In this episode, Chris and Alisa Grace sit down with James and Arlene Pellicane to explore how marriage can actually become easier—not harder—over time. Drawing from 27 years of marriage, ministry, parenting, and hard-won wisdom, they unpack what it looks like to build a relationship that thrives for the long haul.
They discuss practical tools for healthy communication (including how to address tone and conflict without defensiveness), what to do when you disagree on big decisions, the importance of servant leadership and mutual submission, and why taking fun seriously is essential for a strong marriage. They also tackle modern challenges like phone distraction, the “still face” phenomenon, and even how AI can subtly interfere with influence and connection in a relationship.
Whether you're married, dating, engaged, navigating roommate dynamics, parenting together, or simply wanting healthier relationships, this episode offers practical encouragement to help your relationships feel lighter, stronger, and more life-giving.
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VPFJW5P_G0Q
Resources Mentioned:
Making Marriage Easier – Arlene Pellicane
A practical, encouraging guide filled with simple habits and mindset shifts that help couples move from surviving marriage to truly enjoying it.
https://arlenepellicane.com
Happy Home University Coaching – James Pellicane
Coaching resources for dads and husbands who want to grow in leadership, connection, and intentional family life.
https://www.happyhomeuniversity.com/coaching
Still Face Experiment (Dr. Edward Tronick)
A powerful research study demonstrating how quickly disconnection impacts relationships—and why attentiveness matters. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f1Jw0-LExyc
Connect with Us:
Website: cmr.biola.edu
Facebook: facebook.com/biolacmr
Instagram: instagram.com/biolacmr
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@biola-cmr
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About the Hosts:
Chris Grace, Ph.D., and Alisa Grace are passionate about helping people build and sustain healthy relationships. As leaders of the Biola University Center for Marriage and Relationships, they combine the wisdom of Scripture with scholarly research to offer practical advice and insights grounded in biblical truth.
Learn more about their work at cmr.biola.edu.
