In this episode of the Beyond the Bouquet podcast, the host discusses the importance of praying for one's husband. She shares her personal experiences and the prayers she offers for her husband's spiritual growth, protection, health, integrity, and leadership. She emphasizes the need to separate the person from the issues and to approach challenges as spiritual warfare. The host also mentions the upcoming changes for season two of the podcast, including seeking sponsors and launching a Patreon community.

Takeaways

• Praying for one's husband is essential for his spiritual growth and well-being.
• Separating the person from the issues helps in navigating challenges in marriage.
• Approaching challenges as spiritual warfare and using spiritual weapons can lead to victory.
• Praying for integrity, health, and leadership in one's husband can have a positive impact on the marriage.
• Season two of the podcast will include sponsorships and a Patreon community.

Chapters

00:00 The Power of Praying for Your Husband
03:53 Separating the Person from the Issues
06:46 Approaching Challenges as Spiritual Warfare
13:53 Praying for Integrity, Health, and Leadership

Connect with Zhara here:
Follow Zhara on Instagram @ zhara.marie -  https://bit.ly/4aPXjtjFollow our podcast page @beyondthebouquetpod - https://bit.ly/3xzcKqJ

The conversation explores the topic of sex drives in marriage and how they can vary between partners. The  Zhara and Paige discuss the challenges of balancing sex drives, especially in different phases of life such as newlywed, professional, and motherhood. They emphasize the importance of communication, understanding each other's needs, and creating a conducive environment for intimacy. The conversation also touches on the impact of hormones, emotions, and body changes on sex drive. They encourage selflessness, open communication, and prioritizing the sexual needs of both partners. The conversation explores the importance of communication, grace, and knowing your partner in maintaining a healthy and fulfilling sex life in marriage. It emphasizes the need for open and honest conversations about desires, boundaries, and preferences. Paige shares her  personal experiences and offer practical tips for keeping the spark alive, including planning dates, finding time for intimacy, and seeking resources and support. They also highlight the significance of prioritizing the marital relationship and creating a safe and loving environment for sexual intimacy.


Takeaways

• Sex drives can vary between partners in a marriage, and it is important to understand and communicate about each other's needs.
• Creating a conducive environment for intimacy, such as setting the mood and engaging in non-sexual touch throughout the day, can help increase sex drive.
• Hormones, emotions, and body changes, especially during different phases of life like motherhood, can affect sex drive.
• Open and honest communication, selflessness, and prioritizing the sexual needs of both partners are key to maintaining a healthy and satisfying sex life in marriage. Communication is key in maintaining a healthy and fulfilling sex life in marriage.
• Being open and honest about desires, boundaries, and preferences is crucial.
• Planning dates and finding time for intimacy can help keep the spark alive.
• Seeking resources and support, such as books and counseling, can enhance the sexual relationship.
• Prioritizing the marital relationship and creating a safe and loving environment for sexual intimacy is essential.

Chapter Makers

00:00 Introduction and Prayer for Increased Engagement
04:16 The Taboo of Talking About Sex in Christian Spaces
06:10 Lessons Learned from First-Time Sexual Experiences
09:41 Understanding the Variations in Sex Drives
14:22 The Role of Emotions and Hormones in Sex Drive
20:27 The Importance of Communication and Selflessness in Maintaining a Healthy Sex Life
25:28 Moving Through the Phases and Knowing Your Partner
26:21 Grace and Realistic Expectations in the Bedroom
28:42 The Role of Community and Resources
31:09 Being Comfortable with Yourself and Your Body
32:35 Keeping the Fire and Spark Alive
33:04 Treating Your Spouse as an Adult and Avoiding Resentment
36:23 The Connection Between Sex and Marriage
42:59 Prayer and Intentionality in the Bedroom

Connect with Paige here:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paigenaturally/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4agONiCZcI8

Connect with Zhara:
Follow Zhara on Instagram @ zhara.marie -  https://bit.ly/4aPXjtj

Follow our podcast page @beyondthebouquetpod - https://bit.ly/3xzcKqJ

The podcast episode emphasized the importance of viewing sex as a pleasurable experience rather than a chore and addressed the need to confront any feelings of guilt, shame, or misconceptions surrounding sexual health and contraception. Here are key points to expand on this topic:

• Sexual Pleasure: The discussion highlighted that sex should be a beautiful blessing and a source of intimacy and joy within a marriage. It should not be seen as a duty or task but as a way to deepen the connection with one's partner. By approaching sex with a focus on pleasure and intimacy, couples can enhance their relationship and strengthen their bond.
• Guilt and Shame: The episode stressed the importance of working through any feelings of guilt or shame related to sexual health and contraception. These negative emotions may stem from societal norms, religious beliefs, or personal experiences. It is crucial for individuals to address these emotions and recognize that sexual health is a natural and essential aspect of human relationships.
• Misconceptions about Contraception: The conversation also emphasized the need to dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding contraception. By seeking accurate information from reliable sources such as medical professionals and reputable organizations like ACOG, CDC, or WHO, individuals can make informed decisions about their reproductive health. It is essential to understand that contraception is a personal choice and should be approached with knowledge and understanding.
• Open Communication: To overcome feelings of guilt, shame, or confusion about sexual health and contraception, open communication with a partner is key. Couples should feel comfortable discussing their needs, preferences, and concerns regarding contraception. By fostering a safe and open dialogue, individuals can address any issues or misconceptions together and make informed decisions that align with their values and beliefs.
• Seeking Support: The episode highlighted the importance of having a supportive network, whether through friends, mentors, or healthcare providers. A trusted support system can help individuals navigate the complexities of sexual health and contraception with confidence and clarity. By seeking guidance and support from those who understand and respect their choices, individuals can feel empowered to make decisions that are right for them.

In summary, the episode emphasized the importance of viewing sex as a positive and pleasurable experience, addressing any negative emotions or misconceptions surrounding sexual health and contraception, and fostering open communication and support within relationships to promote healthy sexual well-being.

Timestamps
[00:03:17] Contraceptive myths and discussions.

[00:06:40] Contraception and fertility misconceptions

[00:09:23] Birth control challenges.

[00:14:12] Fertility awareness methods in marriage.

[00:17:13] Women advocating for themselves.

[00:20:15] Sex builds intimacy and communication.

[00:23:44] Supportive spouse.

[00:26:45] Sex and performance pressure.

[00:29:40] Choosing a trusted gynecologist.

[00:33:02] Sexuality and contraception decision-making.


Connect with Zhara:
Follow Zhara on Instagram @ zhara.marie -  https://bit.ly/4aPXjtj

Follow our podcast page @beyondthebouquetpod - https://bit.ly/3xzcKqJ

In this episode of the Beyond the Bouquet podcast, Zhara interviews financial expert Renate McDonald about the importance of understanding financial freedom as a wife. They discuss the myths and misconceptions surrounding couple finances and the need for both partners to be involved in financial decision-making. Renate emphasizes the importance of open communication, visibility of accounts, and joint responsibility in managing finances. They also touch on the topic of investments and provide practical steps for couples to take, including assessing their current financial standing, establishing goals, and assessing investment options. In this conversation, Renate McDonald shares her expertise on investing as a couple. She emphasizes the importance of research and narrowing down investment options to a maximum of three. Renate also discusses the need for couples to have a similar risk tolerance and to walk together in their investment journey. She highlights the importance of open communication, vulnerability, and breaking down walls in order to have a healthy financial partnership. Renate provides practical tips for tracking expenses and recommends using Excel and the Home Budget app. She also addresses the question of marrying down and emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance and surrounding oneself with godly counsel.

Takeaways

• Both partners in a marriage should be involved in financial decision-making and have visibility of accounts.
• Financial independence and separate accounts can lead to problems in a marriage.
• Understanding your current financial standing and establishing goals are important first steps in managing finances as a couple.
• Assessing investment options and risk tolerance is crucial for couples looking to invest.
• Open communication and joint responsibility are key to a healthy financial relationship. Narrow down investment options to a maximum of three and research them deeply
• Couples should have a similar risk tolerance and walk together in their investment journey
• Open communication, vulnerability, and breaking down walls are essential for a healthy financial partnership
• Use tools like Excel and the Home Budget app to track expenses
• Seek God's guidance and surround yourself with godly counsel when making important financial decisions

Connect with Renate here:
LinkedIn :https://www.linkedin.com/in/renatemcdonald/?originalSubdomain=jm
Learn Grow Invest : https://learngrowinvestclub.com/

Connect with Zhara:
Follow Zhara on Instagram @ zhara.marie -  https://bit.ly/4aPXjtj

Follow our podcast page @beyondthebouquetpod - https://bit.ly/3xzcKqJ

In this episode, Zhara discusses the topic of embracing new beginnings and starting over as a Christian wife. She encourages listeners to navigate transitions with faith, courage, and grace. Zhara shares personal stories of trying new things and taking leaps of faith, emphasizing the importance of embracing change and redefining one's life at any point. She addresses common fears such as failure, judgment, and the fear of the unknown, reminding listeners that it is never too late to start over. Zhara also highlights the significance of finding new adventures and self-care in different seasons of life.

Takeaways

• Embrace the opportunity for renewal and personal growth
• Redefining your life and embracing change takes courage
• It is never too late to start over
• Don't be afraid of failure, judgment, or the unknown

Chapters
00:00 Introduction: Embracing New Beginnings
08:20 Chapter 2: Embracing Each New Beginning
14:48 Chapter 4: Overcoming Fears: Failure, Judgment, and the Unknown
29:05 Conclusion: Leave a Review and See You Next Time

Connect with Zhara here:
Follow Zhara on Instagram @ zhara.marie -  https://bit.ly/4aPXjtj

Follow our podcast page @beyondthebouquetpod - https://bit.ly/3xzcKqJ

In this episode, Avia Aiken-Brown and Zhara discuss the challenges and joys of marriage. They explore the idea of marriage as a mirror, reflecting both the beauty and weaknesses of individuals. Avia shares her personal love story and the importance of choosing love every day. They also discuss the challenges of transitioning from friends to a romantic relationship. Avia and Zhara highlight the importance of resolving issues quickly and creating a peaceful atmosphere in the home. They also discuss the impact of hormonal changes on emotions and relationships. This conversation explores various aspects of marriage, including the importance of alone time, understanding introvert and extrovert tendencies, the purpose of marriage for holiness rather than happiness, the refining process in marriage, the joy of long-suffering, the work required in marriage, supporting a spouse with chronic illness, and managing triggers and expectations in marriage. The conversation emphasizes the need for communication, self-awareness, and seeking counseling to navigate challenges and strengthen the marital bond.

Takeaways

• Marriage is a reflection of both the beauty and weaknesses of individuals.
• Choosing love every day is essential for a successful marriage.
• Transitioning from friends to a romantic relationship can be challenging but rewarding.
• Resolving issues quickly and creating a peaceful atmosphere in the home is crucial.
• Hormonal changes can impact emotions and relationships. Alone time is important in a marriage to balance individual needs and recharge.
• Understanding introvert and extrovert tendencies can help partners navigate social dynamics and respect each other's boundaries.
• Marriage is meant for holiness, as it refines individuals and brings them into greater alignment with the Lord.
• Long-suffering is a necessary aspect of marriage, requiring patience and endurance.
• Supporting a spouse with chronic illness involves practical care, empathy, and understanding.
• Triggers in marriage can be managed through self-awareness, communication, and seeking counseling.
• Managing expectations in marriage involves recognizing and addressing unrealistic assumptions.
• Individual and couples counseling can provide valuable support and guidance in navigating challenges in marriage.

Connect with Avia here:
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/aviaiken/?hl=en

Connect the Host
Follow Zhara on Instagram @ zhara.marie - https://www.instagram.com/zhara.marie?igsh=cDdiaGtrODRpcmtr&utm_source=qr

Follow our podcast page @beyondthebouquetpod - https://www.instagram.com/zhara.marie?igsh=cDdiaGtrODRpcmtr&utm_source=qr

In this episode, Zhara interviews Tasha Lowe about her experience with love across borders. Tasha shares her background and how she met her husband. She discusses the challenges of maintaining a long-distance relationship and the decision to break up and reconcile. Tasha also talks about her second experience with love across borders during the COVID-19 pandemic and the emotional struggles she faced. Despite the difficulties, Tasha finds support and strength in her faith. In this conversation, Tasha Lowe shares her experience of navigating a long-distance relationship and the challenges she faced, including financial struggles, depression, and uncertainty. Despite the difficulties, Tasha and her husband found unexpected help and support along the way. They leaned on their faith and used creativity as a coping mechanism. Through their business, Just Genius Kids, they found a way to thrive and support each other. Tasha emphasizes the importance of communication, planning, and focusing on the present rather than worrying about the future. She encourages individuals in long-distance relationships to prioritize their own well-being and maintain open and honest conversations with their partners.

Takeaways

• Maintaining a long-distance relationship can be challenging, but with open communication and trust, it is possible to overcome the distance.
• Parents' support and trust in a relationship can make a significant difference in navigating challenges and maintaining a strong bond.
• Love across borders requires patience, resilience, and a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances.
• Having a sense of humor and finding joy in difficult situations can help to lighten the emotional burden of a long-distance relationship. Long-distance relationships can be challenging, but with open communication and planning, they can thrive.
• Leaning on faith and finding support from unexpected sources can help navigate difficult times.
• Creativity can be a powerful coping mechanism during challenging periods.
• Maintaining individual well-being is crucial in sustaining a long-distance relationship.
• Focus on the present and make plans together to create a shared vision for the future.

About Tasha Lowe
Tasha T. Lowe is a kid’s book author and illustrator from the Caribbean Island of Jamaica, currently residing in British Columbia, Canada. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work and has over 15 years’ experience working in that field in Jamaica, Canada and the United States. In partnership with her husband, she is Co-founder of Just Genios Kids – creators of fun and interactive kid’s books and merchandise.

Connect with Tasha
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/justgenioskids/
                        : https://www.instagram.com/lowekeylife/
    Website:    https://justgenioskids.com/

Connect the Host
Follow Zhara on Instagram @ zhara.marie - https://www.instagram.com/zhara.marie?igsh=cDdiaGtrODRpcmtr&utm_source=qr

Follow our podcast page @beyondthebouquetpod - https://www.instagram.com/zhara.marie?igsh=cDdiaGtrODRpcmtr&utm_source=qr

In this episode, Jhoni Lee shares her experiences and insights on marriage and the challenges that come with it. She discusses the expectations vs reality of marriage and how it differs from her initial perceptions. She discusses the importance of communication and emotional support in a relationship, highlighting the need for understanding and empathy. Jhoni-Lee also talks about the role of spiritual growth in her marriage and how it has helped her and her husband navigate challenges. 

She emphasizes the importance of choosing love and being true to oneself in a marriage. Finally, she offers advice for newlyweds, encouraging them to be selective about the advice they take and to stay true to themselves.

Takeaways

• Marriage often differs from our initial expectations, and it's important to adapt and grow together as a couple.
• Surprises and unique decisions can make weddings memorable and special.
• Balancing different personalities and preferences in a marriage requires understanding, compromise, and effective communication.
• Navigating conflicts in a marriage involves finding a balance between addressing issues and giving each other space. Effective communication and emotional support are crucial in a marriage.
• Spiritual growth can strengthen a marriage and help couples navigate challenges.
• Choosing love and understanding is essential in maintaining a healthy and fulfilling relationship.
• Newlyweds should be selective about the advice they receive and stay true to themselves.

Connect with the Guest here:
Instagram :https://www.instagram.com/loveatforsythejm
Instagram:  https://instagram.com/cupojho
YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/MicalForsythe

Connect the Host
Follow Zhara on Instagram @ zhara.marie - https://www.instagram.com/zhara.marie?igsh=cDdiaGtrODRpcmtr&utm_source=qr

Follow our podcast page @beyondthebouquetpod - https://www.instagram.com/zhara.marie?igsh=cDdiaGtrODRpcmtr&utm_source=qr

Summary

In this episode, Zhara and Yashieka discuss the painful topic of child loss and navigating the depths of grief. Yashieka shares her personal experience of losing her son and the impact it had on her and her husband. They discuss the importance of support from friends and family during the grieving process and the challenges of facing the silence after the loss. Yashieka emphasizes the significance of therapy in coping with grief and finding ways to manage life without the child. They also explore various coping mechanisms and strategies for moving forward. In this conversation, Yashieka Grant shares her experience of losing her child and how she navigated the challenges of grief. She emphasizes the importance of finding support and resources, such as grief books, online communities, and support groups. Yashieka also discusses the impact of child loss on her marriage and how she and her husband worked through the challenges together. She shares her spiritual journey and the difficult questions she had for God, ultimately finding comfort and hope in her faith. Yashieka's story serves as an inspiration for others going through similar experiences, reminding them that they are not alone and that there is strength and healing in connecting with others and holding onto hope.

Takeaways

• Child loss is a deeply painful experience that requires support, understanding, and hope.
• Grief doesn't have a season and can come at any time, requiring individuals to navigate through difficult moments.
• Support from friends and family is crucial during the grieving process, but it's important to recognize that people may not always be able to provide ongoing support.
• Therapy is a valuable tool for processing grief and learning to manage life without the child.
• Coping mechanisms such as breathing exercises, scripture, and finding ways to honor the memory of the child can help individuals navigate the depths of grief. Seek support and resources, such as grief books, online communities, and support groups, to help navigate the challenges of child loss.
• Child loss can impact a marriage, but open communication, understanding, and support can help couples navigate the challenges together.
• Grief can lead to spiritual questions and doubts, but finding comfort and hope in faith can provide strength and healing.
• Hold onto hope and connect with others who have gone through similar experiences, as they can provide understanding, support, and guidance.

Connect with the Guest here:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shieksbg?igsh=b2VpaTRoZXJ3NWtl

Connect the Host
Follow Zhara on Instagram @ zhara.marie - https://www.instagram.com/zhara.marie?igsh=cDdiaGtrODRpcmtr&utm_source=qr

Follow our podcast page @beyondthebouquetpod - https://www.instagram.com/zhara.marie?igsh=cDdiaGtrODRpcmtr&utm_source=qr

In this episode, Stacia and Zhara delve into the complexities of balancing motherhood with other roles and responsibilities, shedding light on the challenges and emphasizing the necessity of a supportive community. They stress the importance of creating a village to navigate the demands of motherhood, recognizing that different seasons may require shifting priorities.

Their conversation delves into the impact of children on marriage, underlining the need for open communication and support from partners. They also touch upon the significance of self-care and recognizing when one's own identity is at risk of being overshadowed by the demands of motherhood.

Moreover, the discussion extends to the spiritual dimension of marriage, emphasizing the importance of employing spiritual tools to overcome challenges. Stacia shares her personal experience of managing a long-distance marriage, highlighting the financial and emotional hurdles it entails, while also emphasizing the necessity of self-care and prioritizing one's own needs.

In conclusion, Stacia advises listeners to embrace the inevitable changes that come with motherhood and marriage, urging them to know themselves and remain intentional about their well-being amidst the various demands of life.

Follow Stacia on IG : https://www.instagram.com/staciagoodlitbetty/