Shows
The Family Business with The Alessis7 Ways Couples Can Support Each Other When Life Gets Tough (Top 10 Episode)Ever felt helpless when your spouse is struggling with a major issue? How can you be there for them when things are just not working out? In this top ten episode from Season 5, Steve and Mary Alessi dove into the heart of marriage by unpacking seven powerful ways couples can support each other when life turns upside down. As they discuss the events that inspired Steve to write "Forty-Two: A Guide to Finishing Strong When You Were Almost Finished",, they prove that we can find the strength we need to support those we love the most. ...2025-08-0634 minThe Family Business with The AlessisBeyond Hot Flashes? The Hidden Impact of Hormones on Women's Health and RelationshipsSome call it "The Change." Others refer to "Private Summers", or "The Big M'. No matter what you call it, there's a major, unavoidable physical shift that every woman has to face - and how you handle it could have long-lasting effects on your emotions, your health, or even your family. In this enlightening episode, Steve and Mary Alessi dive deep into the realities of menopause and perimenopause, sharing personal stories and hard-won wisdom from their journey. Mary opens up about experiencing mood swings, emotional challenges, and unexpected symptoms that impacted her marriage and...2025-07-3043 minThe Family Business with The AlessisTeam Us! How To Handle the Identity Changes of MarriageTrue or false? Marriage means more than just changing a last name - it means changing EVERYTHING. Whether it's the bride and groom moving out for the first time, or the parents and siblings letting go of the past - everyone has to readjust to a new reality. In this special conversation, Mary Alessi is joined by her youngest daughter, Gaby, for an honest and emotional discussion about one of life’s biggest transitions—getting married and leaving the nest. As Gaby prepares to walk down the aisle in just a few months, Mary and Gaby re...2025-07-161h 02The Family Business with The AlessisFallen Pastors: Should We Respond with Rejection or Restoration?In this honest and insightful episode, Steve and Mary Alessi continue the conversation on the challenges faced by churches, Christians, and families when influential pastors and worship leaders fall into scandal or public failure. This time, we get even more personal as we evaluate the pastors and spiritual leaaders that share our same profession and faith - and then betrayed the trust of their followers. You'll hear practical advice and biblical wisdom on processing disappointment, using discernment, and protecting your faith community when trusted spiritual figures let you down.Support th...2025-07-021h 06The Family Business with The AlessisFrom Crisis to Champion! Hockey, Heart Attacks, and Turning Trauma into TriumphIs it possible that your worst day can become your greatest testimony? And if so, how do you endure long enough to flip the script? In this heart-felt "long-play" summer road-trip episode, Steve and Mary Alessi sit down with their son Chris Alessi to open up about the life-changing moment when Steve survived a near-fatal heart attack, and how they transformed a dark day of trauma into an annual celebration of life. Through honest reflections and a dash of humor, they dive into how unexpected setbacks—whether in health, sports, or everyday struggles—can become powerf...2025-06-251h 08The Family Business with The Alessis"Confessions of a Control Freak" (TFB Top 10 Episode)In this "Best of TFB" flashback, we're going back in time to revisit one of our most memorable episodes: “Confessions of a Control Freak.” This was one of our most honest, light-hearted, and revealing discussions about what it really means to be labeled a “control freak”—both at home and in business. And since we've welcomed so many new listeners over the years, you may have never gotten the chance to hear it. You'll hear Steve and Mary Alessi dive into the ways control can show up in our daily lives, from wanting things just right in the...2025-04-3034 minThe Family Business with The AlessisAre Selfish Habits Silently Killing Your Marriage? (How to Identify Them) | S7 E33If there was a test that measured your selfishness ...what would your score be? Most people don't detect their own selfish actions until it's too late - and in a marriage, that can be a death sentence leading to pain and heartbreak. To help you build a healthier relationship, Steve and Mary Alessi get brutally honest about attraction, selfishness, and those hidden habits that quietly sabotage marriages. You’ll discover how small, self-focused choices build up walls between couples—and how intentional acts of care, consideration, and vulnerability can break them down.From tackli...2025-04-2332 minThe Family Business with The AlessisHow to Steer Your Child Toward Healthy Phone Habits | S7 E32Tired of trying to get your kids off their phones and back into reality? Maybe the answer isn't just taking away our children's devices. Are our children's obsessions with their devices actually a sign of dysfunction or lackluster engagement at home? In this powerful episode, Steve and Mary Alessi share some interesting perspectives on how to re-shape your approach toward technology and your kids' social environment.Discover how to guide your children toward healthier interactions, both with their phones and within their family.Support the showJoi...2025-04-1632 minThe Family Business with The AlessisJust Married, Now What? How to Set Healthy Expectations for Your First Year of Marriage | S7 E30Is the first year of marriage really the hardest? And if so, what can a couple do to avoid letting a beautiful newlywed season turn into a rollercoaster of disappointments and unmet expectations? Join Steve and Mary Alessi as they dive into the realities newlyweds face when managing expectations post-wedding. Through personal and relatable examples the Alessis share throughout this episode, you'll discover how navigating these early hurdles can lead to a stronger bond. Whether it’s reconciling different backgrounds or adjusting to everyday routines, you'll gain valuable insights to help you thrive - whether you...2025-04-0240 minThe Family Business with The AlessisThe Family Peacekeeper: Are You Solving or Enabling Family Conflicts? | S7 E29Do you always find yourself in the middle of family conflicts, trying to keep the peace? If so, you might be filling a role that no one asked you to fill - and it might be causing more harm than good. In this super transparent episode, Steve and Mary Alessi get real about the role of the peacemaker in the family, and discuss whether its a role that comes with it's own set of problems. You'll discover healthy ways to approach the conflicts that occur in every family, and see how setting boundaries on when to...2025-03-2636 minThe Family Business with The AlessisHow to Build a Strong Marriage by Growing and Adapting Together | S7 E25Are you struggling to keep your marriage relationship fresh and healthy despite life's constant challenges?In this powerful episode, Steve and Mary Alessi share a conversation with long-time friends David and Mory Martinez. Drawing on over 70 years of combined experience as married couples, they tackle subjects like embracing change, aligning personal goals, and the delicate balance between career ambition and family unity.You'll gain insights into the power of covenant relationships and the importance of laying down personal desires for unified dreams. This episode challenges conventional ideas about individual growth and will show y...2025-02-1933 minThe Family Business with The AlessisNo-Go Zones! How to Confidently Approach Sensitive Issues In Your Marriage | S7 E23Are there certain topics in your marriage that you're scared to discuss? Does it feel like you're risking a potential blow-up if you even bring it up?In this episode, Steve and Mary Alessi share insights into these "No-Go Zones," offering strategies to approach sensitive issues confidently. They discuss the importance of honest communication and personal responsibility in strengthening relationships. By focusing on self-improvement rather than projecting issues onto your partner, you can cultivate a healthier marriage environment.From hormonal shifts and weight concerns to internet transparency and open discussions about intimacy, you'll g...2025-02-0542 minThe Family Business with The AlessisHow to Kill Your Marriage: Avoiding Traps So Your Relationship Stays Strong and Happy | S7 E22Note to parents: this podcast contains frank and candid discussions about marriage and intimacy. Please listen and consider whether this material is age appropriate for your young children before sharing. Are you currently doing things that could cause your marriage to be DOA? Unfortunately, marriages end every day because of habits and behaviors that led to an untimely death of the relationship. But it doesn't have to be that way. In this episode you'll learn about dangerous relationship killers that could damage and destroy you marriage if you don't control and comb...2025-01-2934 minThe Family Business with The AlessisWhen Truth Hurts: How to Handle Family Conflicts with Healthy Communication | S7 E20Does speaking the truth in your home feel like lighting a fuse? When your family has to face the inevitable disagreements that happen in every home, you have two choices - you can embrace uncomfortable but healthy conversations, or you can allow unhealthy responses that lead to more pain later on. In this powerful episode, Steve and Mary Alessi discuss the nuances of effective family communication, emphasizing the need for truth-telling and constructive conflict resolution.You'll learn the importance of self-awareness, self-care, and leadership in managing family dynamics, as well as the art of ad...2025-01-1534 min
The Family Business with The AlessisStandards of Excellence: How to Empower Your Family with Principles that Last | S7 E11Are you setting the standards for your family - or are you letting other people set them for you? In this episode, Steve and Mary Alessi dive deep into why adhering to healthy principles and moral standards is essential for a balanced and fulfilling life for you and your family.You’ll hear about the importance of maintaining consistent standards, even when societal trends shift. They share personal stories, including the emotional impact of divorce and how it creates empty homes and broken lives. They discuss crucial issues like financial responsibility, dealing with chan...2024-11-1333 min
The Family Business with The AlessisWomen's Wisdom: Intimacy, Dating and What Men Actually Think with Daniele Hage | S7 E10Do women really understand how men think? According to our guest, it's not only possible, it's a woman's secret weapon. But women rarely get clarity on this key part of their lives in the ocean of messages from culture and unhealthy past experiences. In this fun and informative episode, Mary Alessi sits down with her lifelong friend Daniele Hage, host of The Daniele Hage Podcast, for a candid and honest talk about marriage, intimacy, dating, the role of a wife in the home, and how women can confidently navigate the lines between submission and influence...2024-11-0646 min
The Family Business with The AlessisYour King Era! Why We Need Men to Step Forward and Lead Their Families | S7 E9Have men been exiled from their place as kings of their castles in the home?And if so, how can strong, Godly men retake their place as responsible leaders in their families? In this episode, we reveal why our society needs strong men to take their leadership role in the family with courage and confidence. Steve and Mary Alessi dive into the evolving roles of men in households, debunking modern misconceptions about masculinity. The Alessis unpack their experiences with maintaining balance and mutual support in marriage, emphasizing the need for men to embrace le...2024-10-3037 min
The Family Business with The AlessisSafety First: What All Parents Need to Know to Protect Kids from Human Trafficking | S7 E8*Warning* Sensitive and graphic information on the topic of sex trafficking is shared in this podcast episode. Parents are advised to use discretion in sharing this with children. In this episode, we share important facts about the dark and dangerous world of human trafficking. You'll learn how parents can protect their kids from criminals and predators, both online and in real life. Talking with us in this episode is Susette Valdez, who has been actively working in the Anti-Human Trafficking field for over 10 years. Susette has worked as a caregiver in a safe hou...2024-10-2332 min
The Family Business with The AlessisPerils of Permissive Parenting: How to Raise Your Kids on a Solid Foundation | S7 E1Is trying to be the 'nice parent' turning you into the wrong kind of parent? In this engaging start to Season 7, Steve and Mary Alessi dive into the perils of permissive parenting and show you how to lay a solid foundation for your children. You'll discover the lessons they've learned on their own parenting journey, why they chose their parenting styles, and the importance of confronting conflict rather than avoiding it.You'll learn why establishing boundaries is crucial for healthy child development and how permissiveness can actually harm a child's sense of security and understanding o...2024-09-0435 min
The Family Business with The AlessisFamily Finale! Celebrating Season 6 Wins and Revealing Season 7 Surprises | S6 E39All good things must come to an end...but great things keep going! It's been an amazing season in The Family Business, and this episode is a celebration of our Podience and all you've made possible for us - and what we can look forward to in Season 7! Here, Steve and Mary Alessi discuss the challenges and rewards of podcasting as a family for six seasons that have been full of dramatic changes. We'll reveal some incredible milestones we'll accomplished together, and you'll hear how the podcast has become a platform for sharing th...2024-06-2630 min
The Family Business with The AlessisMom to Mom: Timeless Wisdom from Two Generations of Mothers | TFB FlashbackWhat can today's moms learn from the moms who raised them?In this flashback episode from Season 5, Mary Alessi's mother Dr. Faith Fredrick joins the podcast to explore the ‘then and now’ of motherhood. With incredible wisdom, these two women revisit the journey of both being raised by strong moms, and raising their children with intention, faith and a strong moral compass.As they share fun and poignant memories, these stories will help parents grappling with the societal pressures and anxieties of raising kids in today's world. You'll discover how to celebrate every stage o...2024-05-0833 min
The Family Business with The AlessisThe Death of Normal: Why It's Important to Pursue a Higher Quality of Life | S6 E29Ask yourself...when did being normal become unpopular? In this episode, Steve and Mary Alessi take an unapologetic look at the cultural attitudes that are destroying the fabric of our society by accepting abnormal behavior and calling it normal. You'll hear about their personal battles with everyday struggles, which highlight the impact of a positive approach to life. You'll see why normal is actually more about striving for the best and taking responsibility for your actions, instead of succumbing to culture's lowest common denominator. Join us and learn how to resist the...2024-04-1731 min
The Family Business with The AlessisLiberal vs. Conservative: How Should Your Christian Values Influence Your Vote? | S6 E28What does your vote say about what you REALLY believe? We're taking a thought-provoking journey in this episode as we unpack the complexity of intertwining Christian values with today's pressing issues. Today Steve and Mary Alessi dive boldly into the divide between conservative and liberal Christians, and provide insight into the potential consequences of blurring the lines between biblical teachings and progressive social views.You'll discover how to advocate for respectful discussions and to prioritize biblical values over political affiliations. Don't miss this chance to navigate the intersection of faith and politics and...2024-04-1035 min
The Family Business with The AlessisRevive Your Dream: Untold Stories After One Year of "Forty Two" | S6 E27Can your story of overcoming obstacles become more powerful with time? Yes, it can! And we're sharing an example of that as we reflect and celebrate the one year anniversary of the release of Steve Alessi's first book, "Forty Two". In this episode, Steve and Mary Alessi share the untold stories and personal challenges that led to the release of this powerful guide to finishing well when you thought you were finished, as well as some stories they never shared publicly before the book was published. Since being published, "Forty Two" has blessed and...2024-04-0334 min
The Family Business with The AlessisFamily Feuds: How to Get Along with Your Family Even When You're Frustrated | S6 E24What do you do when the people you love frustrate you the most? In every family, there's the potential for conflict - but that potential grows when dealing with grandparents, in-laws, stepparents and other complex family relationships. How do you keep the peace and prioritize healthy, long-term relationships when things go south? In this episode of "The Family Business with The Alessis," hosts Steve and Mary Alessi engage in a heartfelt conversation with their mom, Dr. Faith Fredrick about navigating the complexities of family relationships that can be both meaningful and messy. ...2024-03-1331 min
The Family Business with The AlessisThe Wisdom Gap: How to Gain Time-Tested Perspective on Today's Political Issues | S6 E23What can today's generation learn from those who have lived through decades of elections and social changes? In this episode of The Family Business, the Alessis welcome back Dr. Faith Frederick, Mary Alessi's mother, as they dig into the polarization and perspectives surrounding the hot topics in today's political climate. In this honest discussion, you'll discover why older generations in our families can often detect patterns and long-term consequences of cultural issues that younger people don't understand yet - and why we should value their ideas. THE ALESSIS ARE ASKING + MUG...2024-03-0633 min
The Family Business with The AlessisFeeling Small? How to Stop Being Intimidated Around Other People | S6 E21Do you struggle with feeling small and powerless around people with big personalities and big influence? You don't have to stay in that place of fear and insecurity. In this episode, Steve and Mary Alessi dive into the deep waters of overcoming feelings of inadequacy and intimidation. You'll hear how this couple handled their own struggles with intimidation in various aspects of life, from professional pressures to personal relationships. Through personal anecdotes and insightful advice, you'll gain practical tips on building confidence, embracing strengths, and navigating family expectations; including:How to navigate the...2024-02-2133 min
The Family Business with The AlessisHow to Keep Romance in the Family Business [Season 1 Flashback] | S6 E20In this classic encore episode, Steve and Mary Alessi 'pull back the covers' on some touchy subjects as they talk about love and intimacy in marriage! In Season 1, our Podience asked the Alessis some real-life questions about how they maintain the love and passion of their marriage while staying focused on ministry. Their answers were super transparent, often hilarious, and emotionally honest. If you've been a listener for a while, but forgotten how powerful this episode was, it's a perfect time to look back and apply these lessons to your current or future rel...2024-02-1436 min
The Family Business with The AlessisMakeup Madness? Sephora Kids, Dangerous Trends and What Parents Need to Know | S6 E18How did girls go from playing with dolls, to using Drunk Elephant and Dior?! The distrubing trend of "Sephora Kids" - young tween girls and younger buying high-end makeup products, encouraging and mimicking adult skin care techniques - has woken up the culture to the dangers of social media influence. But what should parents do about it? In this real and transparent episode, Mary Alessi and her daughter Gaby tackle the underlying issues causing young girls to get into makeup and skincare way too early—especially the influence of TikTok and social media.2024-01-3134 min
The Family Business with The Alessis"I Hate When You Talk To Me That Way!" | TFB Midseason FlashbackYou know how mad you get when your spouse says that ONE thing you can't stand? It's time for a candid and insightful throwback to one of our most beloved episodes, 'I Hate When You Talk to Me That Way,' where we dive deep into the dynamics of communication and conflict resolution within relationships. In this Best Of episode, Steve and Mary Alessi engage in an open, honest discussion about the challenges they've faced and the valuable lessons learned in their own marriage and family life. From the importance of personalized communication to setting bo...2024-01-0333 min
The Family Business with The AlessisNot Mama's Boy: How To Build A Healthy Mother-Son Relationship | S6 E14Can moms love their sons too much? No mother wants to hinder their son from becoming a man, but the mother-son dynamic can create major headaches for the entire family if not handled properly. In this episode, we delve into the intricate dynamics of the mother-son relationship and the valuable roles both parents fill in their young man's life. From discussing the differences in parental roles to highlighting the importance of respect and clear communication, Steve and Mary Alessi sit down with their son Chris offers insightful perspectives on family relationships and...2023-12-2036 min
The Family Business with The AlessisHow to Grieve with Grace: Navigating Loss and Finding Joy Again w/ Pastor Ann Alessi | S6 E12In this heartfelt and deeply personal episode, we are joined by Steve Alessi's mother, Ann Alessi, as we open up about family, grief, and finding strength in the face of loss. Having been married to her husband Pastor John Alessi for over 60 years at the time of his passing in 2020, Pastor Ann highlights the importance of faith and family support during this challenging time. She also shares her experience of finding a new season in her life after her husband's passing and the importance of finding support and healing through faith. You'll hear wise advice on how...2023-12-0635 min
The Family Business with The AlessisNot So Merry: How To Manage Your Mental Health and Beat the Holiday Blues | S6 E10Is the most wonderful time of the year not so wonderful for you? The holidays can actually be a very unhappy time if you dealing with increased stress, seasons of loss, or unrealistic expectations. In this episode, Steve and Mary Alessi sit down with their daughter Lauren, who has a Master's degree in clinical mental health counseling and coordinates Metro Life Church's Wellness program. You'll learn about the dangers of staying in a state of sadness for too long and discover tips on how to manage your mental health better, including the real...2023-11-2232 min
The Family Business with The AlessisHow to Handle Seasons of Caring for Aging Parents | S6 E4Have you entered a season when you now take care of the people that raised you? If so, you're not alone. More and more, adults are finding themselves stepping into the role of caring for their aging parents. But it's not easy. The struggle with balancing time, emotional needs, medical issues and changing roles as parents age can cause stress on any family. To help you navigate this challenging season of life, Steve and Mary Alessi sit down and share their own stories of managing the new season of ac...2023-10-1133 min
The Family Business with The AlessisThe Truth about Abortion: How We Got Here & What Your Family Needs to Know | S6 E2Note to Parents: This episode contains graphic descriptions of the procedures and medical facts concerning abortion. We strongly advise using discretion in sharing this with young children. For decades, the abortion debate has been a flashpoint of passion and division in our society - precisely because it is so much more than words and arguments. It strikes at the very heart of what it means to build a family. Here at The Family Business with The Alessis, we believe strongly in empowering families with the truth so they can build a generational legacy, so...2023-09-2729 min
The Family Business with The AlessisBack to Business! How to Treasure Your Special Family Memories All Year Long | S6 E1The Family Business is back in business for Season 6 - and a LOT has happened since the Alessis last stepped into the podcast booth. The Alessis welcomed a brand new baby / grandson (Marino), celebrated their first grandbaby's first birthday (Gianna), discovered that there will be a THIRD new Alessi baby in December...all in the midst of a lot of renovation and re-adjustments in their church and personal lives. In the midst of all that excitement and stress, it's easy to forget the precious moments and memories being made - and that's not good for...2023-09-2033 min
The Family Business with The AlessisNo More Sandcastles! How to Overcome Opposition and Build a Strong Marriage [Mid-Season Bonus]Are you concerned about the health of your marriage, especially as you deal with a chaotic culture that throws so much negativity into your relationship? In this bonus mid-season episode, you'll get a look inside Sundays in the Family Business as Steve and Mary Alessi reveal the secret sauce to a healthy, God-centered marriage to their congregation at Metro Life Church - gleaned from 35+ years of working on their relationship.They shine a light on the false "sandcastle" ideologies that the world often imposes on you, and share Biblical wisdom so you can guard your ma...2023-08-2335 min