Why Marriages Drift (And How to Stop It)

January 20, 2026
00:00 16:07
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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.

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Meet Your Host
Ted and Ashleigh first met in Chesapeake, Virginia in 2001. In December 2002, they said, “I do, of course!” Since then, they’ve lived in five more states and celebrated the births of four daughters. Both have master’s degrees in Communication from Regent University, and over the years they’ve served as premarital mentors for engaged couples.

Ted’s a website developer, and Ashleigh is the author of the books Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment and Cooperation in Marriageand Braving Sorrow Together: The Transformative Power of Faith and Community When Life Is Hard.

Ashleigh has also written for publications including iBelieve.com, Focus on the Family Magazine, Boundless.org, and HuffPost.

Learn more at AshleighSlater.com.
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