Podcasts about clarity call

Send us a textSometimes the most meaningful collaborations don't start as collaborations at all.Marnie and Patrick originally came to Staci as clients. Two passionate, creative humans who loved each other deeply, but could feel that love alone wasn't going to carry them through blended family stress, real-life pressure, and the places where communication gets messy.Fast forward, and they're not only thriving, they're living proof of what happens when people learn skills they were never taught.In this conversation, we sit down with Marnie and Patrick to talk about the real work of building a relationship that lasts: emotional safety, voice, honest repair, and learning how to stay close even when life is loud.In this episode, we talk about:How “magic” can be real and still not be enough on its ownThe moment you hit the bottom of your bag of tricks and realize you need skillsThe “gap” where assumptions grow and relationships drift (and how to close it)What changes when you learn to say the thing… kindly, clearly, and without explodingWhy emotional safety is the foundation for blended families, grief, and big life transitionsNovelty vs. grounding: how couples stop fighting their differences and start using themA simple but powerful truth: nobody completes you, but the right partnership can expand youWhy so many people hit a crisis around 40, and what's actually happening underneath itThe difference between a “travel itinerary” and an experience that helps you remember you like each otherWant to join us in Tuscany? We're co-creating a couples retreat in a thousand-year-old castle in Tuscany, Italy. It's part romance, part relationship skills, part sensory reset. Slow mornings, incredible food, a space that helps you exhale, and daily relationship sessions designed to bring you back to each other.Book/save your room (only 7 couples): https://stacibartley.com/couples-retreatWant to taste what Marnie + Patrick create? You can order Solstice Savory Pies online (they ship nationwide) and bring a little “break bread together” energy to your own kitchen.Order here: https://solsticesavorypies.com/Want support choosing what's next? If you're not sure what you need right now, book a clarity call and we'll help you find your best next step.Clarity Call: https://stacibartley.com/applyAnd if this episode moved you, share it with someone you care about. Human to human is how this work spreads.Timestamps: 04:05 Navigating Blended Families05:54 Transformative Relationship Skills08:08 Balancing Individuality and Partnership14:13 The Challenges of Modern Relationships20:47 Generational Perspectives on Relationships29:15 Gratitude for Supportive Partners30:29 A Strong Partnership30:52 Tuscany Retreats: A Journey Begins32:18 The Magic of the Castle33:50 Immersive Experiences36:25 Slowing Down in Tuscany38:12 Etruscan History and Exploration42:48 Creating Forever Memories54:46 Savory Pies and Final Thoughts

The Deep Theology of Sexual Unity (With Some Fun!): Interview with Randy and Rozanne Frazee You're not just trying to survive another week. You're not just trying to get the kids fed, keep the peace, and hold your marriage together with duct tape and prayers. You're living inside a bigger story—whether you realize it or not. When you start seeing your marriage through God's storyline instead of just your stress and circumstances, something shifts. Not overnight. Not magically. But deeply. Steadily. For real. And that's exactly what Randy and Rozanne Frazee unpacked in today's episode. In this episode, you're getting a conversation that is both wildly profound and surprisingly fun. Because yes—you can talk about theology, the Trinity, the image of God, and sexual unity… and still laugh. And that's exactly what happens when you sit down with Randy and Rozanne. They've spent decades helping believers understand the Bible not as scattered verses—but as one cohesive story of God's love and pursuit. Randy has been a pastor for 38 years and had a personal mentoring relationship with Dallas Willard—so much so that Dallas asked him to rewrite Renovation of the Heart for students. And Randy and Rozanne are not just brilliant—they're the real deal. High school sweethearts, married 44 years (going on 45), four kids, and now five grandbabies in the mix. What makes this episode so special is this: They don't just talk about the Bible. They talk about how the Bible transforms marriage, unity, and yes… even your sex life. You Keep Reading the Bible Like a Reference Book… But It's Actually a Love Story You've probably been taught to read the Bible in pieces: a Proverb for wisdom a Psalm for comfort a verse for anxiety a passage when your marriage is hard And those are good. But if you only ever grab the Bible for a quick fix, you can miss the whole point: it's one grand love story—from Genesis to Revelation—about the lengths God will go to get you back. When you start seeing Scripture as one unfolding narrative, you stop reading it like a scattered collection of morals… and you start hearing it like a steady message: God is pursuing you. God is restoring you. God is rewriting what sin tried to destroy. And yes—this includes your marriage. You're Not Just Living a Life… You're Living a Story You live in what Randy and Rozanne call the "lower story": Lunches. Laundry. Bills. Hormones. Conversations you're avoiding. Tension you can't name. The ache of feeling alone, even though you're married. And it's real. But there's also an "upper story" happening at the same time: God's bigger plan, God's spiritual reality, God's redemptive work that you can't always see while you're in the middle of the mess. You see it clearly in Scripture: Job experiences devastating loss in his lower story… while an unseen spiritual battle is happening in the upper story. Joseph is betrayed, enslaved, and forgotten in his lower story… but God is positioning him in the upper story to preserve His people. That's why Joseph can say, "What you meant for evil, God meant for good." It doesn't mean the lower story didn't hurt. It means the pain wasn't the point. So ask yourself: What if the hard thing you're living through right now isn't proof you're failing… but proof God is working? God Created Marriage to Reflect His Image—and Sin Has Been Trying to Ruin It Ever Since You've heard the phrase "two become one." But you might not realize how sacred that actually is. Marriage wasn't just meant to be companionship. It was meant to reflect something divine: unity, love, covenant, oneness. In the beginning, God says, "It is not good for man to be alone." And you can read that like, "Aw, God wanted Adam to have a friend." But it's deeper. God Himself is relationship—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Not isolated. Not independent. Not self-focused. Unity. So when God creates marriage, He's not just giving Adam a partner. He's giving humanity a living picture of His image. And that's why the enemy attacks it so relentlessly. Because if your marriage reflects God's love, covenant, and unity… it becomes a threat to darkness. You Can Know Scripture… and Still Not Live It One of the most powerful themes Randy and Rozanne address is something you've probably seen too: You've met people who know the Bible. They can quote verses. They can correct theology. They can debate Greek words. And yet… They aren't gentle. They aren't kind. They aren't tender. And you're left thinking: How can someone love God's Word and still not look like Jesus? Randy explains this through something he learned from Dallas. He describes the difference between: believing something is the "right answer" versus believing it as a "way of life" And this matters for your marriage, because it's the difference between: knowing what love is supposed to look like and actually becoming the kind of person who naturally loves well The "12-Inch Journey" That Changes Everything Randy talks about the journey from: Head knowledge → Heart transformation And he explains it in a way that lands: When Jesus says, "Turn the other cheek," He isn't just commanding you to grit your teeth and try harder. He's describing what becomes natural when your heart has been reshaped. And that is what every marriage needs. Not just more information, but more transformation. Sexual Unity Isn't Just Physical… It's Theological If you've ever wondered why marriage feels so sacred—and so fiercely contested—this is why. Lean in, because this is where things get breathtaking. Randy explains the concept that: God is three Persons (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) who share one Being And marriage—two becoming one—is meant to reflect that kind of unity. Not perfectly. Not as God. But as an earthly image. And Rozanne brings it back to the practical: Sexual intimacy bonds you in a way nothing else does. It is not "just physical." It is a sacred expression of covenant oneness. And when you treat your spouse like an "other" instead of part of your own being… You start wounding your marriage from the inside. You Don't Need Your Husband to Be a Seminary Graduate to Be a Spiritual Leader If you're a wife reading this, you may be carrying a burden you were never meant to carry: "I'm the one who prays." "I'm the one who gets us to church." "I'm the one trying to get him to lead." "I'm exhausted." And if you're a husband reading this, you may feel stuck too: "She knows more than I do." "I don't even know where to start." "I work hard, but I still feel like I'm failing." Here's something freeing: Spiritual leadership isn't about being the most impressive. It's about being the one who initiates. The leader is the starter. The one who creates space where spiritual thriving can happen. That might look like: "Hey, let's read something together for 15 minutes." "Let's pray before dinner." "We're going to church as a family." "I want God in our home, and I want to learn." That's leadership. And yes—your wife might know more Scripture right now. But what she's been longing for isn't your performance. It's your presence. Your courage. Your initiation. If You Want Him to Rise, Stop Coaching His Weakness and Start Naming His Strength This is where it gets tender. Because if you're honest, you've probably tried to motivate him with disappointment. You've tried to push him into leadership by pointing out everything he's not doing. You want to feel safe. You want to feel supported. You want to be led. But here's something you need to understand about men: Men move toward competency, not incompetency. If you highlight his failure, he retreats. If you honor his effort, he leans in. So if he makes even a small move—don't critique it. Celebrate it. If he picks up a Bible, don't correct how he reads it. If he prays, don't edit his words afterward. If he initiates church, don't mention that it's "about time." Instead, try this: "Thank you. That meant a lot." "I feel cared for when you do that." "I'm grateful you're leading our family." This isn't fake flattery. It's faith. It's calling out the man you want him to become—while giving him a reason to keep going. Your Intimacy Will Not Heal If You Keep Avoiding the Scariest Conversations One of the enemy's favorite strategies is fear—specifically fear that keeps you from talking honestly about intimacy. You live with this person. You share a bed. You share a home. So why does it feel terrifying to say what you want? What you need? What hurts? What you're longing for? Because intimacy is powerful. And the enemy knows if he can keep you silent, he can keep you disconnected. But if you can learn to speak with tenderness, honesty, and safety… You can rebuild something beautiful. And here's the truth: Sex isn't dirty. It's sacred. It's a physical expression of covenant oneness. And when joy rises in your relationship, romance often rises too. Not because you force it. But because safety creates desire. And desire grows where connection is nurtured. You Don't Need Two Hours a Day. You Need One Small Step of Obedience. You might be thinking, "Okay… but I'm tired. Our life is chaotic. Where do we even begin?" Begin small. Set a timer. Fifteen minutes. That's it. Obedience comes before blessing. And when you take one small step toward God together, it does something inside you. It starts moving belief from your head to your heart—where real transformation happens. Little by little, fruit grows. And fruit isn't for the tree. Fruit is for the person who tastes it. Which means: your spiritual growth is meant to bless your spouse. Your Next Step: See the Bible as One Story (Not a Scavenger Hunt) Randy and Rozanne recently released a book called Encountering God's Love: From Genesis to Revelation. And their heart behind it is simple: Most believers don't struggle because they don't love God. They struggle because they don't understand the storyline. They know verses… but not the narrative. So this book is designed as 52 weeks of bite-sized pieces, walking you through Scripture chronologically, helping you see: God's story your story and how your marriage fits into redemption And yes—this is something you can do as a couple. Even if you're exhausted. Even if you're busy. Even if you feel behind. Final Encouragement Your marriage isn't just a relationship you manage. It's a covenant you steward. And if you've been living like the lower story is all there is—God is inviting you to look up. He's writing something. Even here. Even now. Even in your marriage. So take a breath. Ask Him what He's doing in the upper story. And take the next step. Because your story isn't over. And God is very, very good at bringing dead things back to life. Including you. Including your spouse. Including your intimacy. Including your marriage. Blessings, The Delight Your Marriage Team PS - Want to check out Encountering God's Love for yourself? Click here to visit Randy's website and learn more. PPS - Are you ready to take the next step in transforming your marriage? We would love to chat with you. Book a free Clarity Call to speak with one of our Clarity Advisors and see if we are the right fit for you. PPPS - Here is a quote from a recent graduate: "The atmosphere in our home was very toxic with lots of hollering and hurtful things said. There was no fun or joy. We were just existing.  This affected my thought life as I was very disappointed in myself and felt like I was a hypocrite as I am a leader in our local church and lots of people look up to me.  I felt like God was even disappointed in me.  I felt shame for not being a good wife...[Now,] I have become more aware of my actions and reactions to my husband, and realized I have the power, with God's help, to make our marriage good and to love my husband well.  The tools I have learned in DW will forever be in and on my mind as I focus on becoming the wife God desires me to be.  I have learned that sex is good and holy and also meant to be pleasurable for me!  The atmosphere in our home is changing and playfulness is back!"

In this episode of Stop Over-Drinking and Start Living, I break down the 3 emotional phases of change that almost everyone experiences when trying to change their relationship with alcohol and why most women think they're failing when they're actually right on track. You'll learn why motivation and excitement don't last, why the middle phase of resistance and fatigue is where most people give up, and how real, lasting change happens through integration and identity shift, not willpower. This episode will help you: Understand why Dry January (or any break from alcohol) often feels harder toward the end Recognize whether you're in motivation, resistance, or integration right now Stop judging yourself for feeling tired, bored, or frustrated Learn why white-knuckling doesn't work and what actually does Build self-trust and emotional resilience without labels, shame, or rigid rules If you've ever thought “I can't wait for this to be over,” “Why is this suddenly so hard?” or “Maybe I'm just not cut out for this,” this episode will help you see what's really happening and why it matters. This conversation is for women who are sober curious, cutting back on alcohol, taking a break, or exploring a healthier relationship with drinking and with themselves. Ready for deeper support? If you're considering private coaching or an in-person retreat at The Magic House in Lisbon, you can book a Clarity Call here: https://calendly.com/admin-angelamascenik/30min?month=2026-02

Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!Valentine's Day can feel heavy when your marriage isn't where you want it to be — and that doesn't mean you're failing. It means something is asking for your attention.If Valentine's Day brings up disappointment, sadness, resentment, or pressure, this episode is for you. Instead of viewing this holiday as a test of your marriage, we're reframing it as a signal — one that highlights what's really going on beneath the surface.In this episode, I share:- How Valentine's Day often magnifies existing disconnection in marriage- The difference between performative romance and real emotional intimacy- Why one “perfect” date won't fix unresolved issues- Why micro-connections matter more than grand gestures- How my husband and I approach Valentine's Day differently — and why it works for us- What to do when Valentine's Day brings up more pain than excitementIf your marriage feels rocky right now, this episode will help you ease the pressure, understand what your feelings are trying to tell you, and take a more grounded, honest step forward.Mentioned in this episode:- Want to know what your love language is? Take the Five Love Languages quiz here!If this episode has helped you realize that deeper support is needed, you can schedule a Clarity Call with me to talk through what's happening in your marriage and what would actually help.Thanks for listening!Connect and send a message letting me know what you took away from this episode: @michellepurtacoachingIf you would like to support this show, please rate and review the show, and share it with people you know would love this show too!Additional Resources:Ready to put a stop to the arguments in your marriage?  Watch this free masterclass - The #1 Conversation Married Couples Need To Have (But Aren't)Support the show

Text us a comment or question!If fat loss feels harder than it used to… if your energy is inconsistent… or if you've been doing “all the right things” with very little to show for it… This episode is for you. A sluggish metabolism doesn't mean your body is broken. It means it's been trained to conserve, not perform. In this episode, Coach Kevin lays out a clear, realistic 90-day roadmap to rebuild your metabolism after 50 — without crash dieting, endless cardio, or extreme routines you can't sustain. This is the grown-up approach to getting strong, lean, and energized again. 

In this engaging conversation, Christina Lecuyer and Boaz Gilad explore the myths surrounding success, the impact of social media on personal perceptions of achievement, and the importance of mindset in overcoming challenges. Boaz shares his journey from acting to real estate and ultimately to coaching, emphasizing the need for reinvention and the acceptance of failure as a stepping stone to success. They discuss the significance of commitment, consistency, and the reality that no one cares about your failures as much as you think. The conversation concludes with insights on the importance of selective coaching and the value of doing the boring work that leads to extraordinary results.About The Guest: Boaz Gilad is an acclaimed author, accomplished entrepreneur, and motivational speaker focused on helping people identify their limits—and push far beyond them. As the founder of ZENITH CLUBHOUSE, Boaz leads a powerful leadership journey where high-performing individuals are supported by an elite community dedicated to deep personal growth, immersive experiences, and meaningful transformation.Follow Boaz on LinkedInIf you enjoyed this episode, make sure and give us a five star rating  and leave us a comment on iTunes, Podcast Addict, Podchaser and Castbox about what you'd like us to talk about that will help you realize that at any moment, any day, you too can decide, it's your turn! 

Have you been noticing how other people seem alive and on fire in their faith, work, and life—but aren't sure how to make that happen for YOU? You're in the right place.In this video, we're diving into one of the most transformative questions you can ask yourself: When do you feel most alive with the Lord?You'll discover:✨ Why focusing on what makes YOU come alive (not copying someone else) is the key to fulfillment✨ How to shift from being driven by anxiety and performance to being directed by God's design✨ The power of noticing where you place your focus (because what we focus on expands!)✨ How to get excited about what God is doing through your current situation (even the hard ones)✨ Practical reflection questions to help you tap into God's unique plan for your lifeWhat if this was the year you gave focus, attention, life, and growth to God?What if, instead of trying to experience life like she does, you tapped into the Lord's design for YOU? Imagine what might unlock then!If you've been feeling like you're not enough or could be doing better, there's no shame.By the end of this episode, you're going to know what to do to tap into God's best for YOU. That is a life worth celebrating and living.→ Did you know this our 100th podcast episode?! Thank you SO much for being here for it AND if you are new, it would mean the world to us if you subscribed and left a 5 star rating on your favorite podcast app!

Have Compassion on Your Husband's Desire This is a tender topic. And for some of you, even reading this headline might make your chest tighten. Because desire can feel complicated. Painful. Loaded. Or honestly… just exhausting. And yet, this conversation matters—not to shame you, not to pressure you, but to invite you into compassion. Not obligation. Not fear. Not duty-driven compliance. Compassion rooted in God's design for marriage. The Enemy Thrives on Distraction One of the enemy's most effective strategies in marriage is not always obvious sin. It's distraction. Distance. Avoidance. Silence. When sexual intimacy is broken in a marriage—when it's infrequent, half-hearted, or consistently avoided—it quietly becomes a distraction for both spouses. Especially your husband. Not because he's weak. Not because he's demanding. But because sexual intimacy is not a small issue in his life—it is deeply connected to how God designed him. When that connection is missing, it costs him far more than you may realize. Your Husband's Desire Is Not Separate From Who He Is Your husband's sexual desire is not something he can simply turn off. It is woven into his physical design, his emotional wiring, and his sense of being wanted and chosen. When that desire is consistently rejected, it creates real pain—often silent pain. Pain that takes up mental space, affects focus, and drains confidence and steadiness. Just as hunger dominates attention when the body is not nourished, deprivation in intimacy dominates attention when a husband does not know if—or when—connection will happen again. God Did Not Design Sex to Be Optional in Marriage Scripture is clear. "Do not deprive each other." (1 Corinthians 7:5) This is not a suggestion. It is not conditional on feelings. It is not shaped by cultural norms. God designed sexual intimacy to be part of the covenant of marriage—for unity, protection, and connection. This does not mean ignoring trauma. This does not mean tolerating coercion or manipulation. This does not mean silencing wisdom or boundaries. But it does mean that long-term deprivation is outside God's design—and He does not give commands without also offering grace and a path toward healing. If Intimacy Feels Difficult, There Is a Reason If moving toward intimacy feels heavy, forced, or emotionally overwhelming, there is almost always something beneath the surface. Shame about your body. Fear of being used. Past sexual pain or trauma. Resentment that has not healed. Pressure that replaced joy. Messages that taught you sex was dangerous, dirty, or merely a duty. These blocks are real and they deserve attention. But they do not get the final word. God is not asking you to ignore your story—He is inviting you to bring it into the light where healing is possible. Intimacy Was Designed to Be Good God designed marital intimacy to be: Naked and unashamed Enjoyed, not endured Protective, not destructive A celebration of union Scripture celebrates this openly, without embarrassment. Your husband was designed to enjoy the female form, and God gave him exactly one holy place to do that: within marriage. When that place becomes closed off, the cost is deeper than most couples realize. Start Before You Feel Ready Waiting until everything feels healed often means waiting indefinitely. Freedom usually follows obedience—not the other way around. Consistency matters more than perfection. Even choosing regular, predictable intimacy—without everything feeling "fixed"—can begin to rebuild safety, quiet anxiety, and soften resistance. When intimacy is rare, it becomes a mountain. When it is steady, it becomes normal. When it is generous, it becomes life-giving. Your Marriage Was Meant to Be Missional Marriage was never designed to exist only for comfort. It was designed to strengthen both spouses for the work God has called them to do. Healthy intimacy does not distract from God's purposes—it supports them. But when intimacy is withheld, it often becomes the very distraction Scripture warns against. Your compassion has power. It can steady your husband. It can protect your marriage. It can remove a burden he may be carrying quietly. Final Encouragement If this stirred something in you—conviction, grief, resistance, or even hope—don't rush past it. That stirring matters. God does not expose something in your heart to shame you. He does it to heal you. You are not being asked to become someone else overnight. You are being invited to take one faithful step—today—toward compassion, obedience, and freedom. There is grace for the journey. There is wisdom for the next step. And there is hope—more than you may be able to see right now. You are not alone. And God is not finished here.   Blessings, The Delight Your Marriage Team PS - If you want help walking through this with wisdom and care, we would love to come alongside you. Book a free Clarity Call at delightyourmarriage.com/cc. PPS - Here is a quote from a recent graduate: "I was irritable and depressed all the time.  I kept thinking something was wrong with me because I couldn't stop wanting sex.  I knew my wife hated it and thought if I was a better man I could stop wanting it and live without it...[I learned] that God designed me to want sex and I was not made wrong.  I also learned I am not alone.  Many men have struggled like I have and have wives like mine. The biggest celebrations I can remember are her coming to me!  To cuddle, to sit with me, to want to be with me, to take me out. She told our daughters to move because she wanted to sit by me during movie night.  She has taken steps towards intimacy with me on her own without me pressuring her."

Send us a textWhen a new year starts, a lot of people quietly hope their relationship will feel lighter by now.Less tension.Less distance.Fewer conversations that end in the same painful place.But if it still feels hard to get through to each other, this episode is your reminder that you're not broken and you're not alone.In this conversation, we unpack the skill that quietly determines whether your conversations create connection or turn into conflict: emotional regulation.Because most couples don't actually need “better communication” first.They need more emotional stability first.You'll learn why emotional regulation is the gateway skill that makes every other relationship tool work, especially when life feels intense, stressful, or unsafe and your nervous system is already carrying too much.In this episode, we cover:Why “we should just talk it through” often backfires when emotions are highHow stress and uncertainty show up as tone, impatience, and quick reactivity at homeThe missing concept most couples never learned: emotional capacity (and how it impacts conflict)How emotional regulation works in real life, using the “emotional plank” metaphorThe tiny moment where everything changes: catching tension early enough to choose a different responseA practical reframe that can stop escalation fast: shifting from “don't want” language to “want” languageWhy emotional regulation is not “being nice,” “stuffing it,” or “letting things slide”What to do when you feel like you're the only one doing the work (and why it still matters)A simple practice to build your regulation reps: short rounds of listening, even when you disagreeA challenge you can try today: a literal plank to connect the body to emotional tension and build awarenessKey takeawayIf conversations keep collapsing, it's often not because you don't love each other.It's because your nervous systems are overloaded and you're trying to have hard conversations without the foundation that makes them safe.Stability first. Clarity second.Need help getting unstuck?If you feel like you're living at the edge of capacity and you can't find clarity inside the conflict, book a free Clarity Call. It's a short, supportive conversation to help you slow down, feel seen, and get clear on your next step.Schedule here: stacibartley.com/applyTimestamps: 04:00 The Importance of Emotional Safety at Home08:03 Emotional Capacity and Resilience13:07 Practical Examples of Emotional Regulation18:06 The Power of Choice in Emotional Tension21:45 Focusing on Solutions, Not Problems26:23 The Impact of Emotional Awareness on Relationships28:05 Navigating Relationship Tensions29:45 Holding Tension for Yourself32:07 The Power of Demonstrated Behavior33:32 Practical Steps for Emotional Capacity35:35 Slowing Down in High-Stress Moments42:16 Building Emotional Awareness44:56 The Importance of Emotional Regulation50:28 Creating Safe Spaces in Relationships

Hello Beautiful, I'm so grateful you're here with me.

Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!Going on regular dates but still feeling emotionally disconnected?You're not imagining it—and you're not doing anything wrong.In this episode, I explain why spending more time together doesn't automatically rebuild connection, intimacy, or closeness in your marriage—and why date nights often fall flat when deeper issues haven't been addressed.You'll learn:- The foundation of real connection (it's not time together)- How unresolved resentment and communication breakdowns affect your dates- How connection is built through everyday “micro-moments,” not grand gestures- What actually needs to happen before date nights can feel enjoyable againIf you've ever thought, “We're doing the right things… so why doesn't it feel better?” this episode will help you understand what's really going on—and what to focus on instead.If you're ready to stop guessing and start building real connection, book a Clarity Call to explore what support could look like for your marriage.Thanks for listening!Connect and send a message letting me know what you took away from this episode: @michellepurtacoachingIf you would like to support this show, please rate and review the show, and share it with people you know would love this show too!Additional Resources:Ready to put a stop to the arguments in your marriage?  Watch this free masterclass - The #1 Conversation Married Couples Need To Have (But Aren't)Support the show

Fasting from alcohol for Lent is becoming a powerful spiritual practice for many Catholic women. In this episode, Christie explains why this fast is biblical, how it affects the body, and how to approach it gently as an offering to the Lord. If you feel drawn to try this fast, I created a simple Lenten devotional called Into the Desert. It's a daily companion for women fasting from alcohol, with Scripture, reflection, and guided journaling to help you stay attentive to what God is doing as you set wine down.The devotional opens on February 15th, three days before Ash Wednesday, with a gentle preparation period to help you ease into the fast. From there, each day opens one at a time, right when you need it—like a Lenten calendar—so you're not getting ahead or overwhelmed, just showing up for today.You can find the link below:https://courses.drinklessornotatall.com/courses/into-the-desertDrop us a Question or CommentIf you have ever...Struggled with the social pressures associated with alcohol use.Felt isolated, alone, and unsure of how to break the cycle.Experienced shame and frustration after drinking.Told yourself, “I'll never get this. It's no use.”Then this 5-Day Sacred Sobriety Kick Start is for you! Each day, you'll receive a short video with simple tasks to help you analyze your drinking habits with clarity.

Hello Beautiful, I'm so grateful you're here with me.

In this rewind episode of Stop Over-Drinking and Start Living, I talk about how to steady yourself when the world feels uncertain, overwhelming, or emotionally charged — whether it's political news, personal stress, or any unexpected life event. You'll learn how to: • Allow your feelings without judging or suppressing them • Choose how you want to show up for yourself, even when you're unsettled • Remember that no one gets to dictate your thoughts, emotions, or inner peace • Focus on what's actually in front of you today instead of spiraling into fear • Use nature as a powerful grounding tool when your nervous system needs calm This episode is for women who tend to cope by numbing, overthinking, or reaching for alcohol when life feels out of control — and want to learn how to stay present, grounded, and emotionally steady instead. If listening brings up the sense that you're ready for deeper support — to feel calmer, clearer, and more in control of your relationship with alcohol and your emotions — you can book a Clarity Call with me to explore private coaching or a Magic House Retreat:CLARITY CALL LINK >>> https://calendly.com/admin-angelamascenik/30min?month=2026-01 You don't have to navigate hard seasons alone.

Hello Beautiful, I'm so grateful you're here with me.

In this solo kickoff to 2026, Christina reflects on the creative resistance she's been feeling and how even positive routines, like her nearly six-year streak of daily walks, can start to create stagnation. A podcast reminded her that growth often requires breaking our own patterns. That insight collided with a pop-culture moment (yes, the Brooklyn Beckham drama) to spark a bigger conversation about how social media pressures us to perform, exaggerate, and air conflict publicly. Her takeaway: real alignment comes from personal responsibility, knowing what you stand for, and not feeling obligated to fight every battle for the sake of optics. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure and give us a five star rating  and leave us a comment on iTunes, Podcast Addict, Podchaser and Castbox about what you'd like us to talk about that will help you realize that at any moment, any day, you too can decide, it's your turn! 

Hello Beautiful, I'm so grateful you're here with me.

Hello Beautiful, I'm so grateful you're here with me.

What if the key to finding meaningful, inspiring, purposeful work could be found in what you loved as a child?That's exactly what today's podcast guest, photographer Ingrid Berrios discovered for herself!After spending decades in careers that bored her and left her deeply unfulfilled, she followed the treasure map her inner child guided her towards and gave herself permission to pursue her photography dreams. If you too are ready to believe it's possible to love your work and finally give yourself permission to explore what that could be… this podcast episode is for you!IN THIS EPISODE WE TALK ABOUT:How learning what you don't want in a career is just as valuable as learning what you do. Having the courage to change careers even after pouring time, money and years into other paths. ADHD and the importance of choosing a career that supports your lifestyle, passions, brain and values. Why a photoshoot goes so far beyond the photos. The transformation that comes from celebrating yourself and your essence. A special opportunity for Baltimore locals ready to embrace their journey and let themselves be seen in all their radiant glory!Ready to learn from your past and create your future with confidence, clarity and courage?Own your Becoming was designed for you.

Hello Beautiful, I'm so grateful you're here with me.

Hello Beautiful, I'm so grateful you're here with me.

Send us a textYou walk into the conversation thinking, Okay, this time we're talking about money. Or parenting. Or sex. Or the thing you agreed on and nobody followed through.And somehow you still end up in the exact same place: confusion, defensiveness, frustration, and that familiar emotional hangover that lasts way longer than the argument.In this episode of Love Shack Live, we unpack the real reason couples keep having the same fight on repeat.Because here's the twist: most fights stop being about the topic pretty quickly. Once you blamed, misunderstood, or threatened, self-protection takes over and logic doesn't stand a chance.You'll learn how to spot the pattern that's driving your conflict, why “just communicate better” never works, and what it actually takes to interrupt the cycle in the small window you have before things escalate.Plus, Staci and Tom revisit their infamous alarm clock fight (yes, again) to show you what it looks like to move from the “courtroom” mindset to the “classroom” mindset… and why understanding the emotional drivers changes everything.And you'll leave with a surprisingly fun pattern interrupt you can try the next time things start heating up.If you're listening and thinking, This is us, this episode is your next right step.Timestamps: 03:17 The 12 Critical Categories in Relationships04:44 Recognizing and Addressing Behavior Patterns05:48 The Courtroom vs. The Classroom15:23 The Alarm Clock Story: A Case Study22:25 Finding Solutions Through Understanding25:53 Understanding Your Partner's Experience28:34 The Impact of Personalization and Defensiveness30:04 Emotional Coping and Linking Events32:04 The Importance of Listening34:13 Breaking the Cycle of Misunderstanding44:12 Practical Tools for Conflict Resolution49:55 Pattern Interrupt Dance Party51:36 Final Thoughts and EncouragementWant personalized help breaking your pattern?If you're stuck in cycles and you want a clear next step, schedule a Clarity Call: https://stacibartley.com/applyThis isn't about fixing your partner. It's about identifying the pattern you're in and learning the skills to interrupt it.

The #1 emotion to create any result… commitment.   Stay with me now. I've struggled myself with this being the answer and I want to offer a different way of looking at commitment.  Not just when things are going well and you're succeeding, but commitment in the hard times, after the setbacks, after the binge, after the scale not moving for a month.  This is when we dig deeper and find the conviction to keep going, no matter what.  Keep listening as I share more of what this looks like in practice, and why it can also feel like a very triggering topic.  When you're ready to create a new relationship with food, alcohol, your body, your past, and your power…  It's time for The Reclaiming – a small group coaching program to help you lose weight and feel amazing in your body, after trauma and abuse. This is where survival ends and self-leadership begins. Stop circling the same patterns and finally move forward, The Reclaiming is your next step. Your Next Step:   Schedule your free 20-minute Clarity Call to ask any questions.  Email me (jillian@jillianlama.com) with the subject “I'm in” and I'll send you all the information to get started.   Or visit the sales page to learn more: https://www.bodyyoucrave.com/reclaim  The cycle ends with us. Chapters (00:00:02) - Hungry for Love(00:00:25) - What Real Commitment Feels Like(00:02:16) - How To Get Out of Eating Weight(00:04:53) - The Sociopath in My Love Letter(00:06:07) - Deciding to eat or drink(00:08:01) - What Commitment Is Not(00:11:46) - What Real Commitment Feels Like in Our Body(00:17:50) - How to Commit to Stop Binging and Eating(00:24:09) - How to Stop Binging and Weight Loss(00:26:49) - Welcome to The Reclaiming(00:28:54) - A Year of Healing(00:32:33) - Breaking the Cycle: The Life and Body You Deserve

Hello Beautiful, I'm so grateful you're here with me.

Husbands, Draw Her Back: Order of Operations Gentlemen, you have likely heard that you are meant to be the leader of your home. You've likely heard it from the pulpit, maybe from your own family. We know there's been some confusion around that in culture, asking men to take a back seat or not be as assertive and lead–even though it is their God-given design. But we fully believe that it is the biblical design for men and that it is good for men to take up their role. And you likely have a deep sense that this is how it's meant to be as well. But what happens when the people you are meant to lead... aren't following? Your family. Particularly, your wife. What if you are doing all the right things–trying to make good decisions for your family, trying to make sure they are safe, healthy, and provided for, trying to think of the future and what is going to be needed...and your wife is just disregarding it all. In fact, she's trying to take the reins and lead herself. Maybe it even feels like she's trying to make you obsolete. In this episode, we are diving into why women often feel the need to control and how you as a husband can help shift the culture of your home, draw her back, and have the marriage you've always wanted–with a wife that trusts you, supports you, and is cheering you on. A Tale of Two Marriages If you have been around Delight Your Marriage a while, you might know part of the back story–married very young, determined to be a submissive wife, did everything a good Christian woman is supposed to do. And yet there was discord. There was quarreling. There was strife. There was even competition. There was a feeling of never being good enough, let alone cherished. There ended up being a filing for divorce (something to plead the blood of Jesus over) and walking away from God for a period of time. The hurt was severe. Everything had been done right, how did it go so wrong? Then came meeting Darrow. Even in dating, it was so different than anything before. After years of feeling uneasy, uncared for, and on edge– there was finally safety. Yes, physical safety, but also emotional safety. Safe to share and not be ridiculed. Safe to express emotion and it be received with steadiness, patience, and kindness. Safe to be fully open and not be mocked or shamed. That tenderness and kindness brought safety. And that safety led to trust. How to Lead a Leader As marriage went on, certain things arose. He wasn't taking as much initiative as before. He wouldn't get things done that needed to get done. He wasn't leading. But this time it was different. There was a realization: He actually didn't have permission to lead. It had not fully been given to him. There was still control, and that made him feel angry and apathetic, like "Why even try?" So, the response changed. No more steering the ship. No more hands on the reins. He is the leader. And now, there is so much more happiness and rest. But it was only because he had shown his character–that he is a trustworthy person, that he is safe–that there was even confidence to be able to allow him to lead. That confidence was not there in the first marriage. There was no safety. There was fear and unrest, and so control was the answer. Think of an animal that feels scared–is the best way to get them to follow you to continue being tough and assertive? Or is it to show that you are gentle and they will be safe with you? So, What Needs To Happen First To Draw Your Wife Back? So then, what draws your wife back? It looks something like this: Establish Safety She must be emotionally, spiritually, and physically safe. She is safe to open up. She is safe to express. She knows she is going to be accepted fully as she is. What if you can't accept her fully as she is? What if you are waiting for her to change and then, you can fully love her? If that is where you're at, consider what Christ did for you. "You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." - Romans 5:6-8 (NIV) Christ did not wait for us to be perfect in order to love us. And if you, men, are called to love your wives as Christ loved the church, it means loving her always, no matter the circumstance. Love her regardless and establish that safety. Grow in your relationship with Christ. Truly exemplify the fruit of the Spirit (remember patience :)). Slowly Reestablish Jesus-Like Leadership In all things, lead from love. If you have great leadership, but have not love, it is "but a clanging cymbal" (1 Cor. 13:1) For more insight on drawing your wife back, take a listen to today's podcast. A Final Encouragement Dear men, we want you to take up the mantle of leadership. In your workplaces, in your churches, in your families. But your wife needs safety first. She needs to know that she can trust you. Just like that gentle animal we spoke about before–will yelling and pressuring build safety and trust? No. Ask the Lord to show you in what you have built trust in the past. Then, ask Him to show you how you have broken trust. Finally, ask Him how you can rebuild trust again and create a culture of safety. It is worth it, dear gentleman. The time and effort are worth it. If we can help in a more specific way, speaking more directly to your personal marriage, we would love to do so through our Coaching programs. We are rooting for you, gentleman! With love, The Delight Your Marriage Team PS - If you're ready to get more personalized coaching that will bring life and safety back into your marriage, we would love to chat with you. Schedule a free Clarity Call with one of our Clarity Advisors (who have been in your shoes) and discover what next steps look like for you. PPS - Here's a quote from a recent graduate: "Through the DYM program my marriage went from a hopeless pit of despair to a God-honoring home of safety and love."

Hello Beautiful, I'm so grateful you're here with me.

If you're stuck in the cycle of quitting alcohol and starting again, you're not alone. In this episode, I share what actually worked to help me stop drinking and stay sober for 28 years—without willpower, shame, or doing it alone. Drop us a Question or Comment

In the second part of our special two-part highlights series, Jonathan Jay dives into more of the most impactful, practical, and inspiring moments from the 2025 season of Business Buying Strategies. Whether you're brand new to acquisitions or have a few deals under your belt, this curated episode brings together essential wisdom from trusted voices in the Dealmakers community. Here's what you'll hear: 1. The Legal Pitfalls First-Time Buyers Must Avoid Top M&A lawyer John Andrews shares critical advice for getting your structure right from day one. You'll learn: Why a shareholders' agreement is vital — and when to draft one How share classes, company articles, and director agreements protect you long term What to expect (and budget) for legal fees How to choose the right lawyer — and why experience matters more than cost 2. The Real Skills Behind Closing a Deal Master negotiator Martin, a Dealmakers Circle member, delivers a no-nonsense mindset and negotiation masterclass. He breaks down: Why confidence (not cash) is your most powerful asset How to handle questions you don't know the answer to — without losing credibility What to say when a seller gives you an unrealistic price How deal fees, PGs, and over-leverage can ruin a good deal — and how to protect yourself 3. Coffee with Jonathan – Real Q&A with Aspiring Buyers Join Jonathan as he answers live questions from attendees during one of his informal "Coffee Morning" Zooms. Topics include: How to set up the right holding company and deal structure Why boards of directors are unnecessary distractions for most first-time buyers The truth about debt, due diligence, and using ChatGPT for business advice How to protect your existing businesses when you start acquiring others 4. Jonathan's Live Seminar – No Money Down… Explained Get an insider listen to a live seminar where Jonathan walks business owners through: How to buy a profitable business without risking personal funds The difference between deal flow and deal completion How to use real estate to complement your acquisition strategy The 36-month "Buy, Build, Exit" roadmap — and why it starts now You'll also hear Jonathan's own backstory — including the deal that changed his life, the competitor he bought (and shut down), and what buying 48 businesses during a pandemic really taught him.

Hello Beautiful, I'm so grateful you're here with me.

This episode features the recording of a masterclass series I did back in November 2025. In the final day of this series, I uncover the 3 key gifts imbedded in anxiety, and what happens when your body finally feels safe. There is so much life on the other side of anxiety. This episode is going to empower you and help you see what's possible for yourself and your clients.Ways to work with us that I mentioned:Learn to dismantle anxiety and overthinking by channeling emotions into creative expression. Embrace the wholeness of the human experience in Wholly Human: https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/wholly-humanStep into your embodied leadership and claim the impact you're here to make on the world around you through The Embodied Leader Mastermind: https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/embodied-leader-mastermindBecome certified in the Healing Embodied method, and learn to facilitate life-changing somatic transformation through our year long accredited program, The Healing Embodied Practitioner Training Program: www.healingembodied.com/get-certifiedOur next cohort begins February 2026. If you're listening to this before the end of February, there is still time to enroll!If you want to claim your spot for this cohort, book your Career Vision Call here: https://healingembodied.hbportal.co/public/careervisionAdditional Resources for Therapists, Healers, Coaches, and Creative Entrepreneurs:Free Resource Library for Therapists, Healers, and Creatives: https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/library-signupFree Facebook Community for creatives, helpers, and healers who want to lead from embodiment and wholeness: https://www.facebook.com/groups/embodiedleaderparadigmLearn more about our flagship group program for leaders, healers, and creatives: https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/wholly-humanLearn more and/or apply for our year-long, internationally accredited somatic certification program: www.healingembodied.com/get-certifiedAdditional Resources for those who want to embody more love, trust, and wholeness in their lives and relationships:Want to be a client of Healing Embodied? Book a free 30 minute Clarity Call with a member of our team, and learn how we can support you in creating more trust, love, and joy in your life: https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/applyOur Relationship Anxiety Resource Shop (mediations, masterclasses, courses): https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/shopGet on our email list for updates, podcast episode announcements, discounts, and more: https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/sign-upCheck out all the ways we can support you here: www.healingembodied.com/healwithus

Hello Beautiful, I'm so grateful you're here with me.

In this episode, Christina sits down with Jacob Hooker for a candid conversation at the intersection of coaching, mentorship, and mental health. Together, they unpack the psychology of growth, the science of change, and why curiosity is one of the most overlooked tools in personal development.Jacob shares how his journey from academia to entrepreneurship led him to focus on the mental health crisis, and how innovative therapeutic approaches, including psychedelic-assisted treatments, are reshaping what's possible.About The Guest: Jacob Hooker, PhD, is a neuroscientist, entrepreneur, and CEO of Sensorium Therapeutics, a biotechnology company developing nature-inspired medicines for mental health. Jacob previously served as an endowed professor at Harvard Medical School and a scientific leader at Massachusetts General Hospital, where his research helped advance new approaches for understanding the brain and treating psychiatric disease. His work sits at the intersection of neuroscience, chemistry, and human well-being—with a focus on creating better, faster-acting treatments for anxiety and stress.Connect with Jacob on LinkedInLearn more about Sensorium TherapeuticsFollow Jacob on Substack If you enjoyed this episode, make sure and give us a five star rating  and leave us a comment on iTunes, Podcast Addict, Podchaser and Castbox about what you'd like us to talk about that will help you realize that at any moment, any day, you too can decide, it's your turn! 

How do you create goals for your life, while also leaving space for the magic of the Universe to co-create with you?I hear this question again and again from my coaching clients, which is why I wanted to share my thoughts with you in this latest podcast episode!This Capricorn New Moon we had on Sunday, January 18th, was also all about planting seeds and pouring intention and energy into your long term goals - so this felt like perfect timing!If you're ready to take inspired actions towards your dreams with the support of both logic AND intuition - this episode is for you. IN THIS EPISODE WE TALK ABOUT:Ways the heart and mind can work together to create a life you love. Why you don't need to be "crystal clear" about your vision in order to take inspired action. How the 5 elements of feng shui can support you in each phase of the creation process.Simple, potent practices to spark inspiration, confidence and guidance on your path. The key to having trust even when you don't see immediate results. Ready to take inspired actions towards your dreams, while enjoying your life NOW?Own your Becoming was designed for you.

This episode is the audio from a masterclass series I taught in November 2025, called Beyond the Mind: An Embodied Approach to Anxiety. In this episode, I uncover the 3 key components of lasting anxiety healing that goes beyond surface-level symptom management tools that often keep people on the hamster of healing for life. I also introduce some somatic practices based on the Healing Embodied Method that we teach in our year-long embodiment coaching certification program.Links mentioned at the end:Our free Facebook community where I host additional trainings: https://www.facebook.com/groups/embodiedleaderparadigmOur 6 month live program to become a master of feeling your feelings, so you can liberate yourself from anxiety and overthinking. Learn more and join Wholly Human here: https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/wholly-humanApply for the 2027 round of our year-long certification program, the Healing Embodied Practitioner Training Program: www.healingembodied.com/get-certifiedIf you learned something from this episode and you want to show your support for the show, share it will a colleague, client, or friend and give us a 5 star rating!Additional Resources for Therapists, Healers, Coaches, and Creative Entrepreneurs:Free Resource Library for Therapists, Healers, and Creatives: https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/library-signupFree Facebook Community for creatives, helpers, and healers who want to lead from embodiment and wholeness: https://www.facebook.com/groups/embodiedleaderparadigmLearn more about our flagship group program for leaders, healers, and creatives: https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/wholly-humanLearn more and/or apply for our year-long, internationally accredited somatic certification program: www.healingembodied.com/get-certifiedAdditional Resources for those who want to embody more love, trust, and wholeness in their lives and relationships:Want to be a client of Healing Embodied? Book a free 30 minute Clarity Call with a member of our team, and learn how we can support you in creating more trust, love, and joy in your life: https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/applyOur Relationship Anxiety Resource Shop (mediations, masterclasses, courses): https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/shopGet on our email list for updates, podcast episode announcements, discounts, and more: https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/sign-upCheck out all the ways we can support you here: www.healingembodied.com/healwithus

Hello Beautiful, I'm so grateful you're here with me.

In Episode 2 of this Awakening series, we touch on a powerful reframe: “What If You're Not Broken - You're Just Out of Alignment?” In this episode, Dr. Diane Van Staden explores the concept of Quiet Burnout and the feelings of misalignment that many clinicians experience. She emphasizes that exhaustion may not indicate a personal flaw but rather a signal that one's work no longer aligns with their evolving values and identity. The episode encourages self-reflection and compassion as a means to navigate these feelings and find clarity in one's professional journey. Many clinicians mistake exhaustion for personal failure, when it's actually a call for change. Don't miss the next episode which offers compassion, clarity, and relief - especially if you've been trying to fix yourself instead of questioning the environment you're in.   MORE WAYS TO CONNECT: Follow our LinkedIn page:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/life-beyond-clinical-practice/    Book a Clarity Call with Dr Diane https://calendly.com/lbcp/strategy-call    Join the Movement on Instagram: @lifebeyondclinicalpractice  Rate and Review the show on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-beyond-clinical-practice-healthcare-careers-professional/id1713086617    Enjoyed this episode?  We think you'll enjoy this one too https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/123-are-you-sitting-on-untapped-potential-as-a/id1713086617?i=1000740184591     

This episode is the audio from a masterclass series I taught in November 2025, called Beyond the Mind: An Embodied Approach to Anxiety. In this episode, I share my own personal journey with anxiety and relationship OCD, as well as my professional approach to how I've supported over 2000 clients with anxiety. I go deep into the brain and body science of anxiety, and how it's so much more than overthinking.Anyone who supports those with anxiety needs to hear this episode! It will forever change your perspective on anxiety healing.Links mentioned at the end:Our free Facebook community where I host additional trainings: https://www.facebook.com/groups/embodiedleaderparadigmThe free practitioner resource library: https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/library-signupIf you learned something from this episode and you want to show your support for the show, share it will a colleague, client, or friend and give us a 5 star rating!If you deal with anxiety and you want to work with Healing Embodied, check out the Relationship Anxiety Resource shop, or book a free Clarity Call below.Additional Resources for Therapists, Healers, Coaches, and Creative Entrepreneurs:Free Resource Library for Therapists, Healers, and Creatives: https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/library-signupFree Facebook Community for creatives, helpers, and healers who want to lead from embodiment and wholeness: https://www.facebook.com/groups/embodiedleaderparadigmLearn more about our flagship group program for leaders, healers, and creatives: https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/wholly-humanLearn more and/or apply for our year-long, internationally accredited somatic certification program: www.healingembodied.com/get-certifiedAdditional Resources for those who want to embody more love, trust, and wholeness in their lives and relationships:Want to be a client of Healing Embodied? Book a free 30 minute Clarity Call with a member of our team, and learn how we can support you in creating more trust, love, and joy in your life: https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/applyOur Relationship Anxiety Resource Shop (mediations, masterclasses, courses): https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/shopGet on our email list for updates, podcast episode announcements, discounts, and more: https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/sign-upCheck out all the ways we can support you here: www.healingembodied.com/healwithus

Hello Beautiful, I'm so grateful you're here with me.

Hello Beautiful, I'm so grateful you're here with me.

It is our honor and privilege to have Charles on the podcast with us today.  Many of you have maybe already spoken to Charles. He serves as one of our Clarity Advisors here at Delight Your Marriage and has done an incredible job of listening to your stories and giving you next steps, but most importantly, giving you hope. What you might not know about Charles is that he spent many years as a very successful businessman. I mean, he was (and is!) a force! And that's what people saw on the outside: 40 years in business, two homes, active in ministry, a wife of 3o years, two grown children. Everything looked perfect. But it wasn't the full picture. "On Paper, We Had Everything… But We Were Just Roommates" The full picture was that Charles was in pain.  His marriage was suffering. He felt like they had become roommates and the intimacy and connection wasn't there. His daughter, after watching her parents fight yet again, brought up to him that "all you and mom do is fight". She didn't feel safe and their relationship was strained, so much so that she even mentioned she would prefer he not be the one to solely walk her down the aisle when the day came. There was pain, true pain.  That moment with his daughter became a turning point.  He cried out to God. And God answered. Finding the Delight Your Marriage Podcast Charles found the Delight Your Marriage podcast—and after only two episodes, he booked a Clarity Call and jumped in. What followed wasn't easy. It required humility. Repentance. Unlearning cultural "norms" that were never biblical to begin with. But what he discovered was sobering and freeing all at once: Being a provider is not the same as being present Strength without gentleness hardens the heart Leadership without humility blocks intimacy—with your spouse and with God And slowly—steadily—everything began to change. When a Daughter Finally Feels Safe One of the most profound transformations wasn't just in Charles' marriage—it was in his relationship with his daughter. Years earlier, she had told him, "Why can't you be like my friend's dad?" Instead of defending himself, Charles did something radically different. He listened. He apologized and owned the pain he had caused. And he stayed emotionally present instead of shutting down, like he had done in the past. That conversation marked the beginning of healing. Fast forward to this past Christmas, two years after starting this program, his daughter handed him a card. Inside, she wrote: "Every day you bless me so abundantly with peace and security of knowing you have me… I hope my future husband is even half of what you are to me." That card became the most valuable gift Charles has ever received, and he saw, even more, how the changes he had made changed the trajectory of his family. A Marriage Built on The Rock Charles often says something that shocks people: "I would give it all away for a shack on a rock if it meant having what we have now." Why? Because before, his marriage was built on cardboard and duct tape, as he says. Cultural assumptions, pride, and survival mode. Now, it's built on the Rock. Biblical wisdom. Daily repentance. Practical tools. Accountability. Peace. Life Now as a Clarity Advisor Charles' story doesn't end with his own marriage. Today, he serves as a Clarity Advisor, walking alongside other men and women who feel stuck, hopeless, or unsure where to begin. He's seen: Wives move back into homes after separation Pornography addictions broken Years-long intimacy restored Homes transformed by peace And now, pastors are bringing Delight Your Marriage Academy into their churches—because the need is everywhere, including globally. Final Encouragement Now, two years later, Charles' marriage is completely transformed, his relationship with his daughter is completely transformed, and he, himself, is completely transformed. God has truly turned mourning into dancing. This is not a one-off event. This is the God we serve–who heals marriages and changes lives, who heals hearts and minds, who redeems families and generations. He cares. He cares deeply about Charles and answered his cry.  And He cares about you. If you are waiting for an answer from God, maybe this is the answer. Maybe calling and taking that next step is the answer. We are rooting for you and we love you. God bless you! Blessings, The Delight Your Marriage Team PS - If you want to take the next step and chat with our incredible Clarity Advisors, like Charles, schedule a free Clarity Call here. We would love to talk with you. PPS - Here is a quote from a recent DYM Academy graduate:  "I thought this was well presented and very comprehensive.  The clarity of what women need to be safe, known and wholeheartedly cherished was spot on. I understood the basics but seeing it formalized was really beneficial to me. The listening skills and the way they were presented cannot be overstated."

Hello Beautiful, I'm so grateful you're here with me.

Send us a textIf you've been waiting for the “right time” to talk…You're not alone.A lot of couples don't look like they're falling apart. From the outside, life looks fine. But inside, there's a low-grade tension that never really leaves. You go to bed next to each other. You get through the day. You smile. And you keep telling yourself:“I'll bring it up when things feel less tense.”“If I just give it more time, it'll settle down.”“I don't want to ruin a good day by bringing it up.”“If I push, I'll drive them further away.”In this episode, we name what's really happening: hope has quietly turned into a coping strategy.Hope can be beautiful. It can give you courage. But hope without skills often becomes waiting without change, and the cost shows up later as resentment, emotional distance, blowups, or that hollow feeling of “we're fine… but we're not close.”In this episode, we cover:Why tension usually doesn't “blow up”… it lingers and accumulatesThe difference between patience and avoidanceThe fears hiding underneath “I'll just wait” (and why they make sense)How emotional safety gets fragile, and couples start freezing over what isn't workingWhy “nothing is blowing up” doesn't mean things are getting betterThe myth that “once they change, I'll feel better”Why the goal isn't to get your partner to change, it's to change how the relationship handles hard momentsThe real skill most couples are missing: equal exchange (sharing + listening without correction, defense, or collapse)Why listening is one of the hardest relationship skills (because it requires holding emotional tension)What actually creates movement: hope + skills + behavior changeA question we ask that might shift everything: “Am I genuinely hopeful right now… or am I in denial?”Because waiting often feels like protection. But if you're reading moods, monitoring body language, and holding your breath for the right moment, you're not protecting connection. You're protecting against discomfort.And that discomfort doesn't go away. It just gets more expensive.Try this journal prompt (from the episode): I was hopeful when ________, but deep down, I was really ________.Examples:“I was hopeful when they said ‘we're fine,' but deep down I was really afraid we were avoiding the truth.”“I was hopeful when I stayed quiet to keep the peace, but deep down I was really disappearing.”“I was hopeful when they apologized, but deep down I was really needing to feel understood, not just comforted.”Want help figuring out your next step? If you're stuck in the hoping phase, drowning in overthinking, or afraid of making the wrong move next, you don't need more time. You need a better plan and better skills.Book a Clarity Call and we'll help you get clear on what's actually happening and what to do next, without pressure. Schedule your free call here: https://stacibartley.com/applyTimestamps: 02:34 Understanding the Impact of Waiting04:09 The Cost of Avoidance07:05 Hope vs. Denial08:13 The Importance of Skills in Relationships08:59 Conflict and Communication19:35 Personal Stories and Examples22:35 Understanding Anxiety in Relationships24:04 The Impact of Communication on Relationships26:10 The Importance of Equal Exchange27:12 Developing Relationship Skills29:35 The Role of Personal Clarity30:32 The Challenge of Listening34:09 Creating Emotional Safety

Understanding your patterns without being able to change them can feel incredibly frustrating… and quietly shame-inducing. But only because we have unrealistic expectations of how habit change actually works.  Awareness is the first step.  But awareness of a pattern or even a new habit you want to implement doesn't actually create change.  Keep listening as I explain what will instead.  If this episode resonated with you, this is the exact work I do inside The Reclaiming – my new group coaching experience designed to help you release survival patterns with food, body, and relationships — so that clarity and self-trust can take the lead. You can learn more by scheduling a free Clarity Call at bodyyoucrave.com/schedule.  Or join me in The Clarity Room: a free, monthly coaching experience to move from confusion to clarity together.  The next session is Sunday, January 18th, 5pm pst / 8pm est.  Add to your calendar here (zoom link included): https://evt.to/mq6v6k1ftd86 Chapters (00:00:02) - Hungry for Love(00:00:24) - What It Really Looks Like to Change a Habit(00:06:36) - How to Stop Eating During Trauma and Anxiety(00:15:17) - How To Deal With Anxious Attachment in the Relationship(00:20:35) - How to Stop Drinking Alcohol and Eating Food(00:25:21) - How To Heal From A Breakup(00:28:02) - How to Stop Confusion Over Food, Body and Relationships(00:32:31) - It's Time to Break the Cycle

If you've noticed that thoughts about time have been creeping in lately —feeling behind, pressured, panicked, or like every dating decision suddenly feels high-stakes — we want you to know: you're not alone, and you're not doing anything wrong.Join us next week Thursday, January 22, 2026 @7pm CT for Dating Without Deadline Panic - a FREE, Live Workshop. We'll talk honestly about time, pressure, waiting, and the panic that can sneak into dating… and we'll also make room to feel and gently release what's been living in your body.

Hello Beautiful, I'm so grateful you're here with me.

Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!Feeling like roommates after becoming parents is one of the most common — and most misunderstood — phases of marriage.If your relationship feels more operational than romantic..In this episode, I dive into why feeling like roommates doesn't mean your marriage is broken — it means connection has been deprioritized. She breaks down how parenting shifts things between you two, how emotional distance builds slowly through habits, and why waiting for “more time” rarely fixes things.You'll learn:Why the roommate phase happens after kidsThe subtle ways couples drift apart without realizing itWhat happens when you accept disconnection as “normal”Why awareness alone doesn't create changeHow couples rebuild connection without forcing romanceIf you're craving more closeness, ease, and partnership — and you're ready to stop settling for “fine” — this episode will help you see what's possible.Ready to actively rebuild connection instead of staying stuck? Book a Clarity Call to learn how getting support through marriage coaching can help you!Thanks for listening!Connect and send a message letting me know what you took away from this episode: @michellepurtacoachingIf you would like to support this show, please rate and review the show, and share it with people you know would love this show too!Additional Resources:Ready to put a stop to the arguments in your marriage?  Watch this free masterclass - The #1 Conversation Married Couples Need To Have (But Aren't)Support the show

If the idea of setting big goals this year feels overwhelming, exhausting, or completely out of reach, this episode is for you. For some people, January brings motivation and momentum. For others, it brings heaviness, survival mode, or a quiet realization that they've been running on empty for a long time. In this episode, we're talking about why big goals can feel overwhelming — and what to do instead. Not because you're lazy.Not because you lack discipline.But because your nervous system may be asking for safety before growth. We'll explore why depression and survival mode aren't signs that something is wrong with you, but rather signals — like a check engine light — letting you know that something deeper needs care and attention. I'll walk you through a gentler, trauma-informed process for beginning the year when motivation is low, including: Why survival mode is a valid starting line How to stop forcing yourself to “start the year strong” The power of allowing your emotions without fear they'll consume you Creating a very small baseline instead of big goals Letting joy, relief, and what feels fun lead — without “shoulds” And how this season may be pointing you toward deeper healing of unresolved grief, anger, or old emotional wounds. This is a guided experience for people who are tender and need space.  It's a longer, workshop-style episode designed to be listened to slowly, in one sitting or in parts. And it's a conversation about permission.Permission to pause.Permission to feel.Permission to meet yourself where you actually are. No hustle, no bypassing, no pressure to be “better.”  Just an honest, compassionate way forward — especially if this season feels heavier than you expected. If you'd like some extra support in this, join me in The Clarity Room: A free live group coaching experience that takes you from Confusion to Clarity. Sunday January 18th, 5pm pst / 8pm est  It's a gentle, supportive space designed for moments exactly like this — when big goals feel like too much, when you're in survival mode, or when you know something deeper is asking for your attention, but you don't want to force or rush the process. Links:  Add The Clarity Room to your calendar (zoom link included) for Sunday Jan 18th. https://evt.to/mq6v6k1ftd86 Schedule your free Clarity Call at www.bodyyoucrave.com/schedule  Download your free end emotional eating tool: https://download.bodyyoucrave.com/feelings-wheel-sign-up Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jillianscoaching Chapters (00:00:02) - Hungry for Love(00:00:19) - How to Set Big Goals When You're Overwhelmed(00:08:22) - Post-Divorce Depression: How to Survive(00:11:01) - How to Reset: Living in Survival Mode(00:18:22) - Emotional Abuse(00:24:09) - Allow Negative Emotions to Exist Without Stopping(00:27:10) - How to Stop Being Negative(00:32:34) - Living in Survival Mode (Step 3)(00:38:08) - How to Raise a Trauma Child(00:42:50) - Step 4: Create a Small baseline(00:45:18) - 5 Steps to Building Joy in Your Life(00:52:07) - How to Let Go of the Timeline of Healing(00:58:23) - How to Heal from a Betrayal(01:02:36) - What is it that's asking for your attention right now?(01:07:31) - Binge Eating and Relationship Cycle Break the Cycle

In this engaging conversation, Christina and Richart Ruddie explore the journey of entrepreneurship, the importance of taking action over excessive planning, and the role of mentorship in shaping careers. Rich shares his insights on defining success, the significance of gratitude, and the attributes that contribute to success in business. They discuss the challenges and rewards of building company culture, the dynamics of remote work, and the qualities that make employees successful. The conversation concludes with Rich's thoughts on leadership and the importance of human connection in today's world.About The Guest: Richart Ruddie is the founder and CEO of Captain Compliance a data privacy and compliance software company that protects businesses large and small from privacy litigation risks while building trust with their end users. Connect with him on Linkedin.If you enjoyed this episode, make sure and give us a five star rating  and leave us a comment on iTunes, Podcast Addict, Podchaser and Castbox about what you'd like us to talk about that will help you realize that at any moment, any day, you too can decide, it's your turn! 

With everything going on the world right now, so many of my coaching clients have been asking me: How do I want to show up? What difference or contribution do I want to make? What actually matters to ME?If you've ever asked yourself these questions, this podcast episode is for you! I explore the biggest themes I'm seeing in astrology and in cultural phenomenon right now that I believe we can lean into in order to create the change we desire to see in our lives, and in the world!If you're ready to reconnect to what matters to you most and design a life that feel purposeful, authentic, joyful and fulfilling...give this episode a listen!IN THIS EPISODE WE TALK ABOUT:What KPOP Demon Hunters and Taylor Swift can teach us about living a purposeful, transformational lifeKey astrology themes that can empower you in 2026 and beyondHow to make a positive impact in a way that's unique and authentic to youReconnecting to what lifts you up when the world feels heavyWhat individuation means and why it's vital for how we show up in relationships and communityReady to reconnect to your heart's desires and create a life that feels authentic, aligned and meaningful to YOU?Own your Becoming will help you do just that! 

516-A Pastor with a "Prostitute" Mindset Changed His Ways: Jerry's Story There's a quiet frustration many good men carry. You've tried to talk. You've tried to suggest counseling, books, podcasts—something. You've even tried explaining your heart. And still… she doesn't seem to listen. Doesn't engage. Doesn't change. If that's you, let me say this gently but clearly: God may be asking you to go first. And yes—that can feel unfair. But it is also where real transformation begins. When You Find Yourself Becoming Someone You Didn't Want to Be One husband recently shared that after nearly three decades of marriage and years of faithful ministry, he found himself in a place he never expected. Not because his marriage had been bad. But because it was changing—and he wasn't prepared. His wife's body was changing. Their season of life was shifting. Transitions piled up. And slowly, something in him hardened. He was becoming "grouchy" and "crusty". He said it plainly: "I just didn't like how I was becoming… and I didn't like how I was treating my wife." That awareness matters. Because most men don't wake up one day intending to pressure, resent, or withdraw. It happens subtly—when expectations go unmet and entitlement slowly but surely begins to creep in. A Marriage That Became Transactional Instead of Sacrifical Many men come to this work believing, "If my wife would just listen… if she would just change… then we'd be okay." But here's the truth that was exposed in this man's life: he was living transactionally. "I didn't realize I was living in a transactional relationship until those transactions weren't happening." In other words: I give love → I expect intimacy. I serve → I expect responsiveness. This man had never thought of himself as transactional—until intimacy slowed and frustration surged. That's when God began to do the deeper work. Take the Focus Off Intimacy to Heal Intimacy One of the most countercultural invitations men hear in this process is simple—and deeply uncomfortable: Take your foot off the gas. Not forever. But for now. Because a woman cannot open her body when her heart doesn't feel safe. She needs to feel safe, known, and wholeheartedly cherished—especially in seasons of vulnerability like menopause, grief, exhaustion, or long-term transition. This husband learned that before asking anything of his wife, God was asking him to rebuild safety. And that required humility. The "Prostitute" Mindset Going through the Masculinity Reclaimed process, this man shared something that he learned that changed everything for him: "[Belah said] you guys are treating your wives like prostitutes. And the fact that you are not making them feel safe. You are not making them feel fully known...and you are not wholeheartedly cherishing your wives. Yet, you know, you flip the switch at...10 o'clock, 11 o'clock at night, and you want intimacy, and you're getting grouchy or whatever when that doesn't happen." He had never seen it this way before, and it changed everything for him. It was painful to hear. And necessary. Because intimacy without safety and care doesn't feel like love to a woman—it feels like obligation. Doing the Work Made a Change in Their Marriage This man didn't tell his wife he was doing the work at first. But she noticed anyway. She noticed the listening. The gentleness. The apologies for things that happened years ago. And eventually, she asked. Change preached is often resisted. Change embodied is felt. Yes, intimacy improved. But that's not what this husband points to as the greatest win. He says the real transformation was internal: Healthier expectations A reordered life A clearer understanding of his responsibility as a man Final Encouragement If you're waiting for your wife to change before you soften… If you're tempted to push, convince, or withdraw… If you're tired of feeling unseen… Hear this: God honors the man who goes first. Not the man who wins the argument. You are not alone. And this is not the end of your story. It may be the beginning of the truest work God has ever done in you. You can do this, sir. God bless you!   With love, The Delight Your Marriage Team PS – Ready to take the next step in renewing your heart and your marriage? We would love to chat with you. Schedule a free Clarity Call with one of our Clarity Advisors, who have all been through the program and have been where you have been. It's time to take the leap. PPS – Wondering just exactly how healthy your own marriage is? Are you also surviving instead of thriving? Take our free Marital Health Assessment and see what your marital score is–and how we can help. PPPS – Here is a quote from (another) recent graduate: "We argued a lot. Said hurtful things to each other.  Raised voices in front of the kids.  Less emotional connection generally.  Sex felt merely physical and not emotionally connected...not fulfilling. Usually felt like duty. And I have always been initiating and my wife has often complained about that...[Now], I've become more contented and patient and focused on her needs and a better listener I think.  She says our home has less tension since I've been doing the program.  I take that as a win!  She has initiated twice in the past 2 weeks!  Very rare before this!" (Guest name has been changed for safety and anonymity)