Shows
The Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 166 - Money Personalities Part 2In this second part of the discussion about finances, Kellie and Brett Hurst break down the final three types of "money personalities". Which one describes you best? Which one explains how your partner deals with money? Talking about the way we feel about money can be a real relationship-strengthener. Don't give in to the temptation to avoid conversations about your money. Come together around the topic ... it could be a game-changer!
2025-07-0412 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 165 - Money PersonalitiesWhen it comes to finances, some say every married couple has a "saver" and a "spender". But do these two options tell the whole story? In today's conversation, Kellie and Brett Hurst discuss four "money personalities". Pull up a chair and listen in. It might spur some great conversation!
2025-06-1713 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 164 - What Does Self Protection Look Like?We all played the "Hide and Seek" game as kids. Some of us still play it as adults; but not the same way. We hide in marriage. It's called self-protection and it shows up in all of us in different ways and for different reasons. Listen to today's episode with Kellie and Brett Hurst to see if you're hiding - and how you can be found.
2025-04-2520 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 163 - You're So ImmatureWe all have our immature moments. They can show up regularly when we're arguing with our partner. However, if you find yourself saying certain phrases repeatedly, you may want to listen to today's conversation with Kellie and Brett Hurst. A pattern of particularly immature reactions can play havoc with your relationship. Learn what responses to look for, and why you may need to mature up.
2025-03-0719 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 162 - Fault vs. Responsibility“It’s not my fault!” … Have you ever uttered those words during a fight with your partner? We all have. But can something be your responsibility even if it wasn’t your fault? Are intentions the only litmus test to gauge responsibility? Tune in to today’s conversation with Kellie and Brett Hurst as they attempt to dissect this topic.
2025-02-2112 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 161 - Gratitude PracticeIs gratitude something we need to actually do? Or is it enough to simply have an attitude of gratitude? Listen in on today's conversation with Kellie and Brett Hurst as they discuss how to up your gratitude game, and how it will absolutely improve your marriage.
2025-02-0719 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 158 - Conflict Patterns Pt. 2Continuing the conversation about conflict patterns, Kellie and Brett Hurst share information about how our unhealthy conflict patterns can erode our relationship over time. Do you resonate with any of these patterns? If so, what are you willing to do differently to change the dance?
2024-10-1817 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 157 - Conflict PaternsEvery couple has patterns they need to identify. Communication patterns, affection patterns, etc. Conflict patterns are no different, and perhaps even more important to identify. Tune in to today’s conversation with Kellie and Brett Hurst as they lay out some common conflict patterns that may help you to think about doing things differently.
2024-09-0619 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 156 - The Fantastic FiveMarriage research tells us that grand gestures don’t do much to move the needle in relationships. It truly is the “little things” done consistently over time that does the trick. Want to know the most appreciated tiny gestures for both men and women? Listen to today’s episode with Kellie and Brett Hurst to discover a few simple things that communicate deep love.
2024-07-1918 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 155 - Does Your Marriage Influence Others?In this thought-provoking episode, Kellie and Brett Hurst discuss the topic that our marriages have influence. This isn’t really a debatable idea. It’s a fact that our marriages influence others. However, can your marriage influence others for good? Even having a transcendent imprint? Listen in to today’s conversation to ponder whether your marriage is a city on a hill … or a pile of rubble.
2024-06-1418 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 153 - Novelty and SurpriseThere’s a comfort in marriage. A familiarity … a protective cocoon … the known quantity that most of us seek; making us feel secure and known. It’s wonderful. But we also crave novelty and surprise. Listen in on today’s conversation as Kellie and Brett Hurst discuss how to keep the mystery alive in the midst of the mundane.
2024-03-1815 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 151 - Never Say ThisAre there phrases you regret saying and wish you could take back? We’ve all been there. However, therapists suggest there are several phrases that are not only unhelpful during an argument; they can also derail what could be a productive conversation. Take a few minutes and tune in to today’s episode with Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement to discover which phrases to avoid.
2024-01-1914 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 150 - Forgiveness and AcceptanceIs forgiveness the same thing as acceptance? And if they’re different … where does one end and the other begin? In today’s conversation, Kellie and Brett Hurst discuss when each of these elements is necessary in marriage – and when it’s not.
2023-11-2418 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 149 - Three Types of FightsMarried couples fight over silly things all the time. But are they really so silly? Maybe the silly things are the tip of a bigger iceberg that needs to be talked out. Join Kellie and Brett Hurst as they talk about the bigger reasons we fight, and what we can do about it.
2023-11-1017 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 148 - Cherish Is the WordThere are many good marriage books out there, but sometimes one rises to the top, so we have to recommend it. Tune in to today’s episode to see which marriage book Kellie and Brett Hurst are discussing.
2023-10-2018 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 147 - Marital FriendshipAre you best friends with your spouse? Heck, are you even friends with him/her? Listen in on today’s conversation with Kellie and Brett Hurst as they discuss why being friends with your spouse is crucial to a good marriage.
2023-09-2923 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 146 - Repair AttemptsSometimes we realize we’ve made a wrong turn. We find ourselves in a sketchy area that is clearly not our intended destination. No, I’m not talking about driving. I’m talking about fighting in marriage. Need some relational GPS tips? Listen to today’s episode with Kellie and Brett Hurst as they discuss a secret weapon that can get you back home safe and sound.
2023-09-1518 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 140 - Spontaneous vs Responsive - Part 1Wouldn't it be nice if the sexual part of your marriage relationship worked like clockwork? With both partners getting exactly what they needed when they needed it? The truth is ... no matter how long you've been married, most of us continue to negotiate and navigate this tricky area. But take heart! Today's conversation may help. Join Kellie and Brett Hurst as they discuss some recent insights around the differences between the low desire spouse and the high desire spouse.
2023-02-0318 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 139 - What’s Our Win?Sometimes a simple phrase can turn things around in a big way. We've been encouraging couples to ask, "What's our win?". Another way of thinking about it is to ask what's REALLY important in a situation. We can often find a new way forward when we re-frame things in this way. Join Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement as they quickly unpack why this is a winning tool in marriage.
2023-01-2012 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 138 - Mistakes Seasoned Couples MakeEvery married couple can fall into traps that bring about stagnation - even seasoned couples! We recently led a discussion with a group of married couples who've been together for 20+ years. They wanted to know what we see in our work with couples that they could guard against. We say it all the time ... "we never arrive in marriage - we should always stay curious and keep learning". That's what today's episode is about. Tune in to hear Kellie and Brett Hurst as they discuss mistakes even seasoned couples can make.
2023-01-0620 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 137 - Too Much Busyness - Part 2Are you too busy to make time for your marriage? We hear this complaint from couples all the time. However, the hard truth is ... you have more control over your schedule than you may realize. Tune in to Part 2 of "Too Much Busyness" with Kellie and Brett Hurst and see if you can find inspiration to carve out a little more time in your life. Not just for your marriage, but for yourself.
2022-10-2820 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 136 - Too Much Busyness - Part 1Are you satisfied with the level of busyness you're experiencing? Are you too busy? And if so, how is that impacting your marriage relationship? Listen in on today's conversation with Kellie and Brett Hurst as they discuss how "too much busyness" can lead to "too sad of a marriage".
2022-10-1418 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 135 - The REALLY Hard ConversationsIf you've been in a relationship for more than... say... an hour... you know that sometimes you have to have hard conversations. They're tough. However, you also have to have REALLY hard conversations. What's the difference? Tune in today as Kellie and Brett Hurst parse out the difference. Maybe you can gain a tool or two for your next REALLY hard conversation!
2022-09-0918 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 134 - Routine, Ritual, or RutRoutines are part of life... even married life. But how do we keep routines from becoming stale and turning into a rut? Join Kellie and Brett Hurst today as they discuss keeping things fresh in your marriage.
2022-08-1217 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 133 - The Empty NestThe "empty nest" phase is a bittersweet season, but it doesn't have to be scary. Many couples worry that after twenty years (or so) of raising children together, they may have forgotten how to be "husband and wife" together. Never fear ... the Hursts are here! Listen in on today's conversation as Kellie and Brett talk about the ups and downs of married life after the kids are "off the payroll".
2022-06-1025 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 132 - Marriage SurprisesEveryone likes surprises! Actually, that's not true. Not everyone likes surprises. And unpleasant surprises can be downright challenging. In today's show, Kellie and Brett Hurst discuss a great article by Dave Harvey that lays out some very real surprises in our marriage relationships. They're not always fun... but they're pretty significant. Listen in and see if any of these marriage surprises resonate with you.
2022-04-1520 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 131 - Improving Our Listening GameIs there a difference between hearing and listening? How subtle is the difference? Does it really matter? Well, if you're the person who's not being listened to ... yeah, it matters. Listening is an art as well as a skill. But it's something we all can and should improve on. If you'd like some tips on how to up your listening game, listen in to today's conversation with Kellie and Brett Hurst. You might HEAR something you can really use!
2022-04-0122 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 129 - Fighting On the Way to ChurchEvery married couple argues. There's no way around it. Today the Hursts get real and unpack a recent fight they had at the most inopportune time - on the way to church. We've all been there, right? We paste on our "Sunday smiles" even while we're seething in silence. This conversation may help you know that you're not alone. Or it may just be a light-hearted therapy session for Kellie and Brett. You be the judge.
2022-01-2818 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 125 - The Antidote to ContemptWe should all have contempt for contempt when it comes to our marriage relationships. Contempt is the most toxic element in a marriage. So, how do we keep it from creeping in? Listen in to today's episode with Kellie and Brett Hurst as they discuss the simple formula to keep contempt from killing a marriage.
2021-08-2719 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 124 - Marriage and FriendshipsFriendships are important whether you're married or single. But friend relationships outside of your marriage are significant for your mental and physical health. Tune in today as Kellie and Brett Hurst discuss the importance of cultivating good friendships other than your spouse.
2021-07-2312 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 123 - Return of the Marriage QuotesWe love a good marriage quote. Especially ones that make us think deeply about the complexities of relationships. Today we have some good ones. Listen in as Kellie and Brett Hurst react to a few poignant passages. Enjoy!
2021-07-0921 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 122 - Pot LuckOccasionally, we collect comments and questions from our tribe and bring them to a podcast episode. That's what today is. Enjoy these random tidbits as Kellie and Brett Hurst discuss different ways to take your marriage to the next level!
2021-05-1417 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 121 - Financial InfidelityIt's pretty easy to keep secrets in relationships. The arena of money is a tempting area to be less than honest. But if we want healthy relationships, we have to have integrity in all areas. Listen to today's episode as Kellie and Brett Hurst discuss the idea of being unfaithful ... with money.
2021-04-3015 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 120 - Your Money PersonalityThe way you relate to money has a significant impact on your marriage relationship. Some say you even have a personality style in the way you think about and manage money. Today Kellie and Brett Hurst talk about some of these money personality styles and how identifying them can help you and your partner have those uncomfortable conversations about your finances. Enjoy!
2021-04-1613 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 119 - Turn Turn Turn"Turn Turn Turn" isn't just a song from the sixties. It's also shorthand for today's topic, and how we can build in connection and good will in our marriage relationships. Tune in with Kellie and Brett Hurst to see what it's all about. It's not just for The Byrds. ;)
2021-04-0212 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 118 - The Magic Five HoursWe all have about 112 waking hours in a given week. Don't you think 5 of those hours could be spent investing deposits into your marriage? Kellie and Brett Hurst talk about how to do just that in today's episode. Enjoy!
2021-03-1911 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 117 - Navigating Political DifferencesDo you and your spouse disagree on politics? Is it a struggle to have a political discussion without inciting a meltdown? We know it can be hard, but it doesn't have to be impossible. Join Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement for a frank discussion on how to agree to disagree respectfully.
2021-02-1216 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 116 - The Soulmate Model of MarriageThe whole "soulmate" idea sounds romantic, doesn't it? The idea of one person truly belonging to another person ... fitting together perfectly like two pieces of a cosmic puzzle? But can it set us up for disappointment? Listen in as Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement discuss the pitfalls of the "soulmate" model of marriage.
2021-01-2915 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 115 - Better For WorseIs it possible to emerge stronger after a difficult season? Like, say, after a global pandemic? How will married couples fare after such a season of uncertainty? Listen in to today's episode as Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement discuss the possibilities of not only surviving a pandemic, but thriving.
2021-01-1512 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 114 - The Married Couple's Business MeetingA business meeting may not sound very sexy, but what if it brought you and your partner closer to each other? It can! Listen in with Kellie and Brett Hurst as they talk about how to make a regular, brief meeting something special.
2020-11-2410 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 113 - We Fight About the Way We FightDo you ever disagree about the way you disagree? So do most couples. The majority of couples would like to improve their conflict style. If you're one of them, join us for today's conversation with Kellie and Brett Hurst. You just might get more agreeable about how you argue.
2020-11-1118 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 112 - Don’t Do Your Partner’s ThinkingDoes your spouse ever say, "Stop putting words in my mouth."? You could be making a common mistake - doing your spouse's thinking for them! Listen to today's episode with Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement, and discover how you can give your partner the benefit of the doubt.
2020-10-2013 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 111 - No Time Like the Present"We never have enough time together." This is, sadly, a sentiment we hear a lot from married couples. But a full schedule doesn't mean you're doomed to have an empty relationship. Listen in to today's conversation as Kellie and Brett Hurst talk about how to put your marriage back on the front burner, where it belongs.
2020-09-1527 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 110 - Conversation StartersEven couples who've been together forever sometimes run out of things to say. Introducing a fun and helpful resource that will ensure that never happens to you! Join Kellie and Brett Hurst on today's episode while they check it out.
2020-08-1819 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 109 - The Pursuer/Distancer DanceIn your most intimate relationship, are you the pursuer or the distancer? Is it sometimes a source of frustration? Join Kellie and Brett Hurst as they talk about some ways to make this pattern workable.
2020-08-0418 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 108 - What Physical Therapy Taught Me About MarriageKellie's been going to physical therapy and guess what? She's discovered PT has a lot in common with marriage ... WHAT?! Listen to today's episode and hear how she and Brett connect the two!
2020-07-1413 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 107 - When Tools Don't WorkThere are lots of different relational tools out there. Some work consistently well; others not so much. But what do you do when your relationship is past the "tool" phase? Well, are you sure you're applying the correct one? How long have you tried using said tool? These are questions Kellie and Brett Hurst explore in this episode. Hope some of today's discussion helps you wherever you are in your relationship.
2020-06-1617 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 106 - Why Is My Marriage So Hard?Some people think they have a bad marriage. But is it really the relationship that's bad? Or could it be other factors that make life hard? Join Kellie and Brett Hurst on today's episode as they parse out the varying categories of "bad" relationships.
2020-06-0214 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 105 - What Do We Expect from Modern Marriage?What do we really expect out of our marriage relationships? Everything? Nothing? Are our expectations realistic? Tune in today as Kellie and Brett Hurst discuss the pitfalls of the modern marriage.
2020-05-1215 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 103 - Covid 19 Marriage HacksNeeding some marriage hacks for this weird time in history? We've come up with 19 of them! Join Kellie and Brett Hurst as they help you navigate the Covid 19 season better than you imagined.
2020-04-2126 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 102 - Work Life RhythmProductivity experts like to use a phrase called "work life balance", but Kellie and Brett Hurst like to use the phrase "work life rhythm" instead. Listen to today's episode to find out why!
2020-04-1415 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 101 - ChoreplayYou've heard of foreplay, but choreplay? Could reducing your conflict around household chores really make for a more peaceful co-existence? Listen to today's episode as Kellie and Brett Hurst talk about how to minimize your frustration about stuff like laundry, dishes, and feeding the dog. Woof!
2020-03-3116 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 100 - Are You a Control Geek?It's our 100th episode! We're celebrating by talking about control freaks ... or control geeks! Has anyone ever told you that you have control issues? Well, if so, stay tuned. Kellie and Brett Hurst will shed some light on becoming less controlling. You're welcome.
2020-03-1728 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 99 - Odds and EndsOnce in a while we collect little tidbits of information that don’t quite fit into an episode all its own; so is the case with this episode. Listen today as Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement talk about a collection of ideas that may help you continue to build a healthy marriage. Enjoy!
2020-03-0418 min
The Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 98 - How to Suck at CommunicationIf excelling at communication is a goal of so many couples, why are so many of us still so bad at it? Did you know that communication happens even when we're not talking to each other? Wanna get a little better at communication? Listen in as Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement give some basic how-to's!
2020-02-1812 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEpisode 96 - Limiting Your Limiting BeliefsWe all get stuck sometimes. We have limiting beliefs about ourselves. But, what about how we limit our thinking in our marriage? Tune in to this episode as Kellie and Brett Hurst discuss some common limiting beliefs that can negatively affect our relationships.
2020-01-2815 min
The Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 94 – OVERCOMING GRIDLOCKWe’re nearly through with our series about relationship principles from John Gottman’s research. Today we’re looking at how to get unstuck when we’re stuck in conflict. In the last episode we discussed how to solve our solvable problems. But what do we do when we feel gridlocked with our partner? In today’s episode, Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement chat about creative ways to ease out of a conflict traffic jam with your spouse.
2019-09-1622 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 93 – SOLVE YOUR SOLVABLE PROBLEMSEvery couple has problems. Some are more simple than others to solve. If you need some help determining whether or not a problem is solvable, listen to today’s conversation with Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement. They are continuing a series based on Dr. John Gottman’s research, and it’s getting goooooooood.
2019-09-0217 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 92 – “LET YOUR PARTNER INFLUENCE YOU”We’re continuing with our series based on Dr. John Gottman’s research on marriage. Principle #4 is about allowing ourselves to be influenced by our spouse. How good are you at opening yourself up to your partner’s opinions and decisions? If you typically resist this idea, you might be encouraged by today’s conversation. Join Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement as they discuss how to strengthen your marriage relationship.
2019-05-1515 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 91 – “TURN TOWARD EACH OTHER”We’re continuing with our series based on the research of Dr. John Gottman. Today’s episode is all about learning how to turn toward each other. Sounds simple, right? Not necessarily. In today’s busy world, we’re often pressed for time, energy, and attention. Sometimes our spouses get the short end of the stick. Listen in on today’s conversation with Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement as they talk about ways to turn toward each other.
2019-04-0923 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 90 – FONDNESS AND ADMIRATIONFondness and admiration are two traits in marriage that need to be nurtured continually. As Kellie and Brett Hurstof Home Encouragement continue with their series focusing on Dr. John Gottman’s 7 Principles, listen in to discover ways to keep fondness and admiration alive in your relationship.
2019-02-2115 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 89 “LOVE MAPS”We’re kicking off a new series based on Dr. John Gottman’s expansive research on healthy marriage relationships. Join Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement today for the first in the series. We’re talking about Love Maps, and how learning about your mate actually makes for a better relationship!
2019-01-2414 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 88 – ATTUNEMENTA simple definition for the word “attunement” is “to make harmonious”. What married person wouldn’t want to have more harmony with his/her spouse? Join in on today’s conversation with Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement as they chat about what ingredients make for more harmony in the home.
2018-12-0625 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 87 – ODDS AND ENDSCatch up with Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement as they toss in a few marriage tidbits in this “catch-all” episode!
2018-11-1016 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 86 “TRIGGERS: WHAT DO WE DO WITH THEM?”In Episode #85 we introduced the concept of emotional triggers. Now that we know what they are, and that they can cause emotional strife, what do we do with them? Listen to today’s conversation as Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement talk about how to learn to manage triggers … not just our spouse’s, but maybe more importantly, our own.
2018-09-1022 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 85 – TRIGGERS: WHAT ARE THEY?“Triggers” is a recent buzz word, but a very old idea. We all have them, but what are they, and how were those hot buttons originally installed? Listen to Part 1 of a two-part episode on triggers, as Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement discuss what they look like in marriage.
2018-08-2131 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 84 – MY PASSIVE AGGRESSIVE SPOUSEWe all behave in passive-aggressive ways sometimes. But does it really work for us? Usually, we end up having to deal with the stuff we were trying to avoid in the first place. Could there be a healthier way to manage our mate’s passive-aggressive behavior? In today’s episode, Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement chat about possible ways to assertively deal with our spouse when they’re wanting to hide behind passive-aggressive behavior.
2018-08-0125 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 83 – IS YOUR MARRIAGE AN IDOL?Every married person wants to be happy. But are you looking to your marriage to make you happy? Without realizing it, we can be guilty of expecting our marriage relationship to be the end-all to our needs and desires. In today’s episode, Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement chat about how to keep your marriage from becoming an idol … while also making it the healthiest it can be.
2018-06-0618 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 82 – THE MAGIC OF AFFIRMATIONWe all know how good it feels to be encouraged and valued by someone’s words. It’s all the more important in marriage … not just because it feels good, but because it’s an important investment in the relationship. In today’s episode, Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement talk about everyday ways you can fill your mate’s love tank with loving words … and who can’t use a little more of that?
2018-04-2419 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 81 – #NOREGRETSAre regrets healthy? Some people don’t think so. Others think they’re necessary for change. When it comes to marriage, how good are you at admitting you have regrets? Listen in to today’s show with Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement as they talk about regrets, and whether or not to have them.
2018-04-0317 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 80 – HARD CONVERSATIONSNo one really likes to have them. Hard conversations, that is. It’s much easier to avoid them altogether. But if you’re in a close relationship with someone, they come around once in a while. Believe it or not, there is a way to make them a little less painful … maybe even productive. Listen to today’s conversation with Kellie and Brett Hurstof Home Encouragement as they discuss some ways that can make hard conversations not so … hard.
2018-02-2723 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 79 – LIFE TRANSITIONSLife is full of transitions. Sometimes very stressful transitions. When you and your spouse are going through transitions, how does it affect your relationship? Do you move toward each other? Or is it easier to take your stress out on each other? If you’re experiencing a shift underneath your feet, listen to today’s conversation with Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement, as they talk about ways to turn stressful circumstances into opportunities to strengthen your relationship.
2018-02-0523 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 78 – DON’T SAY THIS WHEN YOU FIGHTWhen we argue, we sometimes say things we regret. We also say and do things that may seem helpful, but aren’t. Are you unwittingly saying something in the middle of your fight that shuts everything down? Listen to today’s conversation with Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement, as they discuss certain phrases that might be getting in the way of fighting fair.
2018-01-2318 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 77 – BOUNDARIES WITHIN MARRIAGE (PART 2)A follow up to Episode #76, join Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement as they engage in the remaining laws of healthy boundary setting.
2017-12-0420 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 76 – BOUNDARIES WITHIN MARRIAGE (PART 1)Healthy couples know and respect each other’s needs, choices, and freedom. Because of this, they can give themselves freely and lovingly to one another. Respecting each other’s personal boundaries is one way this happens. Want to know how? Tune in to today’s episode with Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement as they unpack the laws of boundaries.
2017-09-2530 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 75 – THE TOP 10 COMPLAINTS FROM UNHAPPY HUSBANDSTurnabout is fair play. Our last episode dealt with common complaints of wives. Now it’s the mens’ turn! Tune in to today’s episode with Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement to see if your complaints made the list.
2017-05-3023 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 74 – TOP 10 COMPLAINTS OF UNHAPPY WIVESEveryone complains. And married couples are no different. Someone recently compiled a list of the most universal complaints of unhappy wives. Interested in what made the list? Tune in to this episode with Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement to find out.
2017-04-1022 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 73 – THE ART OF APOLOGYThe 1970 film “Love Story” contained an infamous line that perpetuated a ludicrous mindset. “Love means never having to say you’re sorry”. Gag! Anyone who’s been married for longer than, say, ten minutes knows how absurd that idea is. No matter how much we love someone, we make mistakes. And when we make mistakes, we need to know how to apologize well. If you need help with crafting more artful apologies, listen to today’s episode with Kellie and Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement.
2017-01-1922 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 72—IS YOUR MARRIAGE EMOTIONALLY SAFE?We all want our marriages to be the safest place on earth. Physically safe, of course. But emotional safety is key as well. How do you build emotionally safety into your relationship? Listen now as Kellie & Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement dialogue about how to better connect emotionally.
2016-11-1425 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 71 – TECHNOLOGY INTRUDERWhile most of us rely heavily on our smartphones and devices to help us run our lives more efficiently, are they getting in the way of our most personal relationships? Listen in on today’s episode while Kellie & Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement discuss the research-based information around technology, and how you can take steps to ensure it doesn’t invade your love life.
2016-09-2729 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 70—TACKLING MONEY AS A NEW COUPLEIt’s been said that we spend a third of our lives either earning or worrying about money. One of the most common questions we hear from engaged couples is, “How do we handle money together when we’re just starting out?”. It’s true that the way you navigate your finances together can be a barometer for the rest of your relationship. Finances are a huge part of our lives, and managing our money is a big part of marriage. But don’t panic. Today’s episode will encourage you as Kellie & Brett Hurst of Home Encouragementdiscuss ways to get on the sam...2016-09-1321 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 69 “CAN LONG DISTANCE RELATIONSHIPS THRIVE?”No one really desires to be in a long distance relationship. Marriage is challenging enough when you live in the same house and see each other every day! Is it possible to be far apart while still remaining intimately connected? Listen in on today’s conversation as Kellie & Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement talk about tips for remaining close while you’re miles away.
2016-06-0117 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 68 – LOVING YOUR IN-LAWS WELLWhat does the term “in-law” bring up for you? Tension? Anxiety? Full on craziness? Before we break out the bad mother-in-law jokes, remember that in-law relationships go both ways. You may think your mother or father-in-law is totally cray cray … but what kind of daughter or son-in-law are you? It’s not always easy to get along. But honoring your in-laws is not only possible, it’s recommended. So how do you do it well? Listen in on today’s conversation as Kellie & Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement talk about ideas for learning to walk out love and respect with your in-law...2016-03-1630 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 67 – KEEPING YOUR MARRIAGE STRONG WHILE RAISING LITTLE ONESHow in the world do you work on your marriage relationship when you have small children who demand every last ounce of your time, energy, and attention? Is it even possible? Yes! It takes a little planning, a lot of grace, and sometimes requires thinking outside of the box. Listen today as Kellie & Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement talk about ideas for keeping you and your spouse close while the “little ones” grow up.
2016-02-0831 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 65 – HOW TO KILL YOUR MARRIAGESometimes it’s helpful to turn something on its head. Marriage tools can be like that. Instead of talking about what we should be doing to make our marriages better, this episode turns things upside down and discusses what you can do to ensure your marriage spirals downward! In this episode, Brett and Kellie Hurst of Home Encouragement discuss certain patterns that married couples can find themselves in that will guarantee disaster. Listen in on their conversation now.
2015-06-2332 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 64 – WHAT WILL THE NEXT 3 YEARS BRING?Life can certainly throw us some surprises, both good and bad. For some things, we’ll never be completely prepared. But for other things, we can get ready. What will the next 3 years bring in your marriage? Are you desperately waiting for a baby? Or are you counting the days ‘til you’re out of diapers? Do you hear yourself saying things like … “As soon as our kid can drive …” Every marriage life cycle has seasons. Why not talk about what your marriage will look like in 3 years, and put plans in place now to experience a stronger and more intimate...2015-03-1826 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 63 – CONTRACT VS. COVENANTIs marriage really just a contract between two people? “I agree to love you as long as you agree to love me”? Or is it something more? Are we humans capable of staying for the long haul, even when marriage can be utterly challenging? Brett and Kellie Hurst of Home Encouragement believe that God empowers us, as married couples, to love beyond our limited capacity. Not to stay in marriage because it’s a contract. But because it’s a covenant. Listen in on their conversation.
2015-02-0323 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 62 – ROUTINE OF ROMANCECan the words “routine” and “romance” go together? They may seem to contradict each other, but in this episode, Brett and Kellie Hurst of Home Encouragement put a new spin on the daily grind. Is it possible to make kindness and affection part of your normal routine? Listen now to find out!
2014-11-1828 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 61 – PORNOGRAPHYIn this episode, Brett and Kellie Hurst of Home Encouragement ask therapist Tim Mavergeorge about the topic of pornography and how it can negatively affect marriage. Although internet pornography is easily available and perhaps considered relatively harmless by some, it can cause some serious problems for interpersonal relationships.
2014-10-2147 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 60 – THE CONNECTING MARRIAGEIn this episode, Brett and Kellie Hurst of Home Encouragement finish their series on the 3 different types of marriage by describing the crème de la crème … the connecting marriage. This is the place every married couple wants to be. This is the type of relationship we all hope for when we say “I Do”. However, it takes a great deal of work and a huge amount of commitment. But as you’ll hear in this episode, it’s sooooo worth it!
2014-09-0825 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 59 – THE COASTING MARRIAGEIn this episode, Brett and Kellie Hurst of Home Encouragement continue unpacking the 3 different types of marriage. In this busy world of careers, parenting, and other demands, couples can easily find themselves coasting in their marriage relationships. But no one wants to be “two ships that pass in the night”. Perhaps you’re moving in the general same direction as your spouse, but marriage requires two people to move toward each other, not just move in parallel lines. Learn how to catch yourself from coasting for too long.
Thank you to Grant Peterson of South Hill Communications and to eng...2014-08-2220 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 58 – THE CRISIS MARRIAGEHow do you know if your marriage is in crisis or danger? In this episode, Brett and Kellie Hurst of Home Encouragement discuss the ingredients of a “critical” marriage. Most married couples already know clearly if they are in a crisis situation. But despair is not the only option. If this situation applies to your marriage, learn how to navigate a critical marriage with hope and intentionality
2014-08-0626 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 57 – UNDERSTANDING ADDICTIONS (INTERVIEW WITH TIM MAVERGEORGE)Addictions of one or both spouses can create tremendous challenges for marriage. To move forward as a couple, it is very important for healthy understanding of what addictions actually are and also how to get help. This week, Brett & Kellie Hurst of Home Encouragement interview Tim Mavergeorge about various addictions in marriage. Tim is the head of the Houston Center for Christian Counseling and is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. He and his wife Nancy are also on the Advisory Board of Home Encouragement.
2014-06-1724 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 56 – EVERYONE’S AN EXPERTThis week, Brett & Kellie Hurst of Home Encouragement discuss how any spouse can bring something positive to a marriage. In fact, since everyone has been created with special gifts, all husbands and wives have the potential to become experts in something. What are your strengths? How might they be further enhanced in order to bring greater strength to your marriage?
Thank you to Grant Peterson of South Hill Communications and to engineer/musician Grant Supak for bringing their gifts to the posting of this podcast this week.
2014-05-3027 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 55 – DEFENSIVE & STONEWALLINGThis week, we conclude with the part two of John Gottman’s “Four Horseman”, referring to four negative characteristics (based on research) that can be deadly to a marriage if not repaired. Brett & Kellie Hurst of Home Encouragement discuss on this episode the pitfalls of defensiveness and stonewalling and how they can damage a marriage relationship.
Thanks to Grant Peterson of South Hill Communications and to engineer/musician Grant Supak for their assistance with posting Marriage to the Max episodes.
2014-05-0621 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 54 – CRITICISM & CONTEMPTThis week’s topic deals with the first two of John Gottman’s “Four Horseman”, referring to four negative characteristics (based on research) that can be deadly to a marriage if not repaired. Brett & Kellie Hurst of Home Encouragement discuss how important it is to steer clear of critical and contemptuous remarks in a marriage relationship.
Thanks to Grant Peterson of South Hill Communications and to engineer/musician Grant Supak for their assistance with posting Marriage to the Max episodes.
2014-04-2323 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 37 – MISS COMMUNICATION VS. MISCOMMUNICATIONDo you always mean what you say? This week, Brett Hurst of Home Encouragement unwisely interviews his wife Kellie about words and phrases that she uses in their marriage relationship that often have alternative intentions and meaning. This is potentially an unwise move for Brett. Going down this road will most likely result in some kind of retribution toward Brett from Kellie… probably in a future episode. We hope you enjoy the episode.
Thanks to Grant Peterson of South Hill Communications and our engineer/musician Zach Alkire for all of their constant efforts to support the ongoing prod...2013-06-1118 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 20 – CONFLICT 201We appreciate your ongoing listening to “Marriage to the Max”, the weekly marriage podcast hosted by Brett & Kellie Hurst of Home Encouragement. This week, we revisit the topic of managing conflict within marriage. As always, it’s important for us to emphasize that EVERY married couple will encounter the challenges of disagreement—it’s a very normal situation in marriage. Conflict is simply a difference of perspective, and no two people see things exactly the same way. If they did, they would be clones of each other!
We hope to give you further practical insights this week to make typic...2013-02-1226 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 19 – YOUR COMMUNICATION IQWelcome back to “Marriage to the Max”, the marriage podcast hosted by Brett & Kellie Hurst of Home Encouragement. In this week’s episode, we discuss “Your Communication IQ“. As a married couple, how do you currently communicate together? This is an important topic that needs constant unpacking within married couples. In marriage (or in any other personal relationship), you can’t take effective communication for granted. Honest conversation and frank self-evaluation can be quite beneficial for improving intimacy between husband and wife.
Again, Brett was sick during the recording of this episode. Apologies! Hope you enjoy it anyway. And if...2013-02-0520 minThe Marriage To The Max PodcastEPISODE 18 – REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS IN MARRIAGEThanks for listening to “Marriage to the Max”, a weekly podcast about marriage hosted by Brett & Kellie Hurst of Home Encouragement. This week, our topic is “Realistic Expectations in Marriage”. Now, of course, we believe with God at the center of your marriage relationship, that all things are possible—we believe that marriage offers a couple one joyful opportunity after another! Yet, many folks head into marriage with skewed expectations about what is truly satisfying within a marriage relationship. We hope that this episode is helpful to encourage couples to set their sights high, but to also extend grace to one anoth...2013-01-2922 min