Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage
Focus on the Family
Did you know the Hebrew root word for marriage is the same as mess? Okay, maybe not, but it wasn’t a stretch to believe, right? This is the podcast for Christian married couples who are in the middle of a messy moment. They need to laugh. They need clear, practical advice. And they need to hear from someone with an actual degree in this thing. Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley are those people. They have reached millions of couples through their counseling practices, books, events, and work at Focus on the Family.
- 54 minutes 21 secondsWhat Sex Really Means - Pt 2
We're continuing our conversation with Dr. Juli Slattery on how God designed sex and sexuality. We're going to discuss the detrimental effects of pornography on both individuals and marriages, as well as highlight the importance of addressing sexual issues through a Christ-centered identity and real, accountable recovery programs. Have you ever thought about how Christians need to differentiate discussions about sexual ethics based on people's beliefs about God and creation? If you're wanting healthier intimacy in marriage and a deeper spiritual relationship; if you're confused about your sexual identity, or know someone who is, listen to this episode and let us know your thoughts.
Surrendered Sexuality: How Knowing Jesus Changes Everything
Help For A Pornography Addiction
Gen Z's Marriage Misunderstanding Article
Biblical View on Transgender Identity: A Primer - Focus on the Family
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15 December 2025, 8:00 am - 52 minutes 4 secondsWhat Sex Really Means - Pt 1
How do you have sex? What does it really symbolize in your marriage? Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley delve into a deeper conversation that contrasts 'how' with 'why' with Dr. Juli Slattery. Understanding the purpose and significance of sex from a Christian perspective is crucial. We talk about the covenantal significance of sex in marriage, reflecting God's covenant with his people, and how couples can better communicate about their sexual relationship. The conversation underscores the spiritual and relational importance of sex, various forms of sexual sin, and steps towards healing and forgiveness.
Surrendered Sexuality: How Knowing Jesus Changes Everything
Sexual Trauma and Its Effect On Marriage
Helping Your Sexually Abused Husband
Learn About Hope Restored Marriage Intensives
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8 December 2025, 8:00 am - 43 minutes 24 secondsHonestly Discussing Domestic Abuse
Dr. Greg Smalley and Erin Smalley delve into the critical issue of supporting friends in abusive or oppressive marriages with Darby Strickland, an expert counselor and author. Darby explains an insightful definition of abuse as 'oppression,' framing it as the antithesis of God's design for marriage. The discussion addresses the common mistakes helpers make, identifies the patterns of abuse, and offers practical advice for those who may be abusing subconsciously.
Article: What You Need To Know About Domestic Violence and Abuse
Domestic Abuse Hotline 800-799-7233 - Text BEGIN to 88788
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1 December 2025, 8:00 am - 42 minutes 6 secondsHabits for A Happy Marriage, Pt. 2
Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley continue with the great conversation they had with Dr. Randy Schroeder about simple habits couples can adopt to strengthen their marriage. Starting with the critical role of forgiveness in healing and sustaining relationships, with specific language that you can use. We also touch on managing conflict, expressing kindness, and the value of having specific disagreement guidelines. If your marriage needs help, pick up Dr. Shroeder's book, and call our counseling line. We'd love to help you.
Simple Habits for Marital Happiness
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Take The Free Reactive Cycle Assessment
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24 November 2025, 8:00 am - 58 minutes 30 secondsHabits For A Happy Marriage, pt. 1
Want some practical habits for happiness in your marriage? Enter, Dr. Randy Schroeder, a licensed marriage and family therapist with over three decades of counseling experience. Dr. Schrader's key topics include the importance of meeting each other's expectations, the power of small daily habits like meaningful hugs and eye-contact with conversations. As always, we emphasize the need for continuous learning and growth in marriage, offering concrete advice for couples feeling disconnected or considering separation. This is the perfect episode to forward to a friend who may be having marriage issues!
Simple Habits for Marital Happiness
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Conversation Starters For Couples
17 November 2025, 8:00 am - 53 minutes 26 secondsWhat Is Best for Each Other & Best For Your Marriage
Greg and Erin Smalley discuss the importance of maintaining relational skills in marriage with Roger and Kathy Lipp, who discuss their blended family and their adventures in team-building. We delve into the importance of carving out couple time, how chronic illness can reshape a marriage, and the importance of gratitude and flexibility.
How to Fight Busyness in Marriage
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10 November 2025, 8:00 am - 42 minutes 5 secondsHow To Understand Your Hot Buttons
Do you think repairing your marriage is hopeless? On this episode of Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage, Greg and Erin feature a presentation by Bob and Jenni Paul, who explain that underneath all marital conflicts is a common cycle of reactive behavior triggered by deeper, often unrecognized wounds or buttons. Our goal is to bring awareness to these patterns so that couples are able to respond with understanding, and improve their relationships by addressing their core desires and fears. Sound complicated? It really isn't! You'll learn a lot from this episode. We also answer a listener Q & A about gambling.
9 Lies That Will Destroy Your Marriage
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Check Out Our Reactive Cycle Assessment
3 November 2025, 8:00 am - 44 minutes 37 secondsThe Middle Years of Marriage
No matter how long you've been married, there's some great advice in this episode! Greg and Erin discuss the challenges and opportunities in the middle years of marriage, focusing on issues like health struggles, retirement, and caring for aging parents with Larry McCall. They emphasize the importance of preventing boredom, pursuing wonder in marriage and life, and the value of counsel. Larry shares his journey of understanding the deeper purpose of marriage, the importance of love based on God's love rather than reciprocation, and insights into being intentional in relationships.
A Seasoned Marriage: Living the Gospel in the Middle Years and Beyond
Go here for more Deep Questions To Stay Curious About Your Spouse
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27 October 2025, 7:00 am - 42 minutes 9 secondsHis & Her Perspectives on Romance, Sex & Fun In Marriage
On this episode, Greg and Erin discuss the importance of communication, romance, and navigating challenges within marriage with Jess and Ryan Ronne; who also share their journey of dealing with grief after losing their first spouses. The Ronnes offer insights into how they balance their relationship while caring for eight children (including one with special needs), and the strategies they use to maintain intimacy and satisfaction.
Lovin' With Grit & Grace: Straight Talk about Romance, Sex, Fun, And The Tough Stuff Too
Read more about a Healing Separation
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20 October 2025, 7:00 am - 59 minutes 58 secondsWorking Marriage with J & Killy John
Greg and Erin welcome renown British evangelist and author, J.John and his wife Killy as they reflect on their 42-year marriage, discussing early challenges, the importance of communication, and the essential values they've embraced: respect, responsibility, romance, and resilience. They emphasize the significance of intentionally nurturing their relationship despite the demands of work and life, and share their daily routines that help them maintain a balanced and harmonious life together. The Johns are full of encouragement for couples, whether you're just starting out or have been married for decades.
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Sacred Pathways, by Gary Thomas
Read more about a Healing Separation
13 October 2025, 7:00 am - 48 minutes 41 secondsCaring For Marriage Under Overwhelming Stress
Greg and Erin know that every marriage goes through a crisis. That's why we invited Todd and Kristin Evans to share their personal journey from enjoying life as a young, carefree couple to facing the challenges of raising a child with severe disabilities, including emotional strain, grief, and marital disconnect. No matter what your challenges might be, you'll hear ways to get through the storms. We talk about the importance of communication, support networks, and intentional self-care. Todd and Kristin found ways to thrive together, and they also recommitted to each other and set new marital vows tailored to their unique situation. Their story serves as inspiration and guidance for other couples navigating any kind of hardship. We also share the Playground Rules for Marriage, and we answer a listener's email question about how much is too much to share with your spouse when it comes to trauma. This is a practical look at everyday relationship "ins and outs" on this episode of Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage!
How To Build A Thriving Marriage As You Care for Children with Disabilities
Remodeling Stress and Your Marriage
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