Team Us: A Christian Marriage Podcast

In this best-of episode, we discuss the idea of a "soulmate" as a myth that has been around for thousands of years. It may seem like a concept only for non-married people looking for “the one.” But here’s the thing. If you are married and subscribe to this idea of soulmates, it can be harmful to your marriage. Listen in as we share why! TAKE THE “US TIME” CHALLENGE Make a list of other marriage myths and reflect on whether they are impacting your marriage. If so, how can you replace them with truth? LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107) TEAM US RESOURCES Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE “Why people still believe in the soulmate myth” by Katie Bishop at BBC (https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20220204-why-people-still-believe-in-the-soulmate-myth) “For as Long as Our Love Shall Last: How the Soulmate Myth Makes Marriage Less Stable and Less Happy” by Brad Wilcox (https://ifstudies.org/blog/for-as-long-as-our-love-shall-last-how-the-soulmate-myth-makes-marriage-less-stable-and-less-happy) Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Most marriages don’t fall apart in one big moment. They drift slowly and quietly, often without either person noticing. You can share a house, a life, and a schedule and still end up on relational autopilot. In this episode, we talk about why connection fades over time and share three simple rhythms that help couples stay emotionally close—not through big gestures, but through small, intentional patterns that gently change the direction of a marriage. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE Why most marriages drift into autopilot without either person realizing it Three simple rhythms that keep a marriage emotionally connected long-term How small, intentional patterns quietly change the direction of your relationship KEY TAKEAWAYS Marriages change by direction, not by moments. Small patterns shape where you end up. Connection must be built on purpose and maintained through every season. Repair and emotional openness matter more than perfect communication. US TIME CHALLENGE This week, talk honestly about whether you’re drifting into autopilot in any area of your marriage, then choose one small shared connection ritual to add. It doesn’t have to be big or impressive. Something simple and intentional is enough. The point isn’t the activity. The point is choosing each other on purpose. STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe to Ashleigh’s weekly email newsletter at AshleighSlater.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, we’re talking about adaptability and flexibility in marriage. We discuss those everyday moments when staying open and teachable really matter. It’s not just our big decisions, but our small, ordinary interactions that shape how we live life together. Listen in as we explore what psychological flexibility looks like in marriage and how growing in this area can create more peace, safety, and connection over time. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE What psychological flexibility is and why it matters in marriage Why everyday moments—not just big decisions—often create the most tension Common roadblocks to flexibility, including control, rigidity, and shutdown How inflexibility affects emotional safety and connection over time Practical ways to practice flexibility without losing yourself How awareness creates space for better choices in marriage KEY TAKEAWAYS Psychological flexibility isn’t about being passive or agreeable—it’s about staying open and grounded. Inflexibility often shows up as shutdown, control, or resistance rather than overt conflict. Small, everyday interactions shape the emotional climate of a marriage. Control can feel like safety, but it often comes from fear. Awareness doesn’t fix everything, but it does create space for healthier responses. US TIME CHALLENGE This week, each of you choose one small area where you’ll intentionally practice flexibility. It might be listening without defending, staying open to a different preference, or pausing instead of shutting down. At the end of the week, talk about what you noticed—not what you accomplished. The goal isn’t to “do it right,” but to build awareness and connection. STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss what’s next. And we’d love to hear from you! What’s one way you want to be more open and teachable in your marriage. Share it with us on social media or send us a message at AshleighSlater.com. LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE “What Is Psychological Flexibility?” from the University of Rochester Medical Center (https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/behavioral-health-partners/bhp-blog/april-2020/what-is-psychological-flexibility.aspx) “Psychological Flexibility in Marriage” from Focus on the Family (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/psychological-flexibility-in-marriage/) “How Psychological Flexibility Strengthens Relationships” from Marriage.com (https://www.marriage.com/advice/relationship/psychological-flexibility-in-relationships/) Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

How do you and your spouse tackle everyday conflicts? In today's best-of episode from our archives, we share three of our favorite tools for working through those smaller disagreements or disputes. TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE Pick one of the tools we shared to try this week when you face conflict with your spouse. LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107) TEAM US RESOURCES Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this best-of episode from our archives, we’re talking about how you can team up not just for the new year, but for every minute, hour, day, week, and month of the year! Listen in as we share three practical ways you can walk in unity. We also talk about spiritual warfare in marriage, what that might look like, and share thoughts on how to navigate it hand-in-hand. Take the "Us Time" Challenge Pick one of today’s ways to team up and try it this week. Team Us Resources Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) Links Mentioned in This Episode “Is This a Spiritual Attack, or Is My Spouse Just a Jerk?” (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/is-this-a-spiritual-attack-or-is-my-spouse-just-a-jerk/) Connect with Ted and Ashleigh Website (https://ashleighslater.com/) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ashleighslater_author/) Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ashleighslaterauthor) Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We don't have to be Scrooges to benefit from reflecting on Christmas past, present, and future. In this episode from our archives, we talk about how looking back, living now, and planning ahead together can enrich our marriages. TAKE THE "US TIME" CHALLENGE If you’ve been married five years or more, practice nostalgia with your spouse. Ask each other about your favorite Christmas you’ve spent together and why it stands out to you. If you have been married less than five years, plan ahead on where you want to be relationally next Christmas. LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/team-us/id1565819107) TEAM US RESOURCES Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE “Here’s why there used to be so many Christmas Day weddings” by Daisy Goddard at Find My Past (https://www.findmypast.co.uk/blog/discoveries/christmas-day-weddings) “How Christmas Memories Can Enrich Your Life” by Mark D. Roberts at Fuller De Pree Center (https://depree.org/de-pree-journal/how-christmas-memories-can-enrich-your-life/) “’Tis the Season for Nostalgia: Holiday Reminiscing Can Have Psychological Benefits” at APA.org (https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2011/12/nostalgia) “Look Ahead to Strengthen Your Relationship” by Barton Goldsmith Ph.D. at Psychology Today (https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/emotional-fitness/201310/look-ahead-strengthen-your-relationship) “What Is Active Listening?” by Amy Gallo at Harvard Business Review (https://hbr.org/2024/01/what-is-active-listening) Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, we explore the surprisingly powerful world of micro-habits—those tiny actions that take less than five minutes but, when repeated, create meaningful and lasting change in your marriage. From simple daily rituals to small moments of gratitude to chore-based love notes, you’ll discover how small things practiced often can strengthen connection, build warmth, and shape the overall direction of your relationship. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE What micro-habits are and why researchers say they matter How 1% improvements compound into significant transformation over time Why micro-moments help keep couples from slipping into “roommate mode” Three daily micro-habits that build connection, gratitude, and emotional safety Practical examples of how we use these habits in our own marriage KEY TAKEAWAYS Small habits practiced consistently create meaningful change over time. Micro-moments protect connection and help couples avoid “roommate mode.” Specific gratitude (“Thank you for…”) shifts focus toward what’s working. Everyday chores can become tangible expressions of love. Simple rituals—like hello, goodbye, and goodnight kisses—strengthen emotional and physical connection. US TIME CHALLENGE Choose one micro-habit and practice it every day this week. It can be one of the three we shared or be a micro-moment unique to your relationship. Consistency is the goal, not size. Let the small thing do its quiet, steady work. STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST Follow Ashleigh: Instagram @teamuspodcast | Facebook @ashleighslaterauthor Subscribe to Team Us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen so you don’t miss an episode. Join our community: Get updates, resources, and encouragement for your marriage by signing up for Ashleigh’s weekly email newsletter at AshleighSlater.com. LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear (https://a.co/d/9kNsP4L) “5 Micro-Moments That Predict the Health of Your Marriage” by Shlomo and Rivka Slatkin at the Marriage Restoration Project (https://themarriagerestorationproject.com/5-micro-moments-that-predict-the-health-of-your-marriage/) “The Art of Micro-Routines: How 5-Minute Habits Can Transform Your Day” by Glossy Magazine (https://theglossymagazine.com/the-art-of-micro-routines-how-5-minute-habits-can-transform-your-day/) “12 Micro Moves for Your Marriage” by Ted Lowe (https://allprodad.com/12-micro-moves-for-your-marriage/) Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In a previous episode, we talked about the power of saying, “I’m sorry.” Today, we’re taking the next step and diving into forgiveness, specifically, what it looks like to forgive our spouse. Forgiveness isn’t always easy, but it’s one of the most powerful ways to strengthen a marriage. In this episode, we explore what forgiveness really is (and isn’t), why it’s vital for lasting love, and how practicing it can lead to healing, trust, and deeper connection. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE Why forgiveness plays such a big role in happy, lasting marriages What forgiveness truly means from both a biblical and relational perspective Three things forgiveness is not and why those distinctions matter How to navigate the process of forgiving when it still hurts Practical ways to rebuild trust after forgiveness How to think like a forgiving person and create a culture of grace in your marriage KEY TAKEAWAYS Forgiveness is a process, not a one-time decision. Forgiveness doesn’t erase responsibility or instantly restore trust. Choosing to forgive frees your heart from bitterness and opens space for connection. Repair—not just resolution—is what rebuilds intimacy after conflict. Thinking like a forgiver starts by asking God to help you see your spouse through His eyes. US TIME CHALLENGE This week’s challenge is to think about how you think. When your spouse does something that frustrates or hurts you, pause and ask yourself: Am I thinking like a forgiver or like a victim? Invite God to reshape your thoughts, helping you move toward grace and understanding. STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST Follow Ashleigh: Instagram @teamuspodcast | Facebook @ashleighslaterauthor Subscribe to Team Us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen so you don’t miss an episode. Join our community: Get updates, resources, and encouragement for your marriage by signing up for Ashleigh’s weekly email newsletter at AshleighSlater.com. LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE “How Forgiveness Can Transform Your Marriage” by the Gottman Institute (https://www.gottman.com/blog/forgiveness-can-transform-marriage/) “Real Answers to Real Relationship Questions” from Chad Moore at Sun Valley Community Church (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exzwsCITlVM) “What the Bible Really Says About Love” from Chad Moore at Sun Valley Community Church (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQSMJWhRNFo) “What forgiveness is not: 5 common misconceptions” by Laura Petherbridge (https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/content/what-forgiveness-is-not-5-common-misconceptions) “The Art of Repair: Transforming Conflict Into Closeness” by Greg Smalley (https://www.klove.com/resources/life/the-art-of-repair-transforming-conflict-into-closeness-11585) Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The holidays can sometimes feel overwhelming. Between all of the shopping, decorating, and events, it’s easy for us as couples to stay busy without really connecting. In this episode, we share ten fun and affordable holiday date ideas to help you slow down, laugh together, and enjoy the season as a team. You’ll hear creative ways to make time for each other and find joy in everyday moments. KEY TAKEAWAYS The holidays don’t have to be stressful or expensive to be meaningful. Simple, shared experiences can bring you closer together. Making time for each other is one of the best gifts you can give this season. US TIME CHALLENGE Come up with a holiday date idea of your own—something simple that fits you as a couple—and make it happen. Then share it with us at AshleighSlater.com or on social media! We’d love to hear how you’re making time for each other this Christmas. STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST Follow Ashleigh: Instagram @teamuspodcast | Facebook @ashleighslaterauthor Subscribe to Team Us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen so you don’t miss an episode. Join our community: Get updates, resources, and encouragement for your marriage by signing up for Ashleigh’s weekly email newsletter at AshleighSlater.com. TEAM US RESOURCES Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this fun episode, we share creative and meaningful conversation starters to help you reconnect with your spouse, especially if you feel like you’ve run out of things to say. Whether you’re on a date night, taking a walk, or driving somewhere together, these questions will help you laugh, learn, and rediscover each other. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: Why it’s normal for couples to occasionally run out of things to say How conversation starters can spark fun, meaningful connection A mix of lighthearted and relationship-focused questions to ask your spouse How laughter and curiosity keep your marriage conversations fresh KEY TAKEAWAYS Playful conversation matters. Asking silly, imaginative questions helps you reconnect through fun and laughter. Curiosity strengthens connection. When you keep learning about each other, you keep growing together. Intentionality counts. Don’t wait for deep conversation to “just happen.” Plan for it by bringing a few questions along on your next date. CONVERSATION STARTERS WE ANSWER If you could have any job, whether serious or silly, and money was not a factor, what would it be? If time travel existed, when and where would you like to visit first? Who are three famous people, dead or alive, you would want to have lunch with? If you could only listen to two albums for the rest of your life, which ones would you choose, and why? What do you think our biggest strength as a couple is? What about our biggest weakness? What’s a "little thing" in our relationship that you really love? If our life was a reality TV series, what do you think would be the most appropriate title? What is one date we have not done you would like to do? US TIME CHALLENGE Print out a list of conversation starters and take them with you on your next date night, walk, or long drive. Make it fun by taking turns picking questions, and let the conversation go wherever it leads. You might just discover something new about each other! STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST Stay connected with us beyond the show! Visit AshleighSlater.com for free marriage tools, updates on new podcast episodes, and to sign up for her weekly email newsletter. TEAM US RESOURCES Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/) FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/) LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE “93 Meaningful Conversation Starters & Questions for Couples to Better Connect,” The Adventure Challenge, https://www.theadventurechallenge.com/blogs/news/conversation-starters-for-couples/ “260 Free Printable Conversation Starters for Couples,” WinShape Marriage, https://marriage.winshape.org/resource/conversation-starters-for-date-night/ Bedtime Prayers: Lullabies and Peaceful Worship by Twila Paris (https://amzn.to/4gf4aj5) Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.