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. 2d ago

    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/

    51 min

  2. 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/

    1h 2m

  3. 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/

    38 min

  4. 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/

    48 min

  5. 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/

    56 min

  6. 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  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/

    55 min

  7. 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  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/

    1h 19m

  8. 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  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/

    48 min
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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
    188
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Stronger Marriage Connection
  • Show Website
    Stronger Marriage Connection

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