Podcast appearances and mentions of ron deal

Co-parenting conversations can escalate fast, especially when an ex is reactive, manipulative, dismissive, or unreasonable. It's tempting to defend yourself, fire back, or make a quick decision just to escape the pressure. But that kind of response rarely moves things forward, and it can leave kids carrying the emotional weight of adult conflict.In this episode, we share practical tools to help you communicate with an ex in a way that is calm, clear, and solution-focused. You'll learn our 5 A's Framework for navigating hard co-parenting conversations, along with strategies for handling pressure, staying grounded, and setting healthy boundaries with confidence.We also open up about a painful moment in our own blended family story, when Kim felt pressured by her ex into making a major decision before she had time to think clearly or consult with Mike. From that experience, we share what we wish we had known then, and how these tools can help you protect your marriage, create greater stability for your kids, and build more peace in your home.Be sure to grab the free downloadable worksheet for this episode to help you plan your next hard conversation and put these tools into practice.You'll Discover:Why reactive communication with an ex often fuels ongoing conflict How to use the 5 A's Framework for clearer, more cooperative co-parenting conversations Three strategies for handling pressure-filled moments with greater steadiness A simple tool for setting healthy boundaries with an ex How consistency can build trust, influence, and greater stability for your kidsResources from this Episode:CLICK HERE to grab your free co-parenting communication worksheetEpisode 211. 8 Warning Signs Your Ex is Manipulating Your Child's Heart and MindEpisode 218. How to Positively Influence You Kids' Character When Your Ex Undermines Your Values Episode 207.  4 Big Myths About Parenting When an Ex Has Different Rules and How to Build Consistency  Episode 232. 5 Principles to Manage Contact Between Homes and Promote Your Child's WellbeingEpisode 229. The Heavy Burdens Kids Carry: Loyalty Binds, Parental Allegiance and How to HelpEpisode 175. 8 Tips to Protect Kids From Stress and Tension When Moving Between HomesEpisode 161. How do Healthy Parent/Child Roles Help Avoid the Pitfalls of Parentification [ with Ron Deal & Lauren Reitsema]Episode 112. 3 Dangerous Dynamics That Can Destroy Co-Parenting - And Hurt the KidsEpisode 42. Our Challenging Story of Parental Alienation - and 6 Tips For YouEpisode 91. Is Your Husband's Hostile Ex-Wife Invading Your Life, Stealing Your Joy and Confidence?Episode 194. Powerful Tips for Effectively Connecting with Your Angry or Distant Child [with Amy J.L. Baker]Episode 226. How Two Homes Raise Kids That Thrive:  A Blueprint for Caring Parents [with Jay & Tammy Daughtry]Ready for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesession

Guest Bio: Married since 1986, Ron and Nan Deal are the authors of the #1 Amazon bestselling book The Mindful Marriage: Create Your Best Relationship Through Understanding and Managing Yourself, as well as popular marriage conference speakers. Ron is the bestselling author of more than a dozen books and resources, a licensed marriage and family therapist, podcast host, and a Senior Director for the ministry of FamilyLife®. Nan retired from teaching after 25 years and currently works for a Christian non-profit ministry. They have three sons, a daughter-in-law, one grandson, and a golden retriever and live in Little Rock, Arkansas.  Show Summary: Have you faced a breaking point within your marriage or a close relationship? How did you handle it? Ron and Nan Deal faced intense hardship when their twelve-year-old son passed away. As they've navigated the loss, they've discovered practical truths about marriage that they feel are important for everyone to know when it comes to approaching relational hardship. Join hosts Eryn Eddy Adkins and Vivian Mabuni for this insightful God Hears Her conversation as they learn how to handle conflict and pain while trusting God.   Notes and Quotes:  “The flesh is the biblical word for that part of us that just goes into automatic reaction mode. We now know, neurologically, that there's a whole lot of stuff going on inside the brain. The body keeps the score and the brain tells the body how to make sense of that score so anytime you feel any threat to not feeling loved or not feeling emotionally safe in a relationship, it taps into some things that are hardwired into your brain and body by the time you're an adult—probably hardwired by the age of two.” —Ron Deal  “Your body may keep the score, but your mind gets to tell you how to respond to the score.” —Ron Deal  “What God is inviting me to do is to be self-controlled, to discipline me, and bring a better me to our us.” —Ron Deal  “With God's help, I can live out of His spirit. But I've had to ask and pray and surrender.” —Nan Deal  “It truly is a work that He will do in you. Five to six years ago, I was a slave to my emotions and my circumstances. I listened to the enemy and I believed the lies and then the lies became truth. It's not an easy fix or an easy unraveling, but it's a daily walk now.” —Nan Deal  “You have to figure out . . . who is this God and how do I serve Him when I hate my circumstances?” —Ron Deal  “What I know is that God has been there every second. Even when I turned my back on him and said, ‘You are untrustworthy, I don't love you anymore, I'm doubting in you, where were you, you didn't show up the way I wanted.' Even in all of that, when I hit bottom and surrendered, He said, ‘I never left you. I love you. Please let me show you that. We're going to go now on a journey of you learning to trust in me . . . holding my hand even if life doesn't look the way you want it to look.' That's my God.” —Nan Deal   Verses:  Romans 12:2  Related Episodes:  GHH Ep 188 – Grace in Marriage with Chelsea Damon: https://godhearsher.org/podcast/grace-in-marriage/ GHH Ep 198 – Unexpected Grief with Dawn Mann Sanders: https://godhearsher.org/podcast/unexpected-grief/ GHH Ep 214 – Refining A Broken Marriage with Justin and Trisha Davis: https://godhearsher.org/podcast/refining-a-broken-marriage/  Links:  God Hears Her website: https://go.odb.org/ghh191  Subscribe to the God Hears Her YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GodHearsHerODBM The Mindful Marriage by Ron and Nan Deal: https://rondeal.org/channels-resources/the-mindful-marriage-conference Coping Style Quiz: https://www.worthypub.com/assessment Not Easily Broken by Joyce and Steven Dinkins: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Easily-Broken-Wisdom-Marriage/dp/1640704566

Guest Bio: Married since 1986, Ron and Nan Deal are the authors of the #1 Amazon bestselling book The Mindful Marriage: Create Your Best Relationship Through Understanding and Managing Yourself, as well as popular marriage conference speakers. Ron is the bestselling author of more than a dozen books and resources, a licensed marriage and family therapist, podcast host, and a Senior Director for the ministry of FamilyLife®. Nan retired from teaching after 25 years and currently works for a Christian non-profit ministry. They have three sons, a daughter-in-law, one grandson, and a golden retriever and live in Little Rock, Arkansas.  Show Summary: Have you faced a breaking point within your marriage or a close relationship? How did you handle it? Ron and Nan Deal faced intense hardship when their twelve-year-old son passed away. As they've navigated the loss, they've discovered practical truths about marriage that they feel are important for everyone to know when it comes to approaching relational hardship. Join hosts Eryn Eddy Adkins and Vivian Mabuni for this insightful God Hears Her conversation as they learn how to handle conflict and pain while trusting God.   Notes and Quotes:  “The flesh is the biblical word for that part of us that just goes into automatic reaction mode. We now know, neurologically, that there's a whole lot of stuff going on inside the brain. The body keeps the score and the brain tells the body how to make sense of that score so anytime you feel any threat to not feeling loved or not feeling emotionally safe in a relationship, it taps into some things that are hardwired into your brain and body by the time you're an adult—probably hardwired by the age of two.” —Ron Deal  “Your body may keep the score, but your mind gets to tell you how to respond to the score.” —Ron Deal  “What God is inviting me to do is to be self-controlled, to discipline me, and bring a better me to our us.” —Ron Deal  “With God's help, I can live out of His spirit. But I've had to ask and pray and surrender.” —Nan Deal  “It truly is a work that He will do in you. Five to six years ago, I was a slave to my emotions and my circumstances. I listened to the enemy and I believed the lies and then the lies became truth. It's not an easy fix or an easy unraveling, but it's a daily walk now.” —Nan Deal  “You have to figure out . . . who is this God and how do I serve Him when I hate my circumstances?” —Ron Deal  “What I know is that God has been there every second. Even when I turned my back on him and said, ‘You are untrustworthy, I don't love you anymore, I'm doubting in you, where were you, you didn't show up the way I wanted.' Even in all of that, when I hit bottom and surrendered, He said, ‘I never left you. I love you. Please let me show you that. We're going to go now on a journey of you learning to trust in me . . . holding my hand even if life doesn't look the way you want it to look.' That's my God.” —Nan Deal   Verses:  Romans 12:2  Related Episodes:  GHH Ep 188 – Grace in Marriage with Chelsea Damon: https://godhearsher.org/podcast/grace-in-marriage/ GHH Ep 198 – Unexpected Grief with Dawn Mann Sanders: https://godhearsher.org/podcast/unexpected-grief/ GHH Ep 214 – Refining A Broken Marriage with Justin and Trisha Davis: https://godhearsher.org/podcast/refining-a-broken-marriage/  Links:  God Hears Her website: https://go.odb.org/ghh191  Subscribe to the God Hears Her YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GodHearsHerODBM The Mindful Marriage by Ron and Nan Deal: https://rondeal.org/channels-resources/the-mindful-marriage-conference Coping Style Quiz: https://www.worthypub.com/assessment Not Easily Broken by Joyce and Steven Dinkins: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Easily-Broken-Wisdom-Marriage/dp/1640704566

Blended families face unique battles: guilt-paralyzed bio parents, stepparents feeling threatened, ex-spouses overstepping. Ron Deal and Gayla Grace unpack traps that sabotage marriage and parenting—erase/replace mindsets, unilateral fixes, defensiveness—and show how co-parents can lean in, communicate intent, and send “no-threat” messages. When couples unite around kids, check in before ex-decisions, and prioritize long-term child good, hope, stability, and even transformation become possible. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29?v=20251111

Blended families face unique battles: guilt-paralyzed bio parents, stepparents feeling threatened, ex-spouses overstepping. Ron Deal and Gayla Grace unpack traps that sabotage marriage and parenting—erase/replace mindsets, unilateral fixes, defensiveness—and show how co-parents can lean in, communicate intent, and send “no-threat” messages. When couples unite around kids, check in before ex-decisions, and prioritize long-term child good, hope, stability, and even transformation become possible. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29?v=20251111

Think AI is harmless? Think again. Today's chatbots don't just answer questions—they offer friendship, romance, even “love.” And the AI dangers aren't loud… they're subtle. Easy affirmation. Zero challenge. Total secrecy.On FamilyLife Today, Dave and Ann Wilson talk with Ron Deal about how AI dangers threaten marriages, kids, and faith. Before “Google God” replaces real connection, learn what's at stake in your home. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29?v=20251111

Think AI is harmless? Think again. Today's chatbots don't just answer questions—they offer friendship, romance, even “love.” And the AI dangers aren't loud… they're subtle. Easy affirmation. Zero challenge. Total secrecy.On FamilyLife Today, Dave and Ann Wilson talk with Ron Deal about how AI dangers threaten marriages, kids, and faith. Before “Google God” replaces real connection, learn what's at stake in your home. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29?v=20251111

Lonely? There's an app for that. AI companions promise instant connection, zero conflict, and someone who always says the right thing. No eye rolls. No baggage. No growth either.On FamilyLife Today, Dave and Ann Wilson talk with Ron Deal about how AI companions are reshaping marriages, parenting, and emotional intimacy. Before a chatbot becomes your safest relationship, find out what's really at stake. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29?v=20251111

Lonely? There's an app for that. AI companions promise instant connection, zero conflict, and someone who always says the right thing. No eye rolls. No baggage. No growth either.On FamilyLife Today, Dave and Ann Wilson talk with Ron Deal about how AI companions are reshaping marriages, parenting, and emotional intimacy. Before a chatbot becomes your safest relationship, find out what's really at stake. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29?v=20251111

You and your spouse are pretty much on the same page, except when it comes […]

You and your spouse are pretty much on the same page, except when it comes […]

Martin Luther once said, “There is no more lovely, friendly and charming relationship, communion or company than a good marriage.” Marriage is one of God's great gifts—but like any meaningful relationship, it requires intentional care and wisdom. That's especially true in blended families. When two people come together later in life—often bringing children, financial histories, and past experiences of loss—the conversations surrounding money, inheritance, and responsibility can become complex. To explore how couples can navigate these challenges faithfully and wisely, we were joined by Ron Deal and Greg Pettis, co-authors of The Smart Step Family Guide to Financial Planning. Their work offers practical guidance for couples seeking peace, clarity, and unity in second marriages. One of the most helpful tools they recommend is something called a “Togetherness Agreement.” Why Blended Families Face Unique Financial Challenges When couples enter a second marriage, they aren't simply merging households—they're merging entire life stories. Often, there are children from previous relationships, existing debts or investments, businesses, aging parents who need care, and deeply personal financial experiences shaped by the past. For many, divorce, death, or financial conflict in a previous marriage has left emotional scars that naturally create caution in the next one. As Ron Deal explains, conversations about bank accounts or investments rarely stay purely financial. They quickly become conversations about trust, security, and provision—especially when children or extended family members are involved. Questions arise, such as: How should accounts be structured? How will assets be divided in the future? How do we care for children from previous marriages? What happens to a business or an inheritance?   Without clear communication, assumptions can easily lead to misunderstanding or conflict later on. The “Togetherness Agreement” To help couples navigate these conversations, Deal and Pettis developed the idea of a Togetherness Agreement. This agreement is more than a financial document. It's a framework for couples to intentionally discuss expectations, values, and responsibilities before problems arise. Greg Pettis describes it this way: couples are essentially “writing the rules for their marriage with love and respect for both parties.” The agreement helps address emotionally charged topics such as: How many financial accounts will a couple maintain Whether finances will be fully combined or partially separate How assets will be passed to children Responsibilities toward aging parents Ownership of businesses or investments The roles of stepchildren, grandchildren, and extended family By putting these conversations in writing, couples gain clarity and reduce the risk of future confusion. Should It Be a Legal Document? In many cases, Deal and Pettis recommend that couples make their Togetherness Agreement a formal legal document, often with the help of an attorney. While marriage itself is a legal covenant, it doesn't always address the specific financial realities of blended families. A written agreement can help financial advisors, attorneys, and family members understand the couple's intentions. It can also prevent what Deal calls “inheritance drift.” Without clear planning, assets can unintentionally pass to people far removed from the original family line. For example, if a spouse dies and the surviving spouse remarries without updating estate plans, assets may eventually pass to the new spouse's family rather than the original children. Intentional planning ensures that what matters most to a family is preserved. A Real-Life Example Deal and Pettis share the story of a couple, Anthony and Jenny, to illustrate how a Togetherness Agreement can work. Anthony was a successful construction business owner with two sons. Jenny, a CPA, also had children and was caring for her aging mother. During their courtship, neither fully understood the other's financial situation. Anthony had previously struggled with gambling debt and a low credit score. Jenny had spent significant resources caring for her mother and had promised that her mother could one day live with her. Their Togetherness Agreement created a space for honest disclosure and compassionate conversation. Together, they worked through several important decisions: They established one shared budget account but maintained individual accounts while Anthony addressed his credit and gambling issues. Anthony clarified that his sons would inherit his company, something that had been planned long before the new marriage. To provide for Jenny and her daughter, they created a trust funded by life insurance. They developed long-term care plans for Jenny's mother. The process didn't just solve financial questions—it strengthened their relationship by building trust and mutual respect. The Power of Simply Starting the Conversation While a legal document can be valuable, Pettis emphasizes that the most important step is simply starting the conversation. Couples don't need to begin with lawyers and paperwork. Even writing ideas on a notepad can open the door to transparency and deeper understanding. What matters most is creating an environment where both spouses feel safe sharing their hopes, concerns, and expectations for the future. When Should Couples Create a Togetherness Agreement? Ideally, these conversations should begin before marriage, during the dating or engagement phase. That's the time when couples can discuss expectations openly and thoughtfully. But if a couple is already married and hasn't had these conversations, it's never too late. As Ron Deal puts it: Start today. Intentional communication can prevent future conflict and help couples build a financial plan rooted in love, wisdom, and unity. A Tool for Strengthening Marriage Money often reveals the deeper values and priorities of our hearts. For blended families, navigating those conversations requires patience, grace, and thoughtful planning. A Togetherness Agreement gives couples a practical way to align their financial decisions with their shared vision for the future. When approached with humility and honesty, these conversations can do more than organize finances—they can strengthen the marriage itself. For couples navigating life in a blended family, that kind of clarity and unity can be an invaluable gift. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I recently had to take a large required minimum distribution, so I now have extra cash and would like to give more than $19,000 to each of my children. Is there a way to do that without creating tax issues? I'm turning 63 this week and still working full-time. I've been hearing that Social Security could run out of money by 2033, and it's making me consider claiming benefits early. Is that concern valid, and would starting at 63 or 64 significantly reduce my benefit? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) The Smart Stepfamily Guide to Financial Planning: Money Management Before and After You Blend a Family by Ron L. Deal, Greg S. Pettys, and David O. Edwards Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A strong marriage is a blessing, but it also takes intentional effort, especially in a blended family. On the next Faith & Finance Live, Rob West is joined by Ron Deal and Greg Pettys to discuss a valuable resource for second marriages. Then, it’s on to your financial questions. That’s Faith & Finance Live—where biblical wisdom meets today’s financial decisions—weekdays at 4pm Eastern/3pm Central on Moody Radio. Faith & Finance Live is a listener supported program on Moody Radio. To join our team of supporters, click here.To support the ministry of FaithFi, click here.To learn more about Rob West, click here.To learn more about Faith & Finance Live, click here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ResourcesEpisode 232.  5 Principles to Manage Contact Between Homes and Promote Your Child's WellbeingArticle from Navesink Wellness Center:  When Your Child Becomes Your Confidant:  The Trap of Emotional SafetyEpisode 161.  How do Healthy Parent/Child Roles Help Avoid the Pitfalls of Parentification? [with Ron Deal & Lauren Reitsema]Episode 229. The Heavy Burdens Kids Carry: Loyalty Binds, Parental Allegiance, and How to Help  Episode 84. How to Cope with Sadness, Anxiety, and Longing While Your Kids are GoneSuggest a Topic or Ask a Question  Would you like us to discuss something specific or answer your question on the show?  Let us know!We've made it easy.  Just click here:  https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/shareReady for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/free-callSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you to do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

Caller Questions & Discussion: According to blended family expert Ron Deal, despite good intentions, most couples who bring children from previous relationships into marriage are not prepared to deal with them. The smarter you are, the better your family will be. I discovered my husband has been making a lot of phone calls to a female classmate from high school. To what extent should I insist on full disclosure? I'm a single mom to two teens and have been divorced for 2 years; how do I help them adjust to me dating again? I’m remarried, my husband’s adult son is in a wheelchair, and my husband and I don’t get to spend much time together. What is my role? What should I do?

Blended families are beautiful—but they're also complex. When two lives, two histories, and often two sets of kids come together, figuring out what "family" looks like can feel overwhelming. From divided loyalties and differing parenting styles to navigating ex-spouses, finances, and faith, blended families face unique challenges that many couples aren't prepared for. In this episode, we're joined by Ron Deal, director of FamilyLife Blended and author of The Smart Stepfamily. Ron shares practical wisdom, biblical insight, and deep encouragement for couples navigating stepfamily life. We talk about earning influence before exercising authority, managing divided loyalties, setting realistic expectations, and protecting your marriage while building unity in your home. Whether you're part of a blended family or love someone who is, this conversation offers real hope, grace-filled guidance, and a reminder that healthy blended families are built over time—on purpose, and with God at the center. Episode Takeaways: Blended families are not repairs of biological families. Creating a blended family involves new rules and dynamics. Respect and communication are key. Quotes from this Episode: "You are not repairing a biological family structure. You are creating an entirely new blended family structure where the rules are different." -Ron Deal "To be a great co-parent, you need to act divorced—respect your boundaries, let go of control, and focus on parenting your own way."- Ron Deal "Stop pretending you have the right to influence your ex's choices. You can share your preferences respectfully, but after that, let go and parent your own way." - Ron Deal "Your spouse is the most important adult relationship in your life—honor that allegiance, but never abandon your children." - Ron Deal "You cannot demand love out of a child. That's something they decide on their time."- Ron Deal "If you support the stepparent in front of your kids, if you are a team member in the parenting system, then your blended family has a chance." -Ron Deal "You cannot have two parenting styles under one roof; blended families thrive when standards are more alike than different."- Ron Deal   Questions to Talk Through: Where do we feel the most tension in our blended family right now—and how can we face it together instead of alone? What is one way we can better support each other when parenting, scheduling, or outside relationships feel overwhelming? What does "progress" look like for our family in this season, even if it doesn't look perfect yet?   Mentioned in this Episode: Awesome Marriage is on Instagram! Ron and Nan Deal wrote The Mindful Marriage- it's a MUST read for all couples. Blended family? The Smart Stepfamily  needs to be your next read! Check out more of what Ron is doing HERE. Your words, your tone, your attitude- they all matter in how your spouse hears you. Check out our new devotional: Cut the Criticism and Cultivate Companionship Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Caught in the trap of negativity towards your spouse? Start our Lord, Help my Critical Heart reading plan today. If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !   

If you've ever wrestled with the question, “How often should my child be in contact with their other parent during my time?”, you've probably realized this isn't really about phone calls. It's about the invisible pressure kids feel to stay emotionally connected to both homes simultaneously and the tension it creates for everyone.If you want your home to be a place of peace and predictability, but you keep getting derailed by “just one more check-in", this episode is for you. The problem isn't a lack of love. The problem is that frequent, parent-driven contact can quietly create loyalty binds, disrupt routines, and place adult anxiety on a child's shoulders.We'll share five principles for healthy cross-home communication, so your child can feel settled, your home can have stability, and you and your spouse can stay united instead of stuck in the same argument about how the other home seems to be intruding on ours.You'll walk away with helpful insight that'll help you decide what's best for your kids: prioritize child-driven connection when possible, create respectful boundaries when needed, protect household rhythms, evaluate your unique co-parenting context, and choose quality over quantity.Because the win isn't “constant access.” The win is a child who feels lighter and freer to love everyone without feeling responsible for meeting unrealistic expectations and managing two homes simultaneously. You'll Discover:How “well-meaning” check-ins can unintentionally create pressure, guilt, or loyalty binds for kidsThe 5 guiding principles to create stability and reduce emotional burden across two homesPractical boundary ideas that protect routines without cutting off connectionA 2-question filter to decide whether your current communication pattern is helping or harmingWhy “quality over quantity” is often the best path to a stronger connection (especially for teens)Resources from this Episode:Episode 161.  How do Healthy Parent/Child Roles Help Avoid the Pitfalls of Parentification? [with Ron Deal & Lauren Reitsema]Episode 229. The Heavy Burdens Kids Carry: Loyalty Binds, Parental Allegiance, and How to Help Article from Navesink Wellness Center:  When Your Child Becomes Your Confidant:  The Trap of Emotional SafetyIn Their Shoes - Helping Parents Better Understand and Connect with Children of Divorce by Lauren ReitsemaEpisode 212.  3 Negotiation Strategies to Increase Collaboration and Influence in Your Co-Parenting Relationship Episode 113.   How to Respond When Being Disregarded, Devalued, or Dismissed by Your Former Spouse  Ready for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesession 

If you've ever felt that jolt of panic when your child shares that they've been spending time with "daddy's new girlfriend" or "mommy's new boyfriend"……you're not alone. That moment can trigger fear, jealousy, grief, and of course, a protective instinct that makes you want to react fast.  And sometimes that turns into a moment we later regret.In this episode, we'll help you slow down and respond with wisdom instead of emotion. You'll learn how to make a helpful first impression (even if you don't feel ready), how to reduce tension that fuels loyalty binds, and move toward a healthier co-parenting dynamic without just pretending everything is “fine.” You'll DiscoverWhat to do when you feel unsettled by your ex's “recoupling” How to protect your kids from getting stuck in the middle and stay focused on their well-being How to set a healthy tone with the new partner (and your ex), so you can  avoid common missteps that often strain co-parenting  Resources from this Episode:Episode 229.  The Heavy Burdens Kids Carry:  Loyalty Binds, Parental Allegiance, and How to HelpEpisode 226. How Two Homes Raise Kids that Thrive:  A Co-Parenting Blueprint for Caring Parents [with Jay & Tammy Daughtry]Episode 161.  How do Healthy Parent/Child Roles Help Avoid the Pitfalls of Parentification? [with Ron Deal & Lauren Reitsema]Episode 162. How to Healthy Step-Parent/Step-Child Dynamics Avoid the Pitfalls of Step-Parentification [with Ron Deal & Lauren Reitsema]For Stepparents:Episode 44:  Why does my Husband's Ex Think I'm the Enemy?Episode 45:  How to Cooperate More with Your Spouse's Uncooperative ExEpisode 91:  Is Your Husband's Hostile Ex-Wife Invading Your Life, Stealing Your Joy and Confidence? Episode 170. Co-Parenting Pitfalls for Bio and Step Parents:  How to Avoid "Milestone Mishaps"Ready for some extra support?We're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesessionLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

Today, on Karl and Crew, we kicked off our weekly theme of “Marriage and Family” with a conversation with Dr. Gary Chapman about the importance of godly love in marriage. He also spoke about his latest book, “The Love Language That Matters Most: How to Personalize Love So They Really Feel It,” the sequel to the New York Times bestseller, “The Five Love Languages.” Dr. Chapman is also a well-known marriage counselor, speaker, and pastor. He is also the host of Building Relationships, which airs every Saturday at 12 pm CT on Moody Radio. Then we had Ron Deal join us to discuss the stats on blended families and ways to support blended families with a well-researched blueprint. Ron is a bestselling author, a licensed marriage & family therapist, a podcaster, and a popular conference speaker. He is also the Founder and President of Smart Stepfamilies and the Director of FamilyLife Blended, a division of FamilyLife dedicated to serving blended families. He is also the author of several books, including “The Mindful Marriage: Create Your Best Relationship Through Understanding and Managing Yourself.” You can hear the highlights of today's program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps: Listener stories [12:09] Dr. Gary Chapman Interview [29:08] Ron Deal Interview [45:12] Ally Thinks It's Funny [57:43] Karl and Crew airs live weekday mornings from 5-9 a.m. Central Time. Click this link for ways to listen in your area! https://www.moodyradio.org/ways-to-listen/Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we kicked off our weekly theme of “Marriage and Family” with a conversation with Dr. Gary Chapman about the importance of godly love in marriage. He also spoke about his latest book, “The Love Language That Matters Most: How to Personalize Love So They Really Feel It,” the sequel to the New York Times bestseller, “The Five Love Languages.” Dr. Chapman is also a well-known marriage counselor, speaker, and pastor. He is also the host of Building Relationships, which airs every Saturday at 12 pm CT on Moody Radio. Then we had Ron Deal join us to discuss the stats on blended families and ways to support blended families with a well-researched blueprint. Ron is a bestselling author, a licensed marriage & family therapist, a podcaster, and a popular conference speaker. He is also the Founder and President of Smart Stepfamilies and the Director of FamilyLife Blended, a division of FamilyLife dedicated to serving blended families. He is also the author of several books, including “The Mindful Marriage: Create Your Best Relationship Through Understanding and Managing Yourself.” You can hear the highlights of today's program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps: Listener stories [12:09] Dr. Gary Chapman Interview [29:08] Ron Deal Interview [45:12] Ally Thinks It's Funny [57:43] Karl and Crew airs live weekday mornings from 5-9 a.m. Central Time. Click this link for ways to listen in your area! https://www.moodyradio.org/ways-to-listen/Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we kicked off our weekly theme of “Marriage and Family” with a conversation with Dr. Gary Chapman about the importance of godly love in marriage. He also spoke about his latest book, “The Love Language That Matters Most: How to Personalize Love So They Really Feel It,” the sequel to the New York Times bestseller, “The Five Love Languages.” Dr. Chapman is also a well-known marriage counselor, speaker, and pastor. He is also the host of Building Relationships, which airs every Saturday at 12 pm CT on Moody Radio. Then we had Ron Deal join us to discuss the stats on blended families and ways to support blended families with a well-researched blueprint. Ron is a bestselling author, a licensed marriage & family therapist, a podcaster, and a popular conference speaker. He is also the Founder and President of Smart Stepfamilies and the Director of FamilyLife Blended, a division of FamilyLife dedicated to serving blended families. He is also the author of several books, including “The Mindful Marriage: Create Your Best Relationship Through Understanding and Managing Yourself.” You can hear the highlights of today's program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps: Listener stories [12:09] Dr. Gary Chapman Interview [29:08] Ron Deal Interview [45:12] Ally Thinks It's Funny [57:43] Karl and Crew airs live weekday mornings from 5-9 a.m. Central Time. Click this link for ways to listen in your area! https://www.moodyradio.org/ways-to-listen/Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we kicked off our weekly theme of “Marriage and Family” with a conversation with Dr. Gary Chapman about the importance of godly love in marriage. He also spoke about his latest book, “The Love Language That Matters Most: How to Personalize Love So They Really Feel It,” the sequel to the New York Times bestseller, “The Five Love Languages.” Dr. Chapman is also a well-known marriage counselor, speaker, and pastor. He is also the host of Building Relationships, which airs every Saturday at 12 pm CT on Moody Radio. Then we had Ron Deal join us to discuss the stats on blended families and ways to support blended families with a well-researched blueprint. Ron is a bestselling author, a licensed marriage & family therapist, a podcaster, and a popular conference speaker. He is also the Founder and President of Smart Stepfamilies and the Director of FamilyLife Blended, a division of FamilyLife dedicated to serving blended families. He is also the author of several books, including “The Mindful Marriage: Create Your Best Relationship Through Understanding and Managing Yourself.” You can hear the highlights of today's program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps: Listener stories [12:09] Dr. Gary Chapman Interview [29:08] Ron Deal Interview [45:12] Ally Thinks It's Funny [57:43] Karl and Crew airs live weekday mornings from 5-9 a.m. Central Time. Click this link for ways to listen in your area! https://www.moodyradio.org/ways-to-listen/Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we kicked off our weekly theme of “Marriage and Family” with a conversation with Dr. Gary Chapman about the importance of godly love in marriage. He also spoke about his latest book, “The Love Language That Matters Most: How to Personalize Love So They Really Feel It,” the sequel to the New York Times bestseller, “The Five Love Languages.” Dr. Chapman is also a well-known marriage counselor, speaker, and pastor. He is also the host of Building Relationships, which airs every Saturday at 12 pm CT on Moody Radio. Then we had Ron Deal join us to discuss the stats on blended families and ways to support blended families with a well-researched blueprint. Ron is a bestselling author, a licensed marriage & family therapist, a podcaster, and a popular conference speaker. He is also the Founder and President of Smart Stepfamilies and the Director of FamilyLife Blended, a division of FamilyLife dedicated to serving blended families. He is also the author of several books, including “The Mindful Marriage: Create Your Best Relationship Through Understanding and Managing Yourself.” You can hear the highlights of today's program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps: Listener stories [12:09] Dr. Gary Chapman Interview [29:08] Ron Deal Interview [45:12] Ally Thinks It's Funny [57:43] Karl and Crew airs live weekday mornings from 5-9 a.m. Central Time. Click this link for ways to listen in your area! https://www.moodyradio.org/ways-to-listen/Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we kicked off our weekly theme of “Marriage and Family” with a conversation with Dr. Gary Chapman about the importance of godly love in marriage. He also spoke about his latest book, “The Love Language That Matters Most: How to Personalize Love So They Really Feel It,” the sequel to the New York Times bestseller, “The Five Love Languages.” Dr. Chapman is also a well-known marriage counselor, speaker, and pastor. He is also the host of Building Relationships, which airs every Saturday at 12 pm CT on Moody Radio. Then we had Ron Deal join us to discuss the stats on blended families and ways to support blended families with a well-researched blueprint. Ron is a bestselling author, a licensed marriage & family therapist, a podcaster, and a popular conference speaker. He is also the Founder and President of Smart Stepfamilies and the Director of FamilyLife Blended, a division of FamilyLife dedicated to serving blended families. He is also the author of several books, including “The Mindful Marriage: Create Your Best Relationship Through Understanding and Managing Yourself.” You can hear the highlights of today's program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps: Listener stories [12:09] Dr. Gary Chapman Interview [29:08] Ron Deal Interview [45:12] Ally Thinks It's Funny [57:43] Karl and Crew airs live weekday mornings from 5-9 a.m. Central Time. Click this link for ways to listen in your area! https://www.moodyradio.org/ways-to-listen/Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we kicked off our weekly theme of “Marriage and Family” with a conversation with Dr. Gary Chapman about the importance of godly love in marriage. He also spoke about his latest book, “The Love Language That Matters Most: How to Personalize Love So They Really Feel It,” the sequel to the New York Times bestseller, “The Five Love Languages.” Dr. Chapman is also a well-known marriage counselor, speaker, and pastor. He is also the host of Building Relationships, which airs every Saturday at 12 pm CT on Moody Radio. Then we had Ron Deal join us to discuss the stats on blended families and ways to support blended families with a well-researched blueprint. Ron is a bestselling author, a licensed marriage & family therapist, a podcaster, and a popular conference speaker. He is also the Founder and President of Smart Stepfamilies and the Director of FamilyLife Blended, a division of FamilyLife dedicated to serving blended families. He is also the author of several books, including “The Mindful Marriage: Create Your Best Relationship Through Understanding and Managing Yourself.” You can hear the highlights of today's program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps: Listener stories [12:09] Dr. Gary Chapman Interview [29:08] Ron Deal Interview [45:12] Ally Thinks It's Funny [57:43] Karl and Crew airs live weekday mornings from 5-9 a.m. Central Time. Click this link for ways to listen in your area! https://www.moodyradio.org/ways-to-listen/Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marriage has a way of bringing both our deepest joy—and our deepest pain—to the surface. If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in the same frustrating patterns, wondering why you keep ending up here, you’re not alone. In honor of National Marriage Week, I want to share a meaningful conversation from The Love Offering Podcast with Ron Deal about his book, The Mindful Marriage: Create Your Best Relationship Through Understanding and Managing Yourself. This book—and our conversation—is especially powerful because it’s rooted in both neuroscience and biblical truth. Ron openly shares how the devastating loss of their child nearly shattered his marriage, pushing him into painful and destructive cycles he and his wife Nan didn’t know how to stop. At their breaking point, they found help through Restoration Therapy, developed by pioneering therapists Dr. Terry Hargrave and Sharon Hargrave, LMFT—a model that has helped millions learn emotional mindfulness and self-regulation in relationships. Real change in marriage begins not by fixing your spouse, but by understanding and managing yourself in moments of emotional distress. Ron and Nan, alongside the Hargraves, challenge many popular myths about how relationships work and offer a proven path to healing, connection, and lasting love. If you’re longing for a stronger, healthier marriage—or simply want to love your spouse more faithfully—this conversation is for you. My prayer this National Marriage Week is that you would be encouraged to believe that healing is possible, patterns can be broken, and love can grow again—even in the places that feel tender or worn. Much love, Rachael Connect with Ron: https://rondeal.org/about Connect with Rachael: https://rachaelkadams.com/ Download your free Love Always Devotional: https://rachaelkadams.com/free/ National Marriage Week: https://www.marriageweek.org/ Grab Your Every Woman's Bible: https://hubs.la/Q0427vjP0 Support the Show: https://rachaelkadams.com/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What if the families who feel like “misfits” in church are actually the majority? Therapist Ron Deal and author Gayla Grace explore the pain of exclusion, sharing practical, gospel-centered strategies for how churches can include single parents. From language tweaks to small groups and intentional hospitality, this episode inspires hope, challenges assumptions, and equips leaders and volunteers to create a church where every family feels truly seen. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29?v=20251111

If you've ever watched your child's mood shift the moment they step into a handoff…Or felt the sting of being kept at arm's length for reasons you can't explain… You're not imagining it. In blended families, kids often carry emotional burdens they were never meant to hold.In this episode, we name two of the most common “under-the-surface” struggles: loyalty binds (when a child feels torn between a bio parent and a stepparent) and parental allegiance (when a child feels pressure to align with one parent over the other). We share real-life stories, including the quiet pain behind the rejection of a stepparent's sweet gesture, and the way a joyful moment can suddenly collapse into guilt after a call with the other parent.But we don't stop at awareness. We give you a plan. We'll help you slow down, step into your child's shoes, and create emotional safety. We'll help step-parents stay hopeful and keep expectations realistic. And we'll challenge bio parents to protect their kids from adult tension by choosing the neutral zone (where curiosity lowers the temperature and kids are freed to love without feeling responsible for anyone's emotions).The win isn't perfect co-parenting or flawless moments.  It's this: kids get out of the middle, pressure starts to lift, and your home has room for trust, connection, and peace to grow. You'll Discover:The difference between a loyalty bind and parental allegiance, and how each one shows up in real life. How emotion coaching helps your child process hard feelings without forcing apologies or rushing an unrealistic "fix".  What step-parents can do to cope with rejection (and why “crockpot bonding” protects your heart and builds trust over time). The subtle ways parents accidentally tighten the bind and what to say/do instead to keep kids free to love everyone in both homes. How to find and stay in the neutral zone when insecurity, fear, jealousy, or discomfort hits.  Resources from this Episode:Surviving and Thriving in Stepfamily Relationships by Patricia PapernowEpisode 222.  Step-by-Step Guide:  Facing Painful Pushback Without Making Things Worse (part 1 of 2)Episode 72. The Best Way to Create Healthy, Bonded RelationshipsEpisode 159. How to Stay Hopeful as a Stepparent When You're Continually Rejected and HurtEpisode 161.  How do Healthy Parent/Child Roles Help Avoid the Pitfalls of Parentification? [with Ron Deal & Lauren Reitsema]  Episode 210.  Is your child pulling away?  Here's How to Respond with Wisdom and LoveEpisode 211.  8 Warning Signs Your Ex Is Manipulating Your Child's Heart and MindReady for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence, and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesession

Those of us facing the common challenges of blending often feel frustrated, overwhelmed, or discouraged. It's easy to drift into survival mode and settle for “not that bad.”In this episode, we'll share a clear plan to move forward in a simple way that's not about the pressure of big, dramatic New Year's resolutions.  Here's the truth: transformation doesn't happen overnight, and there are no easy fixes to the complex dynamics stepfamilies face. But change can happen with small, faithful shifts practiced over time. You'll Discover:The difference between information vs. transformation and why “insight without action” keeps couples stuck How to set process goals (not vague intentions), and capture the “gold nuggets” you want to apply to your family's current struggles How to “work your plan” and experience real WINS in 2026!Resources from this Episode:CLICK HERE to schedule your FREE coaching call with usCLICK HERE to learn more about the Blending Together CommunityFind your Focus & Choose your Path:Bonding:For specific episodes on building healthy Bonds, CLICK HEREBuilding Love Together in Blended Families by Ron Deal & Gary ChapmanUnderstanding Kids' Perspectives:For specific episodes to gain insight & support your kids, CLICK HEREIn Their Shoes: Helping Parents Better Understand and Connect with Children of Divorce by Lauren ReitsemaSafeguarding your Relationship / Marriage:For specific episodes to grow a deeper connection and reduce conflict, CLICK HERESaving Your Second Marriage Before It Starts: Nine Questions to Ask Before -- and After -- You Remarry by Drs. Les & Leslie ParrotParenting  & Stepparenting:For specific episodes to develop your parenting partnership and align family expectations, CLICK HEREStepparenting:  Keeping It Sane by Dr. Charles FayParenting Under Fire: How to Communicate with Your Hurt, Angry, Rejecting, Distant Child by Dr. Amy J.L. BakerEffective Co-Parenting:For specific episodes to discover best practices and improve cooperation between homes, CLICK HERECoParenting Works!  Helping Your Children Thrive After Divorce By Tammy Daughtry

The holidays can be especially tough for blended families. What do you do with lost or broken Christmas traditions? Joining Dr. Randy is Ron Deal, Director of Family Life Blended, and together they will help you find the peace and joy of Christmas. Sign up for Dr. Randy’s INTENTIONAL ONE THING CHALLENGE. Here’s an Intentional […]

The holidays can be especially tough for blended families. What do you do with lost or broken Christmas traditions? Joining Dr. Randy is Ron Deal, Director of Family Life Blended, and together they will help you find the peace and joy of Christmas. Sign up for Dr. Randy’s INTENTIONAL ONE THING CHALLENGE. Here’s an Intentional […]

This is a Men in the Arena podcast highlight from EP 940, Your Brain is Sabotaging Your Marriage w/ Ron Deal: 4 Steps from Neuroscience to Break Your Toxic Patterns. Check it out! Jim's newest book, Guardrails: Ten Boundaries for an Unbreakable Marriage will be releasing in April 2026. Sign up to be notified when it's available at https://meninthearena.org/guardrails. This episode is sponsored by Compassion International. Our goal is for the Men in the Arena tribe to sponsor 1,000 boys over the coming year! Help us reach that goal and make a difference in a child's life today. When you sponsor a child using our link, you'll receive a free copy of Jim's book, Dialed In: Reaching Your Full Capacity as a Man of God! We are also sponsored by MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab, a Christian-owned fitness app. This app, combined with diet, has helped Jim get in the best shape of his life! Get 6 weeks free with the code ARENA30 at MTNTOUGH.com. Every man needs a locker room. Apply to join an exclusive brotherhood of like-minded men in The Locker Room, our monthly live Zoom Q&A call! We meet in the Locker Room once a month for community, fellowship, laughter, and to help each other find biblical answers to life's difficult questions. Locker Room members also get access to monthly exclusive leadership trainings, historically only available to the staff team at Men in the Arena. Membership is by application only. Go here to apply: https://patreon.com/themeninthearena Get Jim Ramos' USA TODAY Bestselling book, Dialed In: Reaching Your Full Capacity as a Man of God (https://tinyurl.com/dialedinbook)    

Our correspondent to the blended family, Ron Deal, will return to talk about your blended Christmas. What issues are you trying to navigate well this year in your blended family? Plus, how have you navigated the holidays with grace and understanding? Is there something you do as a blended family that might help others? Don't miss the practical conversation on Chris Fabry Live. Featured resources:Building Love Together in Blended Families by Gary Chapman and Ron L. DealThe Mindful Marriage by Ron and Nan Deal December thank you gift:Hosanna in Excelsis: Hymns and Devotions for the Christmas Season by David & Barbara Leeman Chris Fabry Live is listener-supported. To support the program, click here.Become a Back Fence Partner: https://moodyradio.org/donateto/chrisfabrylive/partnersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever handled a situation so poorly that you wished you could rewind and do it all over again? What happens when your stress, assumptions, or emotions collide with real-life challenges in your marriage? In this week's expert interview, Jim Ramos brings in expert Ron Deal for insight on how men can avoid assumptions or reactions that sabotage communication. This honest, practical conversation gives every man tools to lead with humility, clarity, and emotional wisdom. You'll get practical steps for owning your mistakes and rebuilding trust, and learn how to respond with wisdom instead of emotion in tough moments. Check our Ron Deal's book 'The Mindful Marriage'. This episode is sponsored by Compassion International. Our goal is for the Men in the Arena tribe to sponsor 1,000 boys over the coming year! Help us reach that goal and make a difference in a child's life today. When you sponsor a child using our link, you'll receive a free copy of Jim's book, Dialed In: Reaching Your Full Capacity as a Man of God! We are also sponsored by MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab, a Christian-owned fitness app. This app, combined with diet, has helped Jim get in the best shape of his life! Get 6 weeks free with the code ARENA30 at MTNTOUGH.com. Every man needs a locker room. Apply to join an exclusive brotherhood of like-minded men in The Locker Room, our monthly live Zoom Q&A call! We meet in the Locker Room once a month for community, fellowship, laughter, and to help each other find biblical answers to life's difficult questions. Locker Room members also get access to monthly exclusive leadership trainings, historically only available to the staff team at Men in the Arena. Membership is by application only. Go here to apply: https://patreon.com/themeninthearena Get Jim Ramos' USA TODAY Bestselling book, Dialed In: Reaching Your Full Capacity as a Man of God (https://tinyurl.com/dialedinbook)   

Blending a family takes grace—and so does blending your finances.When couples merge families, they're also merging priorities, habits, and sometimes, financial baggage. Ron Deal joins us today to show us that with honesty and a shared vision, what begins as a challenge can become a source of strength for blended families navigating both money and marriage.Ron Deal is a bestselling author, licensed marriage & family therapist, podcaster, and popular conference speaker who specializes in marriage enrichment and stepfamily education and is the co-author of The Smart Stepfamily Guide to Financial Planning: Money Management Before and After You Blend a Family. Why Honest Money Conversations MatterThere once was a man who, when his girlfriend thought he was about to propose, surprised her by asking for her credit report instead. It's a funny story—but one that reveals a serious truth. Beneath money conversations are usually heart conversations.For couples forming blended families, this truth runs even deeper. Life has already taught them that marriage isn't guaranteed, whether because of death or a divorce. That experience creates an understandable sense of caution: How deeply do I invest again? Can I trust this new relationship?Money becomes the testing ground for those questions. That's why avoiding financial conversations doesn't protect your relationship—it weakens it. Only about one in four dating or engaged couples forming a blended family ever have a serious talk about finances before they marry. The rest often underestimate what needs to be uncovered.Finances are never just about dollars and cents. They're about values, power, and security. Beneath a discussion about budgets might be an unspoken fear: Will your children be treated equally with mine? Beneath a talk about wills might be a hidden worry: Will you care for my kids if I'm gone?There was once a woman who had been remarried for 25 years—two and a half decades of life together—and she still wondered whether her husband would provide equally for her children after she passed away. The question had never been resolved. It lingered from the past, quietly shaping their relationship.When those unspoken fears remain unaddressed, they create invisible walls. Healthy couples have the courage to name them and work through them together.The Challenge of Inheritance and TrustConsider the story of Sandra and Dave, a couple who married later in life. Sandra, a divorced mother of two adult children, was asked by her new husband, Dave, to change her will and make him her sole beneficiary. To Dave, who had no children of his own, the request seemed simple and loving: We're one now—just leave everything to me, and I'll take care of your family.But Sandra hesitated. Her adult children hadn't had time to form a close bond with Dave. For her, the request stirred deep questions: How do I know that what she's set aside for her children will be honored after she's gone?This is where trust, loyalty, and belonging intersect. Financial peace in a blended family isn't achieved through documents—it's achieved through relational clarity. You can't solve financial questions until you've addressed the relational ones.Moving from Prenuptial to TogethernessSo what's the alternative? In the book, The Smart Stepfamily Guide to Financial Planning: Money Management Before and After You Blend a Family, Ron Deal, Greg Pettis, and David Edwards, introduce what they call a “Togetherness Agreement.”Think of it as a redeemed version of a prenuptial agreement. A traditional prenup is something you do to your spouse—it outlines what they won't receive if the marriage fails. But a Togetherness Agreement is something you do for your spouse. It outlines how you will lovingly and intentionally provide for one another and your families.In a Togetherness Agreement, couples prayerfully decide together:How do they care for children from prior relationshipsHow inherited or premarital assets will be handledHow responsibilities to other households or parents will be honoredAnd how they'll support one another financially in love and unityIt's not about dividing assets—it's about uniting hearts. This process builds emotional safety, which in turn builds trust. When couples feel safe, they can finally exhale, knowing they are truly invested in each other.Taking Inventory—Emotionally and FinanciallyBefore crafting any agreement, couples need to take inventory. That means both emotional and financial reflection.Ask questions like:What financial baggage or debts are we bringing in?What past wounds or fears still shape the way we view money?What are our goals—for our family, our faith, and our future?Blended families are always born out of loss—whether death, divorce, or something else. That history doesn't have to define the new relationship, but it does need to be acknowledged. Honest reflection helps couples avoid repeating old patterns and build a healthier foundation together.Every couple's situation is different, but here are key topics that should be covered in a Togetherness Agreement:Joint and separate accountsDebt and financial obligations from prior marriagesChild or spousal support payments to other householdsRetirement, insurance, and investmentsCollege, cars, and other child-related expensesCovering these topics doesn't weaken love—it strengthens it. It replaces assumptions with clarity and fear with peace.If all of this feels overwhelming, take heart. You don't have to figure it out alone. Seek wise counsel—a trusted financial planner, pastor, or Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) can help you find creative and God-honoring ways to care for your family.And above all, remember this: God's grace is sufficient for your blended family. Submit your plans to Him. Let Him guide the process. As you do, He will grow you—not only in financial wisdom, but in love, unity, and faith.When couples move from mine and yours to ours, they begin to reflect the very heart of God, who makes two one, and who calls us to love generously, even in the way we handle money.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I've been struggling with $26,000 in credit card debt that I recently disclosed to my husband. A credit consolidation company says they can negotiate it down, so I'd pay $400 every two weeks and be debt-free in four years. It sounds good, but is this a trustworthy option—or are there drawbacks I should watch out for?I have UTMA accounts for my two sons, but I am considering switching to 529 plans. I'm mainly concerned that with the UTMA, they'll gain full control of the money once they come of age. Would a 529 plan be a wiser choice?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)The Smart Stepfamily Guide to Financial Planning: Money Management Before and After You Blend a Family by Ron L. Deal. Greg S. Pettys and David O. EdwardsChristian Credit CounselorsWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Blending a family takes grace—and so does blending your finances. When couples merge families, they also fuse priorities, habits, and sometimes, financial baggage. On the next Faith & Finance Live, Rob West and Ron Deal show that, with honesty, patience, and a shared vision, what begins as a challenge can become a source of strength. Then, it’s your calls. That’s Faith & Finance Live, biblical wisdom for your financial journey. That’s weekdays at 4pm Eastern/3pm Central on Moody Radio. Faith & Finance Live is a listener supported program on Moody Radio. To join our team of supporters, click here.To support the ministry of FaithFi, click here.To learn more about Rob West, click here.To learn more about Faith & Finance Live, click here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Dr. Kim sits down with Ron Deal to talk about what it really means to build a mindful marriage. Ron shares lessons from his new book, Mindful Marriage, and how restoration therapy helped him and his wife Nan find healing and deeper connection. Together, they explore how faith, self-awareness, and emotional regulation can transform your relationship from the inside out.   Episode Insights: Authenticity is the foundation of lasting happiness. Emotional dysregulation is normal.  Our brains respond to threat, not fairness. Pain cycles drive repeated conflict. Growth and redemption matter more than blame. Quotes from Today's Episode: 'Happy wife, happy life' sounds catchy, but in reality, it's an empty promise. Lasting happiness in marriage comes from authenticity, not performance or pretending everything is okay. Every single one of us gets thrown off-balance emotionally. Some stay there longer, others move through it quickly, but emotional dysregulation is part of the human experience. There's nothing wrong about you because you get dysregulated. The brain can't tell the difference between a rattlesnake, a near-miss in traffic, or your spouse's criticism. Threat is threat. Our brains are wired for survival, not perfect communication. You don't have fifty different fights in marriage. You just have one ongoing pain cycle. Once you identify and understand your pain cycle, you can finally move beyond it together. Ignoring your pain doesn't make it go away—if anything, it makes your pain stronger, more insistent, and harder to escape. It's easy to point out the flaw in someone else, but it's vital to focus on your own growth. You may not forget your pain, but you can redeem what it does in your life. Choosing redemption over resentment is liberating. Couples Conversation Guide: Are there areas in our marriage where we tend to “perform” or pretend things are okay instead of being real with each other?    When conflict or hurt arises between you, how aware are you of what's really going on beneath the surface—your emotions, triggers, or past experiences? What's one practical step you can take this week to be more mindful in your marriage—whether that's pausing before reacting, praying together, or choosing to listen with empathy?   Mentioned in this episode: #1 Amazon Bestseller is available! The Mindful Marriage (designed for every marriage).   Ron Deal What's your reactive coping style? We all have one. Take our free assessment (15 minutes).  Find Awesome Marriage on Instagram Need help starting the practice of prayer in your marriage? Here's a great resource: 21 Prayers for Building an Awesome Marriage Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. We even have a plan for praying as a couple! Check out 7 Prayers to Grow Your Marriage. Buy 1 get 1 free on the Elevate Your Marriage Communication Course & L.O.V.E Your Way Through Conflict Course. If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  Sign up for Dr. Kim's Marriage Multiplier email for practical weekly marriage tips! Now is the perfect time to join our Marriage Changers program. Enjoy every resource of the month plus bonus content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy. Join now, just in time to receive our Fix Communication Breakdowns Bundle  

Do you ever feel hijacked by your emotions? Why do the same patterns of anger, shame, or withdrawal keep showing up in your relationships? In this week's 10-minute equipping episode, Pastor Jim Ramos unpacks what it means to experience emotional dysregulation—and how to regain peace through the four powerful steps of Restoration Therapy. By the end of this episode, you'll learn why identifying your reactive cycle is key to healing and how to rewrite the story your pain has been telling you. Check our Ron Deal's book! The Mindful Marriage (https://tinyurl.com/Mindful115) This episode is sponsored by MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab, a Christian-owned fitness app. Get 6 weeks free with the code ARENA30 at MTNTOUGH.com. Every man needs a locker room. Join a brotherhood of like-minded men in The Locker Room, our bi-monthly live Zoom Q&A call! We meet in the Locker Room twice a month for community, fellowship, laughter, and to help each other find biblical answers to life's difficult questions. Sharing community with t hese amazing men is one of the most enjoyable things I do. - Jim Ramos https://patreon.com/themeninthearena Get Jim Ramos' USA TODAY Bestselling book, Dialed In: Reaching Your Full Capacity as a Man of God (https://tinyurl.com/dialedinbook)

Blending a family isn't just about making schedules work or learning each other's habits. It's about entering into an already-formed culture — one that existed before you. For the stepparent, that often means grieving what you imagined family life would look like, while choosing to restrain yourself from immediately reshaping the environment into “yours.”In this episode, Jason and Lauren Vallotton talk candidly about:Why grief is a normal and healthy part of the step-parenting journeyThe tension between honoring the existing family culture and slowly helping build a new oneThe unspoken expectations that every stepparent carries — and what to do with themWhy building a new “normal” takes years (Ron Deal says seven, and it often feels true!)Encouragement for couples to stay connected in the long process of blendingIf you're in the thick of a blended family dynamic, you are not crazy and you are not alone. Healing, belonging, and love can grow in the middle of the mess — but it takes time, patience, and a lot of grace.PatreonIf you've enjoyed this podcast, would you consider financially supporting the show? Every donation, big and small, helps the Vallottons continue to prioritize making this content for you. Click this link to support! Thank you!For information on the Marriage Intensive and other resources, go to jasonandlaurenvallotton.com !Connect with Lauren:InstagramFacebookConnect with Jason:Jay's InstagramJay's FacebookBraveCo Instagramwww.braveco.org

PART TWO  In this episode of Men’s Divorce Recovery, Dale and Chris sit down with Ron Deal, director of FamilyLife Blended®, to talk about the challenges and blessings of life after divorce. Together they unpack the realities of step-parenting, the pitfalls that can lead to re-divorce, and the biblical principles that offer hope for men navigating blended families. With wisdom drawn from Scripture and years of ministry experience, Ron shares practical tools and encouragement for fathers, stepfathers, and husbands who want to lead with faith, patience, and grace. Inspiration Verse: “If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” — 2 Corinthians 5:17 Resources: https://www.rondeal.org/  

In this episode of Men’s Divorce Recovery, Dale and Chris sit down with Ron Deal, director of FamilyLife Blended®, to talk about the challenges and blessings of life after divorce. Together they unpack the realities of step-parenting, the pitfalls that can lead to re-divorce, and the biblical principles that offer hope for men navigating blended families. With wisdom drawn from Scripture and years of ministry experience, Ron shares practical tools and encouragement for fathers, stepfathers, and husbands who want to lead with faith, patience, and grace. Inspiration Verse: “If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” — 2 Corinthians 5:17 Resources: https://rondeal.org/  

If you've ever felt like the values you're trying to instill in your kids get undone the moment they step into the other home, you're not alone. We've been there—and we know how discouraging it can feel.In this episode, we share a powerful tool we first learned from Ron Deal called the Inoculation Strategy. It's a simple, practical way to prepare your kids to recognize and resist negative influences—without badmouthing or creating loyalty binds. We'll walk you through real-life examples from our own blended family journey, explain how to stay in the “neutral zone” while teaching important lessons, and encourage you to keep planting seeds of character even when it seems like they aren't taking root. Over time, your kids will internalize what you've instilled—and those intentional lessons will matter more than you think.You'll Discover:The “wild card factor” that often fuels conflict between householdsTwo key realities you must accept before using the Inoculation StrategyPractical ways to engage your kids by using movies, books, current events, and personal stories as teaching moments that countHow to avoid loyalty binds and protect your child's wellbeing while guiding them toward positive values, character traits, and life skillsResources from this Episode:The Smart Stepfamily by Ron DealEpisode 207. Four Myths About Parenting When Your Ex Has Different RulesReady for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence, and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesessionSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you to do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

You and your spouse are pretty much on the same page, except when it comes to the kids you each brought into the family. Blended family expert Ron Deal joins Randy, and they're gonna help you have peace, cooperation, and love in that blended family of yours. Sign up for Dr. Randy’s INTENTIONAL ONE THING […]

You and your spouse are pretty much on the same page, except when it comes to the kids you each brought into the family. Blended family expert Ron Deal joins Randy, and they're gonna help you have peace, cooperation, and love in that blended family of yours. Sign up for Dr. Randy’s INTENTIONAL ONE THING […]

About Stepfamilies of the Bible: Timeless Wisdom for Blended FamiliesBlending families isn't easy—but hope and guidance can be found in scripture. In Stepfamilies of the Bible blended family expert and stepmom, Laura Petherbridge offers heartfelt insights and solutions for navigating the complex emotions, relationships, and challenges of today's blended families. Through inspiring true stories of God's heroes from stepfamilies, discover practical tools to build unity, overcome complexities, foster love, and rely on faith during every step of the journey.This powerful healing resource is the entire blended family, not merely couples. It's designed for anyone currently in—or related to—a blended family. Laura provides encouragement, wisdom, and God's grace. Begin your journey today!Purchase a copy of Stepfamilies of the Bible: Timeless Wisdom for Blended Families here.Connect with Laura Petherbridgewebsite | Facebook | InstagramLaura Petherbridge serves couples and single adults with topics on spiritual growth, relationships, stepfamilies, co-parenting, single parenting, divorce prevention, and divorce recovery.She is an international speaker and author of four books including, When “I Do” Becomes “I Don't”—Practical Steps for Healing During Separation and Divorce, and The Smart Stepmom, co-authored with stepfamily expert Ron Deal and endorsed by Gary Chapman (Five Love Languages), 101Tips for The Smart Stepmom—Expert Advice from One Stepmom to Another and Quiet Moments for the Stepmom Soul-a devotional.Laura has spoken at the Billy Graham Training Center, and for Lifeway, Family Life, Hearts at Home, and Iron Sharpens Iron conferences.

You and your spouse are pretty much on the same page, except when it comes to the kids you each brought into the family. Blended family expert Ron Deal joins Randy, and they're gonna help you have peace, cooperation, and love in that blended family of yours. Sign up for Dr. Randy’s INTENTIONAL ONE THING […]

You and your spouse are pretty much on the same page, except when it comes to the kids you each brought into the family. Blended family expert Ron Deal joins Randy, and they're gonna help you have peace, cooperation, and love in that blended family of yours. Sign up for Dr. Randy’s INTENTIONAL ONE THING […]

When Ron and Nan Deal suffered the devastating loss of their child, their marriage was nearly shattered by destructive cycles. On this summer best-of Building Relationships with Dr. Gary Chapman, you’ll hear how a different approach to their conflict patterns helped break those cycles and bring them together. Hear about their “mindful marriage” and how it could help yours on Building Relationships with Dr. Gary Chapman. Featured resource: The Mindful Marriage: Create Your Best Relationship Through Understanding and Managing YourselfDonate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/buildingrelationshipsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we're getting real about something that so many blended family parents struggle with: permissive parenting driven by guilt, fear, or insecurity.Kim opens up about her personal journey as a single mom, how her guilt and fear led her to parent from a place of pity, and how that impacted her daughter, Annika. We're also diving into the difference between pity and empathy and how embracing authoritative parenting—rooted in love and limits—can shift everything for your family. Whether you're a parent stuck in emotional reactivity or a stepparent struggling to support your spouse, this episode is packed with encouragement, practical insight, and next steps to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.You'll Discover:The surprising ways guilt, fear, and insecurity can lead to permissive parenting and the negative impact on kidsHow pity and empathy differ and why it matters for your child's developmentWhat authoritative parenting looks like and why it's the most healthy and effective styleReal-life examples of how blended family dynamics impact parenting decisions and often create stressHow to begin shifting your mindset and reclaiming your parental authority so that you can be the kind of leader your kids really needResources from this Episode:CLICK HERE to continue learning and growing in your parenting journeyParenting Style Quiz:  What's Your Parenting Style?Episode 99. 3 Tips to Help You Move Beyond Painful Guilt and RegretEpisode 179. Conquer Fear and Embrace Your Blend with Confidence and ClarityEpisode 180. Break Free from Guilt and Blend with Authenticity and SecurityEpisode 209. Breaking Free from Self-Doubt:  5 Habits to Build Confidence and Trust in YourselfEpisode 189.  Bring Hope to the Realities of Grief: A Path to Understanding and Healing [with Krista St-Germain] Building Love Together in Blended Families by Ron Deal & Gary ChapmanReady for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence, and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesessionSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyAre you ready to join the Blending Together Community? Click this link: https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/blendingtogether