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Couples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships90 | How Your Spouse Can Support You Through Grief and HardshipPart two on this series about grief and suffering. This episode is all about how your spouse can come alongside you when the hardships come. What did you love most about this episode? Send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com to let us know or DM Carrie on Instagram.We’d also love to have you take 30 seconds to leave us a review for the show over on Apple Podcasts. We love hearing from you and would lo...2024-04-0414 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships89 | Walking Through Sadness, Grief, and Suffering With Your SpouseIn today’s episode it’s an inside look at our life right now. Messy, sad, and hard. It’s a two part update on where we’re at and how we’re navigating a difficult season. We pray it gives you hope in the midst of a difficult situation. What did you love most about this episode? Send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com to let us know or DM Carrie on Instagram.We’d also love to...2024-03-2819 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships88 | Prepping for Family Vacation - One Month OutOur big family vacation is just around the corner so in today’s episode we’re breaking down all the details that you want to be mindful of when planning your next vacation. Loving the content? Find more of our travels on Instagram @travelhackfamvacay What did you love most about this episode? Send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com to let us know or DM Carrie on Instagram.We’d also love to have...2024-03-2121 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships87 | Have a Memorable Spring Break Vacation for Your Family Without Breaking the BankSpring Break season is underway and in today’s episode we’re diving into how you can have a memorable spring break vacation. Share with us what your family is planning on doing for Spring Break this year! What did you love most about this episode? Send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com to let us know or DM Carrie on Instagram.We’d also love to have you take 30 seconds to leave us a review for the show over on...2024-03-1415 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships86 | 10 Questions to Ask Your Spouse to Build ConnectionWe’ve got 10 questions you can ask your spouse today to spark curiosity in your marriage! What’s your go-to karaoke song?If you could audition for any tv show, which one would it be? Is there a board game that you’re too competitive to play? Quote a phrase that I use too much! What superpower would you think is a curse more than a blessing? What was your first ever post on social media? What’s a question you were alway...2024-03-0725 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships85 | Cultivating Connection Part 6 - Add Humor - Don’t Take Yourself So SeriouslyWe’re wrapping up our six part series on connection with HUMOR. In this episode we talk about the importance of adding laughter and fun into your relationships to develop deeper connection. These concepts are based on an article linked here. Listen to Part 1 - InitiateListen to Part 2 - Send Life Updates Listen to Part 3 - Practice GenerosityListen to Part 4 - Acceptance and Love...2024-02-2917 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships84 | Cultivating Connection Part 5 - ForgivenessPart 5 of our Cultivating Connection series is here. We’re chatting about forgiveness today and how when we take a step to forgive someone it opens the door for better connection with one another. Who in your life do you need to forgive? These concepts are based on an article linked here. Listen to Part 1 - InitiateListen to Part 2 - Send Life Updates Listen to Part 3 - Practice Generosity...2024-02-2216 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships83 | Cultivating Connection Part 4 - Acceptance and LoveHappy Belated Valentine’s Day! Christians are called to LOVE, but what does that really mean? In today’s episode we’re diving into part 4 of our Cultivating Connection series where we talk about the importance of loving people where they are AND calling them higher. These concepts are based on an article linked here. Listen to Part 1 - InitiateListen to Part 2 - Send Life Updates Listen to Part 3...2024-02-1518 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships82 | Cultivating Connection Part 3 - Practice Generosity - Being Open Handed With Your Time, Space, and MoneyWe’re continuing in our 6 part series with number #3 - Practice Generosity. Being generous with all areas of your life and being open handed with the things God have given you is key in your relationships. These concepts are based on an article linked here. Listen to Part 1 - InitiateListen to Part 2 - Send Life Updates Other episodes: Episode 19 | How to Cultivate a Generosity Mindse...2024-02-0821 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships81 | Cultivating Connection Part 2 - Send Life Updates - Releasing the Pressure to Make Things PerfectContinuing in our Cultivating Connection series, we’re onto #2 - Send Life Updates. Keeping people updated in your life (even when they’re far away) is a great way to stay connected. We also dive into practical ways we do this with family far away, being okay with organic hang outs rather than the perfectly planned date, and initiating conversations with those you haven’t heard from. These concepts are based on an article linked here. Listen to Part 1 - Initiate2024-02-0118 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships80 | Cultivating Connection Part 1 - Initiate - Make The First MoveWe’re starting a new series today where we’re discussing the 6 practices that you can do to cultivate connection within your relationships. In today’s episode we’re chatting through #1 Initiate. Be the one who makes plans rather than waiting around for someone else to make the next move. These are based on an article linked here. What did you love most about this episode? Send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com to let...2024-01-2514 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships79 | Asking Your Spouse for Help, Anticipating Needs, Our Post Christmas Wake Up CallA few episodes ago we explained how we were adding peace back into our abundant holiday season…Well now a month later we’re recapping how that went and how we realized it wasn’t actually the best thing we could have done. WHOOPS. Listen to how we are moving forward with clearer communication. Episode Referenced: 74 | The One Thing We’re Doing to Decrease Stress and Bring Peace to Our Holiday SeasonWhat d...2024-01-1816 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships78 | Intentionally Listening to Your Spouse & Overcoming Roommate SyndromeToday we’re answering a listener's submitted question! Our listener is navigating how to communicate with their new spouse and feeling like their relationship is more of a checklist than intentional. Listen in for how we would navigate this situation. Have a question you’d like answered on the podcast? Send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com and we’re happy to answer it. Hear something you like? Send us a DM over on Instagram @carrievajko @jonathanvako and we’d be happy...2024-01-1115 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships77 | How to Prep for a New Year - Goals, Trips, IntentionsHappy 2024! We’re back for a new year and sharing allllllllll the things we’re looking forward to with the new year. In this episode we share our upcoming travel, setting intentions for the year and what goals we have. Follow Carrie’s NEW Instagram account all about traveling using points and miles @travelhackfamvacay Hear something you like? Send us a DM over on Instagram @carrievajko @jonathanvako and we’d be happy to send you the link! Wha...2024-01-0425 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships76 | 4 Questions to Ask at the End of the Year - 2023 RecapIt’s the last episode of 2023! As we wrap up this year we cover four questions to ask your spouse as we review this past year. Recap Questions:What went well?What was something that was hard?Where did you grow?What can be improved?Hear something you like? Send us a DM over on Instagram @carrievajko @jonathanvako and we’d be happy to send you the link! What did yo...2023-12-2827 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships75 | These Are a Few of Our Favorite Things | Best Purchases of 2023IT’S OUR FAVORITE THINGS EPISODE!!! Yay! We’re recapping our favorite purchases (big and small) for this past year. Hear something you like? Send us a DM over on Instagram @carrievajko @jonathanvako and we’d be happy to send you the link! What did you love most about this episode? Send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com to let us know or DM Carrie on Instagram.We’d also love to have you t...2023-12-2127 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships74 | The One Thing We’re Doing to Decrease Stress and Increase Peace to Our Holiday SeasonVulnerable episode! Our family has a VERY abundant December and this year we’re doing something different to make things less stressful and bring peace into our home. Listen along to the episode to find out! What did you love most about this episode? Send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com to let us know or DM Carrie on Instagram.We’d also love to have you take 30 seconds to leave us a review for the show over on...2023-12-1421 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships73 | Gift Giving Guide - Finding the Right Gift for You SpouseFinding the best gift for Christmas for your spouse doesn’t need to be challenging! Listen to this episode to learn how to get the best gift to your spouse. What did you love most about this episode? Send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com to let us know or DM Carrie on Instagram.We’d also love to have you take 30 seconds to leave us a review for the show over on Apple Podca...2023-12-0729 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships72 | Create the Best Staycation for Your Family Without Lots of MoneyOnce a year, we take a week out of the calendar and make it the BEST staycation for our kids and family. We plan for it all year and our kids look forward to it every year. Listen in for how we do it and the steps you can take to create your own one too. What did you love most about this episode? Send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com to let us know or DM Carrie on Instagram.We’d a...2023-11-3015 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships71 | 10 Questions to Ask Your Spouse on an Upcoming Date NightBe intentional in your relationships! Use the 10 questions in this episode to springboard the conversations that you have with your loved ones.What did you love most about this episode? Send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com to let us know or DM Carrie on Instagram.We’d also love to have you take 30 seconds to leave us a review for the show over on Apple Podcasts. We love hearing from you and would love to feature your re...2023-11-2317 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships70 | Money saving HACKS - Budgeting, Cash Back, Loyalty Programs, & Meal PlanningWith the cost of goods on the rise and everyone feeling the impacts on inflation, we chat throughout TOP money saving things we do! Big or small, each of these things we do to bring more money back into our budget. Living on a budget and spending less than you make is crucial for saving money.Utilize cash back platforms like Rakuten and Honey to earn money back on purchases.Use apps like Fetch to scan receipts and earn points for gift cards.Meal planning, buying i...2023-11-1621 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships69 | Are We Called to Forgive and Forget or Is It a Myth?We’ve often heard the term, forgiving and forgetting. Is this what we’re called to as Christians? Is this the way of Jesus or is it a myth? We’re uncovering today if we as followers of Jesus truly forget what has been forgiven in our life. Episodes referenced: Episode 36 | The Four Levels of Relating in Relationships - Cultivating Open and Loving RelationshipsEpisode 41 | Understanding & Developing Trust in Relationships - PART ONEEpisode 42 | Understanding & Developing Trust in Relationships - PART TWO2023-11-0917 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships68 | Next Date Night Idea - What Were You Doing a Decade Ago???During your next date night or late night conversation once the kids go to bed, ask your spouse what your life looked like 10 years ago. How old were you? What was your style? What were you doing? What did you like to do? We hope this topic sparks great conversations in your marriage!!What did you love most about this episode? Send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com to let us know or DM Carrie on Instagram.2023-11-0224 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships67 | Real, Open, Honest, & Vulnerable Husband & Wife Conversation That We Didn’t Intend to AirThis was an episode that was unintentionally recorded during a mic check and became an enlightening conversation for each of us. We hope that through our honest and real conversation navigating a home life situation, you’re able to gain wisdom and insight into how to walk through these conversations with your spouse. What did you love most about this episode? Send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com to let us know or DM Carrie on Instagram.We’d also love to ha...2023-10-2627 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships66 | Explaining Girl Math, What We’re Learning Lately, & Last Three TransactionsWe’re shaking things up today with a new episode doing segments and sharing specific things that are happening in our life now. Segments: Last three transactionsWhat have you been learning lately? Explaining girl math Latest thing you tried that you loveWhat did you love most about this episode? Send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com to let us know or DM Carrie on Instagram.We...2023-10-1921 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships65 | Disneyland Recap - Adults Only Trip to Disneyland and Southern CaliforniaWe’re back from our 2023 couples only trip! We chat through how we picked this destination, the hoops we jumped through to get there, and how picking a place that sparks FUN and adventure helps recharge you! Email your suggestions for our 2024 couples trip to jcvhouse@gmail.com or send Carrie a DM on Instagram @carrievajko Got the travel bug? Listen to our other travel related episodes. Episode 53 | Planning, Budgeting, Preparing to take...2023-10-1232 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships64 | How Well Do You Know Your Spouse? Ask These Questions for a Fun Date NightOur take on the newlywed game! Ask these questions to your spouse to see who knows each other better - in a fun way! What did you love most about this episode? Send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com to let us know or DM Carrie on Instagram.We’d also love to have you take 30 seconds to leave us a review for the show over on Apple Podcasts. We love hearing from you and would love to...2023-10-0524 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships63 | The One Thing to Implement Today to Be Intentional in Your RelationshipsThis one tip will help you strengthen your relationships in your life. It’s fast, easy, and will get you in the habit of actively listening to those in your life. What did you love most about this episode? Send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com to let us know or DM Carrie on Instagram.We’d also love to have you take 30 seconds to leave us a review for the show over on Apple Podcasts. We love...2023-09-2816 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships62 | 4 Ways to Walk Through Conflict the RIGHT WAYTalking about conflict can be very uncomfortable to bring up. As believers, how can we engage in conflict (in a healthy way) to restore relationships. We hope this episode equips you with more tools in your tool belt. Book: Overcoming Conflict - How to Deal With Difficult PeopleWhat did you love most about this episode? Send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com to let us know or DM Carrie on Instagram.We’d als...2023-09-2129 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships61 | How Solo Trips Make Your Marriage StrongerBeing able to travel with your spouse and family is very important for cultivating relationships. AND being able to travel without them is how we found to build a strong marriage. Jon and Carrie share what they have learned by traveling apart and how it’s given them a fresh perspective and appreciation for what the other does in the marriage. What did you love most about this episode? Send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com to let us know or DM Carrie on Instagram2023-09-1427 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships60 | Creating Back to School Rhythms That Are *Actually* SustainableBack to school season is here! Navigating new rhythms can be challenging in a new season so in this shorty episode, here are questions to ask yourself to you can be intentional in this new season. What did you love most about this episode? Send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com to let us know or DM Carrie on Instagram.We’d also love to have you take 30 seconds to leave us a review for the show over on App...2023-09-0709 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships59 | Creating Intentional Birthdays for Family and Friends | How to Make Sure Those We Love Feel CelebratedEveryone wants to feel loved and celebrated on their birthday, but how do you do it when everyone has different ways of celebrating? In today’s episode, we’re diving into how we celebrate birthdays, small traditions we are doing to make it special, and how to reframe your mind when your spouse loves you in different ways. Episodes Referenced: Episode 21 | How the 5 Love Languages Can Help You Love Your Spouse DeeperEpisode 57 | 3 Steps to Having Intentional Date Nights With Tracy...2023-08-3127 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships58 | Parenting With VisionStuck on the direction of your parenting? You know it’s important to have a mission and vision for your family just not sure how to live it out? Tune into this week's episode as Jon and Carrie dive into how they parent their children through this family vision. This is a follow up episode from: 54 | Creating a Family Where Kids Love Jesus, Love You, Love Each Other and Have a God-Inspired Purpose in Life With Don and Suzanne Manning of Crazy Cool Family2023-08-2420 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships57 | 3 Steps to Having Intentional Date Nights With Tracy JohnsonWe understand that not only is carving our time for a date night challenging, but connecting deeply with one another can be difficult if you don’t have the right framework! In today’s episode, we bring Tracy Johnson to share about their new FREE resource, A Year of Good Dates, and share the THREE components to cultivating a great date. This episode brought a new thought to Jon and Carrie and we know this will be important for marriages. Meet T...2023-08-1732 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships56 | Our Story - Bible Camp Love, Codependency, Young MarriageIn honor of our ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY of podcasting, we’re sharing our story! How we met, our timeline of dating, engagement and marriage, and what we wish we had done differently. Our beginnings were not easy, and there were things we have learned from. God redeems! We pray our story is a testament of that! What did you love most about this episode? Send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com to let us know or DM Carrie on Instagram.2023-08-1028 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships55 | Our Wedding Guests Give Us Date Ideas - Finding Them 7 Years LaterFor their wedding, Jon and Carrie, asked people to write down a variety of date ideas on a popsicle stick and place them into a jar. SEVEN years later, we’re reading them and choosing the best ones. This episode is filled with free or nearly free unique ideas to be more intentional with your spouse! Share with us over on Instagram @carrievajko to share what you're doing! What did you love most about this episode? Send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com to let us know...2023-08-0320 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships54 | Creating a Family Where Kids Love Jesus, Love You, Love Each Other and Have a God-Inspired Purpose in Life With Don and Suzanne Manning of Crazy Cool FamilyAs Christian parents, we desire for our kids to love Jesus, but how do we do it? In today’s episode Jon and Carrie sit down with Don and Suzanne Manning of Crazy Cool Family to discuss what it looks like to have a family who loves Jesus and each other! You’ll also learn about the importance of creating a mission and vision statement for your family. Ways to Connect with Don and Suzanne: - Join Basecamp for FREE! This is a family-focused member...2023-07-2737 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships53 | Planning, Budgeting, Preparing to Take a Couples TripWe know it’s important to spend quality time with your spouse, but starting the process of taking a couples trip can be overwhelming to say the least. In this episode, we’re divining into all the details that we do to prep, plan, and budget for taking vacations with your spouse. We hope you enjoy! The Credit Card that allows us to travel on points!**Only use it if you can pay it off each month! 2023-07-2029 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships52 | Finding Food Freedom While Embracing Freedom in Christ With Megan Becker of Grace Rooted NutritionLadies, this one's for you! Carrie sits down with Megan Becker of Grace Rooted Nutrition to talk about how we can find freedom from what the worlds standards are for beauty and health and embrace our God given bodies and steward them for His Glory. Learn more about Megan: WebsiteInstagramSign up for monthly newsletters delivered right to your inboxDownload her Grace Rooted Guide to Health...2023-07-1332 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships51 | Date Night Conversations - 15 Questions to Ask Your Spouse - Husband EditionSpark great conversations on your next date night with these 15 questions. Carrie turns the tables and asks Jon 15 questions to engage in meaningful conversations. You can listen to the WIFE version of this episode in Episode 43. Questions: What is one quality you love about yourself? What is the one song you’re requesting to be played at a wedding?What makes you the happiest or fulfilled right now? How much sleep do you need?How do you take your c...2023-07-0621 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships50 | Life in a Bus, Living on the Road, and Working Through Family Upbringings With the Wedding Pirates, Libby and LukeWe’ve got special guests on the podcast today! Libby and Luke Vandergriff (also known as The Wedding Pirates) join us to share all about how they lived 5 years on the road and in a bus to now setting down roots. They share thow they had to be MORE intentional with each other since living in a converted tiny bus together, how they handled fights, and how it’s definitely not all glamorous. We hope you enjoy this conversation! Follow Lib and Luke on InstagramListe...2023-06-2948 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships49 | Cultivating Connection in a Season of ChaosWith our kids ending school and losing a little bit of normality and routine, we have been finding ourselves “just getting through.” In this episode, we’re talking through how we have had to be intentional about our connection as partners. Including taking time just the two of us, creating a new routine, and making plans with people we love. We hope this episode gives you hope and grace for the summer season. If you have a question you’d like answered on this podcast, send us an email at...2023-06-2221 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships48 | Running a Business With Your Spouse & Maximizing Each Others StrengthsRunning a business with your spouse is not an easy feat. There’s lots of conversations about how to communicate, meet deadlines, and who is doing what aspect of the business. In today’s episode, Jon and Carrie are discussing the different ways they make it work for their family. Episodes Referenced: Episode 26 | Making the Decision to Have a Full Time Stay at Home ParentEpisode 37 | Gender Roles & Finding Harmony Within a Marriage by Using Our Gifts and TalentsIf you ha...2023-06-1522 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships47 | Ask Us Anything - Our Pettiest Fight, if We Regret Having Kids Young, and Advice for New ParentsIt’s Ask Us Anything time! We turned to Instagram (@carrievajko) to ask us any questions they wanted and now we’re answering them for you on the show! Questions like, what is something we’re passionate about learning, the pettiest fight we have, and if we regret having kids so young. If you have a question you’d like answered on this podcast, send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com What did you love most about this episode? Send us an...2023-06-0818 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships46 | 2 Things I Wish I Would’ve Known Before Getting MarriedIn today’s episode Jon and Carrie share the 2 things they wish they would’ve known before they got married. If you’re recently married, or thinking about getting married, we pray this conversation blesses you! References: Maycember video: Welcome to Maycember - "September" Parody If you have a question you’d like answered on this podcast, send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com What...2023-06-0121 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships45 | Having a Marriage Focused On Others’ Edification Rather Than Self GratificationDiving into the concept, what if marriage was meant to make us holy rather than happy. Jon and Carrie share insights from their personal conversations with friends and family, highlighting the need to move beyond self-gratification and towards the edification of others. We refer to the book Sacred Marriage by Gary Thomas and share questions to ask your partner if you’re in a tough season. Questions for reflection: Why did you choose to get married or why do you want...2023-05-2521 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships44 | Are You Seeking Advice or Avoiding Conflict? Handling Conflict BiblicallyStemming from a recent experience, Jon and Carrie share their recent situation about handling conflict and how it can easily become gossip or even seek advice. We talk through Matthew 18 and how to biblically handle conflict when they arise in your relationships. If you have a question you’d like answered on this podcast, send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com What did you love most about this episode? Send us an email at jcvhouse@gmail.com to let us k...2023-05-1827 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships43 | 15 Questions to Ask Your Spouse - Wife EditionJon turns the tables on Carrie and asks 15 questions to connect. These are great questions to ask your significant other to spark great conversations. Let us know what questions you want to hear next and if you’d join Carrie on her epic dream vacation. Questions asked: 1. What's got you excited right now?2. Who has been pivotal in your life for growth? 3. If I asked you at age 5 what you wanted to be when...2023-05-1128 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships42 | Understanding & Developing Trust in Relationships - PART TWOWe follow up discussing more from Dr. Nicolas Ellen and his extensive work with relationships. Trust is something that is meant to be a gift in our relationships but often becomes a curse when it is broken. We’re wrapping up this conversation about what it means to trust others in regards to their relationship with you and how it’s ultimately a reflection of your relationship with Jesus. Connect with Dr. Nicolas EllenEpisodes menti...2023-05-0428 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships41 | Understanding & Developing Trust in Relationships - PART ONEWe continue discussing more from Dr. Nicolas Ellen and his extensive work with relationships. Trust is something that is meant to be a gift in our relationships but often becomes a curse when it is broken. We’re diving deeper into what it means to trust others in regards to their relationship with you and how it’s ultimately a reflection of your relationship with Jesus. This is just part one, so join us next week for part two! Episodes mentioned: Episod...2023-04-2727 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships40 | Friends Moving Away & Being Intentional With Long Distant FriendsRecently, we’ve walked through what it’s like to have friends move away from us in proximity, and the impact it has had on us. It’s holding grief and joy in the same hands. On one hand we’re excited for our friends who are being obedient to Christ, and on the other, we’re sad for what friendship looks like with distance and in a new season. Episodes mentioned: Episode 39 | Starting Over, Moving, Disappointment & Navigating God’s Will For Your Life Episode 31 | How Do I Find Commu...2023-04-2019 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships39 | Starting Over, Moving, Disappointment & Discerning God’s Will For Your LifeWe got asked recently how we’ve handled moving a lot and feeling like you have to start over your community, church, jobs, friends. Spoiler alert - it’s not easy! We talk about our experience with navigating having to start over and move to different areas (we talk more in Episode 2). Listen in as we share more about our experience and how you can navigate God’s will for your life. If you have a question you’d like answered on this podcast, send us a...2023-04-1327 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships38 | 10 Would You Rather Questions to Have Intentional Conversations With Your Family This Easter WeekendWith Easter right around the corner, we’ve got some fun Would You Rather questions that you can bring to your family this weekend while you’re having your holiday meals and gatherings. WOULD YOU RATHER Go zip lining OR… Bungee jumpingWOULD YOU RATHER Have to waddle like a duck wherever you go OR… Have to hop like a bunny wherever you go?WOULD YOU RATHER Be 25 OR… 45 for the rest of your life? WOULD YOU RATHER Have a garage sale to make extra money OR… Have a l...2023-04-0625 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships37 | Gender Roles & Finding Harmony Within a Marriage by Using Our Gifts and TalentsOne area that can cause conflict in a marriage is figuring out who is going to do what when it comes to chores, parenting, finances, etc. We talk about family of origin dynamics that carry into our marriage and who we assumed would do things, having conversations about who will do what, and how we can leverage our natural talents to support the household. Highlights: Family of origin Giving and taking Having a conversation rather than stuffing Our past experience Being...2023-03-3017 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships36 | The Four Levels of Relating in Relationships - Cultivating Open and Loving RelationshipsThere are four different levels of the way that you relate to others in relationships. This concept was established by Dr. Nicolas Ellen has opened our eyes to showing us how we can best love and support those we love and move towards being in an open and loving relationship with everyone. These terms give language to where you’re at in your relationships and how you can strive towards open and loving relationships. 4 levels of relating: Open...2023-03-2325 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships35 | How Can Married Christians Love Their Single Friends Well? With Faith-Fueled Business Coach, Hannah BrindleyHannah Brindley (IG: @hannahbrindley) joins us on the podcast today to share her journey of being single and how the Church has had an impact on her journey. She shares practical tips on how married couples can best love their single friends too. Highlights: Tell us your journey being single and how has the church been supportive or harmful in this area?What has been a blessing about being single?What do you wish married couples knew about being single? How can...2023-03-1633 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships34 | 8 Crazy Questions to Ask on Your Next Date NightHave you ever gone on a date with your spouse and you realize you have nothing to talk about? You spend so much time together, you know a lot about your spouse, so you feel awkward with nothing to talk about. Grab your notes section in your phone and copy these questions down and bring them to your next date night. We hope this sparks great conversation and a great date night. Questions: Which Marvel Character would you date, marry, and do away with? Is cereal a s...2023-03-0924 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships33 | Wait, Scheduled Sex? How Scheduling Intimacy Has Improved Our MarriageYep. We’re going there. We’re talking about how scheduling sex has made a dramatic difference in our intimacy as a couple. We know that this topic can be taboo in Christian spaces. We want to be able to shed light on it. We chat through how this habit has changed our life and marriage for the better! Highlights: If we don’t talk about it, we make it what we want it to beWas Purity Culture helpful? How far is too far?2023-03-0221 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships32 | Being Intentional With Our Family CommunityImmediate family and extended family are the people we tend to spend a majority of our life with. How do you spend intentional time with your immediate family (spouse, kids, or yourself) and how do you spend intentional time with your extended family (family of origin and in-laws). Highlights: Finding joy in the small moments, at home Removing the phone Disassociating through social media Removing things on our calendar Creating time on the calendar for extended family Inviting extende...2023-02-2318 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships31 | How Do I Find Community? Our Journey in Finding Our PeopleWouldn’t life be easier if making friends was just like elementary school? You’d simply go up to someone and ask “do you want to be friends?” without any fear of rejection or judgment. Making friends as adults and finding your community of people doesn’t seem that simple anymore. Today, we’re diving into how you can find your community. Your people. We walk through our journey of finding our people to do life with and the good, bad, and ugly of it. This one is vulnerable for us to share this story, we pray it encourages y...2023-02-1621 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships30 | 10 Questions to Ask Your Spouse This Valentine’s DayValentine's Day is right around the corner ❤️We’ve got 10 questions you can use to ask while you’re out on that special dinner date or before you binge watch your favorite series. Questions: If you could afford it at this moment, what would you buy? What one month on the calendar would you eliminate? What is your ideal type of party?Which game show would you be on?What is your favorite memory of us?What di...2023-02-0917 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships29 | 7 Reflection Questions After a Vacation - Disneyland RecapWe’re back from our Disneyland vacation with just the 4 of us and doing a recap on how the trip was! Instead of doing a day by day breakdown, we have 7 questions we’ve asked each other as we reflect on this trip. These questions are a great way to reflect on any trip you and your family take. It’s great to be able to connect on the great and not so great moments of the trip and dream about what we’d want for the next trip in the future. We hope you enjoy listening to our craz...2023-02-0244 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships28 | Creating Simple Money Systems, Finding Joy With a Budget, and Finding Ways Moms Can Contribute to Their Family Income With Krista Naldjian of Money Mindful MomsLadies! This one's for you! Carrie is interviewing Krista Naldjian of Money Mindful Moms and is sharing with us how women (specifically moms) can be a part of the money conversations and being a contributor to their family income. Krista shares her story, her biggest money regret (and it’s super surprising too), and how we can have fun with budgeting without sacrificing joy in our life. “Money can be an intimidating space when you can’t relate to the person sharing. I hope to share...2023-01-2630 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships27 | How Being Open With Our STUFF Has Made Us More Intentional With GivingToday we’re taking another look at one of our roots: Openness. We’ve taken on the mindset of being extremely generous with our STUFF. We desire to be people who hold open hands with the things that we own and be able to bless people because of it. We pray this episode blesses you and inspires you to freely share your things. Highlights: Openness being a root Not holding onto things too tightly Giving fr...2023-01-1921 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships26 | Making the Family Decision to Have a Full Time Stay at Home ParentEver since having kids, we’ve made the decision to have one of us stay home full time to be with our kids. In the beginning, we assumed this was the “holy” thing to do for our kids and it has since evolved into being a decision that has refined us, stretched us, and made us look more like Jesus. We know that all family makeups are different, so there is absolutely NO shame or guilt for doing things differently in your family, this is what has worked well for us. 2023-01-1222 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships25 | Spark Great Conversations! 10 Questions to Ask Your Spouse This YearWe’ve got more questions for you to ask your spouse and loved ones! This is a great way to kick off the new year and spark great conversations! Questions: What is one thing in the past 5 years that has had the greatest effect on you? What is a dream of yours?What is your go-to outfit? What is a trait you got from your parents that you’re thankful for? What was the best vacation you ever took?What's...2023-01-0526 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships24 | 4 Questions to Ask Yourself as You Reflect on 202224 | 4 Questions to Ask Yourself as You Reflect on 2022Happy last episode 2022! In this episode we will be diving deeper into different questions we ask ourselves as we reflect on the past year and gear up for an intentional 2023! Questions: What are the best moments or memories from the year?What are you grateful for? What are you looking forward to as you look forward to the new year?What will be your focus for the nex...2022-12-2925 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships23 | Coming Together to Create Christmas Traditions with Your SpouseMerry Christmas! We’re grateful for you and for listening to the podcast each week! This week we’re talking about all the different holiday traditions we both had growing up and how we’ve had to come together to make different and new traditions as we became our own family. We’d love to know from you! What are some of your favorite Christmas traditions? Send Carrie a DM on instagram @carrievajko and let us know! Highlights: Jon’s family traditions 2022-12-2225 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships22 | Navigating Family Through the HolidaysSpending time with family during the holidays can bring up tons of emotions - hurt, frustration, joy, stress, happiness. In this episode we’re chatting through best practices or tips when it comes to spending time with family, setting boundaries, and making the most of quality family time. If this is a season that brings up negative emotions, listen in, because we give practical tips you can implement THIS YEAR to make the most out of this season. Highlights: It will look different for everyone ...2022-12-1517 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships21 | How the 5 Love Languages Can Help You Love Your Spouse DeeperDo you know how you best feel loved? Today, we’re walking through the 5 Love Languages from the book by Gary Chapman. This is a TOOL to be able to love your spouse and love other people around you. We share how we’ve navigated loving each other through each of these lenses. Plus alllll the way at the end, we have a special guest join us! “How can we show the love of Jesus to others in a way that means the most to them?” -Carrie...2022-12-0828 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships20 | Getting Creative With the Intentional Time With Your SpouseStruggling to find time to be intentional with your spouse without your kids? We’re diving into creative ways you can be intentional with your spouse and your family. We go over different times of day to spend time together, partnering with other people to watch the kids, or bringing along your family for family fun. Highlights: Maximizing moments you already have childcare providedFinding activities that you and your spouse enjoy togetherWorking together and navigating communication Exploring new activities that stret...2022-12-0121 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships19 | How to Cultivate a Generosity MindsetHappy Thanksgiving! Today, we’re talking all about how to cultivate a generous mindset and how practically we can live out being generous. This is a topic that is very important to us because it’s modeled for us in the life of Jesus and how sacrificial He was on our behalf. We encourage you to learn how to be generous in your finances, time and energy. Highlights: The lie, “Once I’m _____ then I’ll be generous” Scarcity vs abundance mindset Provide for the practical ne...2022-11-2421 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships18 | 6 Ways to Add Fun Into Everyday MomentsWe’re taking a deep dive into one of our roots, Playfulness. We’re talking through 6 different ways you can seek adventure and fun in everyday moments. We’ve got 6 different ways that we incorporate fun into our everyday lives. We talk all about our roots in Episode 1 of the podcast, so make sure you go back and listen to it to learn more! 6 Ways to Add Fun into Everyday MomentsSilliness Fun list of activitie...2022-11-1724 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships17 | Is Premarital Counseling Worth It? What to Look For in Premarital CounselorsToday, we’re diving into all things premarital counseling. The good, bad and ugly of our experience and what you can be on the lookout for when searching for people to partner with during that season. Even if you’re married, this is still a great episode to tune into and learn about the importance of marriage mentors and counseling. If you find yourself in this season and are looking for a counselor, reach out! Jon and Carrie would love to be able to support you! Send us an...2022-11-1025 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships16 | 10 Questions to Ask Your Spouse That Spark CuriosityThis episode is FUN! Jon and Carrie ask each other random questions so we can learn more about the other person. If you’re ever stuck on new ways to spark conversations with other people in your life, grab out the notes section in your phone and jot down these questions for later. They’re sure to bring out fun and engaging conversations with those you love! Send us a message and let us know how these questions sparked great conversations in your life! Questi...2022-11-0324 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships15 | Parenting Through Imperfections - Our Top Tips for Parenting Kids to Look Like JesusThis is part TWO of our parenting series (go back to Episode 14 to see part one)! In this episode we’re walking through different resources we’ve used to support us in our parenting journey. WE’RE NOT PERFECT! We want to make that crystal clear that we’re always going to be growing in this area and learning more about how we can raise our kids (and the kids we influence) to love Jesus and others. If you work with kids or spend time with kids, these are...2022-10-2725 minCouples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships14 | When Is the “Right Time” to Have Kids?If you currently do not have kids and have been asking yourself, “when is the best time to start having kids?” This is for you! Just like with marriage, we don’t believe anyone is really “ready” to have kids. Sometimes (like us) it’s unexpected or you’re choosing the right time to have kids based on benchmarks you and your partner have decided. Highlights: How we decided we actually wanted kids The mental preparation for having a child Kids force you to mature quickerExperience is the best teacherFinding the right people to partner with on...2022-10-2019 min
Couples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships13 | The One Thing That Dramatically Changed Our Relationship for the BetterIf you’ve ever been in the stop where you’re thinking to yourself I just don’t understand them!! Then this episode is for you. This concept was one of the biggest things that impacted our relationship (and we wish we knew about it sooner.) Understanding how God created you and uniquely designed you to be is CRITICAL when you’re in relationships with anyone. Spoiler alert: God did not create everyone to be identical. Imagine how boring life would be if that was the case?! Taking the time to use and understand the tools that...2022-10-1327 min
Couples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships12 | Importance of Living Life With Margin & Practically Living Life Without HustleAre you constantly feeling stressed and overwhelmed? Always running from one thing to the next without stopping? Or maybe you look at your calendar and feel the busyness and wonder if this is “just how life will always be,” then this episode is for you. Today, we’re diving into one of our family roots of living an unhurried life and living life with margin. We talk about a recent experience where we slipped back into a hustle mentality and the things that opened our eyes to what was being sacrificed. “My faith and...2022-10-0628 min
Couples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships11 | Take the Vacation! How Experiences Have Shaped Our Marriage and FamilyOne of the things we have been intentional with in our relationship is taking time to get away just the two of us. We know that when we invest in time together, we’re being intentional about strengthening our relationship! We’re modeling it for our kids that mom and dad actually WANT to spend time together and have FUN! Plus, when kids come, have them involved in family vacations! From this episode, we’d love to see you plan your own couples/family getaway (or staycation) and make it something that you look forward to every...2022-09-2937 min
Couples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships10 | How Asking Questions Transforms Your RelationshipsOne of the most impactful things we learned in our marriage is the importance of asking good, clarifying questions, to be empowered to ask people in your life. Today, we’re using the same framework and understanding how we can use questions to grow deeper in our relationship with Jesus. From this episode, we encourage you to ask questions of God. Opening yourself to be vulnerable, asking questions of doubt, and the purpose of seasons are important to ask to strengthen your relationship with Jesus. “To have belief is to ask question...2022-09-2232 min
Couples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships9 | Managing Finances as a Couple and the Importance of Living on a BudgetThis may be a taboo topic for most couples to talk about (especially before getting married.) We want to equip you with tools and strategies to get on the same page when it comes to finances. We are VERY intentional about having hard conversations about how much we make, how we spend our money and how credit cards play into it. I truly encourage you to start with getting on a budget. Take a look at where your money is going and how you can be a good steward of what you’re doing with your...2022-09-1535 min
Couples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships8 | Taking an Adults Only Disney Trip, Anniversary Trip Recap, and Making the Most of Unexpected EventsTo celebrate Carrie’s birthday and our 6th year anniversary, we headed to an adults only trip to Disney World. While we expected the trip to be magical, romantic, and adventures, it was filled with unexpected surprises (like an ER visit). We share all the highs, lows, and the joys of this trip and hope you can laugh alongside us too. Highlights: Going to Disney World in the summer Disney World vs Disneyland Cash flowing a Disney trip Staying on property vs off property Recap of our trip ER visit Food and Wine Festival The ONE thin...2022-09-0844 min
Couples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships7 | How Do You Know When You’re With “The One”?Hannah from the Reclaimed to Reign Podcast is asking the question, “How did you know each other was ‘the one’?” SPOILER - we don’t think there’s such a thing as a “the one.” Highlights: The philosophy behind “the one” What characteristics should you look for when you’re looking for someone to marryShould I be making a list of qualities of what I ideally want? Love is a choice, not a feeling Rapid Fire: If you could travel to one place outside of the US, all expenses paid for, where would you go?If yo...2022-09-0121 min
Couples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships6 | Becoming A Lifelong Learner - Top Resources We Use To Grow Deeper With Christ and Each OtherIt’s question time! We love to be able to give you questions that spark curiosity so you can ask those you love in your life. Question: What has been your favorite book you’ve read this year? If you don’t consider yourself a reader, this episode is for you. Being a learner is a key principle we have in our relationship so we can stay intentional! Whether through podcasts, books, courses, or classes, we know that when you’re desiring to deepen your relationship first with Christ an...2022-08-2530 min
Couples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships5 | 6 Years of Marriage - 6 Things We LearnedWe’re celebrating 6 years of marriage this weekend! Anytime there’s an anniversary, we love to look back on the last year and share things that we have loved, learned and walked through. Today, we share our 6 things we have learned throughout being married. Understanding that your spouse sees the world differently than you.Learn how to set clear and realistic expectations with those you love.Ask better questions and actually listen to the answer.Don’t be afraid to have difficult conversations. There is so much beauty on the other side. Plan intimacy! Be okay with chang...2022-08-1824 min
Couples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships4 | How And Why Americans Fight And How To Fight FairlyWhoa, this is super practical and actionable. We’ve got our teacher hats on for this one where we’re sharing our tips on fighting fairly in your relationships. How and Why Americans Fight Article Highlights: Removing WHY from your vocabulary Understanding motivationOwning 100% of what you did Giving space for silence Rapid Fire Questions: What is your favorite fast food restaurant?Where would you take someone who was visiting your hometown? Submit your question at couplesbecomingintentional.com or email us at jcvhouse@gmail.com to connect with u...2022-08-1133 min
Couples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships2 | How To Know Your Next Step Career Wise, College vs. Workforce And Overcoming Gender StereotypesWhat should I do after high school? Where do I go to college? What do I do if I don’t like the degree I’m in? Making ends meet in a new town with new career opportunities. Being a stay at home mom. Network Marketing and working an online business. What we do for work now and how it is WAY different than what we would have ever dreamed. We’re answering all of these questions today on the podcast. This is truly an overview of what our life has looked like over the last 6 y...2022-08-1149 min
Couples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships3 | Finding Fun & Cheap Activities To Do With Your SpouseIt’s question time! We love to be able to give you questions that spark curiosity so you can ask those you love in your life. Question: What activities do you both like doing? Since being together, we’ve had to find cheap and easy ways to do things together. Like mini golf, pool, or even as simple as watching a TV show together or learning a card game. We also know the importance of finding things to do yourself, so we share what we personally love to do too! 2022-08-1127 min
Couples Becoming Intentional | Christian Marriage, Communication, Young Marriage, Relationships1 | Welcome to Couples Becoming Intentional - Who We Are & How To Be Intentional In Your RelationshipsWelcome to episode #1 of Couples Becoming Intentional! This podcast has been years in the making and today we're sharing more about who we are, our story and our mission behind CBI! One of the practical things we share in this episode is creating your family roots system. We dive deep into the 6 things that make up our "tree" and how you can take next steps on making your own for your family. You can create your own family legacy tree at deeplyrootedlegacy.comSubmit your question at couplesbecomingintentional.com or email us at jcv...2022-08-0727 min