Strengthens Relationships” from Marriage.com (https://www.marriage.com/advice/relationship/psychological-flexibility-in-relationships/)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

How do you and your spouse tackle everyday conflicts? In today's best-of episode from our archives, we share three of our favorite tools for working through those smaller disagreements or disputes.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Pick one of the tools we shared to try this week when you face conflict with your spouse.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this best-of episode from our archives, we’re talking about how you can team up not just for the new year, but for every minute, hour, day, week, and month of the year! Listen in as we share three practical ways you can walk in unity. We also talk about spiritual warfare in marriage, what that might look like, and share thoughts on how to navigate it hand-in-hand.

Take the "Us Time" Challenge

Pick one of today’s ways to team up and try it this week.

Team Us Resources

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

Links Mentioned in This Episode

“Is This a Spiritual Attack, or Is My Spouse Just a Jerk?” (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/is-this-a-spiritual-attack-or-is-my-spouse-just-a-jerk/)

Connect with Ted and Ashleigh

Website (https://ashleighslater.com/) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ashleighslater_author/) Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ashleighslaterauthor)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We don't have to be Scrooges to benefit from reflecting on Christmas past, present, and future. In this episode from our archives, we talk about how looking back, living now, and planning ahead together can enrich our marriages.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

If you’ve been married five years or more, practice nostalgia with your spouse. Ask each other about your favorite Christmas you’ve spent together and why it stands out to you. If you have been married less than five years, plan ahead on where you want to be relationally next Christmas.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“Here’s why there used to be so many Christmas Day weddings” by Daisy Goddard at Find My Past (https://www.findmypast.co.uk/blog/discoveries/christmas-day-weddings)  “How Christmas Memories Can Enrich Your Life” by Mark D. Roberts at Fuller De Pree Center (https://depree.org/de-pree-journal/how-christmas-memories-can-enrich-your-life/)  “’Tis the Season for Nostalgia: Holiday Reminiscing Can Have Psychological Benefits” at APA.org (https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2011/12/nostalgia) “Look Ahead to Strengthen Your Relationship” by Barton Goldsmith Ph.D. at Psychology Today (https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/emotional-fitness/201310/look-ahead-strengthen-your-relationship) “What Is Active Listening?” by Amy Gallo at Harvard Business Review (https://hbr.org/2024/01/what-is-active-listening)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, we explore the surprisingly powerful world of micro-habits—those tiny actions that take less than five minutes but, when repeated, create meaningful and lasting change in your marriage. From simple daily rituals to small moments of gratitude to chore-based love notes, you’ll discover how small things practiced often can strengthen connection, build warmth, and shape the overall direction of your relationship.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

What micro-habits are and why researchers say they matter How 1% improvements compound into significant transformation over time Why micro-moments help keep couples from slipping into “roommate mode” Three daily micro-habits that build connection, gratitude, and emotional safety Practical examples of how we use these habits in our own marriage

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Small habits practiced consistently create meaningful change over time. Micro-moments protect connection and help couples avoid “roommate mode.” Specific gratitude (“Thank you for…”) shifts focus toward what’s working. Everyday chores can become tangible expressions of love. Simple rituals—like hello, goodbye, and goodnight kisses—strengthen emotional and physical connection.

US TIME CHALLENGE

Choose one micro-habit and practice it every day this week. It can be one of the three we shared or be a micro-moment unique to your relationship. Consistency is the goal, not size. Let the small thing do its quiet, steady work.

STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST

Follow Ashleigh: Instagram @teamuspodcast | Facebook @ashleighslaterauthor Subscribe to Team Us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen so you don’t miss an episode. Join our community: Get updates, resources, and encouragement for your marriage by signing up for Ashleigh’s weekly email newsletter at AshleighSlater.com.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear (https://a.co/d/9kNsP4L) “5 Micro-Moments That Predict the Health of Your Marriage” by Shlomo and Rivka Slatkin at the Marriage Restoration Project (https://themarriagerestorationproject.com/5-micro-moments-that-predict-the-health-of-your-marriage/) “The Art of Micro-Routines: How 5-Minute Habits Can Transform Your Day” by Glossy Magazine (https://theglossymagazine.com/the-art-of-micro-routines-how-5-minute-habits-can-transform-your-day/) “12 Micro Moves for Your Marriage” by Ted Lowe (https://allprodad.com/12-micro-moves-for-your-marriage/)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In a previous episode, we talked about the power of saying, “I’m sorry.” Today, we’re taking the next step and diving into forgiveness, specifically, what it looks like to forgive our spouse. Forgiveness isn’t always easy, but it’s one of the most powerful ways to strengthen a marriage. In this episode, we explore what forgiveness really is (and isn’t), why it’s vital for lasting love, and how practicing it can lead to healing, trust, and deeper connection.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

Why forgiveness plays such a big role in happy, lasting marriages What forgiveness truly means from both a biblical and relational perspective Three things forgiveness is not and why those distinctions matter How to navigate the process of forgiving when it still hurts Practical ways to rebuild trust after forgiveness How to think like a forgiving person and create a culture of grace in your marriage

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Forgiveness is a process, not a one-time decision. Forgiveness doesn’t erase responsibility or instantly restore trust. Choosing to forgive frees your heart from bitterness and opens space for connection. Repair—not just resolution—is what rebuilds intimacy after conflict. Thinking like a forgiver starts by asking God to help you see your spouse through His eyes.

US TIME CHALLENGE

This week’s challenge is to think about how you think. When your spouse does something that frustrates or hurts you, pause and ask yourself: Am I thinking like a forgiver or like a victim? Invite God to reshape your thoughts, helping you move toward grace and understanding.

STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST

Follow Ashleigh: Instagram @teamuspodcast | Facebook @ashleighslaterauthor Subscribe to Team Us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen so you don’t miss an episode. Join our community: Get updates, resources, and encouragement for your marriage by signing up for Ashleigh’s weekly email newsletter at AshleighSlater.com.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“How Forgiveness Can Transform Your Marriage” by the Gottman Institute (https://www.gottman.com/blog/forgiveness-can-transform-marriage/) “Real Answers to Real Relationship Questions” from Chad Moore at Sun Valley Community Church (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exzwsCITlVM) “What the Bible Really Says About Love” from Chad Moore at Sun Valley Community Church (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQSMJWhRNFo) “What forgiveness is not: 5 common misconceptions” by Laura Petherbridge (https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/content/what-forgiveness-is-not-5-common-misconceptions) “The Art of Repair: Transforming Conflict Into Closeness” by Greg Smalley (https://www.klove.com/resources/life/the-art-of-repair-transforming-conflict-into-closeness-11585)

 

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The holidays can sometimes feel overwhelming. Between all of the shopping, decorating, and events, it’s easy for us as couples to stay busy without really connecting. In this episode, we share ten fun and affordable holiday date ideas to help you slow down, laugh together, and enjoy the season as a team. You’ll hear creative ways to make time for each other and find joy in everyday moments.

 KEY TAKEAWAYS

The holidays don’t have to be stressful or expensive to be meaningful. Simple, shared experiences can bring you closer together. Making time for each other is one of the best gifts you can give this season.

US TIME CHALLENGE

Come up with a holiday date idea of your own—something simple that fits you as a couple—and make it happen. Then share it with us at AshleighSlater.com or on social media! We’d love to hear how you’re making time for each other this Christmas.

STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST

Follow Ashleigh: Instagram @teamuspodcast | Facebook @ashleighslaterauthor Subscribe to Team Us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen so you don’t miss an episode. Join our community: Get updates, resources, and encouragement for your marriage by signing up for Ashleigh’s weekly email newsletter at AshleighSlater.com.

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this fun episode, we share creative and meaningful conversation starters to help you reconnect with your spouse, especially if you feel like you’ve run out of things to say. Whether you’re on a date night, taking a walk, or driving somewhere together, these questions will help you laugh, learn, and rediscover each other.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:

Why it’s normal for couples to occasionally run out of things to say How conversation starters can spark fun, meaningful connection A mix of lighthearted and relationship-focused questions to ask your spouse How laughter and curiosity keep your marriage conversations fresh

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Playful conversation matters. Asking silly, imaginative questions helps you reconnect through fun and laughter. Curiosity strengthens connection. When you keep learning about each other, you keep growing together. Intentionality counts. Don’t wait for deep conversation to “just happen.” Plan for it by bringing a few questions along on your next date.

CONVERSATION STARTERS WE ANSWER

If you could have any job, whether serious or silly, and money was not a factor, what would it be? If time travel existed, when and where would you like to visit first? Who are three famous people, dead or alive, you would want to have lunch with? If you could only listen to two albums for the rest of your life, which ones would you choose, and why? What do you think our biggest strength as a couple is? What about our biggest weakness? What’s a "little thing" in our relationship that you really love? If our life was a reality TV series, what do you think would be the most appropriate title? What is one date we have not done you would like to do?

US TIME CHALLENGE

Print out a list of conversation starters and take them with you on your next date night, walk, or long drive. Make it fun by taking turns picking questions, and let the conversation go wherever it leads. You might just discover something new about each other!

STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST

Stay connected with us beyond the show! Visit AshleighSlater.com for free marriage tools, updates on new podcast episodes, and to sign up for her weekly email newsletter.

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

 LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“93 Meaningful Conversation Starters & Questions for Couples to Better Connect,” The Adventure Challenge, https://www.theadventurechallenge.com/blogs/news/conversation-starters-for-couples/ “260 Free Printable Conversation Starters for Couples,” WinShape Marriage, https://marriage.winshape.org/resource/conversation-starters-for-date-night/ Bedtime Prayers: Lullabies and Peaceful Worship by Twila Paris (https://amzn.to/4gf4aj5)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this conversation, we talk about how to face the holidays as a united team rather than letting stress, schedules, or family expectations pull you apart. From setting shared expectations to finding ways to serve and dream together, these five simple principles can help you approach the season hand-in-hand, not back-to-back.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:

How to set holiday expectations as a couple so you stay on the same page Ways to make time for each other amid the busyness of family gatherings and events How serving together can deepen your bond and create meaningful shared memories The value of dreaming together before the new year begins How to handle conflict with a "we vs. the problem" attitude

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Set expectations together.Talk about what kind of holiday season you both want — simple or busy, quiet or full of tradition — before the stress hits. Spend dedicated time together.Guard your connection by scheduling couple time in advance, even if it means celebrating a little differently. Serve others together.Volunteering or giving as a team strengthens your unity and creates shared purpose. Dream together.Use the season to look ahead, set goals, and imagine what’s next for your marriage and family. Face conflict together.When disagreements arise, remember you’re on the same team and approach conflict as us against the problem, not me vs. you.

US TIME CHALLENGE

Sit down together and set your holiday expectations as a couple. Talk about what you both want this season to look like — from traditions and travel to budgets and downtime — and then make a plan to help make that vision happen.

STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST

Stay connected with us beyond the show! Visit AshleighSlater.com for free marriage tools, updates on new podcast episodes, and to sign up for my weekly email newsletter.

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this conversation, we talk about what it means to “leave and cleave” in marriage and how getting married calls you to realign your loyalties and priorities. We share three ways we’ve learned to live out this principle, and we hope it encourages you to keep choosing your spouse first.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:

The biblical meaning behind the phrase “leave and cleave” Why “leaving and cleaving” is harder in practice than in theory How redefining “immediate family” strengthens your marriage Three practical ways to prioritize your spouse over extended family Why involving parents or siblings in marital conflict can create unnecessary strain

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Give your spouse priority over parents and siblings.Your marriage becomes your new “immediate family.” While it’s still important to love and honor your parents, your primary loyalty now belongs to your spouse. Determine to make decisions together first.Going to your spouse before seeking outside input builds trust, unity, and interdependence. It shows that your spouse’s thoughts and feelings come first. Decide not to involve extended family in marital conflict.Unless you’re dealing with abuse or serious issues, resolve everyday disagreements privately. Inviting family into routine conflict can damage relationships and make reconciliation harder.

US TIME CHALLENGE

Write down one specific area where you struggle to “leave and cleave.” Share it with your spouse and discuss whether they see it the same way. Then, together, brainstorm two or three practical ways you can improve in that area this week.

STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST

Stay connected with us beyond the show! Visit AshleighSlater.com for free marriage tools, updates on new podcast episodes, and to sign up for her weekly email newsletter.

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Ever said "I'm sorry" just to move on? You're not alone. In this episode, we’re talking about how to apologize in a way that actually heals and not just hushes the hurt. We'll share what experts say about why it's so hard to say sorry, what makes an apology sincere, and how humility can transform even the most awkward moments into deeper connection.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

Why apologizing feels so difficult (and what’s really behind it) How to make "I'm sorry" more than just words The difference between regret and a true apology What humility has to do with healing and reconciliation A practical, faith-based process for rebuilding trust after hurt

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Real apologies focus on the other person's pain, not our own discomfort. Humility is the foundation of every meaningful apology. "I'm sorry if…" or "I'm sorry but…" aren't true apologies—they're defenses. Taking responsibility rebuilds connection faster than explaining your intent. A sincere apology requires empathy, ownership, and change.

US TIME CHALLENGE

Look back at your most recent apologies. Were they centered on your own feelings or your spouse's experience? This week, practice making your next "I'm sorry" one that reflects humility, empathy, and love.

STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Ashleigh's weekly e-newsletter at AshleighSlater.com, so you never miss what's next. 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“Study: The states that apologize the most” by Matt Zajechowski “Why is it so hard to apologize?”TedX Talk by Michael Ballard “Why Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word” by F. Diane Barth Sorry, Sorry, Sorry: The Case for Good Apologiesby Marjorie Ingall and Susan McCarthy

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Ever sit down for date night and realize you’re both scrolling instead of talking? You’re not alone. In this episode, we tackle the challenge of “technoference,” or when screens quietly slip between you and your spouse.

For couples who can’t just unplug completely—because, for some of us, “off the clock” isn’t really a thing—we share three simple, memorable ways to protect your marriage time from digital noise. From quick phone checks that don’t spiral into scrolls, to turning toward each other when it matters most, this episode offers practical steps to keep your connection strong, even in a screen-saturated world.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:

What “technoference” means and how it quietly affects relationships Why “just turn it off” doesn’t always work for busy couples Practical steps to handle screens with purpose instead of guilt Three simple, memorable habits for protecting your marriage time

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Veni, Vidi, Vici— “I came, I saw, I conquered”:Take care of the urgent task quickly, then turn back toward your spouse. Stop, Look, Listen:Pause before reaching for your phone. Notice your moment and your marriage. Ready, Steady, Go:When your spouse bids for attention, get ready to respond, steady yourself to act, and then go by giving them your full focus.

US TIME CHALLENGE

This week, try one of these three ideas. Maybe it’s setting down your phone mid-scroll, conquering that quick work text and returning fast, or intentionally turning toward your spouse when they reach out. Small shifts can make a big difference in how connected you feel.

STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss what’s next. And we’d love to hear from you! Which of these takeaways do you need most? Share it with us on social media or send us a message at AshleighSlater.com.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness by Jonathan Haidt (https://a.co/d/a1rrbEA) “Technology Tips and Traps in Your Relationship” by Kailee Hansen and David Schramm (https://extension.usu.edu/relationships/research/technology-tips-and-traps-in-your-relationship) The Big-Baby Pivot from How to Talk So Your Spouse Feels Seen and Heard {Episode 101} (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us-podcast-episode-101/)

 

 

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Ever feel like you and your spouse are talking but not really connecting? You’re saying words, but they’re not landing. We’ve all been there.

In this episode, we share five simple communication techniques—adapted from How to Talk to Anyone by Leil Lowndes—that can help you feel more seen, heard, and understood in marriage. These aren’t gimmicks or manipulative tricks. They’re practical, grace-filled ways to build trust and connection with the person you love most.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:

Why body language and attention matter more than perfect phrasing How to recognize your spouse’s bids for connection and respond well What it means to become a “word detective” in your marriage Why “thank you for…” is stronger than just “thank you” How to use empathy and echoing to make your spouse feel truly heard

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The Big-Baby Pivot: Turn your full attention toward your spouse when they speak—it communicates value and presence. Be a Word Detective: Listen for clues about what interests your spouse, and ask follow-up questions. Never the Naked Thank You: Always follow gratitude with for—“Thank you for doing the dishes,” not just “thanks.” Echoing: Mirror key words to show empathy and understanding. Employ Empathizers: Replace “uh-huh” with thoughtful affirmations like “I see what you mean” or “That makes sense.”

US TIME CHALLENGE

Pick one of the five communication techniques and practice it intentionally. Maybe it’s pivoting toward your spouse when they talk, or saying, “Thank you for…” instead of just “thanks.” Small shifts in how we speak and listen can make a big difference in how connected we feel.

STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss what’s next. And we’d love to hear from you! Which of the techniques are you going to try first and why? Share it with us on social media or send us a message at AshleighSlater.com.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“45 Birthday Questions for Yourself and Your Loved Ones” by Abby Tanner (https://www.familysearch.org/en/blog/birthday-questions) How to Talk to Anyone: 92 Little Tricks for Big Success in Relationshipsby Leil Lowndes (https://a.co/d/edP59Hc) The Surprising Secrets of Highly Happy Marriages by Shaunti Feldhahn (https://a.co/d/a9FP4Ej)

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

It’s our 100th episode! Can you believe it? To celebrate this milestone, we’re sharing ten simple hacks for a stronger, happier marriage.

Over the last four years, we’ve talked about each of these in different episodes, but today we’re pulling them all together in one place. These hacks are doable, encouraging, and designed to bring you closer as a couple.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:

Hack 1: Think “Us,” Not “Me” — shift from “me” to “we” for unity and teamwork. Hack 2: Get on the Same Page — create shared goals and expectations, and keep checking in. Hack 3: Dream Together, Stay Together — build connection by pursuing shared dreams. Hack 4: Make Rituals Your Super Glue — create traditions that bond you through consistency. Hack 5: Show Love with Follow-Through — build trust with small, steady actions. Hack 6: Progress Beats Perfection — focus on growth, not flawless performance. Hack 7: Stay Flexible to Stay Connected — adapt to life’s curveballs as a team. Hack 8: Battle Problems, Not Your Partner — face challenges side by side instead of against each other. Hack 9: Turn Conflict into Closeness — lean into conflict with humility and respect to grow stronger. Hack 10: Keep Love Playful and Fun — laugh together and flirt often to keep the spark alive.

US TIME CHALLENGE

Choose one hack from the list and practice it together. Whether it’s starting a small ritual, showing follow-through, or sharing a laugh, see how it strengthens your marriage this week.

STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss what’s next. And we’d love to hear from you! Which hack is your favorite and why? Share it with us on social media or send us a message at AshleighSlater.com.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“We Can Build This Dream Together” by Erin Smalley (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/dreaming-together-in-marriage/) “Ideas for How to Add Fun Back into Your Marriage” by Andrew Linder (https://www.allprodad.com/ideas-for-how-to-add-fun-back-into-your-marriage/) “Without flirting, it wouldn’t be a marriage” by Sarah Hunter Murray (https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/myths-desire/201909/without-flirting-it-wouldnt-be-marriage)

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What do Reese’s, raisins, and rekindling romance have in common? More than you might think. In this episode, we kick things off with a lighthearted chat about October candy trends, before diving into something sweeter: three practical ways to keep the spark alive in marriage.

Whether you’ve been married two years or twenty, you’ll walk away with encouragement and simple steps to nurture friendship, show love in everyday gestures, and let go of old hurts.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:

Why friendship is the foundation of lasting romance The power of small, daily gestures to communicate love How forgiveness frees couples to move forward together

US TIME CHALLENGE

This week, pick one or two small gestures of love to practice each day.

STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss what’s next. And we’d love to hear from you! How do you plan to rekindle romance in your marriage this week? Share it with us on social media or send us a message at AshleighSlater.com.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE 

“Tricks, Treats, and Trends: Unwrapping DoorDash’s Sweet Halloween Orders” (https://about.doordash.com/en-us/news/doordash-halloween-order-trends) “What Is the Sound Relationship House?” by The Gottman Institute (https://www.gottman.com/blog/what-is-the-sound-relationship-house/) Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work: A Practical Guide from the Country’s Foremost Relationship Expert by John M. Gottman, Ph.D. and Nan Silver (https://a.co/d/dz0gtbl) “F Is for Friendship” by Zac Brittle (https://www.gottman.com/blog/f-is-for-friendship/) “Happy Marriages Are Based on Deep Friendship” by Erin Smalley (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/happy-marriages-are-based-on-deep-friendship/) “Do the Little Things That Matter Big Time” by Shaunti Feldhahn (https://shaunti.com/2014/06/highly-happy-marriage-secret-1-little-things/) The Relationship Cure: A 5 Step Guide to Strengthening Your Marriage, Family, and Friendships by John M. Gottman, Ph.D. and Joan DeClaire (https://a.co/d/23AvquO) “How to Keep a Relationship Alive” by Tony Robbins (https://www.tonyrobbins.com/blog/keeping-the-spark-alive) “How to Have Lighthearted Marriage” by Ashleigh Slater (https://ashleighslater.com/lighthearted-marriage/)

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Every couple has conflict. But what happens when we let it linger? In this episode, we’re unpacking three reasons unresolved conflict can poison our connection, our home, and our marriage. Plus, we’ll explore how understanding conflict management styles can help us handle disagreements in a healthier way. Because how we handle conflict shapes the kind of connection we share.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:

The five conflict management styles  Why lingering conflict prolongs issues rather than solving them How unresolved conflict breaks connection and trust between spouses The effect lingering conflict has on the atmosphere of your home Practical encouragement from Scripture to address conflict with wisdom

US TIME CHALLENGE

This week, reflect on your conflict management style. Which one do you tend to use most often in your marriage? Do you need to make changes so that conflict doesn’t linger and harm your relationship?

ADDITIONAL TEAM US EPISODES WITH TIPS FOR CONFLICT RESOLUTION

How to Embrace Conflict in Your Marriage as an Adventure, Not a Threat [Episode 5] How to Work Together to Resolve Disagreements [Episode 16] What to Do When Communication Is Frustrating [Episode 22] Why Being Right in Marriage Can Be Wrong [Episode 33] How to Respond When Your Spouse Loads the Dishwasher Wrong [Episode 40] Why We Go to Bed Mad (And How It’s Helped Our Marriage) [Episode 41] 3 Tools for Tackling Everyday Conflicts [Episode 64] 3 Ways to Transforms Kitchen Disagreements into Deeper Connection [Episode 91]

STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss what’s next. And we’d love to hear from you! Which conflict management style fits you best and why? Share it with us on social media or send us a message at AshleighSlater.com.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“What’s Your Conflict Management Style” by Walden University (https://www.waldenu.edu/news-and-events/walden-news/2017/0530-whats-your-conflict-management-style) “The Hidden Dangers of Unresolved Conflict in Relationships: How Couple’s Counseling Can Help” by Kathryn Fayle (https://www.resilient-minded.com/blog/rhz76pn5j59sl2hk7fm0wk0rsbka5d) “Conflict in Marriage Does Not Need to Be Destructive” by Jason B. Whitin (https://ifstudies.org/blog/conflict-in-marriage-does-not-need-to-be-destructive) “Unresolved Conflict: 4 Consequences of Ignoring Workplace Tension” by Jeremy Pollack (https://pollackpeacebuilding.com/blog/why-ignoring-conflict-within-the-workplace-is-so-detrimental/) “The Conversation That Saved My Marriage” by John Delony (https://www.facebook.com/reel/995281745911215)

 

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We’ve all been a non-listener at times. Maybe it’s been the advice giver, the eternal optimist, the doomsayer, or the one who makes the conversation all about us. The truth is, we all fall into bad listening habits now and then. But here’s the good news: becoming a better listener is possible, and even small shifts can make a big difference in our marriages.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:

The six types of non-listeners, and why we all slip into them sometimes Three practical ways to improve your listening: removing barriers, pausing before you respond, and showing real interest How better listening can deepen connection and help your spouse feel truly valued

US TIME CHALLENGE

This week, practice pausing for three seconds—or simply taking a breath—before you respond to your spouse. See how it changes the way you listen and connect.

STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss what’s next. And we’d love to hear from you! What non-listener do you struggle with being? Share it with us on social media or contact us at AshleighSlater.com.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“The Five Types of Non-Listeners” by Allison Barron (https://www.boundless.org/blog/the-5-types-of-non-listeners/) There Is No Good Card for This: What to Say and Do When Life Is Scary, Awful, and Unfair to People You Love by Kelsey Crowe, Ph.D. and Emily McDowell (https://a.co/d/cSIRtxG) “Why Silence Makes Us So Uncomfortable” by Michele Leno, Ph.D. (https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/mind-matters/202502/why-are-we-so-uncomfortable-with-silence) “Breathe Before You Speak” by Richard Carlson (https://www.livinglifefully.com/flo/flobebreathebeforeyouspeak.htm) “5 Ways to Show You’re Really Listening” by Prepare/Enrich (https://www.prepare-enrich.com/blog/5-ways-to-show-youre-really-listening/) “6 Tools for Healthy Communication in Marriage” by Mike Bechtle (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/6-tools-for-healthy-communication-in-marriage/)

 

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Fall doesn’t have to be all about the big, once-a-year events like apple picking, Oktoberfest, or corn mazes that you choose to do together. It can also be about the smaller, weekly things that build connection, create memories, and give your marriage deeper meaning.

In this episode of the Team Us podcast, we share why traditions matter in marriage, how some of the best ones start, and three simple steps you can use to create your own weekly fall traditions as a couple.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:

The surprising history behind corn mazes and Oktoberfest Why Dr. John Gottman says traditions (or “rituals of connection”) matter for couples How even haphazard, accidental traditions can become meaningful when nurtured Three simple steps to create weekly fall traditions without feeling overwhelmed Practical ideas, from cozy movie nights to coffee shop dates, that you can start this week

US TIME CHALLENGE

This week, create one weekly fall tradition with your spouse. Use the three steps from today’s episode to get started and see how it adds connection and meaning to your week.

STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss what’s next. And we’d love to hear from you! What weekly fall tradition will you try first? Share it with us on social media or send us a message at AshleighSlater.com.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“The Origin of 25 Fall Traditions” by Stacy Conradt (https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/86478/origins-25-fall-traditions) The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by John M. Gottman, Ph.D., and Nan Silver (https://a.co/d/fWccp2c) “Traditions in Marriage: Setting a New Course” by Laura Schupp (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/traditions-in-marriage-setting-a-new-course/) All It Takes Is a Goal by John Acuff (https://a.co/d/3pBz0VC)

 

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What happens when an early bird marries a night owl? Opposite sleep schedules can make even the strongest marriages feel a little out of sync. But here’s the good news: with a few intentional habits, couples can stay connected, whether one of you is most awake at sunrise and the other at midnight.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:

Why going to bed at the same time matters (and how to make it happen) How to avoid “mismatched talk time” when one of you is chatty and the other isn’t Smart ways to protect quality time, even when energy levels peak at different hours Practical habits that help early birds and night owls thrive together

US TIME CHALLENGE

This week, pick one shared evening activity to enjoy together. It could be watching a show, playing cards, reading side by side, or taking a walk after dinner. The goal? Build a simple habit of connection, no matter what your schedules look like.

STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST

Want more encouragement and practical tools for your marriage? Sign up for our email newsletter at AshleighSlater.com to get fresh insights, resources, and updates on new episodes delivered straight to your inbox.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“Rise and shine: the daily routines of history’s most creative minds” by Oliver Burkeman (https://www.theguardian.com/science/2013/oct/05/daily-rituals-creative-minds-mason-currey) “Do you have a morning routine? Here’s how some historic figures started their day” by Parissa DJangi (https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/morning-routine-history-marcus-aurelius-ben-franklin) “7 Things Night Owls Do that Morning People Will Never Understand” by Melanie Curtin (https://www.inc.com/melanie-curtin/7-things-night-owls-do-that-morning-people-will-never-understand.html) “12 Daily Routines of Famous People in History—And What You Should Take from Each” by Brianna Wiest (https://thoughtcatalog.com/brianna-wiest/2015/11/12-daily-routines-of-famous-people-in-history-and-what-you-should-take-from-each/) “17 people who prove you don’t have to be a morning person to be successful” by Rachel Gillett (https://www.businessinsider.com/successful-people-who-arent-morning-people-2016-10) “There Are 6 Human Chronotypes, Not Just Morning Larks And Night Owls, Study Says” by Peter Dockrill (https://www.sciencealert.com/scientists-say-there-are-6-human-chronotypes-not-just-morning-people-and-night-owls) “I’m a Night Owl Married to an Early Bird. Here’s How We Make It Work” by Adam Bulger (https://www.fatherly.com/life/night-owl-early-bird-couples-how-they-adpated)

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Life is full of change—new jobs, moves, kids growing up, health challenges. The question isn’t if change will happen, but how we’ll face it together. The good news? Change doesn’t have to push you apart. It can actually bring you closer.

In this episode, we share 3 practical ways to not just handle change, but to embrace it as a couple. You’ll discover:

How to reframe change as growth so it strengthens your relationship. Why it’s vital to create shared meaning together when seasons shift. The role of psychological flexibility in navigating the unexpected.

“Us Time” Challenge: Talk through a recent change in your life. Then brainstorm a few intentional ways you can create shared meaning together in the middle of it.

Stay Connected Beyond the Podcast

Want more encouragement and practical tools for your marriage? Sign up for our email newsletter at AshleighSlater.com to get fresh insights, resources, and updates on new episodes delivered straight to your inbox.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“I Created a System to Make Sure My Husband and I Divide Household Duties Fairly. Here’s How It Works” by Eve Rodsky (https://time.com/5690007/divide-household-chores-fairly/) “Chores and Your Marriage” by Greg Smalley (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/chores-and-your-marriage/) “Divide and Conquer Household Duties for a Happier Marriage” by Suzanne Gosselin (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/marriage-success/divide-and-conquer-household-duties-for-a-happier-marriage/) “Survey: Most Hated Chores in the Home” by Cinch Home Services (https://www.cinchhomeservices.com/homeowners/blog/survey-most-hated-chores)

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Your marriage isn’t built on dishes and laundry, but how you handle them matters.What if splitting chores wasn’t just about being fair but about truly serving each other?

In this episode, we share 3 simple ways to divide household responsibilities that make life at home smoother and strengthen your marriage.

You’ll Learn:

How todivide and conquer based on strengths Why volunteering for a dreaded chore shows love in action The power of covering for each otherwhen life gets hectic

“Us Time” Challenge: Take on a chore your spouse hates this week. Small sacrifice, big connection.

RESOURCES & FREEBIES

Free resource: Five Simple Marriage Tools You Should Know (com/5-simple-marriage-tools-you-should-know) Book: Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) Freebie: Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“I Created a System to Make Sure My Husband and I Divide Household Duties Fairly. Here’s How It Works” by Eve Rodsky (https://time.com/5690007/divide-household-chores-fairly/) “Chores and Your Marriage” by Greg Smalley (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/chores-and-your-marriage/) “Divide and Conquer Household Duties for a Happier Marriage” by Suzanne Gosselin (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/marriage-success/divide-and-conquer-household-duties-for-a-happier-marriage/) “Survey: Most Hated Chores in the Home” by Cinch Home Services (https://www.cinchhomeservices.com/homeowners/blog/survey-most-hated-chores)

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Did you know that 85% of affairs start at work, and one in five employees admit to being unfaithful with a coworker? In today’s episode, we’re not just talking about temptation, though. We’re talking about prevention. One of the best ways to protect your marriage is to build something meaningful insideit. We’re diving into three shared purposes that can shift your relationship from just managing life together to truly living itas a team.

3 SHARED PURPOSES TO HELP PROTECT YOUR MARRIAGE

Grow more Christlike together Be dream-makers together Battle common enemies together

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

Set aside twenty minutes to ask each other this question:

“What’s a dream—big or small—you’ve been holding onto lately?”

Then just listen and hear each other’s heart. Be a dream-maker with your spouse, not a dream-taker. Or, if you want to start smaller, do the dishes or fold laundry together and make it a regular habit.

CONNECT WITH US

Sign up for our weekly email newsletter and get the FREE resource Five Simple Marriage Tools You Should Know here: ashleighslater.com/5-simple-marriage-tools-you-should-know/     

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“When Your Marriage Needs a Break” by Ashleigh Slater (https://www.huffpost.com/entry/when-your-marriage-needs_b_6866558) “85% of Affairs Start Here,” Front Row with Ken Coleman (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ttfD_a6QTY&ab_channel=FrontRowSeatwithKenColeman) “What Makes a Marriage Distinctly Christian?” by Bob Lepine (https://www.familylife.com/articles/topics/marriage/staying-married/growing-spiritually/what-makes-a-marriage-distinctively-christian/) “Dreaming Together in Marriage” by Erin Smalley (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/dreaming-together-in-marriage/) “How to Start Dreaming with Your Spouse Again” by Mark and Jill Savage (https://jillsavage.org/how-to-dream-with-spouse-again/) Every Marriage Can Get Better with Mark and Jill Savage {Episode 65} (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us-podcast-episode-65/)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Is the kitchen a battleground in your marriage? In this episode, we’re dishing out three attitudes you can bring to the kitchen to turn tension over tacos into love over lasagna. If “I love you, but step away from the stove” sounds familiar, tune in to discover how to make shared cooking time a recipe for deeper intimacy.

3 ATTITUDES TO BRING TO THE KITCHEN

Respect Curiosity Humility

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

Next time you cook together—or even just prep a quick lunch—try this: pick one of these three attitudes to intentionally practice. Whether it’s showing respect by biting your tongue, asking a curious question, or stepping back with humility, try it out. Then talk about how it went.

CONNECT WITH US

Sign up for our weekly email newsletter and get the FREE resource Five Simple Marriage Tools You Should Know here: ashleighslater.com/5-simple-marriage-tools-you-should-know/     

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Food Fights: I Love You, But I Hate Your Cooking {Episode 813} from Christopher Kimball’s Milk Street Radio (https://www.177milkstreet.com/radio/food-fights-i-love-you-but-i-hate-your-cooking)

  

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The school year is back in full swing. If you're a parent, that probably means your calendar just got a whole lot crazier. In today’s episode, we’re tackling three common back-to-school stressors and sharing practical ways you and your spouse can turn chaos into calm.

3 BACK-TO-SCHOOL CHALLENGES COUPLES FACE

Syncing family schedules Emotional exhaustion Parenting style conflicts

PRACTICAL WAYS TO TURN CHAOS INTO CALM

Have a calendar white board and daily check ins Give each other time alone for self-care and also take breaks together Stop, ask, and listen, and use the 49/51 percent rule

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

Talk with your spouse about what the top challenges are for you as we head into this new school year. Then, brainstorm some practical ways you can turn that chaos into calm as a team.

CONNECT WITH US

Sign up for our weekly email newsletter and get the FREE resource Five Simple Marriage Tools You Should Know here: ashleighslater.com/5-simple-marriage-tools-you-should-know/     

TEAM US RESOURCES 

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“Kids reflect on the start of a new school year” by Ayesha Rascoe at NPR (https://www.npr.org/2024/09/08/nx-s1-5101763/kids-reflect-on-the-start-of-a-new-school-year) “How to Cope with Parental Burnout as a Couple” by Kristin and Todd Evans at Focus on the Family (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/parenting-stress-in-marriage-how-to-cope-as-a-couple/) “One Ritual You and Your Partner Need to Feel More Connected” by Aaron and April Jacob at Gottman Institute (https://www.gottman.com/blog/one-ritual-partner-need-feel-connected/) “How to Navigate Different Parenting Styles” by Kendra Han at Gottman Institute (https://www.gottman.com/blog/navigate-different-parenting-styles/)

 

 

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Within the Christian community, “Do not let the sun go down on your anger” is often quoted as a hard-and-fast rule for married couples to follow whenever they experience conflict. But sometimes Ted and I do go to bed mad—and surprisingly, it’s been good for our marriage. In today’s episode, we’ll tell you why.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Think of another hard-and-fast rule couples are often told. Do you practice it in your marriage? How has it been helpful? If not, what do you do instead and why?

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/)  FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Commentary on Ephesians 4:26 at BibleRef.com (https://www.bibleref.com/Ephesians/4/Ephesians-4-26.html)  “The Benefits of Slumber” at NIH News in Health (https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2013/04/benefits-slumber#)  The Surprising Secrets of Highly Happy Marriagesby Shaunti Feldhahn (https://amzn.to/4dgY67T) 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What’s the secret to a strong marriage? Listen in as we talk about the importance of consistent follow through in three specific areas.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Pick one idea from each of the areas to put into practice this week.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“Beating the Carnies: The Secrets to Winning 5 Popular State Fair Games,” Brett and Kate McCay, The Art of Manliness (https://www.artofmanliness.com/living/games-tricks/how-to-win-state-fair-games/) “The Ideal Praise-to-Criticism Ratio,” Jack Zenger and Joseph Folkman, Harvard Business Review (https://hbr.org/2013/03/the-ideal-praise-to-criticism)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever looked at your spouse and asked, “What do we have in common?” Maybe there have been times when you’ve even felt like you have more differences than similarities.

In marriage, there’s always the potential for our differences to eat away at our unity—especially if that’s what we focus on. Today, we’re sharing five practical ways you and your spouse can stop your differences from dividing you.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Identify one difference that’s been dividing you and your spouse lately. Take some time to think about what you can appreciate and respect about that difference. Then, tell your spouse—and be sure to keep it all positive!

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Loving Him Wellby Gary Thomas For Women Onlyby Shaunti Feldhahn and For Men Onlyby Shaunti and Jeff Feldhahn 9 Lies That Will Destroy Your Marriageby Robert Paul and Greg Smalley

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

No matter how long you’ve been married, reminding yourself of fundamental marriage truths is helpful. In this episode, we’ll share four truths about marriage every couple needs to remember.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Talk about which of these truths you needed to be reminded of most. Ask yourselves: How can we live it out in our marriage this week?

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage FREE Team Us Study Guide 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“6 Truths About Marriage Every Engaged Couple Needs to Hear” by Ashleigh Slater at Boundless.org (https://www.boundless.org/relationships/6-truths-about-marriage-every-engaged-couple-needs-to-hear/)  “Did I Marry the Wrong Person” by Glenn Lutjens at FocusontheFamily.com (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/did-i-marry-the-wrong-person/)  “Want a Great Marriage Someday? Learn to handle conflict now” by Suzanne Hadley Gosselin at Boundless.org (https://www.boundless.org/blog/want-a-great-marriage-someday-learn-to-handle-conflict-now/)  Reset: Powerful Habits to Own Your Thoughts, Understand Your Feelings, and Change Your Lifeby Debra Fileta (https://amzn.to/44yKMIo)   The Surprising Secrets of Highly Happy Marriages: The Little Things That Make a Big Difference by Shaunti Feldhahn (https://amzn.to/3Q5zDbT) 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you and your spouse have fun together? As couples, sometimes we can get in a rut and feel like life — and marriage — are all work and no play. In this episode, we’re exploring how we can make marriage fun again. This month, we are reairing our favorite episodes, and this is definitely at the top of our list!

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

If fun is lacking from your marriage, try one of our suggestions.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“Ideas for How to Add Fun Back into Your Marriage” by Andrew Linder

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We don’t have a choice on whether we will experience stress. However, we do have a choice on how we will face it. Today, we share three practical ways you and your spouse can tackle stress as a team.

3 WAYS COUPLES CAN TACKLE STRESS AS A TEAM

Reaffirm your team mentality Stay open and stay communicating Laugh, cry, or eat your equivalent of ice cream

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

Reaffirm your team mentality. Whether the stress you are experiencing is big or small, remind each other that you are on the same team.

CONNECT WITH US

Sign up for our weekly email newsletter and get the FREE resource Five Simple Marriage Tools You Should Know here: ashleighslater.com/5-simple-marriage-tools-you-should-know/

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“The Four Trauma Responses: Fight, Flight, Freeze, Fawn” by Sarah Schuster at Health.com (https://www.health.com/fight-flight-freeze-fawn-8348342) “Love Under Pressure: Managing Stress as a Couple” by Lauren Church at Utah Marriage Commission (https://extension.usu.edu/strongermarriage/blog/love-under-pressure-manage-stress-as-a-couple) “Rescuing Your Relationship from Stress” by Jon Beaty at the Gottman Institute (https://www.gottman.com/blog/rescuing-relationship-stress/)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We share five of our favorite strategies for teamwork in marriage. So, if you and your spouse are feeling out of synch lately, don’t miss this episode!

5 KEY STRATEGIES FOR TEAMWORK

Get on the same page Enjoy something new Choose lightheartedness Make peace with the past Fight as allies

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

Think about what you and your spouse do that makes you most feel like a team and why.

CONNECT WITH US

Sign up for our weekly email newsletter and get the FREE resource Five Simple Marriage Tools You Should Know here: ashleighslater.com/5-simple-marriage-tools-you-should-know/     

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, we focus on engaged couples and those contemplating marriage. A wedding marks the beginning of a marriage — and that marriage is the joining of two people. So, a wedding should be the joint ideas, preferences, and efforts of those two people. Listen in as we share three skills couples can practice when they approach wedding planning as a team.

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

We have two this week. First, for the already-married couples who listened, look back at your wedding planning and reminisce on how you may have practiced one or more of these skills. Second, for engaged couples, pick one of these three skills and apply it to something you either still need to plan or an area where you are having a hard time agreeing.

CONNECT WITH US

Sign up for our weekly email newsletter and get the FREE resource Five Simple Marriage Tools You Should Know here: ashleighslater.com/5-simple-marriage-tools-you-should-know/     

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

 

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you and your spouse have summer travel plans? Whether it’s a family vacation, a couple’s getaway, or a trip to spend time with extended family, we have five travel tips for you in today’s episode.

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

Talk with your spouse about your travel styles. And, if you plan to travel this summer, spend time making the plans together and anticipating and preparing for triggers.

CONNECT WITH US

Sign up for our weekly email newsletter and get the FREE resource Five Simple Marriage Tools You Should Know here: ashleighslater.com/5-simple-marriage-tools-you-should-know/     

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“Traveling with Your Partner? Tips for Taking Long Vacations Together,” by Maria Morava at Newsweek (https://www.newsweek.com/tips-traveling-partner-together-vacations-relationships-1927611) “How Travel Affects Sleep And What to Do About It” by Jordi Lippe-McGraw at Forbes (https://www.forbes.com/sites/jordilippemcgraw/2024/05/22/how-travel-affects-sleep-and-what-to-do-about-it/) “Fewer Americans are planning summer travel. Travel costs aren’t the top reason” by Bella Stoddart at CNBC (https://www.cnbc.com/2025/04/24/planning-a-summer-vacation-fewer-planning-trips-because-of-costs.html)

 

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Author, speaker, and podcaster Kate Battistelli and her husband Mike are back on the podcast to give us practical wisdom on why preparing for the empty nest starts while the nest is still full.

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

Invest in your relationship this week by watching either the sunrise or the sunset together.

ABOUT MIKE AND KATE BATTISTELLI

Mike and Kate met as active professionals in the NYC Music and Broadway Theatre world. But when God called them to follow Him and lay down those dreams, they did! They’ve now been married forty-one years. Today, Mike is a realtor in the Nashville area, and Kate is a speaker, podcaster, and the author of Growing Great Kids, The God Dare, and The After Party of the Empty Nest.They are also the parents of Grammy and Dove Award-winning singer/songwriter and Contemporary Christian recording artist Francesca Battistelli and grandparents to seven grandkids.

CONNECT WITH MIKE AND KATE BATTISTELLI

Visit Kate’s website (https://katebattistelli.com/) Receive FREE sample chapters of The After Party of the Empty Nestby texting GODDARE to 44144 Follow Kate on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/KateBattistelli/), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/katebattistelli/), and Twitter (https://twitter.com/katebattistelli)

CONNECT WITH TED AND ASHLEIGH

Sign up for our weekly email newsletter and get the FREE resource Five Simple Marriage Tools You Should Know here: https://ashleighslater.com/5-simple-marriage-tools-you-should-know/

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

 

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Dating your spouse is vital for a thriving marriage. While dates can sometimes be pricey, they don’t have to be. We’re sharing ten fun, budget-friendly date ideas for you and your spouse.

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

Pick one of the date ideas we shared and try it, or come up with your own. Let us know what you did by sharing on social media and tagging us. If you subscribe to my email newsletter at AshleighSlater.com, you can also respond to it and let us know what you did.

CONNECT WITH US

Sign up for our weekly email newsletter and get the FREE resource Five Simple Marriage Tools You Should Know here: ashleighslater.com/5-simple-marriage-tools-you-should-know/     

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

How do you and your spouse give and receive love? In this episode, we talk about the five love languages. We unpack each one and give you practical ideas on how to express them.

FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES

Words of Affirmation Quality Time Receiving Gifts Acts of Service Physical Touch

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

Pick a practical way to speak your spouse’s love language this week. It doesn’t have to be one of our suggestions. If you don’t know your spouse’s love language, either get them to take the quiz or observe them and see what builds them up the most.

CONNECT WITH US

Sign up for our weekly email newsletter and get the FREE resource Five Simple Marriage Tools You Should Know here: ashleighslater.com/5-simple-marriage-tools-you-should-know/     

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“How the Love Languages Can Revolutionize Your Marriage,” Focus on the Family with Jim Daly and guest Dr. Gary Chapman (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/episodes/broadcast/how-the-love-languages-can-revolutionize-your-marriage/) “What Are the Five Love Languages” by Sherri Gordon(https://www.verywellmind.com/can-the-five-love-languages-help-your-relationship-4783538) “The Art of Active Listening” at Inspire Well Being (https://www.inspirewellbeing.org/the-art-of-active-listening/) The Love Languages Quiz (https://5lovelanguages.com/quizzes/love-language) “Here's What the Love Language Words of Affirmation Really Means, and How to Speak It” by Jill Gleeson (https://www.countryliving.com/life/inspirational-stories/a45666429/words-of-affirmation-love-language-examples/) “The Psychology Behind the 5 Love Languages” by UAGC Staff Member (https://www.uagc.edu/blog/the-psychology-behind-the-5-love-languages)

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you want a happier marriage? Then, it’s time to start thinking about what you think about! We have marriage and family speakers, podcasters, and authors Dan and Danielle Macaulay on the podcast. They share why the happiness of your marriage starts in your head.

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

Make a positive adjective list as Danielle talked about. Then, as Dan mentioned, share at least one of those list items with your spouse.

CONNECT WITH US

Sign up for our weekly email newsletter and get the FREE resource Five Simple Marriage Tools You Should Know here: ashleighslater.com/5-simple-marriage-tools-you-should-know/      

ABOUT DAN AND DANIELLE MACAULAY

Dan and Danielle Macaulay have been married for twenty-three years and travel across Canada and the U.S. wearing multiple “hats” in ministry spanning singing, speaking, family, worship, and marriage ministries. Dan is a GMA Music Canada Award winner and nine-time nominee, with songs used around the world in churches and radio. Danielle is an author of five books centered on relationships, families, and ministering to women. Dan and Danielle have a marriage podcast called Married Up, now in its fourth season (marriedup.net) and are regulars on the marriage TV show, A Better Us.

CONNECT WITH DAN AND DANIELLE MACAULAY

Married Up podcast (https://marriedup.net) A Better Us TV Show on YouTube (https://bit.ly/3IoibZg)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

 

 

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Are you a reader? In this episode, we share five super practical, must-read marriage books that will encourage, challenge, and inspire you and your spouse.

5 Books to Enrich Your Marriage

The Five Love Languages by Dr. Gary Chapman For Women Only by Shaunti Feldhahn and For Men Only by Jeff and Shaunti Feldhahn The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by John M. Gottman and Nan Silver The Surprising Secrets of Highly Happy Marriagesby Shaunti Feldhahn The Marriage Course with Nicky and Sila Lee

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

Start reading one of the books we recommended or start the Marriage Course, and let us know either via Instagram, Facebook, or email one way it’s helping you and your spouse.

CONNECT WITH US

Sign up for Ashleigh's weekly email newsletter and get our FREE resource "Five Simple Marriage Tools You Should Know." You can do that here: ashleighslater.com/5-simple-marriage-tools-you-should-know/ 

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS TO THE RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

The Five Love Languages by Dr. Gary Chapman (https://amzn.to/4jFtIqg) For Women Only by Shaunti Feldhahn (https://amzn.to/4jr1cZQ) and For Men Only by Jeff and Shaunti Feldhahn (https://amzn.to/3Rwebx6) The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by John M. Gottman and Nan Silver (https://amzn.to/42piLDx) The Surprising Secrets of Highly Happy Marriagesby Shaunti Feldhahn (https://amzn.to/3YG6cBq) The Marriage Course with Nicky and Sila Lee (https://www.themarriagecourse.org/try-a-course-online)

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you have a pet? We have three! Today, we share how having pets has benefited our marriage, and we believe they can make your relationship better, too.

3 WAYS PETS MAKE YOU BETTER PARTNERS

Pets bring us together Pets help us laugh together more Pets offer opportunities for teamwork

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

If you have a pet, talk about how your pet has benefited your marriage. If you don’t have a pet, maybe visit a park this week and watch the dogs and other wildlife. See how it sparks conversation or helps you laugh more.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

"Pet Ownership Statistics 2025” by Michelle Megna at Forbes.com (https://www.forbes.com/advisor/pet-insurance/pet-ownership-statistics/) “3 Ways Owning a Pet Can Improve Your Love Life” by Mark Travers at Forbes.com (https://www.forbes.com/sites/traversmark/2024/02/05/3-ways-owning-a-pet-can-improve-your-love-life/) “Are Dogs or Cats More Likely to Make Us Laugh?” by Stanley Coren at Psychology Today (https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/canine-corner/201509/are-dogs-or-cats-more-likely-make-us-laugh)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you and your spouse struggle to find things to talk about? We hope to help with that! We’ll share three practical ways to spark conversation in your marriage when you’ve run out of things to say.

3 WAYS TO SPARK CONVERSATION

Through Scripture and stories By getting nostalgic With flirting

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

Pick one of these three ways to spark conversation with your spouse this week.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

"Have You Run Out of Things to Talk About with Your Partner?” by Susan Krauss Whitbourne (https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/fulfillment-at-any-age/201911/have-you-run-out-of-things-to-talk-about-with-your-partner) The Bible Recap (https://www.thebiblerecap.com/) “Nostalgia Reveals the Importance of Family and Close Relationships” by Clay Routledge (https://ifstudies.org/blog/nostalgia-reveals-the-importance-of-family-and-close-relationships) “Flirt Your Way to a Better Marriage” by Lisa Jacobson (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/flirt-your-way-to-a-better-marriage/) “Without Flirting, It Wouldn’t Be a Marriage” by Sarah Hunter Murray (https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/myths-desire/201909/without-flirting-it-wouldnt-be-marriage)

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Some relationship experts say that couples don’t grow apart. Instead, they stop growing together. Today, we share three practical ways you and your spouse can embrace a growth mindset and continue growing together. A couple of them may surprise you.

3 WAYS TO HAVE A GROWTH MINDSET

Allow your spouse to live outside the box Get to know your spouse … continually Keep “under the rug” clean

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

Grow together this week with online date night questions or Jon Gottman’s love map exercises.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“Couple Don’t Simply Grow Apart, They Fail to Grow Together” by Dr. Ryan Rasner at Prairie Wife in Heels (https://prairiewifeinheels.com/couples-dont-simply-grow-apart-they-fail-to-grow-together/) The Surprising Secrets of Highly Happy Marriages by Shaunti Feldhahn (https://amzn.to/4i4s0O6) The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by John Gottman Ph.D. and Nan Silver (https://amzn.to/4jk0U6E) Save Your marriage Before It Starts by Drs. Les and Leslie Parrott (https://a.co/d/eJGAhi1) “Don’t Bury Your Relational Issues” by Ashleigh Slater at Boundless.org (https://www.boundless.org/relationships/dont-bury-your-relational-issues/)

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you and your spouse laugh together? Today, we talk about how shared humor and laughter can benefit your relationship.

3 WAYS SHARED HUMOR STRENGTHENS MARRIAGE

Builds intimacy Helps defuse conflict and restore connection Makes the hard times more manageable

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

Do something to feed your shared sense of humor. As one writer we quote in this episode recommends, “Collect experiences, look for the places where comedy shows up. Look for the ridiculous, the surprising, the awkward.”

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“How did April Fool’s Day start and what are some famous pranks?” by Aliza Chasan at CBS News (https://www.cbsnews.com/news/how-did-april-fools-day-start/) Spaghetti Harvest clip at BBC (https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0074rd6) “Humor in Marriage” by Drs. Les and Leslie Parrott at Focus on the Family (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/humor-in-marriage/) “R is for Repair” by Zach Brittle at the Gottman Institute (https://www.gottman.com/blog/r-is-for-repair/) “Why Laughter Is Good for Your Marriage” by Drs. Les and Leslie Parrott at Focus on the Family (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/why-laughter-is-good-for-your-marriage/) Ted’s master’s thesis on laughter (https://heavenlaughs.com/) The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by John M. Gottman, Ph.D. and Nan Silver (https://amzn.to/4j0Dind)

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

How often do you intentionally stop to praise your spouse? To recognize and affirm their character or actions? Many of us probably cringe at answering these questions because we know we could do better!

If you struggle to feed your spouse praise regularly, this episode is for you. Listen in as we share some practical steps we all can take to criticize less and affirm and build up our spouse more.

While Ted and Ashleigh are taking a break, we're thrilled to bring back this popular episode from the archives! 

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Make it your goal to praise your spouse more this week!

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What if every time you go out on a date with your spouse, all you talk about is work, bills, schedules, and — if you have them — kids? As vitally important as those things are to discuss, we chat about how you can have a date-night conversation that’s NOT about work, bills, schedules, or kids. Listen in as we share four steps you can put into practice.

While Ted and Ashleigh are taking a break, we're thrilled to bring back this popular episode from the archives!

Take the "Us Time" Challenge 

Go on a date night and practice these steps. Make sure you and your spouse each pick out a conversation starter or two that you want to ask the other.

Links Mentioned in This Episode

“15 Things Happy Couples Talk About That Draw Them Together” from LifeHack.com (https://www.lifehack.org/articles/communication/15-things-happy-couples-talk-about-that-draw-them-closer-together.html) Karen Ehman’s free printable, “Getting to Know You Again Date Night Questions” (https://karenehman.com/freebies/) 

Team Us Resources

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

Connect with Ted and Ashleigh

Website (https://ashleighslater.com/) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ashleighslater_author/) Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ashleighslaterauthor) 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If you and your spouse struggle to pray together daily, listen in as we share easy three steps you can take to start.

3 EASY STEPS TO PRAY TOGETHER

Schedule Prayer Time Together Follow Established Prayer Patterns Keep Each Other Accountable

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Give these steps a try this week and see if they help you and your spouse pray together more consistently.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

"The Power of Praying Together in Marriage" by Stormie Omartian (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/when-two-pray/) "What Research Says About Couples Who Pray Together" by Glenn T. Stanton (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/what-research-says-about-couples-who-pray-together/)

 

 

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you and your spouse pray together consistently? Listen in as we share three ways praying together as a couple benefits your marriage.

3 BENEFITS TO PRAYING TOGETHER

Fosters greater unity Builds trust and intimacy Deepens communication

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

Brainstorm with your spouse some additional ways praying together consistently will benefit your marriage.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“The Power of Praying Together in Marriage” by Stormie Omartian (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/when-two-pray/) “8 Benefits of Praying with Your Spouse” by Mark Merrill (https://www.markmerrill.com/8-benefits-of-praying-together-with-your-spouse/)

 

 

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

As couples, we aren’t bidding millions on artwork, movie props, or sports memorabilia. But we do regularly make emotional bids in marriage. Bids are invitations from and to our spouse for connection. Today, we talk about bids and how we can respond to them.

WAYS TO TURN TOWARD YOUR SPOUSE

Pay attention. Practice active listening, validate feelings, and show interest Prioritize Responding

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

Pay attention to your spouse’s bids for connection this week. Make it a priority to turn toward them.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Greg and Erin Smalley’s definition of bids (https://www.instagram.com/p/DFV6iOfuHg-/?img_index=1) “Want to Improve Your Relationship? Start Paying More Attention to Bids” by Logan Ury at Gottman Institute (https://www.gottman.com/blog/want-to-improve-your-relationship-start-paying-more-attention-to-bids/) “Turn Towards Instead of Away” by Zach Brittle at Gottman Institute (https://www.gottman.com/blog/turn-toward-instead-of-away/) Gottman’s List of Minor Bids for Emotional Connection at Gottman Institute (https://www.gottman.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/List-of-bids-Graphic.png) “How to Recognize Your Partner’s ‘Bids for Connection’ and Maybe Save Your Relationship” by Brianne Hogan at LifeHack.com (https://lifehacker.com/how-to-recognize-your-partners-bids-for-connection-and-1848740174)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Valentine's Day is often viewed and marketed as a holiday of grand gestures. But it doesn't have to be. Listen in as we share four steps to help you have a no-pressure Valentine's Day this year.

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

Discuss your expectations for Valentine's Day and develop a shared plan.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“10 Facts About Saint Valentine” by Leonie Chao-Fong at HistoryHit.com (https://www.historyhit.com/facts-about-saint-valentine/) “Marriage Monday: Wives, Have Realistic Expectations And Share Them With Your Husband” by Shaunti Feldhahn (https://shaunti.com/2014/09/marriage-monday-shaunti-feldhahn-understand-processes-emotions-2/)

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The idea of a soulmate is a myth that has been around for thousands of years. It may seem like a concept only for non-married people looking for “the one.” But here’s the thing. If you are married and subscribe to this idea of soulmates, it can be harmful to your marriage. Listen in as we share why!

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

Make a list of other marriage myths and reflect on whether they are impacting your marriage. If so, how can you replace them with truth?

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“Why people still believe in the soulmate myth” by Katie Bishop at BBC (https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20220204-why-people-still-believe-in-the-soulmate-myth) “For as Long as Our Love Shall Last: How the Soulmate Myth Makes Marriage Less Stable and Less Happy” by Brad Wilcox (https://ifstudies.org/blog/for-as-long-as-our-love-shall-last-how-the-soulmate-myth-makes-marriage-less-stable-and-less-happy)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We unpack the popular myth that marriage is a 50/50 relationship. But we aren’t stopping there. We’ll also talk about how the counter to this 50/50 myth — that marriage needs to be 100/100 — isn’t always realistic either.

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

Ask your spouse practical ways you can encourage them when they aren’t able to give 100 percent.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“How to Marry the Right Girl: A Mathematical Solution” by Robert Krulwich at NPR.org (https://www.npr.org/sections/krulwich/2014/05/15/312537965/how-to-marry-the-right-girl-a-mathematical-solution) “Astronomer Johannes Kepler solved life’s hardest problem: marriage” by Ethan Siegel at BigThink.com (https://bigthink.com/starts-with-a-bang/johannes-kepler-solved-marriage/) “Why the 50/50 Plan Won’t Work in Marriage” by Dave Boehi at FamilyLife.com (https://www.familylife.com/articles/topics/marriage/staying-married/gods-plan-for-marriage/why-the-50-50-plan-wont-work-in-marriage/) “Marriage Is Never 50/50 — Brené Brown” on The Tim Ferriss Show (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfL4RTuC9Bk)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What do you believe about conflict in marriage? There’s a popular marriage myth that says healthy marriages are conflict-free marriages, yet this couldn’t be further from the truth. Listen in as we debunk this myth and share why couples in healthy marriages do experience conflict.

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

Spend some time searching conflict styles. There are five primary ones (competing, collaborating, compromising, accommodating, and avoiding). Reflect on which ones you and your spouse best fit and have a conversation about them.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)   

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

The Debunking Handbook (https://www.ltrr.arizona.edu/~katie/kt/natsgc/Debunking_Handbook.pdf)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you heard that love is all you need to make a marriage work? This marriage myth couldn’t be further from the truth. Today, we debunk this myth and talk about how you need more than love if you want your marriage to go the distance.

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

Revisit your vows. Remind yourselves of what you promised when those “in love” feelings were at their newest and strongest.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“A Psychologist Debunks 10 Common ‘Marriage Myths” by Mark Travers at Forbes.com (https://www.forbes.com/sites/traversmark/2024/01/17/a-psychologist-debunks-10-common-marriage-myths/) “Why Your Vows Matter More Now Than Your Wedding Day” by Adam Hillis (https://medium.com/publishous/heres-why-your-vows-actually-mean-more-now-than-your-wedding-day-a49dc0d83b93)

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We all bring individual talents, abilities, and ambitions into marriage. On today’s episode, we share four ways to encourage and support your spouse in pursuing and accomplishing their personal aspirations and goals.

4 PRACTICAL WAYS TO ENCOURAGE YOUR SPOUSE'S ASPIRATIONS AND GOALS

Ask your spouse what their aspirations and goals are and what tools or resources they may need to achieve them. Help your spouse make the time to pursue and accomplish their aspirations and goals. Encourage your spouse to take risks and step out of their comfort zone and support them in practical ways when they do. Celebrate your spouse’s milestones both big and small.

TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE

Think of one personal goal or aspiration you have for 2025. Share it with your spouse and give them ideas on how they can encourage and support you. Then, ask them what they aspire to and ask how you can encourage and support them.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/)  FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“Supporting Your Spouse’s Goal Is Good for Your Marriage” by Greg Smalley at Focus on the Family (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/why-supporting-your-spouses-goals-is-good-for-your-marriage/)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We don't have to be Scrooges to benefit from reflecting on Christmas past, present, and future. In this episode, we talk about how looking back, living now, and planning ahead together can enrich our marriages.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

If you’ve been married five years or more, practice nostalgia with your spouse. Ask each other about your favorite Christmas you’ve spent together and why it stands out to you. If you have been married less than five years, plan ahead on where you want to be relationally next Christmas.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“Here’s why there used to be so many Christmas Day weddings” by Daisy Goddard at Find My Past (https://www.findmypast.co.uk/blog/discoveries/christmas-day-weddings)  “How Christmas Memories Can Enrich Your Life” by Mark D. Roberts at Fuller De Pree Center (https://depree.org/de-pree-journal/how-christmas-memories-can-enrich-your-life/)  “’Tis the Season for Nostalgia: Holiday Reminiscing Can Have Psychological Benefits” at APA.org (https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2011/12/nostalgia) “Look Ahead to Strengthen Your Relationship” by Barton Goldsmith Ph.D. at Psychology Today (https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/emotional-fitness/201310/look-ahead-strengthen-your-relationship) “What Is Active Listening?” by Amy Gallo at Harvard Business Review (https://hbr.org/2024/01/what-is-active-listening)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Should you vent to your spouse? Today, we talk about what venting is and share three key questions to ask yourself before you dive into an emotionally-charged vent.

3 KEY QUESTIONS TO ASK

What fuels my desire to vent about this particular frustration, situation, or person? If I vent in my emotional-charged state, will we be reacting or responding to whatever has upset me? Will what I share be beneficial to my spouse and our relationship?

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

If you find yourself ready to vent about something this week, pause first. Ask yourself these three questions and determine if you need to calm down before sharing.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“The Rock Cycle: Volcanic Gases,” The Geological Society (https://www.geolsoc.org.uk/ks3/gsl/education/resources/rockcycle/page3601.html) “Venting Doesn’t Reduce Anger, But Something Else Does, Study Says” by Russel McLendon, Science Alert (https://www.sciencealert.com/venting-doesnt-reduce-anger-but-something-else-does-study-shows)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you been striving for the perfect marriage? Today, that striving stops. Our guests, Mark and Jill Savage, say that no marriage is perfect, but the good news is that every marriage can get better. Listen in as Mark and Jill share their story and the fundamentals they’ve learned to grow a healthy marriage.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Put into the practice the tool of grace that Mark and Jill talked about. Maybe even think of a creative way you can practice it — for example, how Mark took Jill sunglass shopping at the Dollar Store.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

CONNECT WITH MARK AND JILL

Listen to the No More Perfect Podcast with Jill Savage (https://jillsavage.org/podcast/) Visit Mark and Jill’s website (http://www.markandjill.org )   Follow Jill on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/jillsavage.author) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/jillsavage.author) 

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

How do you and your spouse tackle everyday conflicts? Today, we share three of our favorite tools for working through those smaller disagreements or disputes.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Pick one of the tools we shared to try this week when you face conflict with your spouse.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you and your spouse struggle to move from work mode to romance mode? Kyle and Ariel Tresch join us to talk about work-love balance for couples. They share practical tips you can start using today.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Try one of Kyle and Ariel’s three suggestions for transitioning from work mode to romance mode. As a reminder, they are: Nostalgic transitions, treasure hunt, and mortality frame.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

CONNECT WITH KYLE AND ARIEL

Listen to the Couplepreneurs Show on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-couplepreneurs-show/id1742008020) or Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/0mY3DbhH1WVQ7w6tMqnx7R) Follow Kyle and Ariel on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/couplepreneurs/) Join Kyle and Ariel’s Facebook group for entrepreneur couples (https://www.facebook.com/groups/couplepreneurscommunity/) Kyle and Ariel’s website (https://www.kyleandariel.com/)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

As couples, we can look for insight into how to improve our marriages in a variety of places. In this episode, we’re turning to the modern musical. We share some timeless relationship insights we can take away from three of them.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Have a date night and watch or listen to one of these musicals and talk through some of the insights we’ve shared.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When it comes to the joy and the stress of the holidays, how do you and your spouse approach it? As a united team? Or do turkeys, tinsel, and extended family get-togethers tend to turn you against each other? If you aren’t sure how to face the holidays together, we share five ways you can navigate the season hand-in-hand rather than back-to-back.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Set expectations together for your holiday season. Determine what you want this holiday season to be like and then come up with some plans to accomplish that.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When you go out as a couple, do you and your spouse engage the people God puts in your path? Or are you so focused on yourselves that you miss out on impacting others and allowing others to affect you? Today, we share three reasons to engage others as a couple.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Look for opportunities to engage others the next time you’re out as a couple.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“The Powerful Benefits of Stepping Outside of Your Comfort Zone” by Stephanie Cornwell at RealSimple.com (https://www.realsimple.com/how-to-get-out-of-your-comfort-zone-7559829) “Is Zeus Dead Yet? A Guide to Having Better Conversations” by Kate Gatson at RabbitRoom.com (https://www.rabbitroom.com/post/is-zeus-dead-yet-a-guide-to-having-better-conversations ) “Life’s Interruptions Are Divine Opportunities” by Trevin Wax at DesiringGod.com (https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/trevin-wax/lifes-interruptions-are-divine-opportunities/)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What’s the secret to a strong marriage? Listen in as we talk about the importance of consistent follow through in three specific areas.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Pick one idea from each of the areas to put into practice this week.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“Beating the Carnies: The Secrets to Winning 5 Popular State Fair Games,” Brett and Kate McCay, The Art of Manliness (https://www.artofmanliness.com/living/games-tricks/how-to-win-state-fair-games/) “The Ideal Praise-to-Criticism Ratio,” Jack Zenger and Joseph Folkman, Harvard Business Review (https://hbr.org/2013/03/the-ideal-praise-to-criticism)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Are you and your spouse in a season of grief? When we face loss, sometimes it’s hard to walk through it hand-in-hand. We share two practical things we have done to navigate grief together over the years.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Think about how you grieve and consider how your spouse does. What are some ways you can better understand and respect the way your spouse experiences grief?

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“The Five Stages of Grief,” Grief.com (https://grief.com/the-five-stages-of-grief/) Naming the Child: Hope-filled Reflections on Miscarriage, Stillbirth, and Infant Death by Jenny Schroedel (https://a.co/d/6rNy0FU)

Connect with Ted and Ashleigh

Website (https://ashleighslater.com/) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/teamuspodcast/) Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ashleighslaterauthor)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Does what you choose to remember about your spouse impact your marriage? Absolutely. In today’s episode, we share three reasons why what you remember in your marriage matters.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

If you don’t already have your vows framed and hung in your house, do that this week. Read them regularly. As you do, remind yourself that what you remember about your spouse and your marriage matters.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“Your Memory Is like the Telephone Game” by Marla Paul (https://news.northwestern.edu/stories/2012/09/your-memory-is-like-the-telephone-game/) “Psychology professor explores how we remember, how we forget, and how we forget to remember” by Matt Wing (https://news.illinoisstate.edu/2023/09/committed-to-memory/) The Surprising Secrets of Highly Happy Marriages by Shaunti Feldhahn (https://amzn.to/3BsZlCw) “Why Your Vows Matter More Now Than Your Wedding Day” by Adam Hillis (https://medium.com/publishous/heres-why-your-vows-actually-mean-more-now-than-your-wedding-day-a49dc0d83b93)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We talk about how getting married requires us to realign our relational loyalties and priorities. We’ll share three practical ways we’ve learned to “leave and cleave” in marriage. We hope you will find them helpful, too.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Write down one specific thing you struggle with when it comes to leaving and cleaving. Share it with your spouse and see if they agree it’s an issue. Brainstorm together two or three ideas on how you can improve in this area.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If you are parents or hope to be in the future, this episode is for you. We’re sharing three practical ways you can stay connected as a couple while you raise kids.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

If you are currently parents, talk about what phase of parenting you are in and brainstorm ways you can stay connected. You can use the suggestions we’ve offered or come up with your own. If you don’t have kids yet, talk to friends with children and learn practical ways they stay connected while parenting.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“6 Types of Rituals to Maintain in Your Marriage,” Prepare and Enrich (https://www.prepare-enrich.com/blog/6-types-of-rituals-to-maintain-in-your-marriage/)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We all feel discouraged sometimes. But what about when our spouse feels beaten down or weary? On this episode, we share some practical ways you can encourage your discouraged spouse.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Ask your spouse what most encourages them when they’re discouraged.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Among married couples, sometimes there’s this belief that “an affair could never happen to us!” As a result, safeguards are often not set in place. In this episode, we share four strategies we use to safeguard our marriage from affairs. Perhaps they’ll also be helpful to you.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Sit down and talk through what safeguards you have in place. If you don’t have any, establish and agree on some.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)   

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you ever run out of things to talk about with your spouse? After almost twenty-two years of marriage, we do! In this episode, we share some fun conversation starters we found online and model for you how to use them to connect with your spouse.

CONVERSATION STARTERS WE ANSWER

If you could have any job, whether serious or silly, and money was not a factor, what would it be? If time travel existed, when and where would you like to visit first? Who are three famous people, dead or alive, you would want to have lunch with? If you could only listen to two albums for the rest of your life, which ones would you choose, and why? What do you think our biggest strength as a couple is? What about our biggest weakness? What’s a "little thing" in our relationship that you really love? If our life was a reality TV series, what do you think would be the most appropriate title? What is one date we have not done you would like to do?

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Ask each other the conversation starters we used or find additional ones online.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

 LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“93 Meaningful Conversation Starters & Questions for Couples to Better Connect,” The Adventure Challenge, https://www.theadventurechallenge.com/blogs/news/conversation-starters-for-couples/ “260 Free Printable Conversation Starters for Couples,” WinShape Marriage, https://marriage.winshape.org/resource/conversation-starters-for-date-night/ Bedtime Prayers: Lullabies and Peaceful Worship by Twila Paris (https://amzn.to/4gf4aj5)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When was the last time you and your spouse took the time to dream together? In this episode, Mike and Kate Battistelli join us and share what it looks like to trust God with everything and bravely step into His dreams for us. You don’t want to miss this interview!

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Talk about your dreams and goals as a couple. Is there a God Dare you need to answer together?

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

CONNECT WITH MIKE AND KATE BATTISTELLI

Visit Kate’s website (https://katebattistelli.com/) Receive FREE sample chapters of The God Dareby texting GODDARE to 44144 Read Growing Great Kids: Partner with God to Cultivate His Purpose in Your Child’s Life(https://katebattistelli.com/growing-great-kids/) Read The God Dare: Will You Choose to Believe the Impossible?(https://katebattistelli.com/god-dare/) Follow Kate on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/KateBattistelli/), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/katebattistelli/), and Twitter (https://twitter.com/katebattistelli)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

It’s our 50th episode! To celebrate, today, we’re talking about celebrations. We’ll explore why celebrating together as a couple matters and share practical ways you can mark both the big and the small milestones, victories, and occasions as a couple.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Find something to celebrate this week.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“Anniversary Gifts by the Year: Our Traditional and Modern Guide,” Brides.com (https://www.brides.com/gallery/wedding-anniversary-gifts-by-year-for-him-her-and-them)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Are you or your spouse in the military? Or do you have friends or family members who are? If so, you don’t want to miss this episode. Mike and Carlie Kercheval join us. They’re trained Christian marriage counselors, certified marriage coaches and mentors, best-selling authors, and more. Mike and Carlie spent years of their marriage as a military couple. Listen in as they share encouragement for other military couples and offer ideas on how those not serving in the armed forces can support those who are.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Join Mike and Carlie's Free 5-Day Marriage Communication Challenge at marriagelegacyuniversity.com.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

MORE FROM MIKE AND CARLIE KERCHEVAL

Visit Marriage Legacy University (https://www.marriagelegacyuniversity.com/) Listen to the Wives of Integrity Podcast (https://www.marriagelegacyuniversity.com/podcasts/wives-of-integrity) Listen to the Praying Couple Podcast (https://www.marriagelegacyuniversity.com/podcasts/the-praying-couple-podcast)   Follow Mike and Carlie on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/marriagelegacyuniversity) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/marriagelegacyuniversity)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you and your spouse have fun together? As couples, sometimes we can get in a rut and feel like life — and marriage — are all work and no play. In this episode, we’re exploring how we can make marriage fun again.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

If fun is lacking from your marriage, try one of our suggestions.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“Ideas for How to Add Fun Back into Your Marriage” by Andrew Linder

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In many places, the school year has started. How can you stay connected as a couple when the fall schedule threatens to pull you apart? Today, we’re sharing some marriage survival tips for the school year.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Pull out your calendar and create a plan for connecting daily and dating weekly.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage FREE Team Us Study Guide

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

How to Have a Front-Seat Marriage with James and Arlene Pellicane {Episode 39}

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We talk with author, speaker, Bible teacher, and podcaster Jennifer Rothschild and her husband Phil about how to team up in all seasons of life.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Find a couple you know who has been married for thirty years or more. Ask them what they’ve done to remain a team, and then put some of their advice into practice in your marriage.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

MORE FROM JENNIFER ROTHSCHILD

Visit Jennifer's website (https://jenniferrothschild.com/) The 4:13 Podcast with Jennifer Rothschild (https://www.jenniferrothschild.com/category/podcast/)  Follow Jennifer on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.j.rothschild) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/jennrothschild/) 

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What relationship-building habits do you and your spouse have? Listen in as we share five practices that, if made a habit, can potentially improve your marriage.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Pick one of these practices to make a habit.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage FREE Team Us Study Guide

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Debra Filet’s Instagram post “The Sound Relationship House: Build Love Maps” by Ellie Lisitsa at The Gottman Institute Dr. Gary Chapman: The 5 Apology Languages and Their Meanings on Kirk Cameron on TBN The Apology Language Quiz The Surprising Secret of Highly Happy Marriages by Shaunti Feldhahn Navigating Mental Health as a Team with Jon and Brett Seidl {Episode 36}

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you and your spouse have couple friends? In this episode, we discuss why making them can sometimes be challenging, offer you some practical tips on how to find and connect with other married couples, and share three types of couple friends we all need.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Think about your couple friends. Do you have some? If so, schedule a time to go on a double date or hang out. If you don’t, come up with a strategy for making some.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage FREE Team Us Study Guide

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

"Couple Devotional: Community" by Laird Crump at Focus on the Family "How to Make (New) Couple Friends" at Prepare and Enrich

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

No matter how long you’ve been married, reminding yourself of fundamental marriage truths is helpful. In this episode, we’ll share four truths about marriage every couple needs to remember.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Talk about which of these truths you needed to be reminded of most. Ask yourselves: How can we live it out in our marriage this week?

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage FREE Team Us Study Guide 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“6 Truths About Marriage Every Engaged Couple Needs to Hear” by Ashleigh Slater at Boundless.org (https://www.boundless.org/relationships/6-truths-about-marriage-every-engaged-couple-needs-to-hear/)  “Did I Marry the Wrong Person” by Glenn Lutjens at FocusontheFamily.com (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/did-i-marry-the-wrong-person/)  “Want a Great Marriage Someday? Learn to handle conflict now” by Suzanne Hadley Gosselin at Boundless.org (https://www.boundless.org/blog/want-a-great-marriage-someday-learn-to-handle-conflict-now/)  Reset: Powerful Habits to Own Your Thoughts, Understand Your Feelings, and Change Your Lifeby Debra Fileta (https://amzn.to/44yKMIo)   The Surprising Secrets of Highly Happy Marriages: The Little Things That Make a Big Difference by Shaunti Feldhahn (https://amzn.to/3Q5zDbT) 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Did you know that you and your spouse are a couple of influence? It’s true! Even if you don’t have a platform, television show, or a large online following, you are daily influencing — for better or for worse — how those around you think about marriage. Today, we share three ways you can use your influence for good.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Think about a couple you know who influences you to see marriage in a positive light. What is it about what they do, say, and live that makes you view marriage well? How can you practice some of the same things in your relationship?

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage FREE Team Us Study Guide 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Ted’s master’s thesis on laughter 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Within the Christian community, “Do not let the sun go down on your anger” is often quoted as a hard-and-fast rule for married couples to follow whenever they experience conflict. But sometimes Ted and I do go to bed mad—and surprisingly, it’s been good for our marriage. In today’s episode, we’ll tell you why.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Think of another hard-and-fast rule couples are often told. Do you practice it in your marriage? How has it been helpful? If not, what do you do instead and why?

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/)  FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Commentary on Ephesians 4:26 at BibleRef.com (https://www.bibleref.com/Ephesians/4/Ephesians-4-26.html)  “The Benefits of Slumber” at NIH News in Health (https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2013/04/benefits-slumber#)  The Surprising Secrets of Highly Happy Marriagesby Shaunti Feldhahn (https://amzn.to/4dgY67T) 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you and your spouse approach daily tasks or responsibilities differently? Maybe it’s how you load the dishwasher, fold laundry, or even where you cut your toenails. As couples, sometimes, it’s easy for us to assume our way is the right way and seek to change each other. In this episode, we discuss how to work through the annoyance and loss of control you may feel when your spouse’s way of doing things differs from yours. 

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Think of a task or responsibility your spouse tackles very differently from you. What can you appreciate from the way they approach it? What’s one way you can express that appreciation to them?

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“I Do Things Differently Than My Wife. And That’s OK.” by Clint Edwards at The New York Times (https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/16/parenting/marriage-argument.html)  “The Benefits of Losing Control in Your Marriage” by LeRoy and Kimberly Wagner at FocusontheFamily.com (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/the-benefits-of-losing-control-in-your-marriage/) 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Has your marriage taken a backseat to your parenting? Today, we have author and speaker Arlene Pellicane and her husband James on the podcast. They share practical tips on how your marriage can take a front seat!

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Connect daily this week by taking walks around the block.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

MORE FROM JAMES AND ARLENE PELLICANE

Visit Arlene Pellicane’s website (https://arlenepellicane.com/) The Happy Home Podcastwith Arlene Pellicane (https://www.accessmore.com/pd/https/arlenepellicanecom/podcasts/) Follow Arlene on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ArlenePellicaneAuthor) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/arlenepellicane/) 

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When you got married, you probably received a lot of advice. I know we did! Well, today, we’re talking about the best marriage advice we’ve ever received. We’ll also share with you some favorite words of wisdom our friends were given.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Talk with your spouse about the best marriage advice you received. Ask yourselves if you are regularly putting it into practice.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)  

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Did you recite traditional vows at your wedding? We did! One thing we promised was, “in sickness and in health.” But what does it look like to walk together as a team through sickness? Best-selling author Jon Seidl and his wife Brett—who is an award-winning interior designer—join us to talk about how they have been navigating debilitating health issues. It’s Part 2 of our interview with them. 

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

When we’re going through hard stuff, there is a lot of opportunity for conflict, misunderstandings, and hurting one another. Talk about what forgiveness looks like in these situations. 

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

MORE FROM JON AND BRETT SEIDL

Finding Rest: A Survivor’s Guide to Navigating the Valleys of Anxiety, Faith, and Life by Jonathon M. Seidl (https://amzn.to/3xMAKHd)  Dear Jon with Jonathon M. Seidl (https://jonseidl.substack.com/) Lewis and Rose Interiors YouTube channel with Brett Seidl (https://www.youtube.com/@lewisandrose)  Follow Jon on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/jonathonmseidl) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/jonseidl/)   Follow Lewis and Rose Interiors on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/lewisandroseinteriors) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lewisandroseinteriordesign/) 

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)  

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Has your marriage been impacted by mental health issues? If so, today’s episode is for you. Best-selling author Jon Seidl and his wife Brett—who is an award-winning interior designer—join us to talk about how they’ve navigated the valleys of anxiety and OCD as a team. It’s Part 1 of two episodes with them. Jon and Brett are open, vulnerable, and wise. You don’t want to miss this interview! 

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Take time to do a weekly check-in with your spouse. Ask if they are feeling any stress or anxiety, and pray together about it.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

MORE FROM JON AND BRETT SEIDL

Finding Rest: A Survivor’s Guide to Navigating the Valleys of Anxiety, Faith, and Life by Jonathon M. Seidl (https://amzn.to/3xMAKHd)  Dear Jon with Jonathon M. Seidl (https://jonseidl.substack.com/) Lewis and Rose Interiors YouTube channel with Brett Seidl (https://www.youtube.com/@lewisandrose)  Follow Jon on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/jonathonmseidl) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/jonseidl/)   Follow Lewis and Rose Interiors on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/lewisandroseinteriors) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lewisandroseinteriordesign/) 

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)  

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Sometimes, we forget in marriage that staying a team takes time. As a result, we can find ourselves slowly drifting away from one another. However, research shows that couples who spend time together regularly and consistently are happier and have a better relationship. Listen in as we discuss why staying a team takes time … and is worth the investment.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Pull out the calendar and schedule a date this week. It doesn’t have to be super special, extra romantic, or even well-planned. Go on an evening walk, do your Costco shopping together, or maybe visit a local food truck. 

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)  

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“Why Are Divorces Over Forty Becoming More Common?” Harris Family Law Group (https://bestlafamilylawyers.com/why-are-divorces-over-40-becoming-more-common/) The Surprising Secrets of Highly Happy Marriages: The Little Things That Make a Big Differenceby Shaunti Feldhahn (https://amzn.to/3Q5zDbT) “This Is How Often Married Couples Should Plan Date Nights” by Lily Blomquist at Brides.com (https://www.brides.com/married-couples-date-night-frequency-6823194)  “Giving Up Good Things for the Best Things in Marriage” by Selena Frederick at Focus on the Family (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/giving-up-good-things-for-the-best-things-in-marriage/) 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We’ve all had situations or experiences where we’ve felt anxious. Maybe before a job interview, during a move or the house-buying process, or when faced with a daunting project or deadline. For some of us, though, anxiousness isn’t limited to a situation or experience. It can be a daily struggle.

Listen in as we share our story and give you some practical suggestions on how you can support, encourage, and stay united when anxiety impacts marriage.

TAKE THE "US TIME CHALLENGE"

Talk to your spouse about a time when you felt anxious. What triggered it, and what did you need? How can you prepare to face anxiety as a team in the future.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

List of Phobias: Common Phobias from A to Z at verywellmind.com (https://www.verywellmind.com/list-of-phobias-2795453)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

How often do you need to be right? And how do you respond when you’re not right, and your spouse is? We’re digging into all that today and discussing why being right in marriage can be wrong. Listen in as we chat about how we can help maintain the peace, not by hoping that our spouse, if ever asked, applaud us as always right. But instead, by actively practicing humility.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Identify if there are any little areas where you insist on being right. We all have them. Then, figure out how you can practice both/and in this area.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Mere Christianityby C.S. Lewis 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We’re talking about something that’s in every marriage—and that’s money! We’ll be the first to admit that finances aren’t an area we have all figured out. But a recent message from our pastor got us freshly contemplating how much trust and dependence we put in it.

Listen in as we reflect on his sermon and share our results from a money personality assessment. We also discuss how we aren’t 100% on the same page in every area regarding money, but we’ve learned not to let it divide us.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Take the 5 Money Personalities Assessment at 5moneypersonalities.com this week with your spouse. Share your results with each other—and with us on social media.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

The 5 Money Personalities Assessment (https://5moneypersonalities.com/) For Women Onlyby Shaunti Feldhahn (https://amzn.to/43Tpfbv) 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever looked at your spouse and asked, “What do we have in common?” Maybe there have been times when you’ve even felt like you have more differences than similarities.

In marriage, there’s always the potential for our differences to eat away at our unity—especially if that’s what we focus on. Today, we’re sharing five practical ways you and your spouse can stop your differences from dividing you.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Identify one difference that’s been dividing you and your spouse lately. Take some time to think about what you can appreciate and respect about that difference. Then, tell your spouse—and be sure to keep it all positive!

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Loving Him Wellby Gary Thomas For Women Onlyby Shaunti Feldhahn and For Men Onlyby Shaunti and Jeff Feldhahn 9 Lies That Will Destroy Your Marriageby Robert Paul and Greg Smalley

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

How often do you intentionally stop to praise your spouse? To recognize and affirm their character or actions? Many of us probably cringe at answering these questions because we know we could do better!

If you struggle to feed your spouse praise regularly, this episode is for you. Listen in as we share some practical steps we all can take to criticize less and affirm and build up our spouse more.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Make it your goal to praise your spouse more this week!

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you remember the “Anyone can cook” catchphrase from the film Ratatouille? Well, we believe anyone can record a podcast—including you and your spouse. Listen in as we share some ways podcasting together has strengthened our marriage, and we think it can strengthen your relationship too.

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Record a podcast together! It doesn’t have to be long, fancy, focused on marriage, or even distributed on iTunes. You can record it for family and friends and simply post it on your social media feed. And be sure to tag us when you do!

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107)

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Parenting can be wonderful, but it is also demanding and exhausting. We have four kids—we get it! It can be easy to put our spouse and marriage on the back burner. But today, we’re encouraging you not to do that!

Listen in as we share three practical reasons why your marriage relationship needs to take the highest priority after your relationship with God. (And know, this is a conversation full of grace for whatever parenting season you are in!)

TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE

Spend time together! If your schedule and current parenting stage don’t easily allow for a date, find time together at home. Sit on the couch or back porch and talk. Take a walk, or have a fun conversation while you drive. The point is not to put your relationship on the backburner!

TEAM US RESOURCES

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

“I’m 99% Mother and 1% Wife — And It Has to Be That Way” at GoodHousekeeping.com (https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/parenting/a31760/balancing-mother-and-wife/) “I’m 49% Mother and 51% Wife — And It Has to Be That Way” at iBelieve.com (https://www.ibelieve.com/relationships/i-m-49-mother-and-51-wife-and-it-has-to-be-that-way.html)

CONNECT WITH TED AND Ashleigh

Website (https://ashleighslater.com/) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ashleighslater_author/) Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ashleighslaterauthor)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What kind of couple do you want to be 5, 10, or 20 years from now? We recently spent a week surrounded by couples who are older than us, and we asked ourselves this exact question. Listen in as we share our thoughts on how you can grow older together and love the couple you become.

Take the "Us Time" Challenge

Ask yourself: What kind of couple do we want to be in 5, 10, or even 20 years. Then come up with a game plan to start becoming that couple. 

Team Us Resources

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

Connect with Ted and Ashleigh

Website (https://ashleighslater.com/) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ashleighslater_author/) Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ashleighslaterauthor)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever thought, “My marriage would be a lot easier if my spouse had a personality more like mine”? If so, you’re not alone. We’ve all had moments where something about our spouse’s unique wiring annoys us. Listen in as we talk about what you can do in those moments when your spouse’s personality drives you nuts.

Take the "Us Time" Challenge

Pick one of the popular personality tests out there and take it with your spouse. Then talk about your results and share something positive about your spouse’s personality that now makes more sense to you.

Team Us Resources

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

Connect with Ted and Ashleigh

Website (https://ashleighslater.com/) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ashleighslater_author/) Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ashleighslaterauthor)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you and your spouse ever been on a getaway together or a family vacation and it didn’t go so well? We can relate! Today we’ll share a few of our stories, list some reasons you might be experiencing conflict away from home, and give you five marriage survival tips to help you vacation-proof your marriage. 

Take the "Us Time" Challenge

This week, look back at a previous vacation that maybe didn’t go so well. Talk and laugh about what you could have done differently. Focus on your own behavior and attitudes, not your spouse’s.   

Links Mentioned in This Episode

“Your Daily Routines Aren’t Mundane—They’re Actually Keeping You Sane and Healthy (It’s Science)” from RealSimple.com (https://www.realsimple.com/work-life/life-strategies/benefits-of-routines) 

Team Us Resources

Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) 

Connect with Ted and Ashleigh

Website (https://ashleighslater.com/) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ashleighslater_author/)   Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ashleighslaterauthor) 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.