Awesome Marriage Podcast

Dr. Kim Kimberling
Awesome Marriage Podcast

Far too many couples are just surviving their marriage when it was meant to thrive. This is the place for practical tips on how to build an awesome marriage. Our passion is to help you strengthen your marriage. Dr. Kim Kimberling hosts the show. Dr. Kim is the President of Awesome Marriage, has been married for over 50 years, and has been a professional counselor for 40+ years. He is the author of 7 Secrets to An Awesome Marriage ,14 Keys To Lasting Love, and most recently Love, Intimacy and Sex in the Second Half. Dr. Kim will be joined once a month by his wife of 55 years, Nancy Kimberling. He will also host other great guests that will teach and encourage you as you intentionally pursue an awesome marriage. Tune in each week to hear practical advice from Dr. Kim. This podcast is brought to you by the ministry of Awesome Marriage.

  1. 2D AGO

    Built to Last: What Makes (or Breaks) a Thriving Marriage

    Just when you thought you couldn’t love Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy more—this episode takes things to a whole new level. With honesty and heart, they open up about the real journey of their marriage—sharing the intentional choices, tough seasons, and deep faith that carried them through. From early challenges that could have pulled them apart to the daily decisions that drew them closer, their story reflects what’s possible when a couple chooses to build on the foundation of Christ. Their marriage is both relatable and inspiring—a powerful reminder that when God is kept first, a marriage doesn’t just survive—it thrives. Episode Highlights: Intentionality is key. Marriages won't thrive naturally. Taking ownership and openly communicating are important tools for successful marriages.   Quotes from this Episode: Don’t be negative.  I think we were in lust not in love. I think we had to build true love in our marriage. We’ve learned to build bit by bit. I thought if I loved you enough everything was going to be ok. Until you realize how much God loves you as a person you aren’t truly free to love another person. Divorce isn’t a word in our vocabulary anymore, commitment is! We realize now what we were missing. Just getting married doesn’t mean you won’t feel alone.    Questions for Conversation: What part of Dr. Kim and Nancy’s story felt most relatable or surprising to you? Why? Have you ever assumed love alone would be enough to fix everything? How has your view of love and commitment changed over time? Have there been moments where one (or both) of you felt alone in your marriage? What helped reconnect you—or what could help now? Is “divorce” or emotional withdrawal ever subtly present as an option in your mindset or language? What does it look like to choose commitment every day? How can you better prioritize keeping God first in your marriage this week? What’s one thing you want to be intentional about after listening to this episode—together or individually?   Mentioned in this episode: Find Dr. Kim on Instagram We believe that keeping marriage fun means date night can’t be boring. Check out our Date Night Boosters. Reignite the fun and intimacy in your date nights with your spouse. Awesome Marriage swag is now LIVE! Grab a gift for you, your spouse or another couple. There’s something for everyone.  Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word as you intentionally choose to build a thriving marriage, find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Try this FREE YouVersion plan: Celebrating Differences in Marriage If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our Marriage Changers program. Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to . receive our Date Night Boosters.

    37 min
  2. JUL 1

    Keeping Your Spouse First and Your Marriage Fun with Arlene Pellicane

    This is the perfect episode to kick off July, as this month at Awesome Marriage we’re highlighting the importance of dating your spouse. Arlene Pellicane joins me in the studio to talk about keeping your spouse first and your marriage fun! But what does that actually look like? In the midst of life’s demands, Arlene shares practical tips and loads of wisdom to help you keep investing in your marriage and enjoying your spouse. We pray this episode encourages your marriage. Episode Takeaways: Marriage and parenting are common pain points for many people. The divorce rate is down, but so is the marriage rate. Men are marrying later and less frequently than in the past. Gray divorce is on the rise, with more older couples divorcing. Couples often stay together for the kids but drift apart afterward. Awareness of vulnerability in marriage is crucial. Gratitude can transform how you view your spouse. Serving your spouse should be unconditional, regardless of their actions. Fun is essential in maintaining a healthy marriage. Finding common interests can strengthen the bond between spouses. Be creative in finding fun activities together. Family meals are essential for daily connection. Prioritizing your spouse can enhance the marriage. It's important to forgive quickly in a marriage. Express gratitude for your spouse regularly. Shared experiences create lasting memories. Nurturing the marriage benefits the entire family. Every day together is a gift to cherish. The book 'Making Marriage Easier' offers practical insights.   Quotes from this Episode: "It's never too late to turn that around." "We want to avoid drifting apart." "Play by God's rules in your marriage." "Who can out-serve the other?" "I will try it, even if I'm not good at it." "What can we do all together?" "You don't have to do it like everyone else." "It blesses your kids." "Every day is a gift that we have together."   Questions for Conversation: What practical steps can you take this week to put your marriage first, even amidst busy schedules and family demands? How can you create more opportunities for fun and laughter with your spouse, making your relationship a joyful priority? In what ways can prioritizing your spouse help you both feel more connected and valued in your daily life? What new or creative activities can you plan together to bring more excitement and shared enjoyment into your marriage?   Mentioned in this Episode:  Find Arlene Pellicane on IG.  We believe that keeping marriage fun means date night can’t be boring. Check out our Date Night Boosters. Reignite the fun and intimacy in your date nights with your spouse. Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word as you intentionally choose to pursue the marriage God intended, find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Try this FREE YouVersion plan: 7 Secrets of an Awesome Marriage If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our Marriage Changers program. Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to . receive our Date Night Boosters.

    50 min
  3. JUN 24

    Closer Still: Deepening Your Friendship with God with Special Guest, Faith Eury Cho

    What does it really mean to be friends with God—and how can that friendship fill our lives with lasting joy? In this uplifting episode, we talk with Faith about how intimacy with God shifts our desires, strengthens our faith, and sustains us through hardship. We also explore how to take that next step into deeper friendship with Him, and what it practically looks like to live each day knowing God as both Father and Friend. Plus, don’t miss details on our journal giveaway over on Instagram @awesome_marriage! Episode Highlights: Friendship with God sparks joy in our lives. Joy is referenced over 400 times in scripture. Our default mode is to find joy in God's presence. Joy is not just a moment but a continuous state. The fall of humankind began when joy was sought outside of God. Joy is deeper than happiness; it encompasses peace and confidence. Every season of life has its own joy to discover. Jesus is the source of our completion and joy. Enjoying the Holy Spirit alters your desires. Acknowledging God in daily life fosters intimacy. Practicing the presence of God can be done in all activities. Friendship with God is accessible through salvation. Questions for Reflection: How would you describe your current friendship with God? What moments in your life have made you feel closest to God? What did those times have in common? What spiritual disciplines or habits help you feel more connected to God on a daily basis? Are there any areas where you feel distant from God right now? What might be contributing to that? Are there any distractions or habits you might need to let go of to prioritize friendship with God? Quotes from Today’s Episode: "We can be friends with God." "Jesus is where my completion is." "He does the heart work." "Acknowledge Him in all your ways." "God's got answers for all of us." Mentioned in this Episode: Find Faith Eury Cho on Instagram Faith’s new devotional: Deepen Your Friendship with God 📢GIVEAWAY DETAILS: Win a copy of Deepen Your Friendship with God over on the Awesome Marriage Instagram page.  Check out our June resource of the month: Love That Honors Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word as you intentionally choose to grow the intimacy in your marriage and your relationship with Christ, find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Try this FREE YouVersion plan: 7 Prayers to Grow Your Marriage If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips!

    40 min
  4. JUN 17

    Help! My Spouse Can’t Leave Work at Work

    In today’s episode, we explore how constant connectivity and work stress can quietly invade our marriages. When work becomes all-consuming, it can turn into an idol and create emotional distance between spouses. We discuss why learning to leave work at work is a spiritual discipline and how true support means walking alongside your spouse, not having all the answers. You’ll hear practical wisdom on setting boundaries together, sharing burdens, and seeking counsel early. Marriage is about more than success—it’s about not facing struggles alone.   Episode Highlights:  Technology has blurred our boundaries between work and home.  Learning to leave work at work is a spiritual discipline. Being supportive doesn’t mean you have to all the answers- it means you’re walking alongside your spouse. The pace of modern culture doesn’t allow proper mental closure.   Quotes from Today’s Episodes: A lot of people in the workplace feel the expectation to be available 24/7/365 Work problems begin to feel like personal problems- like they need immediate attention. Our ultimate identity is not in our professional performance.  Work stress can be like an invisible third person in your marriage. When work becomes all consuming it shifts into an idol. Our marriages are about something bigger than career success. Marriage is about sharing burdens- not just the good stuff.  Trying to handle stress alone creates distance in the marriage. There’s something spiritually significant about not facing struggles alone.  The most effective boundaries are the ones you create together. They need to know your concern comes from a place of care not criticism. The earlier you involve wise counsel the more effectively you can address issues before they become entrenched patterns.  Questions for Discussion: Do you currently have any transitional rituals in place? If not, what rituals can the two of you agree to implement?  Do you currently implement any device free times/ zones? Are you using technology to connect with your spouse in healthy ways? (encouraging text, midday phone call)   Mentioned in This Episode: Find Dr. Kim on Instagram Check out our June resource of the month: Love That Honors Want to ensure you aren’t unintentionally disrespecting your spouse- our FREE resource can help: 17 Unintentionally Disrespectful Phrases To Cut Out When Speaking To Your Spouse Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word as you intentionally choose to grow the intimacy in your marriage and your relationship with Christ, find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Try this FREE YouVersion plan just in time for summer: Islands, Tides and the Deep: A Marriage Message from the Sea If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips! If your marriage is struggling or in crisis, don’t give up and give in. Our 11 Things to do Before you Get a Divorce webinar is your next step. There is always hope for healing and this free webinar will give you the foundation to start rebuilding if you’re willing to try!

    34 min
  5. JUN 10

    Faithful Fatherhood: Leading with Love in a Culture of Chaos

    In this special Father’s Day edition of the podcast, I’m joined by my good friend Larry Hagner. While we’re focusing on fatherhood, this episode is packed with wisdom for every married couple. From building a stronger marriage, to deepening your connection with your kids, to taking care of your own well-being—Larry shares wisdom that every family can benefit from.   Episode Highlights: Community and support are essential for fathers. The relationship between husband and father roles is interconnected. Children learn about relationships from their parents' marriage. Legacy is built through the relationships we model. Seeking help and resources is a sign of strength.  Intimacy is rooted in emotional connection. Understanding your partner's needs is crucial for intimacy. Sex is a celebration of a strong emotional bond. Being a spiritual leader starts with self-leadership. Proactive planning can enhance relationships. Navigating modern parenting requires open communication. It's okay not to have all the answers as a parent. Learning together with your children strengthens bonds.   Questions for Reflection: Which cultural pressures do we feel most as parents right now, and how can we support each other in responding to them with biblical wisdom? Are there ways we’ve let parenting take priority over our marriage lately? What small changes could help us reconnect more intentionally as a couple? How do we currently approach discipline and spiritual formation—are we united in our values, and where might we need better alignment or communication? What habits could we build into our week to stay emotionally and spiritually connected—not just as parents, but as husband and wife? What specific Scriptures or practices can help you stay rooted as a father (parent)?   Quotes from Today’s Episode:  "It's important to show children how to love well." "Creating a strong family foundation is essential." "I want to feel connected to her. I love her." "What we plan for, we can execute." "We can't put our head in the sand."   Mentioned in this episode: Find Larry’s podcast HERE. Connect with Larry on social media. This month’s resource is for every couple. Love that Honors: A 13 Day Challenge for Couples. Honor and respect aren’t always our first response or priority. This challenge will help you love your spouse the way the Lord has called you to love your spouse.  Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word as you intentionally choose to level up as a dad, or maybe commit to parenting God’s way, find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Try this FREE YouVersion plan: Fighting to be a Man of God If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our Marriage Changers program. Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy.

    59 min
  6. JUN 3

    Unvoiced Expectations: How to put a Name to What you Need

    In this week’s episode, Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy unpack the powerful topic of expectations—focusing on how to clearly express what you need from your spouse. With honest conversation, a willingness to listen, and an open heart, you can transform how you communicate and connect in your relationship.   Quotes from this episode: “I just thought you knew. And when you didn’t I would go along and get resentful” “We were trying to fit each other in the mold.”  “Our first big argument scared the heck out of me. My unrealistic expectation was that we would never fight.”  “It’s a good idea to have a signal or cue so that you make your spouse aware.”  Questions for Reflection: What are some expectations—spoken or unspoken—that we each bring into our marriage, and how well do we feel they’ve been understood by each other? When was a time we misunderstood one another because expectations weren’t clearly communicated? What can we learn from that moment? How can we create more space in our relationship for honest, judgment-free conversations about what we each need or hope for? What’s one expectation we can both express more clearly this week—and how can we support each other in meeting it with love and grace?   Mentioned in this Episode: Find Dr. Kim on Instagram This month’s resource is for every couple. Love that Honors: A 13 Day Challenge for Couples. Honor and respect aren’t always our first response or priority. This challenge will help you love your spouse the way the Lord has called you to love your spouse.   When you’re frustrated, it’s easy to let words fly out of your mouth. Our new FREE resource: 17 Unintentionally Disrespectful Phrases To Cut Out When Speaking To Your Spouse will help couples choose words that bring life instead of cause chaos. Awesome Marriage has a great Premarital course to help couples have important conversations before their big day. Communicate expectations effectively and be proactive in learning your future spouse with this great course. Already married? Share this course with a couple who’s looking forward to their big day. Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word as you intentionally choose to puruse the marriage God intended, find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Try this FREE YouVersion plan: 14 Keys to Lasting Love If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our Marriage Changers program. Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy.

    29 min
  7. MAY 27

    Dr. Kim: Increasing Marital Satisfaction in a World That's Never Satisfied

    In today’s episode, we’re diving into a powerful truth: the health of your marriage often comes down to what you choose to focus on. It’s easy to fixate on what’s not working, letting small annoyances grow into mountains of frustration. But what if the key to deeper connection and lasting joy is found in a simple but radical posture—gratitude? We’ll explore how contentment isn’t resignation, but an intentional choice to see the blessings amidst the imperfections. You’ll hear honest reflections on prioritizing your spouse, the life-giving role of quality time, and how to navigate conflict in ways that build satisfaction, not resentment. Whether you're newly married or decades in, this conversation is a fresh reminder that gratitude, not settling, is the foundation of a thriving Christian marriage.   Episode highlights: Feeling content in marriage is different from settling. There’s a way to work through conflict that makes both spouses feel more satisfied. Healthy conflict resolution is one of the strongest predictors of marriage satisfaction.  Silent discontentment leads to resentment that erodes at the foundation of your marriage.  The key is finding solutions that honor both spouses perspectives.   Questions to reflect: What are three things about our marriage that you’re grateful for right now? Are there any small annoyances in our relationship that we’ve let build up? How can we address them gently and respectfully? How can we be more intentional about choosing each other—especially in the areas where our preferences or personalities differ?   Quotes from today’s episode: “I found myself focusing on the things that weren’t working in my marriage instead of thinking about the things that were.” “Small annoyances can grow into mountains of frustration” “Settling comes from a place of resignation” “Contentment flows from gratitude, an intentional choice we make.” “Contentment says I see the imperfections in our marriage but I choose to focus on the blessings.” “Nancy comes before my personal preferences.” “The key word is choice.” “Have a posture of gratitude while understanding there is room for growth.” “Quality time is oxygen for your marriage” "There’s a way to work through conflict that makes both spouses feel more satisfied." Mentioned in this episode: Use our Marriage Reframing Challenge to change your perspective about your spouse and/or your marriage.  Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word as you intentionally choose to pursue the marriage God intended, find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Try this FREE YouVersion plan: 5 Marriage Lies to Defeat with Biblical Truth If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our Marriage Changers program. Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy.

    21 min
  8. MAY 20

    Restoring What Was Broken – A Conversation with Justin & Trisha Davis

    In this deeply honest and hope-filled conversation, Justin and Trisha Davis open up about their journey through love, ministry, and the real struggles that nearly tore their marriage apart—including infidelity and hidden personal battles. With vulnerability and wisdom, they share how counseling, truth-telling, and taking ownership became the turning points in their healing. Trisha shares what it looked like to face the pain of betrayal trauma, while Justin reflects on the overwhelming guilt and the hard road to forgiveness. Together, they unpack how our stories, the words spoken over us, and the lies we believe about our worth can deeply affect how we show up in relationships. But this isn’t just a story about pain—it’s a story about redemption. About the power of grace, the courage it takes to grieve and heal, and the choice to believe that real transformation is possible. More than behavior change, they point to the heart—the deep, inner work that allows us to discover who we really are and who God has created us to be. Their story is a beautiful reminder that no matter how broken things may feel, healing and hope are always within reach.   Episode highlights: Rock bottom is still a solid surface to stand when you come alongside Christ. Intimacy is to be fully known and know that we're fully loved. You never cause someone to have an affair. The truth sets you free because it doesn't give any room for the enemy. Excavating our past helps us understand our present. Redemptive pain can lead to growth. Healthy relationships require vulnerability and trust. Transformation comes from God's grace and our choices.   Questions for reflection: 1. What small, everyday choices are we making in our marriage that could either be building connection—or slowly creating distance? 2. Are there areas of hiddenness in our relationship—past wounds, unspoken frustrations, or shame—that we need to bring into the light? 3. What does forgiveness look like in our relationship right now?   Quotes from today’s episode: "I had to choose to be a truth teller myself." "You never cause someone to have an affair." "I believed I have to be perfect to be loved." "You can't today, but God still has a plan." "Healing is hard, but then it's worth it." "You are not as stuck as you think you are." "You have to stop gaslighting yourself to grieve." "The heart of the book is about what God can do." Mentioned in this episode: Beyond Ordinary: When a Good Marriage Just Isn't Good Enough by Justin & Trisha Davis RefineUs Ministries Helping people experience transformation by building healthy, authentic relationships. Find Justin and Trisha on Instagram Use our Marriage Reframing Challenge to change your perspective about your spouse and/or your marriage.  Want an opportunity to dig into God’s Word as you intentionally choose to pursue the marriage God intended, find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Try this FREE YouVersion plan: 5 Marriage Lies to Defeat with Biblical Truth If you haven’t browsed our site, you’ve GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our Marriage Changers program. Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to . receive our May “7 Most Popular Resource Bundle.”

    45 min

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About

Far too many couples are just surviving their marriage when it was meant to thrive. This is the place for practical tips on how to build an awesome marriage. Our passion is to help you strengthen your marriage. Dr. Kim Kimberling hosts the show. Dr. Kim is the President of Awesome Marriage, has been married for over 50 years, and has been a professional counselor for 40+ years. He is the author of 7 Secrets to An Awesome Marriage ,14 Keys To Lasting Love, and most recently Love, Intimacy and Sex in the Second Half. Dr. Kim will be joined once a month by his wife of 55 years, Nancy Kimberling. He will also host other great guests that will teach and encourage you as you intentionally pursue an awesome marriage. Tune in each week to hear practical advice from Dr. Kim. This podcast is brought to you by the ministry of Awesome Marriage.

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