Enjoy the visual experience: https://youtu.be/px5JopMHc44

Do your kids typically favor one parent when it comes to...EVERYTHING?!  "Mom, can you..., Mommy, I need...., Mama, I don't feel good." Sound familiar? Go ask your father! If you can relate, this episode is for you. If you cannot relate, you're in luck, because this episode is for you too.

This is not a discussion about gender roles per se; however, it is interesting how certain responsibilities gravitate to on parent versus the other. How did we get here? Sure, women are naturally more nurturing than me, and men are a little rougher around the edges (typically), but that doesn't seem to solve the mystery. Also, is it fair that women (typically) bear the responsibilities of caring for the children, the husband, and the home? Maybe that's changed too.

We had a meaningful discussion with James & Tonya Johnson about our family dynamics, and the importance of each parent being responsible contributors when it comes to the children. Even with the best of intentions, somehow the children seem to develop a preference for one parent over the other...at least in their younger years. We had fun with the discussion, and, more importantly, we grew. 

Grab your spouse, mate, or anyone that might benefit from this conversation and watch it together. We'll be waiting to discuss your perspectives in the comments. Be blessed, Fam!

#toughconversations  #marriagegoals #couples #blacklove #loveandbusiness #smallbusinessowner #entrepreneurship 

Connect with us on social media:

Healthy Marriage Is Dope IG: https://instagram.com/healthymarriageisdope

Kisha's IG: https://instagram.com/love_kishaj

Derek's IG: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast

Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: 

Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co

Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios

We're losing our primary source of income, and it feels...weird. At least that's the feeling at the time of this recording. Neither of us are overly concerned or overcome by the black cloud of doubt, yet. In a sense, we've been preparing for the next phase, but there's something about knowing the date when that phase technically begins. We also have five children that like to eat all day everyday!

For Derek, the biggest struggle is attaching to a new professional identity. The corporate life has been rewarding, but at some point he got lost in the throws of success. Similarly, Kisha has struggled with a similar professional identity crisis since she became a stay-at-home mom in 2007. That's a long time to carry such a burden, but this commonality will help them find the common ground as they work through the tough conversations ahead. 

Grab your spouse, mate, or anyone that might benefit from this conversation and watch it together. We'll be waiting to discuss your perspectives in the comments. Be blessed, Fam!

#toughconversations #marriagegoals #couples #blacklove #loveandbusiness #smallbusinessowner #entrepreneurship #yourefired #jobless

Connect with us on social media:

The Family IG: https://instagram.com/healthymarriageisdope

Kisha's IG: https://instagram.com/love_kishaj

Derek's IG: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast

Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: 

Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co

Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios

Does your relationship have the keys to a healthy work life balance? Many couples start and end their days with brief, superficial conversations. "Good morning, have a good day," or "how was your day?" Now there's nothing wrong with these questions, but they are often used to check the 'communication' box in the relationship. Most of us spend the majority of our day with people outside of our relationship, or, at least, channeling out attention to others. We don't even notice that the relationship is eroding until it hits a critical point. 

Does it get any easier if you work with or run a business with your spouse? On the one hand, the time away can shield the other from the daily frustrations of the workday. On the other, spending 'too much' time together can be the source of angst and frustration for many. But wait, how can you spend too much time with the one you have chosen to spend your life with (for the married crowd)? How do you manage your career, family, and romance without going nuts?

We had a meaningful discussion with James & Tonya Johnson about the highs and lows of working together, and if 'balance' is even a thing. In its most literal form, balance means that the opposing forces are equal, and nothing is moving. Life typically leans more toward 'what needs attention, gets the attention.' However you define a healthy state, the important thing is for couples to agree on what that looks like, and remain accountable to each other to ensure the boundaries are honored. It's a dance for sure. 

Grab your spouse, mate, or anyone that might benefit from this conversation and watch it together. We'll be waiting to discuss your perspectives in the comments. Be blessed, Fam!

#toughconversations  #marriagegoals #couples #blacklove #loveandbusiness #smallbusinessowner #entrepreneurship 

Connect with us on social media:

The Family IG: https://instagram.com/healthymarriageisdope

Kisha's IG: https://instagram.com/love_kishaj

Derek's IG: https://instagram.com/djohnslive

Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors: 

Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co 

Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios

How should I protect you? By now, most of the world has developed a theory or a perspective of what should (or should not) have happened at the Oscars (2022). The hosts are not here to rehash the incident, but it did get them thinking about what protection looks like in their marriage and family. Kisha doesn't need anyone to speak or act on her behalf, but appreciates the protective quality in Derek as the head of the household. Derek knows that Kisha can handle her own, but when should he step in (if ever)? One interesting fact is that they've never had a conversation about what the expectations are of each other.

Kisha recalls an incident when a perceived friend took a not so friendly tone with her in a group setting. That situation got interesting. Derek tells the story about their oldest son having to "put the paws on" a classmate in self-defense; another interesting story. Neither of them promote violence, but agree that there is a tipping point. Where do you stand on the 'knuck if you buck' continuum? Chime in with your thoughts!

Disclaimer: WE ARE NOT LICENSED THERAPISTS, OR ANY KIND OF THERAPIST FOR THAT MATTER. We are not responsible for the views and opinions of our guests. Furthermore, our views and opinions are presented for consideration and conversation only. We do not accept liability for any decisions made based on the consumers interpretation therein.

#theblackfamilyexperience #knuckifyoubuck #marriagecounseling #marriageandforgiveness

Support the pod by supporting our sponsors:

Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co

Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios

Let’s connect socially:

https://instagram.com/healthymarriageisdope

https://facebook.com/healthymarriageisdope

Kisha: https://instagram.com/love_kishaj

Derek: https://instagram.com/djohnslive

Welcome to 2022!!!!! Whew ya'll, we made it, and we're updating our married mindset. This shift is so empowering for our relationship and it can definitely enhance yours as well.

We're not really big on making resolutions for the new year, but we are very serious about planning our goals for the new year. We decided to share what we discuss in hopes that it will spark a conversation between you and your partner. What are some habits or behaviors that no longer serve you, therefore are being left behind? What are some goals that you are going to pursue? What has been working for you, both personally and professionally, that you are bringing with you? This was a very positive and helpful exercise in opening the dialogue and speaking your truth. The conversation also helped to point out some of the language we use that could sabotage our progress. The shift in language and action makes all the difference in the world! We hope you enjoy.....Be Blessed Fam!

Disclaimer: WE ARE NOT LICENSED THERAPISTS, OR ANY KIND OF THERAPIST FOR THAT MATTER. We are not responsible for the views and opinions of our guests. Furthermore, our views and opinions are presented for consideration and conversation only. We do not accept liability for any decisions made based on the consumers interpretation therein.

#theblackfamilyexperience #howtoheal #marriagecounseling #marriageandforgiveness

Support the pod by supporting our sponsors:

Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co

Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios

Let’s connect socially:

https://instagram.com/healthymarriageisdope

https://facebook.com/healthymarriageisdope

Kisha: https://instagram.com/love_kishaj

Derek: https://instagram.com/djohnslive

Is forgiveness even real?! Does it get easier as the relationship ages? We had to check ourselves in this episode and face some harsh truths about what forgiveness meant to each of us individually and also how we identify with the definition of 'forgiveness' as a couple. It gets pretty obvious early in the conversation that we had differing schools of thought during the first several years of our marriage. On one end of the spectrum, one of us forgave because that was the right thing to do. On the other end, one of us saw forgiveness as a weapon...or a pass to continue ignorant, immature behaviors. The tone of the conversation reflects our growth as a couple. We pray that it gives you hope, because there was a time when we couldn't or wouldn't operate in full transparency primarily to avoid serious conflict or as a way to manipulate a situation. As always, we welcome your thoughts on what forgiveness means to you and the importance it holds in your relationship. Share your thoughts via the related posts published through the social media accounts below or leave a voice note if you really want your voice to be heard. Be blessed, Fam.

Disclaimer: WE ARE NOT LICENSED THERAPISTS, OR ANY KIND OF THERAPIST FOR THAT MATTER. We are not responsible for the views and opinions of our guests. Furthermore, our views and opinions are presented for consideration and conversation only. We do not accept liability for any decisions made based on the consumers interpretation therein.    

#theblackfamilyexperience #howtoheal #marriagecounseling #marriageandforgiveness 

Support the pod by supporting our sponsors:  

Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co  

Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios   

Let’s connect socially:  

https://instagram.com/healthymarriageisdope 

https://facebook.com/healthymarriageisdope 

Kisha: https://instagram.com/love_kishaj 

Derek: https://instagram.com/djohnslive

The idea of therapy can be an overwhelming concept for any relationship. Do both partners have to be onboard? What if one partner isn’t interested? Will this even help? The reality is we don’t have all of the answers, and neither will any therapist. The right therapist will open your eyes to who you are, your character strengths and weaknesses, and guide you into realizations that help you heal, and subsequently become a better person to offer your relationship. The real work is oftentimes individual, and once we set our egos aside to accept that, we can find greater clarity on what a successful relationship requires of us. This process usually isn’t that obvious. At least it wasn’t for us. I’m this conversation with LMFT Nicole Ward, we arrived at a few necessary aha moments that will help dictate some meaningful shot-term relationship goals that will strengthen our marriage. Hopefully, this conversation gives you hope, encouragement, clarity, or simply sparks a conversation that you might otherwise avoided. Let us know via a voice note or any of the social media links below. Be blessed, Fam.

Disclaimer: WE ARE NOT LICENSED THERAPISTS, OR ANY KIND OF THERAPIST FOR THAT MATTER. We are not responsible for the views and opinions of our guests. Furthermore, our views and opinions are presented for consideration and conversation only.

Nicole Ward is a great conversationalist and we recommend her for consideration when researching Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. Her info is below.

IG: https://instagram.com/nicolemft12

company: https://solcompastherapy.com

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-love-be-well-be-whole/id1535578925

Support us by supporting our sponsors:

Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co

Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios

Connect with us on social media:

HMID: https://instagram.com/healthymarriageisdope

The Family IG: https://instagram.com/tbl4seven

Kisha's IG: https://instagram.com/love_kishaj

Derek's IG: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast

We need therapy y'all, and there is no shame attached. We're not headed down any rocky paths that would cause concern, We just understand the value of working on us individually and as a couple with the guidance of a professional therapist. So the journey begins, or really, continues as we've had marriage counseling earlier on. The premise is simple, build the muscle before you have to be strong. We're sharing 10 ways how therapy helps our marriage. Hopefully this sparks a conversation in your relationship (with yourself or your partner), that will lead to healing. Let us know via social media or via the voice notes links below if anything resonates with you or if you completely disagree. Be blessed, Fam!

10 Ways Therapy Benefits Our Marriage:

1. Facilitates conversations that we would otherwise avoid.

2. Helps drive us to a deeper level of consideration for the other’s perspective, feelings, and pain.

3. Helps put words to feelings we didn’t know how to express

4. Reveals character strengths and weaknesses

5. Reshapes our language. Flips negative talk into empowering speak.

6. Calls us on our BS.

7. Challenges us to grow.

8. Shows a level of commitment to the survival of the marriage or relationship.

9. Can help tip the scale back in the favor of a healthy relationship.

10. Get applicable exercises tailored to your relationship that you can use in real life.

#theblackfamilyexperience

Support us by supporting our sponsors:

Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co

Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios

Connect with us on social media:

HMID: https://instagram.com/healthymarriageisdope

The Family IG: https://instagram.com/tbl4seven

Kisha's IG: https://instagram.com/love_kishaj

Derek's IG: https://instagram.com/thedearsonpodcast

Your happiness is not my responsibility. This is such an honest, but delicate topic. What is the responsibility of one spouse to another when it comes to being happy (or creating a happy environment). This is a very transparent conversation about where we are in our journey, and it definitely revealed that we have much work to do. Can one spouse (or partner) truly be happy knowing that the other is not? Wouldn't one's happiness rub off on the other? If only we had the answers. We'd love to hear your perspective via the voice note link below or by responding to any of the social media posts from the accounts below. Maybe we'll seek some guidance from the Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist that will be  part of the conversation in a couple episodes after this one? Oh...y'all ain't know that we are actually trying to providing meaningful content that most of need? All for free.99. You're welcome! Seriously though, we are passionate about having or pursuing healthy relationships. Life is short, and happiness is fleeting. Please make sure that you communicate your feelings often, tell those whom you love that you love them today. Actually, do it now...then listen to the podcast. We appreciate you!

#theblackfamilyexperience #marriageadvice #healthyrelationships #happiness #joy #happinessorjoy

Business inquiries: [email protected]

Support the pod by supporting our sponsors:

Johns & Co Apparel: https://johnsandcompany.co

Love Kisha J Studios: https://etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios

Let’s connect socially:

https://instagram.com/healthymarriageisdope 

https://facebook.com/healthymarriageisdope 

Kisha: https://instagram.com/love_kishaj

Derek: https://instagram.com/djohnslive

The Dear Son, Podcast: https://thedearsonpodcast.com

Why you should work with your spouse. Or is it, should you work with your spouse? Hmmm... There are many reasons that can support either position. In this episode we discuss what we do and don't enjoy about the process of building our family business. As with any relationship, project, or presentation, communication is key. There are times when our personalities collide, and others when our personalities create a gap in responsibilities that impact the business. The best foundation a couple can lay is in the form of an honest conversation about what each wants the business to accomplish. If the business makes sense after that, add a few reasonable boundaries to keep the business on the right track, and more importantly, out of your bedroom. I mean, if the bedroom is the office, then do what you must. We believe you'll find value in this conversation (and all the others). Let us know how you feel by leaving a review where possible and tagging us in your related conversations on social media. For those that are more private, you can leave a voicemail for us via the link below and indicating that you want it to remain anonymous. We are on track to grow this podcast into the top 100 within the parenting category in 2022, and we appreciate your support along the way. Every listen is appreciated. Be blessed, Fam!

#theblackfamilyexperience #marriageadvice #healthyrelationships

Business inquiries: [email protected]

Support the pod by supporting our sponsors:

Johns & Co Apparel: www.johnsandcompany.co

Love Kisha J Studios: www.etsy.com/shop/LoveKishaJStudios

Let’s connect socially:

www.instagram.com/healthymarriageisdope www.facebook.com/healthymarriageisdope Kisha: www.instagram.com/love_kishaj

Derek: www.instagram.com/djohnslive

The Dear Son, Podcast: www.thedearsonpodcast.com