We may think we know who we are marrying - but do we really KNOW the family they come from?

In-laws can be one of the most layered and unspoken dynamics in marriage.

When two people say “I do,” they aren’t just joining lives, they’re also stepping into entire family ecosystems with their own histories, expectations, rhythms, and quirks.

Sometimes that looks like open arms and instant belonging, and other times it feels more like walking on eggshells, navigating conflict, or figuring out how to honor your family of origin without dishonoring your partner.

In this episode I’m joined by my friend Brittany, who I gained as a friend in-law since I have known her husband Josh since childhood!

She also joined her husband’s family long before their wedding day and had years to “date” her in-laws before becoming their daughter-in-law. Her story contrasts with my own, where engagement was met with tension, boundaries had to be redefined, and later healing came through honest late-night conversations on the couch.

Threaded through our convo are bigger questions every couple faces: How do you set healthy boundaries without burning bridges? How do you make peace with what may never change? And how do you stay grounded in love when the dynamics feel complicated?

Whether your story looks more like Brittany’s, mine, or somewhere in between, this episode is an honest look at the beauty and the challenges of “marrying the family too.”

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