The Vision-Driven Marriage

Ready to turn your marriage from auto-pilot to intentional? We're Doug and Leslie Davis, and we're welcoming you to this episode of the Vision Driven Marriage Podcast, where we'll be your guides on a journey to deepening your marital bond through purposeful action. Inspired by the wisdom of 1 John 3:18, we'll unpack what it means to truly love with truth and action. We'll guide you to identify and consciously choose what's best for your marriage, manage your time effectively, set realistic expectations, and communicate your hopes, dreams, and goals.

This episode is more than just theoretical discussion. It's filled with actionable advice to help you enrich your relationship. We'll touch on the importance of intentional intimacy, being humble, praying together, and prioritizing your spouse's needs. Discover how these intentional actions can significantly strengthen your marriage. Whether you're newlyweds or empty-nesters, together we'll learn to embody the message of 1 John 3:18 - to love with truth and action, making your marriage stronger and more fulfilling. Let's embark on this journey together and grow our marriages!

Scripture Mentioned:
1 John 3:18

Resource Mentioned:
4 Ways to Be Intentional In Your Marriage | by YouVersion | Medium

Doug and Leslie can be found at
https://heartcallministries.org/
Email Doug & Leslie at: [email protected]
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeartCallMinistries

Grab freebies and subscribe to the HeartCall newsletter at:
https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/U6chOaj/HeartCallMinistries

Looking for something not listed? It’s probably here: https://linktr.ee/heartcallministries

INTRO/OUTRO MUSIC CREDITS
Theme music: Dead Winter
ASLC-1BEF9A9E-9E9D609662
Artists: White Bones
Composers: White Bones
Audio source: Epidemic Sound

Find out more about Doug and Leslie:

• Free Resources
• Social Media Links
• Current episodes of The Vision Driven Marriage

Click Here

Ever imagined what unrealistic expectations can do to your marriage? Well, you're not alone! Let's embark on an enlightening journey, exploring the treacherous terrain of preconceived notions that often lead to unattainable expectations. These hidden menaces, stemming from past experiences, media, and even pornography, can subtly sabotage the trust and connection in your relationship. Listen up as we reveal how you can prevent your heart from becoming sick with disappointment.

In this episode, we unpack the need to identify emotions and question their roots to better manage unrealistic expectations. We briefly discuss how to examine our past and present influences that shape our expectations and align them with spiritual principles. More than just theory, you'll get practical advice and real-life examples that will help you navigate these tricky issues.

Wrapping up, we discuss strategies for overcoming unrealistic expectations. It's not a quick fix—it takes time, communication, and a willingness to adjust. Mistakes, instead of being viewed as failures, become learning opportunities. We share encouragement and hope from Scripture as we strive to strengthen our marriages. Join us on this journey, and let's navigate the ups and downs of marital life together.

Get the decision tree to help you decide if you are dealing with unrealistic expectations in your marriage. Click HERE

Scripture mentioned:
Proverbs 13:12

Find Doug and Leslie at HeartCall Ministries
https://heartcallministries.org/
Email Doug & Leslie at: [email protected]
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeartCallMinistries

Grab freebies and subscribe to the HeartCall newsletter at:
https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/U6chOaj/HeartCallMinistries

Looking for something not listed? It’s probably here: https://linktr.ee/heartcallministries

INTRO/OUTRO MUSIC CREDITS
Theme music: Dead Winter
ASLC-1BEF9A9E-9E9D609662
Artists: White Bones
Composers: White Bones
Audio source: Epidemic Sound

Find out more about Doug and Leslie:

• Free Resources
• Social Media Links
• Current episodes of The Vision Driven Marriage

Click Here

What if the deepest despair could be transformed into the greatest redemption? What if the wounds of the past could be replaced with a purpose for the future? This is the inspiring journey of Anna McLaughlin, who emerged from the traumas of her non-Christian childhood and found faith, healing, and a life of purpose.

Anna's story is an experience of revival, a testament to the power of God's love, and a shining example of how a broken past can lead to a wholeness in the present. Through honesty with God and a submission to His grace, she discovered the healing potential of marriage, even in the face of the scars of her past. As she transformed her personal trauma into a wellspring of strength, Anna also faced the challenges of raising children without the model of a healthy family relationship from her early life. Yet, she held steadfast, intentionally cultivating an atmosphere of grace and understanding in her marriage and family.

Now, as a guide for others on their paths to healing, Anna’s work extends beyond her home, reaching women through 'She Considers Field', a faith-based Facebook group. Her personal journey of resilience, healing, and growth empowers others in their quest for wholeness and deep personal connections. Join us in this inspiring exploration of pain, healing, and the enduring power of faith.

Anna can also be found at: IG @sheconsidersafield 

Midroll credits:
In Next Life by Uneasy
ASLC-1E56A76A-F9B00E8070

INTRO/OUTRO MUSIC CREDITS
Theme music: Dead Winter
ASLC-1BEF9A9E-9E9D609662
Artists: White Bones
Composers: White Bones
Audio source: Epidemic Sound

Find out more about Doug and Leslie:

• Free Resources
• Social Media Links
• Current episodes of The Vision Driven Marriage

Click Here

Are you feeling the strain in your marriage? The silent battles, the escalating arguments, and the disconnection can take a toll. But what if we said that there are four destructive behaviors, identified by Dr. John Gottman, that could be the root cause? These four horsemen - criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling - are lurking in the shadows of your relationship, leading to its slow demise. Join us as we walk through the mucky waters of these behaviors, illuminating their manifestations, and offering ways to effectively address them. We emphasize the role of God in navigating these turbulent waters and share how 30% of arguments between couples are easily addressed with the other 70% often stemming from these unchecked behaviors.

But it doesn't stop there. As we delve deeper, we discuss how to identify these behaviors and strategize appropriate responses. We underline the importance of fondness and admiration, even amidst disagreements, and how apathy and stonewalling can crack the foundation of a relationship. Moreover, we stress the significance of self-soothing mechanisms that don't involve substance use, for when circumstances become overwhelming. To aid you on this journey, we offer resources from Gottman's Institute that can help you identify and address these behaviors. Rest assured, with God's guidance, we can learn to control our relationships and follow His plan, rekindling the warmth, love, and connection that may seem lost. Join us for this enlightening conversation as we seek to save marriages and strengthen connections.

Scripture Mentioned:
Hebrews 12:15
Proverbs 10:12


HCM LINKS
https://heartcallministries.org/
Email Doug & Leslie at: [email protected]
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeartCallMinistries

Grab freebies and subscribe to the HeartCall newsletter at:
https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/U6chOaj/HeartCallMinistries

Looking for something not listed? It’s probably here: https://linktr.ee/heartcallministries

INTRO/OUTRO MUSIC CREDITS
Theme music: Dead Winter
ASLC-1BEF9A9E-9E9D609662
Artists: White Bones
Composers: White Bones
Audio source: Epidemic Sound

Find out more about Doug and Leslie:

• Free Resources
• Social Media Links
• Current episodes of The Vision Driven Marriage

Click Here

Feeling overwhelmed by negative moods in your marriage? Looking for practical strategies to navigate through them? Well, you're in the right place. Join us, Doug and Leslie Davis, as we unpack the complex issue of managing negative moods in a relationship and provide you with tips and strategies to help you and your spouse find balance and harmony.

We kick off the conversation by defining what an unregulated mood looks like, its impact on relationships, and the power in believing one can regulate these moods. We talk about the different ways negative moods can manifest such as anger, fear, sadness, and withdrawal. Then, we discuss some helpful tools to manage and gain control over these emotions. Techniques like self-soothing, deep breathing, and positive visualization can be beneficial. Co-regulation, where you and your spouse help each other navigate through these emotions, is also a strategy we delve into.

In the latter part of the conversation, we shed light on how to support a spouse during their unregulated negative mood. We underscore the significance of not taking their mood personally, setting boundaries, and maintaining calmness. Understanding and acknowledging your spouse's feelings and helping them carry their burden can go a long way in strengthening your marriage. If you or your spouse are struggling to regulate a negative mood, we encourage you to seek help. Remember, understanding, patience, and support can foster a healthy marriage. Join us, and let's journey towards a vision driven marriage.

HeartCall Ministries LINKS:
https://heartcallministries.org/
Email Doug & Leslie at: [email protected]
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeartCallMinistries

Grab freebies and subscribe to the HeartCall newsletter at:
https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/U6chOaj/HeartCallMinistries

Looking for something not listed? It’s probably here: https://linktr.ee/heartcallministries

Scripture Mentioned:

Galatians 6:2

This podcast is provided for informational purposes only. We are not providing clinical counseling services through the podcast content, and the views expressed in this podcast should not be taken as professional mental health advice. The content shared on this podcast should not replace any medical or professional advice you may receive from a licensed healthcare provider. If you are feeling stuck, we urge you to seek the advice of a qualified counselor or coach before making any decisions pertaining to your mental health or well-being.

Thank you for listening!

INTRO/OUTRO MUSIC CREDITS
Theme music: Dead Winter
ASLC-1BEF9A9E-9E9D609662
Artists: White Bones
Composers: White Bones
Audio source: Epidemic Sound

Find out more about Doug and Leslie:

• Free Resources
• Social Media Links
• Current episodes of The Vision Driven Marriage

Click Here

Ready to dethrone your inner critic? Arm yourselves with the strategies we, Doug and Leslie Davis, lay out in this enlightening episode. We navigate the murky waters of negative self-talk and how it can stealthily impact our lives and relationships. We unveil how this internal critic operates on autopilot, spreading its influence beyond ourselves, affecting even those around us. Be prepared for a reality check as we discuss an example of how this negative self-talk, if believed, can become crippling and manifest into a self-fulfilling prophecy.

As you journey with us, we'll guide you through a systematic process aimed at identifying, assessing, and overcoming self-criticism. We examine how to replace these negative thought patterns with truth and how to take these intrusive thoughts captive. We share insights on how God can turn our struggles into strength, creating beauty from ashes. Armed with the truth from scripture, focusing on Philippians 4-8, we'll help you counteract these negative thoughts and take back control.

The battle against negative self-talk doesn't end here. Social media, with its potential to amplify negativity, is another front we must assess. We propose ways to limit its negative influence and share how intentional gratitude can serve as a powerful weapon against this internal adversary. We explore how to fill your heart with what is good and true and how to actively combat negative self-talk with positive thoughts and verses. We also extend an invitation for you, our listeners, to share the verses you use to combat your negative self-talk and how it has helped you. Let's embark on this empowering journey together, to overcome negative self-talk, locate truth, and ultimately, fortify our marriages.

Leave a Message Here!

Verses mentioned:

Jeremiah 17:9

1 Thes 5:21

2 Cor 10:5

Phil 4:8

‌

Steps:

Learn to notice when you are being self-critical.

Check for truth--remember that thoughts and feelings aren’t always true.

Cross-examine your inner critic.

Take those thoughts captive.

Replace neg self-talk with good.

‌

Added points:

• Spend less time on social media places that you feel draws out self-criticism.
• Show gratitude.

‌

INTRO/OUTRO MUSIC CREDITS
Theme music: Dead Winter
ASLC-1BEF9A9E-9E9D609662
Artists: White Bones
Composers: White Bones
Audio source: Epidemic Sound

Find out more about Doug and Leslie:

• Free Resources
• Social Media Links
• Current episodes of The Vision Driven Marriage

Click Here

Do you ever find yourself caught in a cycle of negative self-talk, impacting your marriage and emotional well-being? Today, we're joined by Melanie Yates, an author and coach who specializes in helping individuals overcome this damaging mindset and create healthier, more fulfilling relationships. Melanie shares her insights on managing our emotions, fostering vulnerability and intimacy within our marriages, and taking responsibility for our own actions and emotions.

Together, we delve into the importance of self-awareness and how our emotional energy can mix with our spouse's, creating an average of both partners' emotional levels. Melanie emphasizes the power of prayer and understanding our worth in Christ, rather than seeking validation from outside sources or our spouses. We also discuss how to extend grace in our marriage relationships and overcome self-centered fear, which can hinder growth and connection.

Lastly, we explore the significance of honoring marriage as God intended, touching on ways to avoid complaining and instead, focusing on extending grace to our spouse in times of difficulty. With Melanie's valuable insights and practical advice, learn how to strengthen your marriage by overcoming negative self-talk and managing your emotional reactions, allowing you and your spouse to grow together in love and understanding.

You can find Melanie's resources here:
Happy Joyous and Free

Melanie Priscilla Yates

neurocoachmel

Her book is available here:

Happy, Joyous, and Free: Love your life, No matter what

INTRO/OUTRO MUSIC CREDITS
Theme music: Dead Winter
ASLC-1BEF9A9E-9E9D609662
Artists: White Bones
Composers: White Bones
Audio source: Epidemic Sound

Find out more about Doug and Leslie:

• Free Resources
• Social Media Links
• Current episodes of The Vision Driven Marriage

Click Here

Have you ever noticed certain situations or interactions that seem to trigger an intense emotional response? This powerful episode features a candid conversation with our guest, Angie Baughman, who bravely shares her journey of addressing childhood trauma and abuse in order to heal and grow. Angie's insights on recognizing and talking to our triggers provide invaluable wisdom for nurturing our relationships and fostering emotional intimacy with our partners.

Together, we explore Angie's process of identifying her triggers, including developing mindfulness of her body's response when anxiety rises and realizing when she is on autopilot in her reactions. We discuss the various ways triggers can manifest, such as perfectionism or a need for control, and outline steps for overcoming anxiety and cultivating healthier responses to our triggers. Angie also shares her experience of relying on her faith and God's promises to help her navigate difficult emotions and situations.

Throughout this inspiring episode, we delve into resources like Angie's 5-step process to talk to your triggers. Angie has graciously provided her handout "Talk to Your Triggers Scripture Resource."  Angie's willingness to share her story and journey encourages us all to face our underlying issues and work towards healing in our marriages. Listen in and be motivated to recognize your triggers, honor them, and foster a stronger connection with your spouse.

You can find Angie at Live Steady On.  Many resources, including links to Angie's podcast, free resources, and her masterclass for the Steady On Step-by-step Bible study method can be found here.

INTRO/OUTRO MUSIC CREDITS
Theme music: Dead Winter
ASLC-1BEF9A9E-9E9D609662
Artists: White Bones
Composers: White Bones
Audio source: Epidemic Sound

Find out more about Doug and Leslie:

• Free Resources
• Social Media Links
• Current episodes of The Vision Driven Marriage

Click Here

Are you and your spouse struggling with triggers from past traumas? Discover the power of pre and post-trigger care in building a stronger, more resilient marriage in today's episode of the Vision Driven Marriage Podcast. We're excited to share practical strategies and insights that can help foster healing and deepen your connection with one another.

Join us as we discuss the importance of establishing a couple care regimen, engaging in grounding experiences, and navigating the healing process together. You'll learn how to communicate effectively, practice active movement, and create special moments that can bring you both back to the present moment. We'll also explore various activities you can do as a couple to build trust and stay grounded, from gardening to sensory games.

Lastly, we recognize God's desire for marriages to thrive and not just survive. Trust in God's guidance as you and your spouse embark on this journey towards healing and a truly vision driven marriage.

Doug and Leslie Mention:

The Couple's Prayer Guide

Episode #23 with Ron & Halee Wood
Episode #24 Eight Things To Do When Your Spouse Is Triggered
Episode #25 Empowering your spouse: Supporting Each Other Through Shared Trauma 

Scripture Mentioned:

Isaiah 41:10

Philippians 4:19

Psalm 27:1

This podcast is provided for informational purposes only. We are not providing clinical counseling services through the podcast content, and the views expressed in this podcast should not be taken as professional mental health advice. The content shared on this podcast should not replace any medical or professional advice you may receive from a licensed healthcare provider. If you are feeling stuck, we urge you to seek the advice of a qualified counselor or coach before making any decisions pertaining to your mental health or well-being. Thank you for listening!

Midroll music credit: ASLC-2285DD60-24E8FED5C0

Audio source: MusicRevolution

INTRO/OUTRO MUSIC CREDITS
Theme music: Dead Winter
ASLC-1BEF9A9E-9E9D609662
Artists: White Bones
Composers: White Bones
Audio source: Epidemic Sound

Find out more about Doug and Leslie:

• Free Resources
• Social Media Links
• Current episodes of The Vision Driven Marriage

Click Here

Navigating the complexities of shared trauma can be overwhelming, but what if you could empower your spouse and create a stronger bond through tough times? Join us as we explore the importance of understanding and supporting each other during these challenging moments. We discuss the dangers of simply going with the flow and highlight the significance of being a trauma-informed spouse, resisting the temptation to let anger win, and consistently communicating about what each of you needs.

We mention our episode with Ron and Hailey Wood, who bravely share their experience of seeking help and remind us that it's acceptable, even courageous, to ask for assistance. Dive into the essential role of prayer in spiritual intimacy, the impact of shared trauma on relationships, and the signs it may be time to seek help from outside sources.

Together, we'll journey through the process of acknowledging changed circumstances, sharing experiences, and emerging stronger as a couple. Don't miss this insightful and healing conversation!

INTRO/OUTRO MUSIC CREDITS
Theme music: Dead Winter
ASLC-1BEF9A9E-9E9D609662
Artists: White Bones
Composers: White Bones
Audio source: Epidemic Sound

Find out more about Doug and Leslie:

• Free Resources
• Social Media Links
• Current episodes of The Vision Driven Marriage

Click Here