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. 23h ago

    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  Coming June 23: Happy Hacks: 101 Science-Backed Ways to Boost Happiness, Reduce Stress, and Build a More Meaningful Life. Available now for Kindle Pre-Order for 99¢ 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 stress, and create a more meaningful life—one small habit at a time. Available June 23 wherever books are sold. 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/

    38 min

  2. 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  Coming June 23: Happy Hacks: 101 Science-Backed Ways to Boost Happiness, Reduce Stress, and Build a More Meaningful Life. Available now for Kindle Pre-Order for 99¢ 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 stress, and create a more meaningful life—one small habit at a time. Available June 23 wherever books are sold. 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/

    49 min

  3. 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  Coming June 23: Happy Hacks: 101 Science-Backed Ways to Boost Happiness, Reduce Stress, and Build a More Meaningful Life. Available now for Kindle Pre-Order for 99¢ 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 stress, and create a more meaningful life—one small habit at a time. Available June 23 wherever books are sold. 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/

    56 min

  4. May 25 ·  Video

    The Secret of Erotic Blueprints To Revive Your Marriage | Keeley Rankin | #182

    Sexual intimacy changes over the arc of a long-term relationship, and treating every lull like a crisis often adds pressure that makes things worse. We talk with sex and relationship coach Keeley Rankin about how to rebuild closeness through curiosity, kinder communication, and a better understanding of what each partner actually desires.  • Defining what “sexless marriage” can mean and why the couple’s definition matters most  • Moving beyond frequency to sexual satisfaction and quality of connection  • Common reasons couples drift including stress, life transitions, and emotional safety  • Starting the conversation outside the bedroom and making it ongoing  • Avoiding blame, guilt, and pressure that shut down desire  • Using Erotic Blueprints to talk about turn-ons and touch styles  • Why many couples become touchless before becoming sexless  • What healthy long-term sexuality often looks like including playfulness and openness  • Keeping the spark alive with kindness, respect, and curiosity  • Where to find Keely’s courses and support  Coming June 23: Happy Hacks: 101 Science-Backed Ways to Boost Happiness, Reduce Stress, and Build a More Meaningful Life. Available now for Kindle Pre-Order for 99¢ 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 stress, and create a more meaningful life—one small habit at a time. Available June 23 wherever books are sold. 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/

    55 min

  5. May 18 ·  Video

    A Strong Relationship Can Outlive Death | C. Ryan Dunn | #181

    We talk honestly about grief, loss, and why love can keep shaping us even after someone is gone. We share research and real stories that reframe mourning as both painful and meaningful, then land on practical ways to build a relationship that strengthens you now and later.  • why grief is complex across mind and body  • what predicts higher grief levels in young widowhood  • loss-oriented versus restoration-oriented coping  • how relationship length and intimacy relate to grief impact  • continuing bonds and why remembering can help  • why comparing losses creates a harmful grief hierarchy  • how divorce and other losses fit the same grief principles  • why grief can feel like physical pain in the brain  • emotional estate planning through a relational piggy bank  • three daily practices: time, talk, togetherness  Coming June 23: Happy Hacks: 101 Science-Backed Ways to Boost Happiness, Reduce Stress, and Build a More Meaningful Life. Available now for Kindle Pre-Order for 99¢ 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 stress, and create a more meaningful life—one small habit at a time. Available June 23 wherever books are sold. 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/

    1h 19m

  6. May 11 ·  Video

    Rebuilding Intimacy In Marriage | Nick and Amy McKinlay | #180

    We talk with Nick and Amy about how their marriage nearly ended, and how rebuilding emotional safety brought back real connection and passionate sexual intimacy. They share the simple habits and tools that helped them stop drifting, communicate about hard topics, and create the Ultimate Intimacy app to help other couples do the same.  • their turning point after financial stress and burnout  • why sex can stay frequent yet still feel disconnected  • emotional safety as listening plus caring plus follow-through  • date night as a weekly nonnegotiable that rebuilds closeness  • kindness, respect, and loyalty as the base for sexual intimacy  • the intimacy gap pattern and why couples get stuck  • how app prompts make taboo conversations easier to start  • phone boundaries, mental load talks, and acting like teammates  • one daily question that shifts the whole marriage  • refusing to settle for a mediocre marriage  Coming June 23: Happy Hacks: 101 Science-Backed Ways to Boost Happiness, Reduce Stress, and Build a More Meaningful Life. Available now for Kindle Pre-Order for 99¢ 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 stress, and create a more meaningful life—one small habit at a time. Available June 23 wherever books are sold. 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/

    48 min

  7. May 4 ·  Video

    Protecting Your Marriage During The Transition To Parenthood | Sean Brotherson | #179

    We welcome Dr. Sean Brotherson to talk about the joys and pressures of becoming parents and how that transition can strain or strengthen a marriage. We share concrete ways to stay connected through fatigue, changing roles, and shifting intimacy while building the stability kids need most.  • why the transition to parenthood feels so intense even with preparation  • setting realistic expectations through education, planning, and honest conversations  • protecting couple time with simple routines like consistent bedtimes  • children’s core need for security and how marital stability supports it  • how partners experience parenthood differently and why comparing “top stressors” helps  • daily check-ins and small rituals of connection that build resilience  • navigating intrusive in-laws with healthy boundaries  • dividing childcare and housework based on perceived fairness and changing seasons  • warning signs of emotional disconnection and ways to stay close physically and emotionally  • building your village so you can rest, date, and keep choosing each other  Coming June 23: Happy Hacks: 101 Science-Backed Ways to Boost Happiness, Reduce Stress, and Build a More Meaningful Life. Available now for Kindle Pre-Order for 99¢ 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 stress, and create a more meaningful life—one small habit at a time. Available June 23 wherever books are sold. 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/

    1h 5m

  8. Apr 27 ·  Video

    How Emotional Closeness Builds Better Sex In Marriage | Chelom Leavitt | #178

    We sit down with Dr. Chelom Leavitt to unpack why emotional intimacy is the strongest predictor of sexual wellbeing and what “feeling seen” actually looks like in a real marriage. We share science, stories, and simple daily practices that help us build trust, repair disconnection, and create a safer path to desire over time.  • emotional intimacy as being known and accepted, including fears and weaknesses  • why emotional connection shapes sexual satisfaction and long-term desire  • the oxytocin difference that often drives “connection first” vs “sex first” conflict  • small daily reunions, check-ins, and repair as the real builders of closeness  • mindful practices like a five-minute hug, shared breathing, and quiet eye contact  • vulnerability as a signal of safety, trust, and gentle handling  • interrupting an approach withdraw rut with a bold, planned conversation  • engaged and newlywed guidance, including permission to go slow on the wedding night  • sex frequency myths, what research suggests, and when to be concerned  • practical advice for men to create space for initiation and for women to protect emotional safety  Coming June 23: Happy Hacks: 101 Science-Backed Ways to Boost Happiness, Reduce Stress, and Build a More Meaningful Life. Available now for Kindle Pre-Order for 99¢ 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 stress, and create a more meaningful life—one small habit at a time. Available June 23 wherever books are sold. 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/

    40 min
See All (186)

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
    186
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Stronger Marriage Connection
  • Show Website
    Stronger Marriage Connection

You Might Also Like