Shows
The Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting053 | Join Us In Praying At The Point of PainThursday Thoughts will be taking a break for the next several weeks. That doesn't mean, though, that we aren't praying for you and your marriage. In fact, we are taking the time we would normally put into recording, editing and publishing these episodes and will be praying for you and your marriage. We'd love it if you joined us in that.
We'll still be praying with you on the podcast as well as part of our weekly teaching/discussion episodes.
By the way, here is that incredible NT Wright quote in today's episode from "The C...2025-07-2413 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting052 | Who Comes Out On Top In Your Marriage? "Hallowed Be Your Name"The Lord's Prayer contains a word we just don't use very often today and so we often struggle its meaning: "hallow". What does it mean to hallow the name of the Lord in our lives and in our marriage?
Join us in our series on the Lord's Prayer as we discover what it means to hallow God's name, why that might be scary and the beauty and freedom that can come from this, as God hallows his name in our lives and marriages in answer to this prayer.
Next Steps
If you and...2025-07-2216 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting051 | Pray With Us: "Our Father In Heaven..."On this Thursday Thought, as we take up the habit of praying the Lord's Prayer daily in our marriages, we take time to reflect on the opening address of the Lord's Prayer and consider if we might be treating as something transactional or relational. We also pray for those who experience an obstacle praying to our "heavenly Father" because of past trauma and we spend time worshiping the God in heaven, who is worthy of our praise!
Next Steps
If you and your spouse want to take up the habit of praying the Lord's Prayer...2025-07-1711 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting050 | Are You Treating God Like A Vending Machine? The Lord's Prayer and MarriageDo you ever worry you're not doing or saying something right in prayer? That if you only knew the secrets to unlocking prayer that you would have your heart's desire? If so, you're not alone. We've been there and still struggle with this idea. If we persist in this attitude of prayer, we may be in danger of treating God like a vending machine.
As God invites you to take up the Lord's Prayer as a couple daily, we examine the opening of that prayer: "Our Father in heaven..." In this powerful address, Jesus graciously reminds us...2025-07-1511 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting049 | A Prayer For Those Desiring New Ways of Deeper ConnectionOn today's Thursday Thought, we reflect on the simple habits that allow us to connect in powerful and transformational ways throughout our day and ask God to highlight the habits we can celebrate as well as be open to the new habits he's inviting us to try in our marriage.
We also consider how powerfully the Lord's Prayer, as a daily habit we participate in together, will powerfully combat the forces of drift and difference that continually want to pull us apart.
Next Steps
If you and your spouse want to take up t...2025-07-1011 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting048 | One Simple Prayer That Can Transform Your Marriage For A LifetimeWhat if there was a small, simple, habit that could transform and shape your marriage for years to come? What if this habit only took you thirty seconds?
Over the next several weeks, we'll be doing a deep dive into the prayer that Jesus taught his apprentices to pray - The Lord's Prayer - and how God can transform and shape your marriage through the habit of praying this together daily as a couple. Today, we just want to give you an overview of the subtle yet powerful ways that God has formed our marriage through this...2025-07-0813 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting047 | A Prayer For A Miracle and Breakthrough In Your MarriageAs you heard in Episode 46, JB and Erin Crocker were only an hour away from having their marriage end for good. And then God gave them a miracle - a miracle of repentance, of transformation, new hope and a new marriage.
Join us on this Thursday Thought as we pray for a miracle of breakthrough in your marriage as you seek God's best for your marriage together.
Next Steps
We realize that some of you may relate to the story of brokenness and despair we reflected on in today's episode. We want you...2025-07-0316 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting046 | Discovering God's New Marriage For Us: Part Two With JB And Erin CrockerIn Part One of JB and Erin's story (Ep 44), we heard about how God brought their marriage to an end - a marriage that was characterized by conflict, manipulation, brokenness and despair.
In Part Two today, we'll hear about:
The work God called JB to in order to find healing and the release of the baggage he brought into marriage
How God invited JB to show up in marriage to be present and serve Erin in the ways she needed
The ways in which God brought healing, hope and transformation to this "new" marriage while laying...2025-07-0130 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting045 | A Prayer For God To Meet You Where You Are In Your MarriageThe good news of the gospel is that God, in his love, meets us right where we are at. The good news though, is also that God loves us too much to leave us there.
In Episode 44, we heard the story of JB and Erin Crocker and how God met them in the midst of the brokenness of their marriage and invited them to something new. But before there was something new, something old had to pass away first.
Join us for this Thursday Thought as we pray for you to experience the good news...2025-06-2610 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting044 | When God Ended Our First Marriage: Part One with JB and Erin CrockerJB and Erin Crocker have been on a journey in their marriage. It's one that involved brokenness, despair and ultimately hope and redemption.
On today's episode, we are privileged to hear the first part of their story: how God ended "Version 1.0" of their marriage - a marriage that was filled with manipulation, fear and shame; a marriage that was no longer sustainable.
We'll hear:
Why not understanding the baggage you bring into marriage can be harmful
Why having a healthy marriage requires both partners to put in work
How important it is to have c...2025-06-2424 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting043 | A Prayer To See Our Story In God's StoryOn this Thursday thought, we consider how God's fingerprints are all over our stories, especially when we're in a place of pain or confusion and may not sense God there. We reflect on what it means that Jesus calls us "friends" (John 15:15) and we pray that we might see how our stories, our marriages are a part of God's larger story.
Next Steps
In this episode, we share the story of our journey through infertility. We understand that the journey of infertility is painful. We also know that you might be in the middle of...2025-06-1911 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting042 | Our Journey Through Infertility Part Two: A Miracle and God's FingerprintsOn today's episode, we share how God showed up in a very unique way for us. You'll hear how April kept seeing the time 11:11 and the Scripture God finally nudged her to check out, the evening before we found out we were pregnant.
We also humbly acknowledge that our story is not everyone's story - that God may have another outcome for you in the journey you're on. At the same time, we believe that if we're willing and open, we'll see God's fingerprints all over our story telling us how, in fact, we are a part...2025-06-1710 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting041 | A Prayer For God's Blessing In Our MarriageOn this Thursday Thought, we reflect on what it means to be blessed. We'll discover how being blessed is not about what we have (or don't have) but rather the presence of God in our lives.
We reflect on Stanley Hauerwas' invitation to consider the Beatitudes, those beautiful "Blessed are..." from Matthew 5 and what this might mean for our marriage:
Too often the Beatitudes are turned into ideals we must strive to attain. But Jesus does not tell us that we should try to be poor in spirit, or meek, or peacemakers. He simply says...2025-06-1212 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting040 | Our Journey Through Infertility Part One: Learning The True Meaning of BlessingHow many times have you heard someone say, "I'm so blessed..." when they're referring to having something they desire? Does that mean that someone who doesn't have what they desire isn't blessed?
On today's episode, April and Aaron share their 3 1/2 year journey through infertility and how God met them in the midst of their journey, even though they couldn't always sense him. You'll also hear how God taught them what true blessing is (hint: it's not in what you have or don't have).
Whether you are on the journey of infertility or not, this episode...2025-06-1013 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting039 | A Prayer For Friendship And Fun In Your MarriageJoin us for this Thursday Thought as we:
find out how Aaron and April's fun date went
reflect on our friendship with our spouse
consider how God might be inviting us to invest in that friendship with fun
We'll meditate on Proverbs 17:22 together and pray God's grace and blessing on the friendship in our marriage.
If you have a story of something fun you like doing in your marriage that we can share with our listeners, please click here!
Or you can e-mail us: info@livingmarriages.com
2025-06-0513 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting038 | Why Fun Matters In Your MarriageRecently, we have been reminded of the importance of fun and friendship in marriage. To make sure we have time to invest in some of that fun ourselves, we're keeping the episode shorter and asking for your help!
We'd love to hear from you about one way you and your spouse have fun in your marriage We'll share your ideas in an upcoming episode.
You can click right here and get in touch with us: https://livingmarriages.com/contact#httpslivingmarriagescomcontact
Or e-mail us:
info@livingmarriages.com
God bless!
2025-06-0307 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting037 | You Mean I Can Enjoy The Bible? A Prayer For Joy and Friendship With JesusWe were so inspired by our conversation with Your Bible Coach Keith Ferrin in episode 36! Who knew that reading our Bibles could be helpful AND fun!
On this Thursday thought, we spend more time in reflection about what it means that time with God in the word is "relational", not just "informational" and we pray that you may grow in intimacy with God and each other through your time in his Word.
Ignatian Gospel Contemplation Resources
A helpful short video that explains the practice of gospel contemplation: https://www.ignatianspirituality.com/ignatian-contemplation/
2025-05-2919 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting036 | Two Tips For Finding Joy In Your Bible Reading with Keith Ferrin"We expect the Bible to be true, we just don't expect it to be good."
Keith Ferrin
Anybody who has grown up in the church has been taught that reading our Bibles is an important part of being a follower of Jesus. The problem is that many of us don't know where to start or if we have, how to stay consistent with it. These problems follow us into our marriages where, with the busyness of life and young families, bible reading habits either disappear of feel burdensome.
Today's guest, speaker and Bible...2025-05-2742 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting035 | One Flesh? A Prayer For Unity In Your MarriageGrab a pen, your journal, your Bible and your favourite drink and join us for this Thursday Thought!
Today, Aaron shares a reflection on what unity is from God's perspective and how it's been his heart for humanity since the beginning of time. He also prays that we'd discover what it means to have Christ at the head of our marriage and that we'd find a "togetherness" as we confront problems.
Resources
Check out Tim Mackie's excellent bible study on the idea of "One Flesh" from The Bible Project: https://bibleproject.com/classroom/a...2025-05-2214 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting034 | One Mindset Shift For Greater Unity In Your Marriage"We are on the same team!"
This one simple truth has the power to transform our marriages and bring us greater unity. Yet, it is a truth that eludes us as so often we find ourselves seeing our spouse as the problem, rather than being able to confront the problem together with our spouse.
In this episode, we chat about:
How easy it is for us to forget that we are on the same team
God's invitation to shift our mindset to one of unity
How making the time and effort to connect with...2025-05-2018 min
Fanatical DreamHerFrom Side Hustle to Sweet Success: The 30-Year Journey of Virginia’s Finest ChocolatesEpisode Description: In this deliciously inspiring episode, host April Kemp sits down with Mary Griffith, founder of Virginia’s Finest Chocolates. What started as a high school hobby turned into a decades-long dream—now a thriving business built on chocolate, creativity, and courage. Mary shares how she grew her company from student projects to corporate gifting power player, while also mentoring young dreamers, navigating COVID pivots, and never missing a chance to deliver sweetness in person. This episode is a must-listen for anyone wondering if they can build a business from scratch, follow a passion long-term, or turn...2025-05-1933 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting033 | A Prayer To Overcome Pride and Shame In Your MarriageDo you believe that God has "better" for your marriage? Do you want to join God in discovering all he has for you?
In Episode 32, we heard from Ron and Amanda Falk about how God has invited them on the journey to discovering the freedom and sanctification he has for them in their marriage. It hasn't always been easy or smooth but it has been good.
On today's Thursday Thought, we follow up with some reflections on what sanctification might and might not be in marriage and we pray for the humility and grace we...2025-05-1516 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting032 | Why Marriage Counselling Is Not Only For Crisis With Ron And Amanda FalkCounselling is often seen as a "last ditch" attempt to save a marriage that is in crisis. But what if that wasn't the only time seeing a counsellor could be beneficial?
Today's guests, Ron and Amanda Falk, began seeing a counsellor when things were actually pretty OK in their marriage and have enjoyed incredible growth and fruit in their marriage because of it!
In today's episode we chat about:
The benefits of counselling in helping them understand themselves and each other better and how their communication has improved
How counselling did help in a t...2025-05-1323 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting031 | Understanding Your Money Story - A Prayer for God's Abundance and Provision in MarriageGrab your Bible, journal and your warm favourite beverage and join us for this Thursday Thought as we reflect on and pray through our money stories that we brought into our marriage.
Aaron shares some of his money story and how God has been doing a work of healing in his life around his scarcity mindset. He'll also lead us in a Lectio Divina around Psalm 37:1-7 as we get to hear from the Lord how he invites us to trust and delight in him, especially as it pertains to our money story.
Next steps2025-05-0817 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting030 | What Is Your Money Story? Questions About Financial Intimacy In MarriageMoney, Sex and In-Laws: These are often the three most intense areas of conflict in any marriage.
On today's episode, we dive into the area of finances and see how our "money story" (how we were raised to view and treat money) can impact our marriage. We'll also invite you to explore your money story with your spouse with some of these great conversation starters provided below!
Sample Questions to Ask About Your Money Story (from Shaun Maslyk, CFP)
What were your childhood experiences with money?
What is your earliest money memory?
What are y...2025-05-0618 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting029 | A Prayer For Sexual Intimacy In Your MarriageSex is a beautiful and wonderful gift that God has given us within the context of marriage. It is something that we can enjoy, that we can serve one another in and that ultimately is an act of worship.
However, sex can also be a pain point in many marriages as we wrestle with past trauma, shame and bad teaching.
On this Thursday Thought, we reflect, together with God on our understanding of sex and his hope for us in this area. We ask some important questions of why we think of sex in the w...2025-05-0116 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting028 | Why Sex Isn't A Dirty Word with Kristen Miele of Sex Ed ReclaimedIs sex something that has brought you and your spouse closer together, or has it been a pain point in your marriage? Is sex something you can talk about freely with each other and your kids, or is there a cloud of shame that still hangs over the subject?
We are so thrilled to be joined on this episode by the founder of Sex Ed Reclaimed, Kristen Miele as she shares God's heart and vision for the beauty of sex in marriage.
On this episode:
We talk about how our upbringing affects our sex l...2025-04-2932 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting027 | What Do My Kids See In My Marriage? A Prayer For The BrokenheartedWhen our kids look at our marriages, what do they see?
Even if you don't have kids, this episode is for you because our marriages matter to others, including the next generation. Join us for this Thursday Thought in which we reflect on and pray about our discussion from Ep. 26 in which we learned that “if we truly want what is best for our children, we need to want what is best for our marriage as well."
Grab your journal, your Bible, a pen and find a quiet spot for a time of reflection and pray...2025-04-2418 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting026 | What Are Your Children Learning About Marriage By Watching You?It's so easy to believe that marriage only matters to a husband and a wife. But as God has really been laying on our hearts, it's time for us to realize that our marriages matter to so many more, especially the next generation. Whether you have kids or not, this episode is for you.
Now, to the parents listening - this episode is not a guilt trip about the ways in which your marriage is hurting your children. It is though, as we found, a gracious "wake-up" call from the Lord to realize that if we truly...2025-04-2221 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting025 | Intentional Faith Habits - A Prayer for Overwhelmed ParentsIn Episode 24, we had the privilege of having a conversation with Christie Thomas about the importance of small faith habits in discipling our kids.
In this Thursday Thought, April leads us in a time of reflection and prayer, giving us a chance to celebrate with God the little habits we might be sharing in already that form us and our children and asking God to help us build simple, new habits that will stick. (Even if you don't have children, this episode is for you as small faith habits matter to all of us!)
So...2025-04-1716 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting024 | How the Small Habits Make a Big Difference in Marriage and Parenting with Christie ThomasHow do you foster a sense of spiritual connectedness with God and your spouse when you also have the reality of little ones bringing daily joy and chaos?
This is a challenge that we share with many of our listeners. That's why we're so excited to chat with Christie Thomas from Little Shoots, Deep Roots about ways in which we can cultivate a deeper spiritual journey "with" our kids instead of "in spite" of them!
In this conversation you'll hear:
Why small habits rather than large changes are much more effective in discipling your...2025-04-1529 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting023 | A Prayer For The Small Things In Our MarriageOn this Thursday Thought, please join us for a time of reflection and prayer as we consider the ways God is inviting us to "plant" and "tend" to the small habits in our marriage so that they may grow into the living, connected and intimate marriage he has for us!
We'll consider the "mustard seeds" in our marriages as well as invite God, our "master gardener" to come and help us tend, weed and even prune what's already there.
To read the parable of the mustard seed, click here for Matthew 13.
Grab your B...2025-04-1015 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting022 | How Doing The "Small Things Often" Can Make A Big Difference In Your MarriageI confess! I (Aaron) love big, radical things! I'm always looking for the "next big idea" that will change our lives and our marriages, the "silver bullet" or "magic formula" that will bring dramatic transformation. However, while we should not discount the big things, I've been learning the ways in which God is inviting us to discover and invest in the small things. When these are done often, with intentionality and care, they will make a big difference in our marriage.
In this episode:
We talk about how "small things" is a kingdom principal that applies...2025-04-0818 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting021 | A Prayer For Hope In The Valley from Psalm 23Have you felt at times that God has abandoned or forgotten you? - In times of grief, doubt and confusion, do you worry that he might not care for you the way he promises to in Psalm 23?
Grab your Bible, your journal and your favourite beverage and join us for this Thursday Thoughts edition of Living Marriages as April leads us in a time of reflection and prayer in Psalm 23. How can we recognize the voice of our Good Shepherd? How can we know that he is in the valley with us and, even in the midst...2025-04-0316 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting020 | Hope In The Valley? God's Grace in Marriage, Cancer and Parenting with Pastor Kyle BrooksDo you ever wonder where God is in the valleys of life?
If you need hope and encouragement for the journey, this episode is for you! Kyle Brooks, pastor and author of "Through the Valley: 40 Days on Psalm 23 A Lenten Devotional" is our guest.
In our conversation, Kyle candidly shares:
How he came to write a Lenten devotional based on Psalm 23
How he and his wife Stephanie navigated Kyle's cancer diagnosis and treatment while also welcoming their first child
The challenges of having a connected marriage while raising two young children
Through it...2025-04-0133 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting019 | A Prayer To Discover and Experience Intimacy In Your MarriageHow would you answer these two questions about intimacy in your marriage?
Is it safe to love?
Is it safe to be loved?
If you have positive answers, join us in thanking God that you are able to both give and receive love in your marriage!
If you struggle, as many of us do, please don't lose hope. God is for you and your marriage and he wants you to be able to give and receive love in the fullest expressions of intimacy in our marriages.
Grab a journal and your Bible, your...2025-03-2712 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting018 | Why Intimacy Goes Beyond the BedroomWhen we use the word "intimacy," our culture (and even our churches) have conditioned us to think of what happens in the bedroom, of sexual intimacy.
While sexual intimacy is an integral part of marriage, it is not the full picture of what God has created us for and invited us into. There is so much more to intimacy and today's episode is meant to get the conversation going on what intimacy in marriage can look like beyond the bedroom.
According to Eric Erickson, intimacy is the potential someone has for connectedness and it hinges o...2025-03-2514 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting017 | A Prayer to Overcome Drift and Differences in Marriage"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly." John 10:10
It is fairly clear that marriages in our society are under attack. In Episode 16, we learned from Braden and Kristen Hafner of Family Life Canada that two of the enemy's strategies to destroy our marriages are subtle: difference and drift.
Please join us in this Thursday Thought as we spend time together and with the Lord:
reflecting on how difference and drift might be creeping into our marriage
praying for God's strength...2025-03-2013 min
You Can Mentor: A Christian Youth Mentoring Podcast264. The Youth Mentoring Playbook - A Game Plan for Impactful MentorshipIn this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza sits down with John Barnard to dive into their new book, The Youth Mentoring Playbook, a must-read for anyone looking to make a difference in the lives of young people. They share key insights, practical strategies, and real-life experiences that help mentors build strong, meaningful relationships. Whether you're a coach, teacher, or community leader, this book will give you the tools to guide and inspire the next generation. Tune in for valuable takeaways and a behind-the-scenes look at their journey in writing the book!Purchase your...2025-03-2016 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting016 | Two Subtle Things That Can Be Deadly In Marriage with Braden and Kristen Hafner of Family Life CanadaDifference and Drift. These 2 things can be subtle but deadly for our marriages.
Have you discovered some differences with your spouse that have left you discouraged? Do you find yourself drifting further and further apart from your partner?
We're so excited to share our conversation with Braden and Kristin Hafner of Family Life Canada about God's hope for our marriages!
On this episode you'll hear:
Why marriage matters to God and us
How differences and drift can sabotage our marriages
How there is hope and healing in Christ for our marriages
How...2025-03-1841 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting015 | Thursday Thoughts Reimagined - An Invitation to Reflection and Prayer for your MarriageAs we have wrestled with what Thursday Thoughts episodes could be about, God has brought some fresh vision! What would happen if, every Thursday, we had the space and time to reflect on God's wisdom from that week's Tuesday teaching and pray that God would bring that wisdom to life in our marriages?
On this episode:
Aaron shares God's vision from Ezekiel 37 for why this two-part approach might make sense
We take some time to reflect on where we're at with God and in our marriage
We also take time to pray that God would breathe...2025-03-1315 min
You Can Mentor: A Christian Youth Mentoring Podcast263. Building Community and Breaking Barriers in Mentoring with Grant SkeldonIn this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza and Grant Skeldon dive into the significance of mentorship and discipleship, especially for young people who have faced tough challenges. They share personal stories, insights on starting a new church in Nashville, and the essential role of community in building meaningful connections. The conversation highlights the importance of creating lasting memories in mentorship and overcoming common obstacles that hinder individuals from engaging in these relationships. Zachary and Grant discuss the challenges and rewards of discipleship, touching on barriers like time constraints and feelings of inadequacy. They stress the...2025-03-1356 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting014 | What is a Kingdom Marriage? Why Your Marriage Matters to God and the WorldHave you ever paused to consider, that your marriage matters to more than just you and your spouse?
In episode 4 of the podcast, our guest, Dr. John Littlejohn said this: "Marriage is about what glorifies God."
On today's episode, we look at why our marriages, although they are for our good, also have deep kingdom significance. We'll hear:
How our marriages can be the best "relational apologetic"
Aaron confess his selfishness in his marriage to April
How understanding God's purpose in our marriage can pull us out of selfishness
If you'd like to...2025-03-1111 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting013 | Why You Cannot and Should Not Do Your Marriage AloneWhy is it that our marriages can sometimes feel like the loneliest of places?
On this episode, we explore God's heart and design for community and why that is so critical to us having healthy, hopeful marriages. We chat about:
How community is part of God's character and how Jesus had community
The kind of community God is inviting us into with people outside of our marriages
The differences between "sharing" and "vulnerability" in these friendships
The book by Justin Whitmel Earley that we quote A LOT from in this episode can be found here:2025-03-0622 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting012 | God's Victory Over Shame and Addiction in Your Marriage with Matt Cline of Restored MinistriesDo you struggle with the shame of sexual addiction and brokenness in your marriage? Have you been hiding a pornography addiction from your spouse, even if you know it's destroying your marriage?
There is good news: God has not given up on you or your marriage!
Our guest today, Matt Cline of Restored Ministries, has been given an important assignment by God: to help bring hope and healing to marriages that have been broken by sexual shame, addiction and trauma.
In our conversation, you'll hear:
A story of how a prayer for Go...2025-03-0432 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting011 | How Weekly Check-Ins Can Help You Move From Being Glorified Roommates to Connected SpousesHave you ever felt like you and your spouse were just glorified roommates? Like you are ships passing in the night?
We've been there! As God breathes life into our marriages, we're grateful he gives us practices and routines to help us feel more connected and thriving with each other. One of those practices is the weekly check-in.
On this episode, you'll learn the importance of this practice and why consistency and heart questions are key to unlocking the potential of this practice (along with God's Spirit of course!)
Resources:
"The M...2025-02-2712 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting010 | Why the First and Last Words of Your Day Matter in Your Marriage from Psalm 92When was the last time you felt "untethered" in your marriage? Lost, disconnected, alone? This happened recently to us. Thankfully, God gave us a way through and his roadmap was Psalm 92.
In this episode, we'll discuss:
The transformative power of declaring daily God's steadfast love and faithfulness in your life and marriage
How a simple practice can help you feel more anchored in God's love and care
How this practice can also help you feel more connected as a couple and a family
A suggestion for an evening Examen practice. Ask each other at dinner o...2025-02-2514 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting009 | How This Kind of Listening Can Help Free You From Marriage DramaHave you ever felt that when your spouse is listening to you, it only LOOKS like they're listening? That as soon as you're done speaking, they will unleash their advice and their opinions on you?
On this Thursday Thoughts episode, we'll discover HOW we listen matters just as much (or more) than the fact that we are listening. We'll also learn:
that "listening to understand" is more important than "listening to convince"
how listening to understand can help us escape the drama triangle
Resources:
“In a study of two types of listening, clinical ps...2025-02-2018 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting008 | Overcoming Shame with Grace in Your Marriage with Katie Skurja"Shame is the most powerful force on the planet, apart from grace."
Katie Skurja, founder of Imago Dei Ministries, is an internationally recognized inner healing practitioner, spiritual director and marriage counsellor. We were thrilled and honoured that she could join us in this conversation exploring the devastating power of shame in our marriages and the joy and freedom available in Christ's healing work.
Topics we explore include:
What are "shadow vows" and why every couple should do them
God's grace that is available for us to turn into and confront our shame rather than...2025-02-1842 min
You Can Mentor: A Christian Youth Mentoring Podcast259. The Four Dangers of Mentoring with Kent Evans of Manhood JourneyIn this episode of You Can Mentor, host Zach talks with Kent Evans, founder of Manhood Journey, about the role of mentorship in fatherhood. Kent shares how a mentor shaped his teenage years and emphasizes the power of asking questions over giving answers. They explore the dangers of mentoring, the importance of humility, and how mentors should guide mentees in building decision-making skills. The goal is to transition from mentor to friend, creating a space where both mentor and mentee learn from each other.https://manhoodjourney.org/--Takeaways: Mentorship can p...2025-02-1344 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting007 | How Gratitude Can Transform Your MarriageWhen is the last time you thanked your spouse? For who they are or for something they did? Has it been awhile?
On this Thursday Thought, join Aaron as he explores another tip on creating a healthy marriage with God, this time by looking at the transformative power of gratitude in your marriage.
Topics we cover:
Why gratitude matters
How gratitude can transform your marriage along with some of the science that backs it up
How keeping a gratitude journal transformed one man's view of his wife and his marriage
Resources
...2025-02-1312 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting006 | Three Guidelines for Hearing God In Your Marriage from Romans 12Do you want to know God's will for your life but you're not sure where to start? Do you want to hear his voice for your marriage but you're not sure what you're listening for?
In this episode, we explore what it means to discern God's will in the context of your marriage and how Paul provides some (uncomfortable) direction in Romans 12.
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship." Roma...2025-02-1125 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting005 | 5 Tips for Creating a Healthy Marriage - Where is God in Your Marriage?Are you wanting to bring some health, vitality, new life to your marriage? Are you wanting to have God at the centre of your marriage but aren't sure where to start?
Over the next 5 Thursday Thoughts episodes, we'll explore practical ideas of how we can create a healthy, vibrant marriage with God and our spouse.
On this episode, April starts at the very beginning. If you want God at the centre of your marriage, you have to see how he's already there! We'll discover:
How God is already at work in your marriage
Why w...2025-02-0611 min
You Can Mentor: A Christian Youth Mentoring Podcast258. Discussing God in Your Mentoring RelationshipIn this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zach Garza interviews Mike McGarry, a seasoned youth pastor and theologian, about the critical role of mentoring in youth ministry. They delve into the importance of presence in mentoring relationships, discipleship, and how to assess a mentee’s spiritual relationship with God. Mike highlights the significance of identity in Christ, emphasizing the need for youth to understand their role as image bearers of God. The conversation also explores the challenges and strategies of mentoring youth in a spiritual context, touching on the awkwardness often felt in initiating conversations about faith, se...2025-02-0654 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting004 | Build A Marriage Centred on Christ with Dr. John LittlejohnHave you wondered what people mean when they say they want Christ "at the centre" of their marriage? What does it look like to hear the voice of God in our marriage, together and as individuals?
In today's episode, we are so excited to welcome our first-ever guest, Dr. John "Adidam" Littlejohn! A deeply loved pastor and internationally recognized musician, John explores with us in this fun and in-depth conversation, questions like:
If God desires to speak to us, how do we hear God's voice in our marriage?
If God is at the centre of our...2025-02-0438 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting003 | What Does Creation Have To Do With Christian Marriage?Welcome to the first “Thursday Thought” of the Living Marriages Podcast!
Over the next several episodes, we are exploring our vision statement together: “Create a healthy marriage through encountering the living God.”
Today, Aaron reflects on the idea of “creating” in our marriages:
Why creating beauty in our marriages so important and why it’s something we rarely think about
Why as image-bearers of God, he’s inviting us to co-create with him in our marriages
What co-creating in our marriages could look like (hint: I’m not 100% sure yet but let’s be creative together!)
...2025-01-3013 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting002 | Why God's Best For Your Marriage Is Better Than Cough SyrupOn today’s episode, you’ll get to know your hosts of the Living Marriages Podcast, April and Aaron, better!
God has given us a crazy and fun story to share:
Hear how God brought us together in some rather miraculous ways
Discover how God's best for you is WAY better than broccoli flavoured cough syrup
We'd love to hear your marriage story as well! Get in touch: info@livingmarriages.com
2025-01-2623 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian Parenting001| Is Your Marriage Healthy? Or Is It Dry Bones? - Ezekiel 37Welcome to the Living Marriages Podcast - our first episode ever!
Today, you’ll hear about God’s heart for marriage and why we’re joining him on this journey of helping you create a healthy marriage through encountering the living God.
We explore:
Why our marriage of almost 14 years was doing just “fine” but maybe why fine isn’t all that God has for us.
Why, if your marriage isn’t growing, it’s dying.
We’ll share the vision God gave us for marriages from Ezekiel 37:
We ask ourselves and you: Is your marri...2025-01-2618 minThe Living Marriages Podcast | Effective Communication, Intimacy, Healthy Habits, Christian Counseling, Christian ParentingWelcome to Living Marriages! Podcast for Those Wanting a Healthy Christian Marriage God's WayHas the excitement of your wedding day now faded into the background? Is the honeymoon over and now you’re wondering what’s next? Do you want to live your marriage God’s way but you’re not sure where to start?
If you said yes to any of these questions, you’ve come to the right place! Welcome to the Living Marriages Podcast. We are April and Aaron Au, marriage coaches.
For over a decade, we’ve been sharing some of the marriage tools and insight we’ve learned with couples, and now we’re thrilled to be...2025-01-2602 min
You Can Mentor: A Christian Youth Mentoring Podcast257. Identity & Mentoring with Norris Williams of Identity ExchangeIn this episode of You Can Mentor, Zachary Garza and Norris Williams of Identity Exchange (www.identityexchange.com) explore the vital connection between identity and mentorship. Norris shares his personal journey, emphasizing how understanding our identity in Christ shapes everything we do and how societal labels can distort our self-worth. The conversation dives into the crucial role mentors play in helping youth discover their true identity beyond external achievements, highlighting the importance of hearing God’s voice to guide that process. With a focus on transformation and empowerment, they discuss how mentors can facilitate connections with God, leading to a...2025-01-2348 min
You Can Mentor: A Christian Youth Mentoring Podcast256. Mentoring in Public Schools with John Shearer of Academy 4In this episode of the You Can Mentor Podcast, Zachary Garza interviews John Shearer, leader of Academy 4, a nonprofit mentoring over 4,200 fourth graders annually by partnering with local churches to build sustainable relationships with schools and families. John shares how his cancer journey led him to nonprofit work and highlights Academy Four’s programs, which equip children with leadership skills and foster community engagement. With a focus on love, service, and long-term commitment, the episode explores how mentoring transforms both children and volunteers, demonstrating the power of intentional relationships to create lasting change. https://academy4.org/--...2025-01-1654 min
You Can Mentor: A Christian Youth Mentoring Podcast255. Recruiting and Retaining Mentors with Noah McGuffey of Forerunner MentoringIn this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza sits down with Noah McGuffey, Mentor Coordinator at Forerunner Mentoring in Dallas, Texas. Together, they dive deep into Noah’s inspiring journey—from his childhood experiences abroad to how those formative years ignited his passion for mentoring. Noah opens up about the powerful mission of Forerunner Mentoring, shedding light on the real challenges of recruiting mentors and the vital role of fostering strong relationships with both mentors and mentees. Whether you’re an experienced mentor or just starting out, Noah offers valuable insights on how to attract the right...2025-01-0944 min
You Can Mentor: A Christian Youth Mentoring Podcast254. Motorcycle Mentoring with John B and Zach GarzaIn this podcast, John and Zach discuss the "motorcycle metaphor" to highlight important lessons about mentorship through John's experience riding motorcycles with his 18-year-old son. Here are the key takeaways:Communication is Key: Effective communication is vital for mentoring, especially when introducing new experiences to a mentee. This includes preparing them beforehand, offering guidance during the experience, and debriefing afterward. It's crucial to anticipate challenges and communicate clearly about what to expect.Superpower Observation: Mentors should be observant, noticing both verbal and nonverbal cues from their mentees. Just as John had to be extra aware of his son's...2024-12-1927 min
The Abundance Tree PodcastUnlock Adulting Secrets with Ernest Moss!
Join us for an enlightening episode with returning guest Ernest Moss, who first appeared in Episode 14, the visionary behind the What's the Formula Mentoring Academy. Ernest, a powerhouse of inspiration, has devoted his life to empowering young adults through his innovative "WTF Adulting" approach. With a dynamic career spanning over 15 years in Corporate America and expertise in Managing Information Technology, Ernest shares his groundbreaking success formulas and practical tips for adulting.
About Ernest Moss:
Ernest Moss is a powerhouse of inspiration and the mastermind behind the What's the Formula Mentoring Academy. He has devoted his life to empowering young...2024-07-1839 min
The BEYOND Podcast: Nervensystem als Basis für dein erfolgreiches Business & persönliche Erfüllung[#16 “Wieso wir denken, dass Business nur mit bestimmten Strategien erfolgreich funktioniert”]#16 “Wieso wir denken, dass Business nur mit bestimmten Strategien erfolgreich funktioniert”
…momentan sieht es so aus, als würde jeder Business Coach nur mehr Strategien weitergeben. Jedes Reel beginnt gleich, in jedem Mentoring geht es um DIE Strategie, die es dir ermöglicht finanziell frei zu sein & örtlich unabhängig zu arbeiten. Wieso das so ist und welche Art des Business Mentorings für mich viel sinnvoller ist, als die Weitergabe von Strategien erfährst du in dieser Podcastfolge.
BODY BASED BUSINESS
Melde dich hier für mein Signature Programm an. Wir starten Mitte April in die 2. Runde & du baust das Business...2024-03-2125 min
Der Business Podcast - Sales & Mindset Impulse für selbstständige Frauen#246 - Risiken, Nebenwirkungen und Chancen als Selbstständige mit einem reinen Online BusinessDer Business Podcast - Sales & Mindset Impulse für selbstständige Frauen
Lockt als Selbstständige mit einem reinen Online Business wirklich die große Freiheit?
Oder ist das alles Schall & Rauch und in Wirklichkeit doch ein von Abhängigkeiten geprägtes Leben?
In dieser Podcast-Folge gibt Laura einen Einblick hinter die Kulissen ihres Lebens als Digitale Nomadin und hat 3 Chancen sowie 3 Risiken im Gepäck.
Nach über 3 Jahren Online Business, Leben an 3 Orten der Welt und vielen Höhen und Tiefen kann Laura einiges aus dem Nähkästchen plaudern.
Hör’ unbedi...2022-10-2518 min
Soul Essentials HealingMoving Stuck Emotions - Soul Essentials Healing HourIn this session we learn how to move stuck painful emotions. How to raise your vibration. How to stop the negative thinking in the head. How to stop letting others hurt us. April is a Licensed Professional Intuitive Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counselor. An Advanced Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. A Hypnotherapist. A Past Life Regression Therapist. An Auricular Acupuncturist. A Reiki Master. An Ama Deus Energy Healer. A Psychic-Medium/ Tarot Card Reader. A Spiritual Coach/ Teacher. April loves working with clients who are on a personal transformation journey. Who are working towards self-improvement and inner peac...2022-03-301h 01Soul Essentials HealingLife's ups and Downs - Learning To Heal -Learning to CopeIn this session we learn how to deal with and cope with life's ups and downs in a new way. How to not take these things personally. How to change your perception to what is happening. To know you are not the victim. How to learn from out life experiences and challenges. How to gain inner peace in the midst of chaos. April is a Licensed Professional Intuitive Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counselor. An Advanced Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. A Hypnotherapist. A Past Life Regression Therapist. An Auricular Acupuncturist. A Reiki Master. An Ama Deus Energy Healer. A...2022-03-2545 minSoul Essentials HealingInigth The Divine Spark Within - April Gaines w/ PoonamCome learn how to ignite the Divine Spark Within This was an awesome workshop full of amazing teachers and spiritual healers.Teaching the way to ignite the divine spark within all of us and connecting us to the One. April is a Licensed Professional Intuitive Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counselor. An Advanced Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. A Hypnotherapist. A Past Life Regression Therapist. An Auricular Acupuncturist. A Reiki Master. An Ama Deus Energy Healer. A Psychic-Medium/ Tarot Card Reader. A Spiritual Coach/ Teacher.April loves working with clients who ar...2022-02-2657 minSoul Essentials HealingLetting go of fear and the past.In this session we talk about learning to let go of the past. How to heal from the past. To let go of fear. How to practice self love. Healing chakras and meditation. April is a Licensed Professional Intuitive Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counselor. An Advanced Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. A Hypnotherapist. A Past Life Regression Therapist. An Auricular Acupuncturist. A Reiki Master. An Ama Deus Energy Healer. A Psychic-Medium/ Tarot Card Reader. A Spiritual Coach/ Teacher. April loves working with clients who are on a personal transformation journey. Who are working towards self-improvement and inner peace. Cl...2022-01-1852 minSoul Essentials HealingHealing The SoulIn this session we talk about learning to let go of the past. How to heal from the past. To let go of fear. How to practice self love. Healing chakras and meditation. April is a Licensed Professional Intuitive Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counselor. An Advanced Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. A Hypnotherapist. A Past Life Regression Therapist. An Auricular Acupuncturist. A Reiki Master. An Ama Deus Energy Healer. A Psychic-Medium/ Tarot Card Reader. A Spiritual Coach/ Teacher. April loves working with clients who are on a personal transformation journey. Who are working towards self-improvement and inner peace. Cl...2022-01-1856 minSoul Essentials HealingDealing With EmotionsLearn to deal with your emotions.To use them as a guide.To control them.To stop negative thinking.To have self love and forgiveness.To know your worth. To have peace.April is a Licensed Professional Intuitive Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counselor. An Advanced Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. A Hypnotherapist. A Past Life Regression Therapist. An Auricular Acupuncturist. A Reiki Master. An Ama Deus Energy Healer. A Psychic-Medium/ Tarot Card Reader. A Spiritual Coach/ Teacher.April loves working with clients w...2022-01-1144 minSoul Essentials Healing12 Chakras ExplainedCome learn to stop being perfect. You don't have to be perfect. You are good enough. You are worthy. April is a Licensed Professional Intuitive Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counselor. An Advanced Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. A Hypnotherapist. A Past Life Regression Therapist. An Auricular Acupuncturist. A Reiki Master. An Ama Deus Energy Healer. A Psychic-Medium/ Tarot Card Reader. A Spiritual Coach/ Teacher. April loves working with clients who are on a personal transformation journey. Who are working towards self-improvement and inner peace. Clients who are looking to find healing and clarity in their lives and in t...2021-12-281h 10Soul Essentials HealingLife On The Other SideCome learn what happens when we die. What life is like on the other side. Animals on the other side. How to talk to our loved ones on the other side. April is a Licensed Professional Intuitive Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counselor. An Advanced Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. A Hypnotherapist. A Past Life Regression Therapist. An Auricular Acupuncturist. A Reiki Master. An Ama Deus Energy Healer. A Psychic-Medium/ Tarot Card Reader. A Spiritual Coach/ Teacher. April loves working with clients who are on a personal transformation journey. Who are working towards self-improvement and inner peace. Clients who ar...2021-12-141h 14Soul Essentials HealingManifesting Your DesiresIn this session we talk about manifesting your dreams and desires in your life.How to pray. How to work with the energy of the universe. The energy of the soul and more!!April is a Licensed Professional Intuitive Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counselor. An Advanced Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. A Hypnotherapist. A Past Life Regression Therapist. An Auricular Acupuncturist. A Reiki Master. An Ama Deus Energy Healer. A Psychic-Medium/ Tarot Card Reader. A Spiritual Coach/ Teacher.April loves working with clients who are on a personal transformation journey. W...2021-11-1604 min
Yes, I Work From HomeCareer Guidance Programs for After College and Beyond, with Elissa UntonElissa Unton is the CEO at ArcVida, a modern career guidance company based out of Los Angeles, California. Elissa partnered with career happiness coach Anna Hunter, and together they've been able to take career coaching to the next level. ArcVida uses an online software platform that provides ambitious U.S. professionals with the structure, expert guidance, and community to find and land fulfilling work, faster. Prior to founding ArcVida, Elissa spent several years mentoring college undergraduates while also recruiting and hiring professionals for her own corporate finance teams. She mentioned several helpful blog articles on their website that will...2021-11-121h 21