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When was the last time you really kissed your spouse? Not a quick peck as you rush out the door, but a genuine, meaningful connection? Matthew and Monica Powers tackle this deceptively simple question that reveals volumes about modern marriages.

The statistics might shock you – 16% of married couples kiss just once daily, while a staggering 10% kiss only once or twice weekly. These numbers correlate directly with relationship satisfaction, with couples who kiss less frequently reporting dramatically higher divorce rates. But why aren't people kissing their spouses? "We're too busy" tops the list of excuses, though the same individuals likely find time for social media scrolling and Netflix binges.

Science backs up what our hearts already know: kissing matters. Each kiss releases powerful chemicals like oxytocin and dopamine that reduce stress, boost immunity, and create feelings of connection. One fascinating study from the 1960s even found that men who kissed their wives before leaving for work lived an average of five years longer than those who didn't.

For couples wanting more physical affection, communication is key. Using "I statements" like "I miss feeling close to you" instead of accusatory "You never kiss me" language opens the door for honest conversation without triggering defensiveness. The podcast offers practical tips for better kissing – from the importance of oral hygiene to experimenting with different kissing styles – and suggests six seconds as the scientific "sweet spot" for a meaningful kiss.

Ask your spouse today: "Are we kissing enough?" Their answer might reveal more about your relationship than you realize – and could be the first step toward rekindling physical connection in your marriage.

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After a nearly two-month hiatus, we're back to update you on our whirlwind of recent life events including house hunting heartbreaks, tornado cleanup, and busy sports seasons. Our unexpected break wasn't planned, but we've been amazed to see podcast downloads continue at record levels even during our absence.

• Spring sports season hit us hard with Monica coaching high school softball and our son starting baseball
• Put our house on the market and had our hearts broken during a complicated house hunting journey
• Made the difficult decision to walk away from what seemed like our perfect home due to major inspection issues
• Survived a scary tornado that hit just 2.5 miles from our home and participated in community cleanup
• Focused on our church small group ministry that's helping couples strengthen their marriages
• Thrilled to see our global audience growing with listeners from Amsterdam joining our top 10 locations

We'll be back with brand new weekly episodes starting April 8th! Submit your questions at themarriedafpodcast.com or through our social media channels. Please rate and review us on your podcast platform to help others find the show.

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Can maintaining a robust sex life within marriage truly be the secret to a healthier heart? Join us as we explore this possibility, revealing the intriguing statistic that men who have sex more than 103 times a year may enjoy significantly lower risks of heart disease. We're Matthew and Monica Powers, and in this episode, we navigate the fascinating links between marital intimacy, sexual health, and modern relationship trends. As we share personal stories, including a humorous debate over lipstick and mustache grooming, we also tackle the shifting perceptions of marriage among young adults who view it as increasingly outdated.

From discussing the health benefits of an active sex life to questioning whether marriage still holds its traditional value amidst changing relationship norms, we cover a lot of ground. With divorce rates soaring and the allure of multiple partners, these topics couldn't be more relevant. We promise to keep the conversation lively and engaging, peppered with laughter and personal anecdotes. And as we wrap up, we tease upcoming episodes inspired by recent articles, ensuring our listeners have plenty of thought-provoking content to look forward to. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy a candid discussion that's both entertaining and enlightening.

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Join us as we unpack provocative questions and explore the complex relationships between personal faith, self-worth, and overcoming life's hurdles. We kick off with a touch of humor inspired by Wayne's World, setting the stage for a lively discussion about the power of asking the right questions in relationships. Get ready to discover ten insightful questions that can deepen your connection with your partner and foster enduring love.

Our journey continues as we reflect on the timeless story of Joseph from the Book of Genesis. We draw inspiration from his resilience and unwavering faith, even in the face of betrayal and hardship, and how this mirrors our own paths in life's unpredictable journey. One of us shares a deeply personal moment of committing to follow Jesus, a decision that marked a pivotal turning point akin to Joseph's ultimate redemption. This chapter is a heartfelt reminder of the transformative power of faith and perseverance, offering encouragement to those seeking spiritual strength.

Parenting challenges and dreams of financial freedom paint the final strokes of our conversation. We share the joys of watching our children thrive and the unexpected delight of seeing them succeed in roles like public speaking. As we dream about owning the Boston Red Sox and living a life of generosity, we reflect on the shift from personal indulgence to community impact. Closing with a heartfelt prayer for success, we express our gratitude for the opportunity to share our journey, hoping our message inspires and uplifts in equal measure.

Visit our friends at Kingdom and Will. Go to www.kingdomandwill.com and use promo code MARRIEDAF for 15% off all orders. 

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Marriage is under scrutiny, with many young adults questioning its relevance today. Does this age-old institution still hold value in our modern lives? Our latest episode of the Married AF podcast tackles this provocative question head-on, using a shocking story about a partner who vanished for five weeks without a trace, leaving their spouse in distress. Through this narrative, we shine a light on the critical signs of emotional detachment and the importance of open, honest communication in relationships. We explore how recognizing early warnings, like a lack of shared communication or growing indifference, can prevent such heart-wrenching situations.

Do you know how to spot the signs of relationship strain before it's too late? We take you through crucial red flags that could indicate a disconnection between partners, including indifference during conflicts and a diminishing interest in intimacy. Addressing these issues with empathy and support is essential for healing and strengthening bonds. We also share insights on how to rekindle intimacy, even when past traumas or body image concerns come into play. There's a lot to unpack, from the subtlety of secretive behavior to the power of mutual concern in resolving conflicts.

To keep your relationship vibrant and fulfilling, engaging in activities that build trust and intimacy is vital. We offer practical advice on expressing gratitude, creating shared experiences, and even the art of timing when sharing personal news. Emphasizing the value of humor and shared memories, like that unforgettable Applebee's date, we also discuss the spiritual dimension of gratitude and trust. Join us as we navigate these complex themes, ensuring you have the tools to nurture a healthy, connected partnership.

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We explore how certain timeless mistakes continue to unravel relationships, particularly when it comes to understanding and validating our partner's feelings. Our conversation is interwoven with heartfelt stories, such as the unforgettable moment at a Three Doors Down concert where lead singer Brad Arnold's open declaration of faith left an indelible mark on us, reminding us of the surprising ways faith can manifest in public life.

Brad Arnold's transformative journey of faith captured our attention, sparking a desire to have him and his wife share their story with us. We examine the profound impact faith can have on relationships, noting how it can visibly alter one's outlook on life. Through personal anecdotes and testimonies, we dive into the often-overlooked importance of prioritizing the emotions and emergencies of our loved ones. We explore how empathy and understanding can change not just personal dynamics but also the way we interact with the world, as beautifully illustrated by a young girl named Elke during a youth sports event.

The power of small groups in nurturing spiritual growth and deepening relationships is a theme that resonates throughout our discussion. We reflect on the unique presence of God in intimate gatherings and the transformative effects these interactions can have. With anticipation, we look forward to resuming our "Married AF" small group, ready to embrace the blessings of community and shared wisdom. Through candid conversations, we aim to inspire a renewed appreciation for empathy, understanding, and the invaluable connections that enrich our lives. Join us for a heartfelt journey into the intricate dynamics of relationships and the unexpected sources of strength and guidance.

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We open up about prioritizing our partnership by placing God and each other first, setting a strong foundation for a vibrant marriage that defies societal myths of dullness.

Amidst the distractions of modern life, discover how quality time can transform your relationship. We humorously tackle the social media habits that siphon away your attention and suggest practical ways to shift focus from "me time" to "we time." By dedicating weekends to bonding and using creative tools like conversation cards, we explore how these small changes can lead to unexpectedly deep connections with your spouse.

Navigating the complexities of intimacy, we delve into defining cheating, the necessity of transparency, and the importance of understanding love languages. Our discussion highlights how mutual support and effort can lead to a resilient partnership, emphasizing grace and communication as cornerstones. As we look to 2025 with hope and gratitude, we invite you to renew your commitment to marriage, drawing strength from faith and community, fostering a lasting bond that inspires others.

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Join us on the Married AF Podcast as we share our personal revelations, backed by insights from our listeners in Los Angeles and New York City. We reflect on Isaiah 40, which challenges us to prepare a way for the Lord, and this revelation leads us to ponder whether we're living authentically or simply adhering to societal expectations.

As we transition to spiritual introspection, explore the profound impact of prophetic, priestly, and kingly worship. These forms of worship, especially when exemplified by inspiring figures like Angela Schaefer, guide us toward a deeper connection with God, revealing untouched areas in our lives for divine connection. As 2024 draws to a close, we look forward to 2025 with a renewed trust in God’s plan, hoping our discussions inspire you to enrich your relationships and spiritual journey. Through gratitude and prayer, we express thankfulness for the opportunity to share God's word and for the blessings that guide us all.

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Join us as we share our personal journey in exploring the shifting perceptions of marriage and the challenges of representing Christianity with empathy and kindness. We highlight the power of leading by example, especially when it comes to influencing the younger generation and being a source of support in a world filled with conflicting messages.

We also reflect on the missed opportunities for spiritual mentorship with Gen Z, a generation searching for purpose amidst the chaos of modern distractions. The conversation is enriched with stories from mission trips to Juarez, Mexico, where we witnessed the power of faith and resilience firsthand. Here, we explore how prayer, guidance, and community can help nurture the hopes and dreams of those who face adversity daily. We challenge previous generations to step up and support the youth, helping them recognize the opportunities God presents and encouraging them to walk by faith.

Lastly, we shine a light on the remarkable work of Hunger House International, an organization committed to making a difference by following divine guidance. We share our gratitude for the opportunities to spread hope and emphasize the importance of supporting such impactful causes. By trusting in God's provision and embracing the power of community, we invite you to join us in fostering positive change and being "hope dealers" in a world that desperately needs light and transformation.

https://hungerhouseministries.com/

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Monica brings a unique perspective from her transformative journey to Juarez, Mexico, with Hunger House International, where she witnessed firsthand the power of hope and kindness in communities in need. We connect her experiences to a larger discussion on finding hope in places beyond worldly offerings, especially during the holiday season, and reflect on a 1960s study about the effects of deferred hope on the human heart.

We explore the true essence of gratitude and hope amid the hectic holiday season. The stark contrast between first-world expectations and the deep appreciation for small acts of kindness is brought to life through Monica's mission trip stories. We also share our own journey as walking billboards for Jesus, embracing the challenges of leading others to faith and highlighting the inspiring work of Hunger House International. Join us for this heartfelt exploration of hope, faith, and the enduring impact of seemingly simple gestures.

Visit our friends at http://hungerhouseministries.com/