Rebuilding Us: Christian Marriage Advice for Couples

In our hypersexualized society, marriages have often been the carnage leaving some to wonder are marriages sexually safe anymore. Today, on Real Relationship Talk, we are blessed to have Dr. Andrew Bauman teach us how to have sexually safe marriages. We dive into the impact of pornography, trauma, and objectification of women on individuals and relationships. Our conversation takes into consideration the effects of purity culture, the importance of intimacy, and practical steps for couples to foster healthy sexuality. It’s jam-packed and oh, so good! How to Create a Sexually Safe Marriage Andrew and I discuss a myriad of topics around the issue of healthy sexuality in relationships. Some of what we discussed are as follows:  Purity Culture and Debunking False Myths About Men's Needs True Healing from Past Sexual Trauma The Damages of Objectifying Women  What Good Sexual Health Looks Like Overcoming Fear About Sexuality in Relationships It’s jam-packed and oh, so good! ALSO LISTEN TO: How to Have Non-Awkward Conversations About Sex with Your Spouse      Links Mentioned During this Episode Dr. Bauman’s Website The Sexually Healthy Man - Book   SUBSCRIBE | SHARE | RATE | COMMENT  To ensure you never miss an episode, be sure to subscribe or follow on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Remember, sharing is caring! Thank you for sharing these episodes with your friends and family via email or social media.Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We all have habits that are hard to let go of . . . sometimes even sins. Have you asked yourself, "How do I stop sinning?” Tune in to this Faith Friday episode to explore the concept of sin, something we all struggle with. We will go over five practical steps to help individuals live a life above sin. Romans 7:14-25 stresses the importance of recognizing the internal conflict that sin creates and is a passionate, present-tense plea from the apostle Paul about his struggle with sin. Before we know how to stop sinning we must first ask ourselves, What is sin? The definition of sin is anything that displeases God, not just external actions but also internal thoughts and feelings. As emphasized in the scripture above.  Take a listen to the full episose to hear five simple steps to overcoming sin and living a life of true freedom.    Links Mentioned in this Episode:  Uncovering Shame Recovering Vulnerability    SUBSCRIBE | SHARE | RATE | COMMENT  To ensure you never miss an episode, be sure to subscribe or follow on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Remember, sharing is caring! Thank you for sharing these episodes with your friends and family via email or social media.Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Can you have platonic friends of the opposite sex in marriage? Today, special guest Sylvia Chipman and I explore the possibility of platonic friendships within the context of marriage. We discuss the significance of forming heart-to-heart connections, the importance of intentions, the role of friends, and the challenges of being called out. We emphasize trust and safeguards, the value of open communication, and the need to be ready to listen to your partner.    Where does it start:  Are you putting your marriage first? It can be as simple as someone filling a need when you or your partner is not.     Boundaries   Sharing your heart and baggage with platonic friends in marriage comes down to boundaries. A spouse may have good intentions but can create unwanted soul ties outside their marriage. You might not have any bad intentions, but be careful not to leave room for mishaps and misunderstandings.     Heart-to-Heart Connections  Genuine bonds are formed within any friendship emotionally and spiritually, transcending physical attraction. Emotional connections can be more profound and enduring, even if you start by just helping out a friend. Sylvia shares a story on how this happened to her.    Intentions Matter  People often find themselves in complicated situations without intending harm.  It is essential to recognize and understand your intentions, as well as others.     The Role of Friends  Friends can provide valuable perspectives and call you out when necessary. Good friends help you identify your blind spots and make more informed   decisions. There are things we can’t see, won’t see, or might not want to see.     I hope this podcast episode serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking guidance on balancing platonic friendships while preserving the sanctity of your marriage. Communicate effectively, establish trust, and prioritize your relationships by providing practical advice and real-life examples. As always, A good relationship isn’t one that works; it's one where you put in the work.  **To catch the full show notes with all the details, go to Real Relationship Talk Podcast.   Blog Mentioned  PLATONIC FRIENDS OF THE OPPOSITE SEX  Learn More About Sylvia Chipman   Instagram, Facebook, YouTube   Thrive Marriage Coaching  SUBSCRIBE | SHARE | RATE | COMMENT   To ensure you never miss an episode, be sure to subscribe or follow on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Remember, sharing is caring! Thank you for sharing these episodes with your friends and family via email or social media. Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you ever wonder how to find your purpose? Many of us ask, "Why am I here? What is the meaning of it all?” Today's Faith Friday episode explores this profound internal question. We’ll dive into the core of our existence, offering insight into uncovering and fulfilling your life's purpose.    The Search for Purpose  Statistics show that 57% of people in the US are actively seeking more meaning and purpose in their lives. Moreover, only 10% claim to know their life's purpose, with a mere 5% living in alignment with it. This suggests that most people feel adrift, wanting a clearer sense of purpose.  The Quest for Meaning - A Universal Experience  You're not alone if you're grappling with how to find your purpose. Even King Solomon, renowned as the wisest man in biblical history, faced existential questions. In Ecclesiastes 2:9-11, Solomon reflects on the vanity of his worldly accomplishments despite his immense wealth and wisdom.    Ecclesiastes 2:9-11 NLT  9. So I became greater than all who had lived in Jerusalem before me, and my wisdom never failed me. 10. Anything I wanted, I would take. I denied myself no pleasure. I even found great pleasure in hard work, a reward for all my labors. 11. But as I looked at everything I had worked so hard to accomplish, it was all so meaningless—like chasing the wind. There was nothing really worthwhile anywhere.    Thank you for joining this insightful Faith Friday episode! For the full show notes from this episode, click here Real Relationship Talk Podcast. Share your thoughts and feedback on today's episode via Instagram @MrsDanaChe.  As you embark on your faith journey, may your life be filled with wonder and purpose.    ALSO LISTEN TO: 5 Powerful Principles for Waiting in Hope    SUBSCRIBE | SHARE | RATE | COMMENT   To ensure you never miss an episode, be sure to subscribe or follow on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Remember, sharing is caring! Thank you for sharing these episodes with your friends and family via email or social media. Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Living with an emotionally unavailable or emotionally absent partner is tough. It can be lonely, disheartening, and frustrating. Many relationships move from the soulmate stage to the roommate stage due to this problem right here. This one is close to my heart - emotional unavailability in relationships. In this episode, we’ll explore the complexities of emotional detachment and, more importantly, discover the pathways to healing and connection.  Picture this: you’re at your best friend's house. Their car is parked in the driveway, the garage door is wide open, and you know they're inside. However, when you knock on the door, there's no answer. You decide to take a peek inside, only to find them sitting on the couch, fully aware of your presence but actively choosing emotional detachment. This is what it's like to be in a relationship with someone emotionally unavailable, complete with the frustrations, loneliness, and insecurities it can bring.  It's important to note that emotional unavailability often arises from a place of feeling unsafe. Whether rooted in past trauma, upbringing, or external factors, individuals may become emotionally detached as a way to protect themselves. Recognizing this fundamental cause is the first step to healing and reconnection.  Common Signs of Emotional Unavailability:  Distance: Emotionally unavailable partners may physically be there, but they keep an emotional distance. They might struggle with empathy, compassion, and meaningful conversations.  Self-Denigration: Emotional unavailability can manifest as self-deprecation. The person might belittle themselves, which further hampers their ability to nurture others emotionally.  Pathways to Healing Emotionally Unavailable Seasons 1. Create a Safe Space: Creating a safe space in the relationship is essential to address emotional unavailability. This involves guarding your partner's vulnerability, refraining from using their shared experiences against them and helping them feel secure in sharing their emotions. You can not go around sharing your partner's baggage with your friends.  2. Provide Language for Emotions: Sometimes, people lack the language to articulate their feelings. As partners, we can assist by providing the words for these unspoken emotions. Please encourage them to explore their feelings and offer understanding. If someone feels left out, they might show anger.   Catch the episode and find the full show notes with all the tips and practices at Podcast - Real Relationship Talk episode 177. Try these tips and practices in your relationship. Don’t give up. Pray that God will open their heart. I'd love to hear how this episode has encouraged you, so please reach out to me on Instagram @MrsDanaChe. Remember, a good relationship isn’t one that works. A good relationship is one where you put in the work. Take Care.     Links Mentioned in this Episode:  142: OVERCOMING LIVING WITH AN EMOTIONALLY ABSENT SPOUSE – WITH BEATRIZ VARGAS  63: [SWEET REPEAT]: HOW PASSIVITY & APATHY ARE SILENTLY KILLING YOUR MARRIAGE  11 – HOW APATHY & A LACK OF INTEREST IS SILENTLY KILLING YOUR RELATIONSHIP (RELATIONSHIP MISTAKES SERIES) Other Resources Mentioned:  Partner Quiz  Thrive Wives Group  SUBSCRIBE | SHARE | RATE | COMMENT   To ensure you never miss an episode, be sure to subscribe or follow on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Remember, sharing is caring! Thank you for sharing these episodes with your friends and family via email or social media. Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you found yourself struggling with boredom while reading the Bible? If so, you’re not alone. I've been there, too, and want to help you change that. Today’s Faith Friday episode I’m going to share some practical wisdom that will revolutionize how you engage with the Bible. Let's dive into some game-changing tips.    Hebrews 4:12 NLT For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.    For starters, choose a Bible translation that resonates with you. Don't stick with one that leaves you feeling lost in translation. Avoiding boredom while reading the Bible is all about understanding and connecting with the text. For me, the New Living Translation is a personal favorite. But whatever translation you choose, just make sure you can understand it.   Practical Steps to Reading the Bible Without Getting Bored  Pray Before Reading: Inviting the Holy Spirit to reveal His truth makes a huge difference when reading the Bible.  Read in Chunks: Instead of randomly flipping through pages, read the Bible in chunks. Dive into whole books, allowing you to grasp the context and immerse yourself in the stories.  Catch the full episode for all the practical steps. If you apply these practices and approach your Bible reading with a heart of expectation, you will not be bored. In fact, your life will be transformed. The Bible isn't just a source of inspiration and information; it's a tool for your personal transformation. As you read, you draw closer to God and become more like Christ.  I'd love to hear how this episode has encouraged you, so please reach out to me on Instagram @MrsDanaChe. As you embark on your faith journey, may your Bible reading lead you to incredible, uncharted territories of understanding and spiritual growth. Have a faith-filled Friday and a blessed weekend. Thank you for tuning in, and I'll catch you on the next episode!   Links Mentioned in this Episode:  Get your free Speak Life meditative affirmation audio here.   To stay updated with show notes, helpful articles, and more relationship tips, visit https://realrelationshiptalk.com and  https://danache.com. SUBSCRIBE | SHARE | RATE | COMMENT   To ensure you never miss an episode, be sure to subscribe or follow on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Remember, sharing is caring! Thank you for sharing these episodes with your friends and family via email or social media. Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Does your spouse or partner drive you crazy sometimes? Of course, they do! So how do you stay crazy in love when you feel anything but? Our guest, Karen Ehman, New York Times Best Selling author and Proverbs 31 Women speaker, is with us to discuss how to keep the spark burning and make our love last.   Key Takeaways:  Marriage is about navigating differences, not finding a perfect partner.  Seek "spotter" friends who offer honest feedback and support.  Love is a choice that precedes feelings, not the other way around.  Your marriage is a powerful message to others, reflecting the love and forgiveness found in Christ.  Karen's latest book, How to Be Crazy in Love When Your Love Drives You Crazy, gives us insight through her nearly four decades of marriage to extract some golden wisdom on keeping the flames of love alive.  This conversation gives us profound insights into building and nurturing lasting, loving marriages. Love, as we discover, isn't just about warm and fuzzy feelings; it's a conscious decision to serve and honor our commitment. Karen's wisdom and personal stories inspire us to embrace the challenges of marriage, knowing that true love, rooted in faith and unwavering loyalty, can withstand the test of time. Thanks for tuning in, and until next time, remember to keep those relationships real and thriving.  Catch the full episode for all the ways to be crazy in love!    Links Mentioned in This Episode:  Learn More About Karen Ehman and Her Book: How to Be Crazy in Love When Your Love Drives You Crazy   Ep. 101 - How to Love Your Spouse When You Don’t Like Your Spouse    SUBSCRIBE | SHARE | RATE | COMMENT   To ensure you never miss an episode, be sure to subscribe or follow on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Remember, sharing is caring! Thank you for sharing these episodes with your friends and family via email or social media as your support enables us to continue delivering valuable relationship content to people across the world! ​ To stay updated with show notes, helpful articles, and more relationship tips, visit https://realrelationshiptalk.com.  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Get your copy of our latest devotional "Love Is"! 1 on 1 coaching with Dana Che  Take My Free “How Connected a Partner Are You” Quiz Here. danache.com/partnerquiz Know of someone getting married soon? Share with them about premarital counseling here. Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Don't you desire to elevate freedom over fear in your family? Do you ever worry if you’re parenting and nurturing your child's faith journey correctly? Today’s Faith Friday’s special guest, Meredith Miller, will explore with us the art of parenting in a way that fosters trust in God over rigid obedience to rules. We'll discuss the significance of open and honest conversations, the value of sharing personal stories, and how to encourage your child's exploration of faith. So, let's embark on this transformative journey of guiding your child's spiritual growth.  Nurturing your child's faith is not about strict obedience but about building trust. Trust in God should lead the way; obedience becomes a natural response to that trust. As parents, we play a vital role in fostering this trust-based paradigm. Your faith stories, willingness to explore questions, and authenticity as a Christ follower will shape your child's understanding of God and faith. Creating a freedom over fear faith culture is about showing, not just telling, your child what it means to live a life of faith. By embracing this approach, you can help your child develop a deep and genuine connection with God, fostering a lifelong journey of spiritual growth and exploration.  Thank you for joining us in this Faith Friday. I hope these insights will empower you to guide your child toward a deeper and more meaningful relationship with God.    Links Mentioned in this Episode:  Get your Speak Life Affirmations by Dana Che  Ask Away Podcast for Kids by Meredith Miller  Woven: Nurturing a Faith Your Kid Doesn’t Have to Heal From Book  Meredith Miller on Instagram    SUBSCRIBE | SHARE | RATE | COMMENT   To ensure you never miss an episode, be sure to subscribe or follow on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Remember, sharing is caring! Thank you for sharing these episodes with your friends and family via email or social media. Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today, we continue discussing maintaining a sex-free relationship before marriage. In the previous episode, we learned about the WHY. In this episode, we explore the HOW -  practical strategies for achieving this goal. If you missed it, be sure to catch up on last week’s episode.  To start, there is a friend of mine who is struggling with having sex before marriage. This person knows it’s not God’s best for them or their relationship, but they can’t seem to stop. They asked for my help and, specifically asked me for more solutions than just “prayer and boundaries.” They inspired this episode, and so I want to share with you some of the practical strategies I shared with them on how to stop having sex before marriage if the train has left the station (you’ve already done the deed).  Stay tuned to learn these practical strategies, and feel free to reach out via DM on Instagram and Facebook if you have questions or need assistance with any of the strategies mentioned in the episode.  LINKS MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE   Last week’s episode: 7 reasons to nix sex before marriage  1 on 1 coaching with Dana Che  SUBSCRIBE | SHARE | RATE | COMMENT   To ensure you never miss an episode, be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Remember, sharing is caring! So, share these episodes with your friends and family via email or social media. Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

 Why Do I Still Feel Anxious After Praying? On today’s Faith Friday, we are discussing how to manage anxiety and nurture your faith after you pray. We also discuss the importance of shifting your focus, the detrimental effects of worry, and the profound significance of believing in God. Join us as we unpack these key takeaways and guide you through the transformative journey of strengthening your relationship with God. Let's dive in. Philippians 4:6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Four Quick Practices to Get Rid of Anxiety After Praying  1 - Be Grateful 2 -Fix Your Focus 3 -Don't Allow Worry to Sabotage Your Faith 4- Embrace Real Faith Thank you for joining me on this Faith Friday episode. Connect with me on Instagram @MrsDanaChe. And be sure to SUBSCRIBE to the podcast to catch all the episodes.  For the full show notes, helpful articles, and more relationship tips, visit https://realrelationshiptalk.com. We'd love for you to rate, review, and SUBSCRIBE to the podcast, as your support enables us to continue delivering valuable relationship content to people worldwide! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Links Mentioned in this Episode: EP - 170 The Truth Behind Unanswered Prayers Get your copy of our latest devotional "Love Is"!Let’s connect at https://danache.com!Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.