Pastors Aaron and Lauren get real about something they’ve practiced for 5 to 6 years: an annual marriage and family vision retreat. Starting out of a hard season and counseling, this practice became one of the most life-giving rhythms in their relationship.

In this episode, they walk through why having a vision for “this season” matters more than chasing a vague life vision, how couples drift without realizing it, and how intentional time away creates deeper connection, trust, and unity.

They also share practical tools for planning your own retreat, including recommended guides, what to do if you cannot travel, how to pace the conversations, and why the goal is not productivity but hearing God together.

In this episode, you’ll hear:
• Why most couples do not “fall apart,” they slowly drift
• How changing seasons (kids, schedules, unexpected family stress) demand new alignment
• What a vision retreat actually looks like (2 to 3 days, built-in fun, honest conversations)
• Why “we agree on principle” still breaks down in the details
• How to handle sensitive categories like finances, intimacy, and conflict without rushing
• The difference between a system and a God-breathed direction for your family

Resources mentioned:
• XO Marriage Vision Retreat Guidebook by Jimmy and Karen Evans (also available on Amazon)
• “Couple Goals” Vision Retreat resource from Sean and Lanette (shared as a free download via QR code when they visited)

Key Scripture referenced:
• Hebrews 2:1 (warning against drifting)

Chapters

00:00 Intro and topic setup
02:00 Why they started doing vision retreats (counseling, rebuilding trust)
07:00 Vision for a season vs “vision for your whole life”
12:00 What couples drift from and why it happens slowly
16:00 Retreat resources: XO guidebook + Couple Goals workbook
22:00 How to plan the retreat: get away, remove distractions, pace it
30:00 Common friction points: finances, intimacy, parenting, extended family
36:00 Daily, weekly, quarterly rhythms that support long-term connection
43:00 Systems vs God’s voice: finding “God’s way” together
50:00 Hebrews 2:1 and the warning against drift
54:00 Wrap-up

If you and your spouse have never done a vision retreat, start this year. Pick a weekend, grab a guidebook, and commit to honest conversations that help you hear God together. Your marriage is worth building on purpose.If you want the resources mentioned in this episode, go search:
• “XO Marriage Vision Retreat Guidebook”
• “Couple Goals vision retreat Sean and Lanette”