The holidays promise joy and togetherness but for many couples, they also bring stress, busyness, and mismatched expectations. In this episode, we're helping you slow down, reconnect, and approach the season with intention. We talk honestly about why couples often drift spiritually and emotionally in December and offer simple, realistic ways to stay grounded in Christ and connected to each other. From aligning holiday expectations to creating meaningful traditions, you'll walk away with practical tools to cultivate peace, gratitude, and unity in your marriage. Whether this season feels exciting or overwhelming, this conversation will help you not just survive the holidays—but truly thrive together.

Episode Highlights:

The holidays can magnify an already existing disconnect.

When Christ isn't the center of the holidays and your marriage, both will suffer.

True joy doesn't come from a full schedule.

Quotes from Today's Episode:

When we take our eyes off the true reason for Christmas—Christ—we get caught up in the world's chaos.

Don't abandon what nourishes your soul just because life gets hectic.

The habits that sustain you all year are even more vital during the holidays.

Keep your year-round rhythms strong—pray together, make time to communicate, and carve out quiet moments as a couple amid the December rush.

Acts of generosity spark joy and deepen your connection.

Intentionality is everything—if you aren't purposeful, the busyness will steal your time and memories.

Release the pressure to do it all—focus on what brings true joy to your family.

Give yourself permission to let go of traditions that drain you, making room for new ones—or simply space to rest, bake cookies, and enjoy music by the tree.

Couple's Conversation Guide:

1. Which part of the holidays tends to be most stressful for each of us, and why?

2. Is there a simple spiritual practice we could commit to together this December?

3. Where do our expectations differ when it comes to gifts, gatherings, travel, or downtime?

4. What new tradition could we create this year that fits who we are as a couple right now?

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Awesome Marriage is on Instagram.

• It's not too late to start our Very Married Christmas Couple's Advent Calendar.
• Our Annual Marriage Check Up Guide is the perfect way to assess what's working and set new goals for what's not.

• We gathered all 665 answers, organized them into the top 10 themes, and added 1 practical step for each theme so wives can better meet their husband's needs. 10 Things Husbands Want Their Wives to Understand

• Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. How do we take a season that is often filled with stress and anxiety and turn things around? An Awesome Marriage Christmas goes over four things you can do as a couple to reduce the stress and anxiety of the season and help you focus on Jesus.

• If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at Dr. AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !

• Speaking of being intentional! Sign up for Dr. Kim's Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips!

• Now is the perfect time to join our Marriage Changers program. Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to receive our 10 Things Husbands Want.

No matter what season of marriage you're in, intentionality is essential. It's what keeps the spark alive, rekindles romance, and helps you withstand the temptations and pressures of everyday life. Chelsea Smith joins me to talk about her new book, "I Do" Today: A 52-Week Guide to the Marriage You've Been Waiting For. This conversation will encourage you, inspire you, and challenge you to pursue a marriage marked by purpose, growth, and joy because you were never meant to settle for anything less than an awesome marriage.

Episode Takeaways:

A healthy sex life is vital for a healthy marriage.

Serving your spouse before you feel like they deserve it will change your perspective and the atmosphere of your marriage.

Never settle for what you know about your spouse- stay curious.

Only God's design for marriage leads to the true fullness He intended for your relationship.

Quotes from this episode:

"Marriage is the hardest and most rewarding relationship we have in this life." - Dr. Kim

"We can't do it on our own." - Chelsea Smith

"The best gift we can give our children is a healthy marriage." - Chelsea Smith

"Our marriages are the strongest evangelistic tool we have." - Chelsea Smith

"Sex is different in a Christian marriage because there's a spiritual component." - Dr. Kim

"The marriage of your dreams isn't a fantasy." - Chelsea Smith

"The power of thoughts towards your spouse can change everything." - Chelsea Smith

"The marriage of your dreams is not difficult; it's work." - Chelsea Smith

"I want people to know that we still work at it. We've been through tough times too, but it's worth it." - Dr. Kim

"You can't just put them in a box and set aside. A lifetime is not long enough to learn everything there is about your spouse." - Dr. Kim

Couples Conversation Guide

1. On a scale of 1–10, how intentional have you been about investing in your marriage in this season?
2. What's one thing you could do today to move that number closer to a 10?
3. Are there any resentments, assumptions, or unspoken expectations that might be clouding how you see your spouse?
4. Does an "awesome marriage" feel attainable to you right now? If not, why—and what steps could you and your spouse take to move toward it together?

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Chelsea Smith is on Instagram

• "I Do" Today: A 52 Week Guide to the Marriage You've Been Waiting For.

• We gathered all 665 answers, organized them into the top 10 themes, and added 1 practical step for each theme so wives can better meet their husband's needs. 10 Things Husbands Want Their Wives to Understand

• Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. God's design for marriage is the best blueprint for an awesome marriage, His Mission, Our Marriage: Building a Christ-Centered Marriage will challenge you to remember your marriage is on mission for the Kingdom.

• If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !

• Speaking of being intentional! Sign up for Dr. Kim's Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips!

• Now is the perfect time to join our Marriage Changers program. Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to receive our 10 Things Husbands Want.

Gratitude can feel effortless when life and marriage are smooth—but what about when it's hard? In this episode, we explore how to practice honest gratitude even in seasons of struggle, disappointment, or unmet expectations. From grief and loss to conflict and emotional distance in marriage, we discuss ways couples can rebuild appreciation for each other, lean on God in difficult times, and use gratitude as a tool for hope, healing, and unity. Be encouraged to find thankfulness rooted in faith, not just feelings, even when your heart is hurting.

Main Takeaways:

Gratitude is challenging in seasons of struggle.

Honest gratitude is rooted in faith, not feelings.

Gratitude strengthens marriage and protects against division.

Spiritual rhythms help cultivate thankfulness.

Quotes from this Episode:

Choosing gratitude when you don't feel it isn't fake—it's faith in action. Sometimes, obedience comes before emotion.

When disappointment builds, we keep a mental ledger of failures and let resentment choke out gratitude.

Shifting your focus from what's wrong to what remains right isn't denial; it's a courageous act of faith, especially when you're hurting.

Gratitude flourishes when you intentionally move from deficit thinking to abundance thinking.

Don't compare your spouse to others—celebrate who they are and who they have become.

Feelings follow actions. Don't wait to feel grateful—do the grateful thing, and let your heart catch up.

Lament is honest, gratitude is hopeful. We need both, because lament without gratitude turns to bitterness, and gratitude without lament turns to denial.

Radical gratitude trusts in God's character, not in our circumstances.

Couples Conversation Guide:

"When life or our marriage feels hard, what makes it difficult for you to feel thankful? How can we support each other in those times?"

"How can we remind each other to choose gratitude rooted in faith, even when our emotions don't match our circumstances?"

"Are there ways we've lost sight of what we appreciate about each other? What's one thing we can start noticing and thanking each other for this week?"

"What daily or weekly habits—like prayer, Scripture, or reflection—could help us keep gratitude alive, even when things are tough?"

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Awesome Marriage is on Instagram!

• Need to refocus and cultivate gratitude? Use these 11 Gratitude Prompts

• We gathered all 685 answers, organized them into the top 10 themes, and added 1 practical step for each theme so husbands can better meet their wife's needs. 💡Unlock 10 Things Wives Want! ]

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Awesome Marriage is on Instagram!

• Need to refocus and cultivate gratitude? Use these 11 Gratitude Prompts

• We gathered all 685 answers, organized them into the top 10 themes, and added 1 practical step for each theme so husbands can better meet their wife's needs. 💡Unlock 10 Things Wives Want! ]

• Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Need a plan to cultivate gratitude in your marriage? Invite your spouse to read 4 Days to Growing Gratitude in Your Marriage

• If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !

• Sign up for Dr. Kim's Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips!

• Now is the perfect time to join our Marriage Changers program. Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to receive our 10 Things Women Want.

• If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !

• Sign up for Dr. Kim's Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips!

• Now is the perfect time to join our Marriage Changers program. Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to receive our 10 Things Women Want.

When life feels peaceful and marriage is running smoothly, it's easy to let your guard down—but what if those "good seasons" are actually when spiritual warfare works most subtly? In this episode, Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy talk about how the enemy can creep in through comfort and complacency, why couples should stay spiritually alert even when things feel calm, and how to build rhythms that keep you rooted in God and each other. From prayer and gratitude practices to regular marriage check-ins, we'll explore how to protect your marriage from drifting and use the good seasons as opportunities for growth, connection, and deeper faith.

Main Takeaways:

Spiritual warfare doesn't stop in the good seasons.

Comfort can lead to drift if couples aren't intentional.

Good seasons are opportunities for spiritual strengthening.

Quotes from This Episode:

Complacency is the quiet thief in marriage—it's the gradual drifting apart that happens when you think everything is okay.

The enemy attacks most fiercely when we let our guard down in times of comfort; be vigilant, even in the good seasons.

Spiritual battles aren't always sudden explosions. Sometimes, it's the everyday neglect that chips away at your relationship, step by step.

Your marriage is always on a journey—it's either moving forward or sliding backward. Choose to advance, even if you stumble.

Use seasons of peace to intentionally invest and protect your relationship.

Couples' Conversation Guide:

1. When things are going really well for us, do you ever notice ways we might start drifting spiritually or emotionally? How can we stay alert together?"
2. Are there small habits or signs you've noticed in our marriage that show we're getting a little complacent? What could we do to course-correct?
3. "During the good seasons, what's one thing we could start doing together—like prayer, gratitude, or reading Scripture—that would help strengthen our marriage and faith?"

Mentioned in this episode:

• Awesome Marriage is on Instagram!

• Need to establish the rhythm of intentionality in your marriage? Use our FREE Weekly Marriage Check in Guide

• We gathered all 685 answers, organized them into the top 10 themes, and added 1 practical step for each theme so husbands can better meet their wife's needs. 💡Unlock 10 Things Wives Want! ]

• Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Intentionally pray over your marriage with 7 Prayers to Grow Your Marriage

• If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !

• Sign up for Dr. Kim's Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips!

When life feels peaceful and marriage is running smoothly, it's easy to let your guard down—but what if those "good seasons" are actually when spiritual warfare works most subtly? In this episode, Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy talk about how the enemy can creep in through comfort and complacency, why couples should stay spiritually alert even when things feel calm, and how to build rhythms that keep you rooted in God and each other. From prayer and gratitude practices to regular marriage check-ins, we'll explore how to protect your marriage from drifting and use the good seasons as opportunities for growth, connection, and deeper faith.

Main Takeaways:

Spiritual warfare doesn't stop in the good seasons.

Comfort can lead to drift if couples aren't intentional.

Good seasons are opportunities for spiritual strengthening.

Quotes from This Episode:

Complacency is the quiet thief in marriage—it's the gradual drifting apart that happens when you think everything is okay.

The enemy attacks most fiercely when we let our guard down in times of comfort; be vigilant, even in the good seasons.

Spiritual battles aren't always sudden explosions. Sometimes, it's the everyday neglect that chips away at your relationship, step by step.

Your marriage is always on a journey—it's either moving forward or sliding backward. Choose to advance, even if you stumble.

Use seasons of peace to intentionally invest and protect your relationship.

Couples' Conversation Guide:

1. When things are going really well for us, do you ever notice ways we might start drifting spiritually or emotionally? How can we stay alert together?"
2. Are there small habits or signs you've noticed in our marriage that show we're getting a little complacent? What could we do to course-correct?
3. "During the good seasons, what's one thing we could start doing together—like prayer, gratitude, or reading Scripture—that would help strengthen our marriage and faith?"

Mentioned in this episode:

• Awesome Marriage is on Instagram!

• Need to establish the rhythm of intentionality in your marriage? Use our FREE Weekly Marriage Check in Guide

• We gathered all 685 answers, organized them into the top 10 themes, and added 1 practical step for each theme so husbands can better meet their wife's needs. 💡Unlock 10 Things Wives Want! ]

• Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Intentionally pray over your marriage with 7 Prayers to Grow Your Marriage

• If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !

• Sign up for Dr. Kim's Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips!

What if the biggest breakthroughs in your life and marriage don't happen overnight—but gradually, then suddenly? In this episode, we sit down with bestselling author and pastor Mark Batterson to talk about his new book Gradually, Then Suddenly and how God's long-game approach shapes everything from our dreams to our relationships.

Mark unpacks what it means to play the long game in faith, how to take every thought captive to Christ, and why success—whether in ministry or marriage—always grows at the "speed of a seed." We'll also explore how small, intentional choices today can create generational impact tomorrow.

If you've ever felt like growth is too slow or that your prayers are taking too long to be answered, this conversation will remind you that God is always working—gradually, then suddenly.

Episode Takeaways:

• Instead of focusing on how long something takes, we're invited to stay faithful to His good, pleasing, and perfect will—even when the outcome isn't immediate.
• Success isn't about avoiding failure—it's about learning to manage it.
• We don't need to see the whole plan to take the first step.

Quotes from Today's Episode:

1. "Whatever it is God's called you to do, it's probably going to take longer than you like and be harder than you hope for."

2. "We overestimate what we can do in a year or two, but we underestimate what God can do in 10 or 20 or 30."

3. "The cure for the fear of failure is not success. It's failure in small enough doses that you build up an immunity to it."

4. Success is usually well-managed failure.

5. It's not about pinpointing dates. It's about being faithful to his good pleasing and perfect will.

6. Whatever it is God is calling you to do is probably going to take longer than you like and be harder than you hoped for.

7. Good ideas are good but God ideas change the course of history.

8. By faith you take the first step, even if God hasn't revealed the second step.

9. You aren't going to be married very long without some curveballs.

Couples Conversation Starters:

1. How can we support each other in staying patient and faithful when God's timing feels slower than we hoped in our marriage or personal goals?
2. What are some "small failures" we've experienced together, and how can we use them to grow stronger as a couple rather than letting them discourage us?
3. Is there a step of faith—big or small—that God might be calling us to take together, even if we don't see the full path yet?

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Learn more about Mark Batterson and connect with him on socials.

• Mark Batterson's new book is out! Purchase it HERE!

• We gathered all 685 answers, organized them into the top 10 themes, and added 1 practical step for each theme so husbands can better meet their wife's needs. 💡Unlock 10 Things Wives Want! ]

• Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Want to shift your perspective about your spouse and your marriage, check out Mind Craft: Take Your Thoughts Captive to Transform Your Marriage.

• If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !

• Sign up for Dr. Kim's Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips!

• Now is the perfect time to join our Marriage Changers program. Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to receive our 10 Things Women Want.

We all know communication is key to a healthy marriage—but what if what you think is communication… really isn't? In this solo episode, Dr. Kim unpacks five common habits couples mistake for communication and how these patterns can quietly erode connection over time. Learn how to create safety in your conversations, break unhealthy rhythms from your past, and build new habits that foster real understanding. Because clarity is kind, connection takes intention, and communication is about more than just words—it's about being truly heard.

Episode Highlights:

Communication is the number one struggle couples mention in counseling.

Talking at someone isn't the same as talking to someone.

Unhealthy rhythms stem from our past experiences.

The first step in breaking these patterns is recognizing they are there.

Clarity is kind.

It's important that both spouses feel safe to hear and be heard.

Digital communication cannot replace connection.

Daily touch points and weekly check-ins can help combat the negative rhythms.

Quotes from Today's Episode:

When couples say they can't communicate, what they mean is "we can't connect."

We tend to overestimate how well we communicate.

We think our spouse should just know what we want to say.

Silence communicates rejection and punishment.

Your spouse can't read your mind.

Unmet expectations are just resentments waiting to happen.

Sarcasm is a shield that prevents real intimacy.

Use technology to enhance communication not to replace it.

Don't wait for problems to arise before you communicate.

Pause before you react.

James 1:19 that's countercultural advice in a world that rewards quick comeback and hot takes but it's exactly what healthy communication looks like.

Couple's Conversation Starters:

Which of the "five things that aren't really communication" do we each tend to slip into most often, and how can we help each other recognize it with grace?

When was the last time one of us felt unheard or misunderstood, and what could we do differently next time to make both of us feel safe to share honestly?

How can we build more intentional rhythms of connection—like daily touch points or weekly check-ins—to keep our communication strong and consistent?

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Awesome Marriage is on Instagram!

• If Communication is a struggle in your marriage, check out this free webinar: 7 Communication Mistakes Couples Make In Marriage

• We gathered all 685 answers, organized them into the top 10 themes, and added 1 practical step for each theme so husbands can better meet their wife's needs. 💡Unlock 10 Things Wives Want! ]

• Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Want to see what God's Word says about what your wife needs? Or maybe, women, you don't know how to put to words what you need. Check out 3 Things Wives Need: A Plan for Husbands and Wives.

• If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !

• Sign up for Dr. Kim's Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips!

• Now is the perfect time to join our Marriage Changers program. Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to receive our 10 Things Women Want.

In this episode, Dr. Kim sits down with Ron Deal to talk about what it really means to build a mindful marriage. Ron shares lessons from his new book, Mindful Marriage, and how restoration therapy helped him and his wife Nan find healing and deeper connection. Together, they explore how faith, self-awareness, and emotional regulation can transform your relationship from the inside out.

Episode Insights:

Authenticity is the foundation of lasting happiness.

Emotional dysregulation is normal.

Our brains respond to threat, not fairness.

Pain cycles drive repeated conflict.

Growth and redemption matter more than blame.

Quotes from Today's Episode:

'Happy wife, happy life' sounds catchy, but in reality, it's an empty promise. Lasting happiness in marriage comes from authenticity, not performance or pretending everything is okay.

Every single one of us gets thrown off-balance emotionally. Some stay there longer, others move through it quickly, but emotional dysregulation is part of the human experience. There's nothing wrong about you because you get dysregulated.

The brain can't tell the difference between a rattlesnake, a near-miss in traffic, or your spouse's criticism. Threat is threat.

Our brains are wired for survival, not perfect communication.

You don't have fifty different fights in marriage. You just have one ongoing pain cycle. Once you identify and understand your pain cycle, you can finally move beyond it together.

Ignoring your pain doesn't make it go away—if anything, it makes your pain stronger, more insistent, and harder to escape.

It's easy to point out the flaw in someone else, but it's vital to focus on your own growth.

You may not forget your pain, but you can redeem what it does in your life. Choosing redemption over resentment is liberating.

Couples Conversation Guide:

Are there areas in our marriage where we tend to "perform" or pretend things are okay instead of being real with each other?

When conflict or hurt arises between you, how aware are you of what's really going on beneath the surface—your emotions, triggers, or past experiences?

What's one practical step you can take this week to be more mindful in your marriage—whether that's pausing before reacting, praying together, or choosing to listen with empathy?

Mentioned in this episode:

• #1 Amazon Bestseller is available! The Mindful Marriage (designed for every marriage).

• Ron Deal

• What's your reactive coping style? We all have one. Take our free assessment (15 minutes).

• Find Awesome Marriage on Instagram

• Need help starting the practice of prayer in your marriage? Here's a great resource: 21 Prayers for Building an Awesome Marriage

• Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. We even have a plan for praying as a couple! Check out 7 Prayers to Grow Your Marriage.

• Buy 1 get 1 free on the Elevate Your Marriage Communication Course & L.O.V.E Your Way Through Conflict Course.

• If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !

• Sign up for Dr. Kim's Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips!

• Now is the perfect time to join our Marriage Changers program. Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to receive our Fix Communication Breakdowns Bundle

700 episodes! What better way than to do this episode with Nancy who has been here with me through all of the seasons and cohosts and guests on the Awesome Marriage podcast. And there is no better topic for us than to talk about how powerful prayer is for your marriage and the daily rhythm of praying together. Nancy initiated praying together on our first night as a married couple and we've kept it going ever since. Not only does it serve to protect our marriage, but it serves to grow us each closer to the Lord and one another. Join us as we talk about the power of a praying couple and how to pursue spiritual growth together.

Episode Highlights:

If you feel uncomfortable, start with silent or guided prayers- just start somewhere.

Prayer becomes a rhythm that allows you to partner with God.

Prayer becomes the glue that helps you withstand the seasons of marriage and life together.

Hard times have been some of the biggest seasons of growth individually and in our marriage.

Quotes from Today's Episode:

Praying together can feel intimidating at first, but it's not about perfection—it's about inviting God into your story, one honest word at a time.

It's hard to pray when you're angry—and hard to stay angry when you start to pray.

There is power in the prayer—and even greater power in the One we pray to.

When couples choose to consistently pray and grow together, it changes everything—your marriage, your family, and generations to come will be transformed.

Let God lead you, one small step at a time. Habits of faith begin with intentional choices.

If you miss a day, don't quit. The habit matters more than perfection—keep pursuing God together.

There is nothing like drawing close to your spouse in spiritual intimacy—it's a bond deeper than anything else.

Take time to talk honestly about where you are spiritually as a couple, without judgment. Then choose just one thing to pursue together.

Couples Conversation Guide:

1. What fears or awkward feelings do we have about praying together, and how could we take a first step to make it a natural part of our relationship?
2. How has our prayer life (or the lack of it) shaped the emotional and spiritual climate of our marriage so far?
3. In what ways can we set spiritual goals together that encourage growth without feeling like a checklist or competition?
4. How can we support each other through seasons of spiritual dryness or difference in faith, and what role can Scripture or prayer rhythms play in that?

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Dr. Kim is on Instagram
• Find Awesome Marriage on Instagram
• Need help starting the practice of prayer in your marriage? Here's a great resource: 21 Prayers for Building an Awesome Marriage
• Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. We even have a plan for praying as a couple! Check out 7 Prayers to Grow Your Marriage.
• Buy 1 get 1 free on the Elevate Your Marriage Communication Course & L.O.V.E Your Way Through Conflict Course.
• If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !
• Sign up for Dr. Kim's Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips.

Mismatched sex drives in marriage? You're not alone—and it's not a problem to fix, but an opportunity to grow together.

Most couples (up to 90%!) will experience periods where their sexual desires don't line up perfectly. It's completely normal—and it's a chance to build deeper understanding, communication, and compassion in your relationship. Getting honest about differences means you can meet each other where you are, as a team.

This conversation is full of encouragement for the couple (or the spouse) who is feeling the disconnect from the different drives. Join Dr. Kim and J. Parker as they talk about normalizing this topic and making your marriage (and sex life) awesome.

Episode Highlights:

Majority of couples face the struggle of mismatched sex drives.

It's important that the lines of communication are open when talking about desire, frequency and expectation.

Open, ongoing communication is key to building intimacy.

The way we think about intimacy is often shaped by cultural messages, church teaching, or our upbringing.

Quotes from Today's Episode:

Mismatched sex drives aren't the exception—they're the norm.

Instead of seeing it as a sign something's wrong, view it as an opportunity to communicate, show compassion, and navigate intimacy as a team.

The old script that 'men want sex and women want romance' sells everyone short. You can crave both romance and intimacy, regardless of who in your marriage has the higher desire.

A thriving sex life isn't automatic—it's something you cultivate over time, through learning, honesty, and growth together.

Sometimes a gap in desire isn't about your relationship at all, but about real-life pressures.

There are times when speaking up isn't nagging—it's partnership. Express what you need, but do it out of love and with respect, seeking to connect and understand, not just correct.

Questions for Reflection:

1. When was the last time you and your spouse had a conversation about frequency?
2. Do you feel comfortable telling your spouse what you need in regards to physical intimacy?
3. What's one small step you could take this week to communicate more openly about your needs and create healthier intimacy together?

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Hot, Holy and Humerous

• J Parker is on Instagram!

• Achieving Awesome Sex in Marriage online course with Dr. Kim and J. Parker

• If you are the lower drive spouse, consider taking our Think Sex Challenge. Our brain is a powerful sex organ and sometimes we have to take the time to "think sex".

• Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Fight the chaos of culture and keep your marriage grounded in Biblical truth. Check out 5 Marriage Lies to Defeat with Biblical Truth.

• If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !

• Sign up for Dr. Kim's Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips!

• Now is the perfect time to join our Marriage Changers program. Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to receive our Fix Communication Breakdowns Bundle