Stronger Marriage Connection

Utah Marriage Comission
  • 4.9 (52)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

It's often said that marriage takes work. The Stronger Marriage Connection podcast wants to help because a happy marriage is worth the effort. USU Family Life Professor Dr. Dave Schramm and Clinical Psychologist Dr. Liz Hale talk with experts about the principles and practices that will enhance your commitment, compassion, and emotional connection.  More than ever before, marriages face obstacles, from the busyness of work and daily hassles to disagreements and digital distractions. It's no wonder couples sometimes drift apart, growing resentful, lonely, and isolated. The Utah Marriage Commission invites you to listen and discover new ways to strengthen and protect your marriage connection today! The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Marriage Commission.

  1. 4h ago

    The One Relationship Skill Every Marriage Needs | Mike Elliott | 190

    Men are often expected to be strong, successful, and dependable while receiving little encouragement to express vulnerability or ask for support. Relationship coach Mike Elliott joins Dave and Liz to explore how emotional awareness, presence, and feeling heard and seen can transform relationships. Mike shares his Relational Authority framework, the importance of strong support systems, and a practical tool couples can use to create greater safety and connection. Learn why lasting relationship growth begins with taking responsibility for yourself and choosing devotion over domination.  The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Marriage Commission. Takeaway of the Day  Mike Elliott: An under-resourced person can become reactive and disconnected. Take an honest inventory of your emotional, physical, and relational resources. Build supportive relationships, care for yourself, and develop the capacity to show up with greater safety and gentle power. Liz Hale: Vulnerability, acknowledgment, and reassurance can deeply strengthen connection. The VAR framework offers a simple way to help your partner feel emotionally heard, seen, and safe. Dave Schramm: Slow down and remember that people are more important than problems. Presence, attention, reassurance, and appreciation create meaningful connection, especially when partners feel valued for their efforts and sacrifices. Mike's Resources: Website: https://www.itsmikeelliott.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikeelliott.relating/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Itsmikeelliott   Happy Hacks: 101 Science-Backed Ways to Boost Happiness, Reduce Stress, and Build a More Meaningful Life. Available now starting at 99¢ on Amazon and Dave's Book Store Written by Dr. Dave Schramm, this practical and uplifting new book offers simple, research-based strategies to help you build greater happiness, strengthen resilience, reduce The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Marriage Commission. Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:  Strongermarriage.org   Podcast.stongermarriage.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StrongerMarriageLife TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@strongermarriagelife Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongermarriagelife/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strongermarriage/ Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579 Dr. Dave Schramm:  http://drdaveschramm.com http://drdavespeaks.com   Dr. Liz Hale:  http://www.drlizhale.com/

  2. Aug 10

    Rebuilding Desire In Your Marriage | Vanessa Cushing | 189

    Sexual intimacy can be a powerful source of connection in marriage, but shame, avoidance, unrealistic expectations, and differences in desire can quickly create distance. Licensed professional counselor and certified sex therapist Vanessa Cushing joins Dave and Liz to discuss desire discrepancy, performance anxiety, pornography, sexual trauma, and the importance of honest communication. Learn how couples can stop blaming each other, build emotional safety, and approach sexual intimacy as a team focused on connection rather than performance. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Marriage Commission. Takeaway of the Day  Vanessa Cushing: Talk to each other and stop blaming each other. Desire and intimacy improve when couples have hard conversations, approach challenges as a team, and consistently do the small things that strengthen connection.  Liz Hale: Desire is a team effort. Sexual challenges are not simply one partner's problem, and understanding the deeper emotional or psychological factors behind sexual behaviors can help couples respond with greater compassion.  Dave Schramm: Safety and connection are foundational to healthy sexual intimacy. Couples can strengthen their relationship by communicating openly, being vulnerable, and seeking professional help when challenges feel difficult to resolve alone.  Vanessa’s Resources:  Website: https://www.cushingcounseling.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cushingcounseling/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vanessacushing  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cushingcounseling  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Cushing-Counseling/61578982936946/    Happy Hacks: 101 Science-Backed Ways to Boost Happiness, Reduce Stress, and Build a More Meaningful Life. Available now starting at 99¢ on Amazon and Dave's Book Store Written by Dr. Dave Schramm, this practical and uplifting new book offers simple, research-based strategies to help you build greater happiness, strengthen resilience, reduce The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Marriage Commission. Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:  Strongermarriage.org   Podcast.stongermarriage.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StrongerMarriageLife TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@strongermarriagelife Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongermarriagelife/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strongermarriage/ Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579 Dr. Dave Schramm:  http://drdaveschramm.com http://drdavespeaks.com   Dr. Liz Hale:  http://www.drlizhale.com/

  3. Aug 3

    The Hidden Link Between Sex, Health, and Desire | Laura How | 188

    Sexual intimacy can play an important role in emotional connection, relationship satisfaction, and overall well-being. Relationship therapist Laura How joins Dr. Liz Hale and Dr. Dave Schramm to explore sexless marriages, differences in sexual desire, and the physical and emotional benefits of a healthy sexual relationship. Laura shares practical insights for understanding desire, talking openly about intimacy, and making your marriage a greater priority. Discover how curiosity, intentional connection, and playfulness can help couples rebuild intimacy and create a stronger marriage. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Marriage Commission. Takeaway of the Day Laura How: Make your marriage the project of your life. Prioritize personal growth and create a relationship that feels playful, joyful, and energizing. A strong marriage is possible when couples intentionally nurture their connection.Liz Hale: A healthy sexual connection offers powerful benefits for individuals, couples, and families. Liz emphasizes the positive influence a loving, connected marriage can have on children and encourages women to recognize their power to strengthen their relationships.Dave Schramm: Relationships require intentional attention. When work, children, stress, and technology take over, emotional and physical connection can slowly fade. Couples need to talk openly, make time for each other, and remember that a lack of attention can lead to a loss of connection.Laura's Links: Website: https://laurahow.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurahow/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LauraHow TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@laurahowcounselling X: https://x.com/laurahow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laurahowcounsellor/ Happy Hacks: 101 Science-Backed Ways to Boost Happiness, Reduce Stress, and Build a More Meaningful Life. Available now starting at 99¢ on Amazon and Dave's Book Store Written by Dr. Dave Schramm, this practical and uplifting new book offers simple, research-based strategies to help you build greater happiness, strengthen resilience, reduce The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Marriage Commission. Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:  Strongermarriage.org   Podcast.stongermarriage.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StrongerMarriageLife TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@strongermarriagelife Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongermarriagelife/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strongermarriage/ Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579 Dr. Dave Schramm:  http://drdaveschramm.com http://drdavespeaks.com   Dr. Liz Hale:  http://www.drlizhale.com/

  4. Jun 29

    Happy Hacks: 101 Practical Ways To Improve Happiness | Dave Schramm | 187

    We flip the mic and let Liz and Rex interview Dave about his new book, Happy Hacks, and the science-backed habits that make joy more durable in real life. We dig into why happiness matters for marriages and families, how small choices build momentum, and why compassion and kindness are the glue of a stronger marriage connection.  • why happiness is not toxic positivity and still involves choice through perspective  • why Dave wrote a “hacks” book and how short, simple practices beat jargon  • the structure of each hack: what it is, why it works, try this today, what if, bottom line  • gratitude and kindness as the quickest ripple effect for well-being and relationships  • “Text Two Before 10” and why delayed gratitude can be surprisingly powerful  • foundational habits that shape mood: sunlight, hydration, protein, sleep, stopping doomscrolling  • “happy hack attacks” that steal joy: comparison, rumination, avoiding emotions, materialism  • purpose beyond the self as a buffer against stress and a path to meaning  • hack 101: writing a letter to your future self to live with more intention now  • the key to a stronger marriage connection: compassion and kindness  Dave's Resources: Website: https://www.drdaveschramm.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdaveschramm/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDaveUSU  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUgmEM9eheDC5AbNYUB3ENA/videos  X: https://x.com/DrDaveUSU  Happy Hacks: 101 Science-Backed Ways to Boost Happiness, Reduce Stress, and Build a More Meaningful Life. Available now starting at 99¢ on Amazon and Dave's Book Store Written by Dr. Dave Schramm, this practical and uplifting new book offers simple, research-based strategies to help you build greater happiness, strengthen resilience, reduce The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Marriage Commission. Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:  Strongermarriage.org   Podcast.stongermarriage.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StrongerMarriageLife TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@strongermarriagelife Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongermarriagelife/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strongermarriage/ Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579 Dr. Dave Schramm:  http://drdaveschramm.com http://drdavespeaks.com   Dr. Liz Hale:  http://www.drlizhale.com/

  5. Jun 22

    The Three Phases To Rebuild Trust After Infidelity | Bill Bumberry | 186

    Discovering infidelity can be one of the most painful experiences a couple faces. In this episode, Dr. Bill Bumberry shares practical guidance and hope for couples navigating betrayal trauma and rebuilding trust. Drawing on decades of clinical experience and the Gottman Method, Bill explains the three key phases of healing after infidelity—atonement, attunement, and attachment—and offers actionable strategies for restoring safety, connection, and commitment. Whether you're recovering from betrayal or looking to strengthen your relationship against future threats, this conversation provides valuable insight and encouragement.  • defining infidelity as betraying an agreement plus secrecy  • why social media and dating apps make hiding easier  • how friendships drift into emotional and physical affairs  • common trauma responses for the hurt partner, including hypervigilance and dysregulation  • why remorse has to become active compassion to restore safety  • using the Gottman phases of atonement, attunement, and attachment  • deciding which details help and which details harm early on  • how avoidance and negative sentiment override set the stage for disconnection  • what to consider when talking with kids at different ages  • daily connection rituals that matter most, including the first two minutes together  • loyalty as an active practice, especially when your partner is not present Happy Hacks: 101 Science-Backed Ways to Boost Happiness, Reduce Stress, and Build a More Meaningful Life. Available now starting at 99¢ on Amazon and Dave's Book Store Written by Dr. Dave Schramm, this practical and uplifting new book offers simple, research-based strategies to help you build greater happiness, strengthen resilience, reduce The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Marriage Commission. Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:  Strongermarriage.org   Podcast.stongermarriage.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StrongerMarriageLife TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@strongermarriagelife Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongermarriagelife/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strongermarriage/ Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579 Dr. Dave Schramm:  http://drdaveschramm.com http://drdavespeaks.com   Dr. Liz Hale:  http://www.drlizhale.com/

  6. Jun 15

    Why Conflict Is A Cry For Safety And How To Respond | Kirsten Davidson | 185

    We sit down with psychotherapist Kirsten Davidson to unpack why couples drift into disconnection and how Internal Family Systems therapy can help us lead ourselves with more clarity, compassion, and courage. We challenge the stories we tell ourselves in conflict, practice speaking from “parts” instead of blame, and lay out simple shifts that rebuild real connection.  • assumptions driving communication breakdowns and unnecessary hurt  • avoiding hard talks out of fear of the truth and discomfort  • using IFS “parts” language to create space and reduce shame  • defining self-energy and what “self-led” looks like at home  • turning fights into dialogue instead of debate  • choosing radical honesty about our limits and patterns  • why couples counseling works better when we go earlier  • tips for newlyweds and engaged couples to benchmark what works  • resources to learn IFS, including Richard Schwartz’s No Bad Parts  • how we build hope when couples feel exhausted and stuck  Happy Hacks: 101 Science-Backed Ways to Boost Happiness, Reduce Stress, and Build a More Meaningful Life. Available now starting at 99¢ on Amazon and Dave's Book Store Written by Dr. Dave Schramm, this practical and uplifting new book offers simple, research-based strategies to help you build greater happiness, strengthen resilience, reduce The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Marriage Commission. Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:  Strongermarriage.org   Podcast.stongermarriage.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StrongerMarriageLife TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@strongermarriagelife Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongermarriagelife/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strongermarriage/ Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579 Dr. Dave Schramm:  http://drdaveschramm.com http://drdavespeaks.com   Dr. Liz Hale:  http://www.drlizhale.com/

  7. Jun 8

    Why Trying To Be Perfect Can Ruin Your Relationship | Andrea Dindinger | 184

    We sit down with marriage and family therapist Andrea Dindinger to name the repeat fight loops that hijack connection and to practice simple ways to interrupt them before they turn mean. We walk away with concrete tools for calmer conflict, deeper intimacy, and more intentional partnership that ripples into the next generation.  • naming the “loop” as the problem, not each other  • spotting triggers and the deeper needs underneath them  • using “bookmark” to pause conflict and return at a specific time  • building trust by always coming back to the bookmarked talk  • leading the moment by listening without taking it personally  • using a firm “stop” paired with reassurance and safety  • choosing curiosity before defensiveness as a relationship superpower  • rethinking intimacy through “sexy logistics” and mental load  • trying a 21-day experiment of small daily connection practices  • letting go of perfection and focusing on repair and accountability  • creating a shared vision and doing an annual relationship review  Happy Hacks: 101 Science-Backed Ways to Boost Happiness, Reduce Stress, and Build a More Meaningful Life. Available now starting at 99¢ on Amazon and Dave's Book Store Written by Dr. Dave Schramm, this practical and uplifting new book offers simple, research-based strategies to help you build greater happiness, strengthen resilience, reduce The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Marriage Commission. Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:  Strongermarriage.org   Podcast.stongermarriage.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StrongerMarriageLife TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@strongermarriagelife Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongermarriagelife/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strongermarriage/ Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579 Dr. Dave Schramm:  http://drdaveschramm.com http://drdavespeaks.com   Dr. Liz Hale:  http://www.drlizhale.com/

  8. Jun 1 ·  Video

    Why Embracing Vulnerability Is Key To Rebuilding Trust | Josh Otani | 183

    We sit down with therapist Josh O’Tani to talk about pornography use as a couples issue and why secrecy can wound a relationship as deeply as infidelity. We map the shame and anger cycle that keeps partners stuck, then share practical ways to rebuild trust through curiosity, empathy, and consistent repair.  • Reframing pornography use as relational and systemic, not just individual behavior  • Pornography as a coping strategy for difficult emotions and how avoidance spills into marriage  • The negative interaction cycle after betrayal, including shame, fixing, withdrawal, anger, and distrust  • Why empty promises fail and how trust rebuilds through time and consistency  • Why secrecy matters more than the content for many couples  • Confessing early versus being discovered and the impact on safety and vulnerability  • Betrayal trauma responses, including volatility and PTSD-like symptoms  • Simple language shifts that validate pain without defensiveness  • Clarifying values and agreeing on goals, abstinence versus negotiated boundaries  • Tools from emotionally focused therapy, enactments, and impact versus intent  • The mindset shift that you don’t have to heal alone, and why professional help accelerates progress  • Where to find Josh and his resources at Big Valley Therapy  Happy Hacks: 101 Science-Backed Ways to Boost Happiness, Reduce Stress, and Build a More Meaningful Life. Available now starting at 99¢ on Amazon and Dave's Book Store Written by Dr. Dave Schramm, this practical and uplifting new book offers simple, research-based strategies to help you build greater happiness, strengthen resilience, reduce The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Marriage Commission. Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:  Strongermarriage.org   Podcast.stongermarriage.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StrongerMarriageLife TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@strongermarriagelife Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongermarriagelife/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strongermarriage/ Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579 Dr. Dave Schramm:  http://drdaveschramm.com http://drdavespeaks.com   Dr. Liz Hale:  http://www.drlizhale.com/

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4.9
out of 5
52 Ratings

About

It's often said that marriage takes work. The Stronger Marriage Connection podcast wants to help because a happy marriage is worth the effort. USU Family Life Professor Dr. Dave Schramm and Clinical Psychologist Dr. Liz Hale talk with experts about the principles and practices that will enhance your commitment, compassion, and emotional connection.  More than ever before, marriages face obstacles, from the busyness of work and daily hassles to disagreements and digital distractions. It's no wonder couples sometimes drift apart, growing resentful, lonely, and isolated. The Utah Marriage Commission invites you to listen and discover new ways to strengthen and protect your marriage connection today! The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Marriage Commission.

Information

  • Creator
    Utah Marriage Comission
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    191
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Stronger Marriage Connection
  • Show Website
    Stronger Marriage Connection

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