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June brings one of the biggest energetic shifts of the year as Jupiter enters Cancer, beginning a new 12-year cycle centered around nourishment, emotional intelligence, home, family, and security - internally and externally! This is a very exciting transit as Jupiter is truly a planet of opportunity, grace, growth, and expansion.We also discuss the formation of Saraswati Yoga in Cancer. This combination highlights themes of knowledge, creativity, education, and depth. The more intense transit for the month - Mars enters the sign of Taurus. This transit asks us to slow down, stabilize, and build with thoughtfulness rather than impulse. Mercury will retrograde at the end of the month, which may prompt reviewing plans or having us redo tasks. June 1st - October 31st: Jupiter in CancerJune 8th: Venus enters CancerJune 14th: New Moon in Taurus 29 degrees MrigashiraJune 15th - July 16th: Sun in geminiJune 20th - August 2nd: Mars in Taurus with UranusJune 22nd - July 4th: Mercury/Jupiter/Venus create Saraswati Yoga in CancerJune 29th - July 23rd: Mercury retrograde 2 degrees of Cancer/PunarvasuJune 29th: Full Moon in Sagittarius 14 degrees of Purva AshadhaYOUTUBE:D9 exploration:https://youtu.be/HTgYcjltyasCharacteristics of Your Spouse:https://youtu.be/i_cOvdSbjy0Soulmate Astrologyhttps://youtu.be/ExnDysvjzUwChristine:website: innerknowing.yogainstagram: astrologynow_podcastpatreon: patreon.com/astrologynowpodcast keywords: astrology, jyotish, Vedic astrology, sidereal astrology, nakshatras, spirituality, Christine Rodriguez, aries, libra, scorpio, libra, capricorn, Nakshatra, new moon, taurus, Venus, Jupiter, Pisces, Spirituality, horoscope, retrograde, eclipse, solar eclipse, new moon, lunar eclipse
Saturn's transit through in 2026 brings us into one of the most liminal, transitional, and spiritually charged spaces of the zodiac. Revati is connected to endings, release, wandering, surrender, and the journey between worlds. In this episode, we explore how Saturn's presence here may ask us to confront uncertainty, exhaustion, lack of direction, and the dissolution of what once gave us certainty.We review the emphasis on water already emerging in world events — from piracy and drug boats to increasing global focus on oil and gas. Neptune is also strongly activated - amplifying themes of confusion, escapism, longing, and disorientation. Saturn in Revati can feel like walking through fog: inspiration may wane, discipline may feel harder to access, and it is possible to feel suspended between chapters of life. This transit may feel like a grand purge - emotionally, spiritually, materially, or relationally, which can clear space for a completely new cycle to emerge.Saturn in Revati - may 17 - October 9, 2026 Feb 8, 2027 - June 3, 2027 Oct 20, 2027 - Feb 23, 2028D9 exploration:https://youtu.be/HTgYcjltyasCharacteristics of Your Spouse:https://youtu.be/i_cOvdSbjy0Soulmate Astrologyhttps://youtu.be/ExnDysvjzUwChristine:website: innerknowing.yogainstagram: astrologynow_podcastpatreon: patreon.com/astrologynowpodcast keywords: astrology, jyotish, Vedic astrology, sidereal astrology, nakshatras, spirituality, Christine Rodriguez, aries, libra, scorpio, libra, capricorn, Nakshatra, new moon, taurus, Venus, Jupiter, Pisces, Spirituality, horoscope, retrograde, eclipse, solar eclipse, new moon, lunar eclipse
When was the last time your marriage felt deeply connected instead of simply functional? Maybe lately your marriage feels more like roommates than soulmates. You're coordinating schedules, managing responsibilities, handling the kids, building businesses, and falling into bed exhausted at the end of the day. You still love each other, but somewhere along the way, the connection started fading into routine. In today's conversation, I'm joined by my friend Lindsey Maestas for a deeply honest discussion about the quiet disconnection so many couples experience but rarely talk about. This isn't a typical episode for this show, but I truly believe this conversation matters. As Christian entrepreneurs, it can be easy to slowly fall into self-focused thinking without even realizing it. Thoughts like “What about my happiness?” or “What about my needs?” can quietly replace the posture of “What would Jesus have me do?” And over time, those small hidden habits can slowly create distance in a marriage. The truth is, so many couples are struggling silently. From the outside, everything looks fine, but internally, there's emotional distance, exhaustion, resentment, or simply feeling unseen. We sweep it under the rug because we assume this is just what marriage becomes after enough years, responsibilities, and busy seasons. But Lindsey shares why that “quiet disconnection” matters so much and how couples can begin finding their way back to each other before the distance grows even deeper. Lindsey shares wisdom from her book, Don't Burn Your Own House Down: Prioritizing Your Marriage, Your Spouse, and Yourself for a Deeper Connection, along with practical and biblical encouragement for restoring connection in a healthy, God-centered way. Friend, I believe healthy and fruitful marriages are possible. God cares deeply about the health of your home just as much as the success of your business. If your marriage has felt distant lately, I pray this conversation encourages you with grace, honesty, hope, and practical next steps toward deeper connection. I pray this blesses you! Ready to Make Consistent Income From a Podcast? Join my 5-Day Profitable Podcast Bootcamp! I'll show you how to create a podcast that makes steady income on autopilot—without relying on social media.
The New Moon in Taurus arrives in the sharp and discerning nakshatra of Krittika.. an asterism associated with purification, clarity, and the sacred fire that burns away inner distortion and bias. Taurus reminds us to slow down, ground ourselves, and reconnect with stability, the senses, nature, and what makes us feel safe. Krittika asks us to remain neutral and objective, even in the storm of inner turbulence. There may be some emotional reactivity, projection, or attachment around this new moon. Krittika has the ability to cut through confusion, helping us separate emotional intensity from objective truth. We also discuss the upcoming Saraswati Yoga, a deeply supportive combination for learning, creativity, wisdom, and communication. 30 Minute Readings https://calendly.com/vedic_astrology/30-minuteYOUTUBE:D9 exploration:https://youtu.be/HTgYcjltyasCharacteristics of Your Spouse:https://youtu.be/i_cOvdSbjy0Soulmate Astrologyhttps://youtu.be/ExnDysvjzUwChristine:website: innerknowing.yogainstagram: astrologynow_podcastpatreon: patreon.com/astrologynowpodcast keywords: astrology, jyotish, Vedic astrology, sidereal astrology, nakshatras, spirituality, Christine Rodriguez, aries, libra, scorpio, libra, capricorn, Nakshatra, new moon, taurus, Venus, Jupiter, Pisces, Spirituality, horoscope, retrograde, eclipse, solar eclipse, new moon, lunar eclipse
Send us Fan MailCBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving RelationshipDoes communication feel hard in your marriage? Get my Gentle Start Communication Guide, where I share a gentle daily practice that helps you stay present, name what's true for you, and build connection without escalation or problem-solving.Unlock deeper connection in your marriage with my free guide, Daily Prompts for Deeper Connection with Your Spouse—get it now!Start feeling more connected and loved in your marriage today with my free Reclaim More Love in Just 3 Days process. This process will have you learning how to shift your focus, in a healthy way, and nurture thoughts that build connection and transform how you feel about your marriage.More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings....
In the segment, we spend time reflecting on a the previous year of Jupiter in Gemini... Before Jupiter shifts into Cancer on June 1st, we have a final opportunity to consider what knowledge, perspectives, and connections have shaped us over the past year. What have we learned? What "truths" have changed? What connections opened new pathways?Jupiter's move into Cancer marks a major energetic shift... from the intellect into the emotional body, from information into nourishment, and a massive focus on home, homeland security, and seeking safety. YOUTUBE:D9 exploration:https://youtu.be/HTgYcjltyasCharacteristics of Your Spouse:https://youtu.be/i_cOvdSbjy0Soulmate Astrologyhttps://youtu.be/ExnDysvjzUwChristine:website: innerknowing.yogainstagram: astrologynow_podcastpatreon: patreon.com/astrologynowpodcast keywords: astrology, jyotish, Vedic astrology, sidereal astrology, nakshatras, spirituality, Christine Rodriguez, aries, libra, scorpio, libra, capricorn, Nakshatra, new moon, taurus, Venus, Jupiter, Pisces, Spirituality, horoscope, retrograde, eclipse, solar eclipse, new
Send us Fan MailMost couples spend more time planning their wedding than they do their marriage.And it's not because they don't care…it's because no one really shows them how.In this episode, I'm bringing you into a recent experience I had at a premarital conference—and the unexpected reflection it stirred in me about my own marriage.As I sat with couples just beginning their journey, I found myself thinking…what would have been different if Jeff and I had this kind of preparation?Not just conversations about love…but real, honest guidance around communication, conflict, needs, personality differences, finances, and intimacy.Because the truth is, many of the struggles couples face aren't surprising…they're just unexamined.If you've ever found yourself feeling disconnected, misunderstood, or questioning why things feel harder than you expected—this episode will help you see your marriage through a new lens.Not as something that's gone wrong…but as something that's asking to be built more intentionally.Before you listen, I want to invite you to do one simple thing:Choose one area of your relationship… and start a conversation.Just one.That's where change begins.CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving RelationshipDoes communication feel hard in your marriage? Get my Gentle Start Communication Guide, where I share a gentle daily practice that helps you stay present, name what's true for you, and build connection without escalation or problem-solving.Unlock deeper connection in your marriage with my free guide, Daily Prompts for Deeper Connection with Your Spouse—get it now!Start feeling more connected and loved in your marriage today with my free Reclaim More Love in Just 3 Days process. This process will have you learning how to shift your focus, in a healthy way, and nurture thoughts that build connection and transform how you feel about your marriage.More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings....
Spoiler alert: This podcast is very relationship based and you can find personal contemplation questions at 23:03 if you're wanting to journal on this full moon. Beltane + Full Moon in Libra really has the potential to illuminate matters involving love, intimacy, and relational balance!May 1st brings a full moon in Libra, highlighting the balance between self and other.. separateness and closeness. The moon in Libra asks to us to lean into "the other" while the Sun in Aries reminds us that this is only possible with a firm connection to the self... This full moon brings relationship dynamics into focus, asking us to examine patterns, projections, and the roles we unconsciously play with friends, lovers, and collaborators.This full moon coincides with Beltane (!), the Gaelic festival of fertility, life, and sacred union. Beltane carries themes of attraction, commitment ,and the life force that draws us toward creation. It's a celebration of polarity—masculine and feminine, self and other—mirroring the essence of Libra.This is a significant moment for reflecting on the relationships we attract, what they awaken within us, and how we can move toward more conscious, aligned connection... Contemplation Questions: 1. What qualities do I consistently attract in friends or partners? 2. How do I tend to behave in close relationships, and what role do I unconsciously step into?3. What emotional patterns feel familiar in my relationships4. What does being in this type of relationship allow me to do or avoid? 5. If I attracted someone completely different (someone ideal, healthy, secure, aligned), what parts of myself would I have to grow into or confront? BOOK A CALL FOR THE IKVCP HERE: https://calendly.com/vedic_astrology/discovery-callYOUTUBE:D9 exploration:https://youtu.be/HTgYcjltyasCharacteristics of Your Spouse:https://youtu.be/i_cOvdSbjy0Soulmate Astrologyhttps://youtu.be/ExnDysvjzUwChristine:website: innerknowing.yogainstagram: astrologynow_podcastpatreon: patreon.com/astrologynowpodcast keywords: astrology, jyotish, Vedic astrology, sidereal astrology, nakshatras, spirituality, Christine Rodriguez, aries, libra, scorpio, libra, capricorn, Nakshatra, new moon, taurus, Venus, Jupiter, Pisces, Spirituality, horoscope, retrograde, eclipse, solar eclipse, new moon, lunar eclipse
Send us Fan MailA simple anniversary gift…a quiet moment…and a reaction I didn't expect.In this episode, I share how one small moment with Jeff uncovered a deeper belief I didn't realize I was still carrying—and how emotional triggers in marriage often have less to do with what's happening now… and more to do with what we've been carrying for a long time.If you've ever felt hurt, disappointed, or reactive in a way that didn't quite make sense… this episode will help you slow it down, understand what's underneath, and begin creating connection from a more grounded place.✨ Inside this episode:Why small moments can feel so bigThe hidden beliefs shaping your reactionsHow to identify what you're really longing forA simple way to share this with your spouse
In today's segment we explore the main transits of May. Mars will enter the sign of Aries, FINALLY breaking the intense depth of Yama Yoga. Mars is strong in Aries - inspiring drive, courage, and a desire to take action... but not without intensity! As we transition from Aries season into Taurus season mid month, we discuss the energetic shift from fiery impulse and taking action to grounding down, enjoying the fruits of our labor, and redirecting to steadfastness.Venus will enter Gemini - bringing curiosity into relationships, encouraging conversation, playfulness, and mental connection. With Saraswati Yoga active, there's also a powerful undercurrent of creativity, learning, and expression. May 1st: Full Moon in Libra (Swati nakshatra)May 6th - October 15th: Pluto Retrograde 11 degrees Capricorn (Shravana)May 8th - May 17th: Mars gandantaMay 11th - June 20th: Mars in Aries May 14th - June 8th: Venus in GeminiMay 14th - June 15th: Sun in Taurus May 16th: New Moon in Taurus (Krittika)May 29th - June 1st: Mercury/Venus/Jupiter create Saraswati Yoga in GeminiMay 31st: Full Moon in Scorpio (Anuradha)YOUTUBE:D9 exploration:https://youtu.be/HTgYcjltyasCharacteristics of Your Spouse:https://youtu.be/i_cOvdSbjy0Soulmate Astrologyhttps://youtu.be/ExnDysvjzUwChristine:website: innerknowing.yogainstagram: astrologynow_podcastpatreon: patreon.com/astrologynowpodcast keywords: astrology, jyotish, Vedic astrology, sidereal astrology, nakshatras, spirituality, Christine Rodriguez, aries, libra, scorpio, libra, capricorn, Nakshatra, new moon, taurus, Venus, Jupiter, Pisces, Spirituality, horoscope, retrograde, eclipse, solar eclipse, new moon, lunar eclipse
Send us Fan MailI've been holding something back.Not because I didn't think it mattered… but because I wasn't sure how it would land.In this episode, I'm sharing a personal wrestle around faith, intimacy, and a breakthrough I can't explain through effort alone.This one is raw, honest, and unfolding in real time.CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving RelationshipDoes communication feel hard in your marriage? Get my Gentle Start Communication Guide, where I share a gentle daily practice that helps you stay present, name what's true for you, and build connection without escalation or problem-solving.Unlock deeper connection in your marriage with my free guide, Daily Prompts for Deeper Connection with Your Spouse—get it now!Start feeling more connected and loved in your marriage today with my free Reclaim More Love in Just 3 Days process. This process will have you learning how to shift your focus, in a healthy way, and nurture thoughts that build connection and transform how you feel about your marriage.More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings....
In today's segment we discuss the New Moon in Ashwini, which marks new beginnings and a fresh perspective. Ashwini is the first of the 27 nakshatras and is often associated with healing, rejuvenation, passion, and impulse. This nakshatra is fast-moving and action-oriented, so there may be a strong urge to begin something new or make a quick decision. It's a good time for energetic intentions, but it's important to stay mindful of impulsivity.Akshaya Tritiya is coming up on April 19th, which is traditionally associated with long-term growth and lasting results. Actions taken now are believed to have staying power. Akshaya Tritya lands on a day of intensity this year, so be sure to focus on Dharma, Service, and Sincerity. We are still working with Yama Yoga (through May 11) keeping an environment of intensity. This combination can feel restrictive or frustrating, as Mars pushes forward while Saturn slows things down. It may bring pressure, delays, or a need to take responsibility and act with more discipline.On a more exciting note, Venus will enter Taurus on April 19th, which will provide stability and sensuality. This is a strong placement for Venus and can help with grounding, relationships, and focusing on what is steady and sustainable.YOUTUBE:D9 exploration:https://youtu.be/HTgYcjltyasCharacteristics of Your Spouse:https://youtu.be/i_cOvdSbjy0Soulmate Astrologyhttps://youtu.be/ExnDysvjzUwChristine:website: innerknowing.yogainstagram: astrologynow_podcastpatreon: patreon.com/astrologynowpodcast keywords: astrology, jyotish, Vedic astrology, sidereal astrology, nakshatras, spirituality, Christine Rodriguez, aries, libra, scorpio, libra, capricorn, Nakshatra, new moon, taurus, Venus, Jupiter, Pisces, Spirituality, horoscope, retrograde, eclipse, solar eclipse, new moon, lunar eclipse
Send us Fan MailDo you ever feel like no matter what you try…you and your spouse keep ending up in the same place?The same arguments.The same disconnect.The same frustration.Maybe you've had the conversations… tried new approaches… even gotten help…and still—nothing really changes.In this episode, we explore why that happens.Because it's not just about what you're doing…it's about what's driving the pattern underneath it.You'll learn why “starting over” often doesn't work, what's really going on beneath the surface (especially in intimacy), and how to begin shifting the cycle in a way that actually creates change.In This Episode:Why you keep repeating the same patterns in your marriageWhat's really happening underneath those patternsHow these dynamics show up in your intimacyWhat “starting fresh” actually meansA simple practice to interrupt the cycle in real timeWhat to do when your spouse isn't meeting you thereNext Step:If you're realizing communication might be part of what's been missing…Download the Gentle Start Guide to Better Communication and begin opening conversations without conflict or shutdown.If this episode resonated with you, follow the show and share it with someone who might need this too.CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving RelationshipDoes communication feel hard in your marriage? Get my Gentle Start Communication Guide, where I share a gentle daily practice that helps you stay present, name what's true for you, and build connection without escalation or problem-solving.Unlock deeper connection in your marriage with my free guide, Daily Prompts for Deeper Connection with Your Spouse—get it now!Start feeling more connected and loved in your marriage today with my free Reclaim More Love in Just 3 Days process. This process will have you learning how to shift your focus, in a healthy way, and nurture thoughts that build connection and transform how you feel about your marriage.More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings....
⚠️ How to Avoid Getting Stuck with Your Spouse's Debt | Los Angeles Divorce Many people believe that once a divorce agreement assigns debt to one spouse, the other spouse is automatically protected. In reality, creditors are not bound by divorce agreements. If your name remains on a joint credit card, loan, or account, the lender may still hold you responsible—even if the divorce settlement says your spouse must pay the debt. Understanding how joint liability works is essential for protecting your financial future and avoiding unexpected credit damage after divorce.
In today's segment we discuss the Sun shifting into sidereal Aries on April 13th, marking bold new beginnings and a surge of courage, independence, and leadership. Aries season invites us to act, initiate, and step into a new chapter. This year, the energy carries deeper undertones. With Ketu transiting Magha, themes of lineage, legacy, and past-life karma are strongly activated. We discuss how Ketu in Leo has an impact on LEADERS, and Magha especially will impact the "kingdom". We may find ourselves confronting old patterns, ancestral influences, and questions around power, authority, and purpose.We review that the United States continues to navigate its Pluto return - a once-in-248-year transformation that signals profound shifts in power structures, government, and collective identity. This is a period of restructuring, death and rebirth, and a period where we contemplate where to move forward.April brings Yama Yoga, as discussed before. This is a configuration traditionally associated with karmic reckoning... We review its depth and impact.30 Minute Readings https://calendly.com/vedic_astrology/30-minuteYOUTUBE:D9 exploration:https://youtu.be/HTgYcjltyasCharacteristics of Your Spouse:https://youtu.be/i_cOvdSbjy0Soulmate Astrologyhttps://youtu.be/ExnDysvjzUwChristine:website: innerknowing.yogainstagram: astrologynow_podcastpatreon: patreon.com/astrologynowpodcast keywords: astrology, jyotish, Vedic astrology, sidereal astrology, nakshatras, spirituality, Christine Rodriguez, aries, libra, scorpio, libra, capricorn, Nakshatra, new moon, taurus, Venus, Jupiter, Pisces, Spirituality, horoscope, retrograde, eclipse, solar eclipse, new moon, lunar eclipse
⚠️ How to Avoid Getting Stuck with Your Spouse's Debt | Los Angeles Divorce Worried about getting stuck with your spouse's debt in a Los Angeles divorce? Not all debts are automatically split in half. California community property rules distinguish between community debts and separate debts—and proper documentation makes all the difference. In this video, we explain how debt responsibility is determined and why accurate financial disclosure protects you from unfair liability.
Whether you have been married for 6 months or 60 years, this talk is for you. We all want our marriages to be blessed and vibrant, but that doesn't “just happen.” Rachele will focus on how to keep our marriage fresh, even in the midst of daily living.Conference Handout:Rachelle's HandoutAudio Resources:Unshaken Podcast Episode 140: Having Fun with Your Spouse with Audrey BaylyReach out at:unshakenpsalm622@gmail.comChrist the Word Church Sermons - PodcastChurch History by Christ The Word Church - PodcastTruth & Life - PodcastFellow Heirs - Podcast
Send us Fan MailEver feel like you're the only one carrying the intimacy in your relationship?Like you're the one reaching, thinking about it, wondering why it's not happening…while your spouse feels distant or hard to read?Or maybe you're on the other side—feeling pressure, expectation, and not fully understanding why it feels so hard to respond.In this episode, we slow things down and look beneath the surface of what's really going on.Because this isn't just about sex.It's about what's happening underneath it.In This Episode:Why initiation isn't the real issueWhat the “pursuer” may actually be longing forThe hidden weight the “withdrawer” may be carryingHow we create meaning based on our own insecuritiesWhy emotional safety must come before physical intimacyWhat it looks like to begin again—togetherTimestamps:00:00 Feeling Alone in Intimacy00:40 Why Initiation Isn't It03:03 The Pursuer's Deeper Need04:51 The Withdrawer's Hidden Weight06:30 Stories We Tell Ourselves07:45 Build Safety Before Sex09:24 Dig Up the Roots10:10 Starting Over Together11:14 Breaking Pursuer Roles12:22 Next Steps and Coaching12:53 Closing and OutroNext Step:If you're realizing there's more underneath your dynamic than you've been able to sort through on your own…You don't have to navigate it alone.
Send us Fan MailHave you ever wanted your spouse… but held back?Or reached for them… and their response stayed with you longer than you expected?What looks like a simple moment often carries something much deeper—questions about being wanted, being seen, and what it all means.In this episode, we explore why reaching for your spouse can feel so emotionally loaded in long-term marriage, and how to begin shifting out of patterns of rejection, pressure, and quiet resentment.You'll learn:Why intimacy can start to feel heavy instead of invitingHow “not tonight” turns into something more personalWhat happens when sex begins to feel like a testThe cycle that slowly leads couples to stop reaching for each otherHow differentiation helps you stay grounded and connectedAnd a simple way to respond differently the next time this moment happens.If this resonates with you, I'd truly love to hear your experience. You can reach out via email or Instagram—I'm getting more and more curious about how women are navigating this in their marriages.And if you're ready for support as you begin shifting these patterns, you're invited to book a Courageous Love Conversation—a space to slow down, reflect, and begin creating something different.Follow, rate, and share this episode with someone who might need it.CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving RelationshipDoes communication feel hard in your marriage? Get my Gentle Start Communication Guide, where I share a gentle daily practice that helps you stay present, name what's true for you, and build connection without escalation or problem-solving.Unlock deeper connection in your marriage with my free guide, Daily Prompts for Deeper Connection with Your Spouse—get it now!Start feeling more connected and loved in your marriage today with my free Reclaim More Love in Just 3 Days process. This process will have you learning how to shift your focus, in a healthy way, and nurture thoughts that build connection and transform how you feel about your marriage.More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings....
In today's segment, we explore the month of April and the major astrological events. This month is interesting due to having a YAMA YOGA, which don't occur very often. Our last Yama Yoga was in 2024 and our last Yama Yoga in Pisces was 1996! We explore how this combination is formed and what kind of events it can manifest. We also discuss Hanuman Jayanti, which will be marked by the full moon in Virgo coming up on April 1st. If you are unsure how to honor Lord Hanuman but would like to participate, you can find the Hanuman Chalisa here. We also dive into the unique Mercury in Pisces and Jupiter in Gemini parivartana, exploring how this exchange brings direct communication between Jupiter, the Guru, and Mercury, the student/messenger. This is profound time for learning and keeping an open mind. To ease Mercury, find an easy pranayama practice here. Additionally, we unpack Mars in Pisces, a softer and more compassionate expression of drive and motivation. This transit encourages intuitive action, creativity, emotional courage, and spiritual growth — while also asking us to be clear and direct with frustration and anger, instead of becoming passive aggressive or complacent. We explore: April 1st: Full Moon in Virgo 18 degrees Hasta April 2nd - May 11th: Mars in Pisces with Neptune and Saturn (Yama Yoga) April 10th - April 29th : Mercury debilitated in Pisces with Neptune, Mars, and Saturn April 12th: Mars and Neptune conjunction 8 degrees April 16/17: Mercury and Neptune conjunction at 8 degrees Pisces April 17th: New Moon in Aries 3 degrees of Ashwini April 19th Akshaya Tritya (confirm)April 19th Venus in Taurus April 23rd Venus conjunct Uranus 5 degrees TaurusFor a lot of April, debilitated Mercury, Mars, Saturn in Pisces YOUTUBE:D9 exploration:https://youtu.be/HTgYcjltyasCharacteristics of Your Spouse:https://youtu.be/i_cOvdSbjy0Soulmate Astrologyhttps://youtu.be/ExnDysvjzUwChristine:website: innerknowing.yogainstagram: astrologynow_podcastpatreon: patreon.com/astrologynowpodcast keywords: astrology, jyotish, Vedic astrology, sidereal astrology, nakshatras, spirituality, Christine Rodriguez, aries, libra, scorpio, libra, capricorn, Nakshatra, new moon, taurus, Venus, Jupiter, Pisces, Spirituality, horoscope, retrograde, eclipse, solar eclipse, new moon, lunar eclipse
Send us Fan MailRebuilding intimacy doesn't start with fixing it… it starts with understanding it.If you've had the conversation about sex in your marriage and nothing really changed, this episode will help you see why.In this episode, we explore how curiosity—not pressure, not techniques—is the first step toward rebuilding emotional and physical intimacy.You'll learn how assumptions, self-protection, and the difference between men and women can quietly create disconnection… and what it looks like to begin shifting that dynamic.Inside this episode:• Why talking about intimacy often doesn't lead to change• The “awkward middle” most couples get stuck in• How assumptions create distance and self-protection• The emotional vs physical connection gap between men and women• What it means to “go first” without expectation• One simple question to begin opening the conversationA gentle next step:Instead of trying to fix anything this week… just notice.What comes up for you when you think about intimacy?And if you feel ready, ask your spouse:“What does intimacy feel like for you right now?”If this episode stirred something in you, I'd love to hear from you.You can reach out with questions or situations you'd like support around.And if you're ready to take the next step, you can book a Courageous Love Conversation—a space to talk honestly about what's going on and begin moving toward the connection you want.CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving RelationshipDoes communication feel hard in your marriage? Get my Gentle Start Communication Guide, where I share a gentle daily practice that helps you stay present, name what's true for you, and build connection without escalation or problem-solving.Unlock deeper connection in your marriage with my free guide, Daily Prompts for Deeper Connection with Your Spouse—get it now!Start feeling more connected and loved in your marriage today with my free Reclaim More Love in Just 3 Days process. This process will have you learning how to shift your focus, in a healthy way, and nurture thoughts that build connection and transform how you feel about your marriage.More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings....
Hi everyone! We spend some time catching up, new content begins around minute 5. In this segment, we start with Mercury direct, bringing a sense of relief after weeks of reflection since late February. What has resurfaced for you? What conversations, realizations, or patterns have come back around asking to be understood? As Mercury moves forward, clarity returns... and with it, the ability to integrate what we've learned.Venus moves through Gandanta degrees. This is an intense window where emotional cycles in love and relationships begin to unravel. Pisces represents completion, surrender, and forgiveness, while Aries initiates a new chapter of desire and direction. This transition can feel confusing or overwhelming, as illusions dissolve and truths come into focus—but it also opens the door to powerful rebirth.We also discuss Sun and Neptune conjunction in Pisces. This transit has the ability to dissolve the ego and soften the identities we've been clinging to... especially those shaped by external expectations. It can feel dreamy, psychic, and deeply spiritual… or confusing, foggy, and disorienting. This is a time to ask: Who am I beneath my roles, my thoughts, or my conditioning?We also cover Saturn and Sun conjunction and other astrological ongoings. YOUTUBE:D9 exploration:https://youtu.be/HTgYcjltyasCharacteristics of Your Spouse:https://youtu.be/i_cOvdSbjy0Soulmate Astrologyhttps://youtu.be/ExnDysvjzUwChristine:website: innerknowing.yogainstagram: astrologynow_podcastpatreon: patreon.com/astrologynowpodcast keywords: astrology, jyotish, Vedic astrology, sidereal astrology, nakshatras, spirituality, Christine Rodriguez, aries, libra, scorpio, libra, capricorn, Nakshatra, new moon, taurus, Venus, Jupiter, Pisces, Spirituality, horoscope, retrograde, eclipse, solar eclipse, new moon, lunar eclipse
What happens when a marriage slowly drifts into loneliness, betrayal, and eventually divorce? And can God really restore something that broken? In this episode of Living Easy with Lindsey, Lindsey Maestas talks with author and marriage mentor Cheryl Scruggs about the painful season that led to an affair, the divorce that followed, and the unexpected seven-year journey that eventually led Cheryl and her husband Jeff back to each other. Cheryl shares honestly about feeling deeply alone in her marriage, the choices that led to brokenness, and the personal and spiritual transformation that made reconciliation possible. Their story is a powerful reminder that even when a marriage feels beyond repair, redemption is still possible. Resources Cheryl Scruggs https://jeffandcherylscruggs.com I Do Again: How We Found a Second Chance at Our Marriage https://www.amazon.com/Do-Again-Second-Chance-Marriage/dp/1400074452 Lindsey's Book Don't Burn Your Own House Down: Prioritizing Your Marriage, Your Spouse, and Yourself https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Burn-Your-House-Down/dp/0310369479 If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, rate, and review on Spotify and/or Apple Podcasts so that more people can find these conversations! Follow Lindsey on Instagram for daily encouragement on faith, marriage, and intentional living.
Send a textThere's a stage in many marriages that almost nobody talks about.Sex hasn't disappeared completely… but it also isn't happening regularly anymore. Weeks—or even months—go by, and both partners notice the distance but feel unsure how to bring it up.In this episode, Christine Bongiovanni explores what she calls “the awkward middle” of intimacy—that quiet stage where sexual connection has faded and the silence around it begins to feel uncomfortable.Christine shares a personal story from her own marriage and reflects on what she and Jeff discovered along the way about initiation, resentment, healing old beliefs about sex, and why rebuilding intimacy often begins with curiosity rather than pressure.If you've ever wondered how couples move from awkward distance back toward connection, this conversation will help you feel seen and begin exploring what might be happening beneath the surface.In this episode you'll discover:• Why sexual disconnection often develops slowly in long-term marriages• How initiation patterns can quietly create resentment• The hidden stories many people carry about sex and desirability• Why curiosity is the first step toward rebuilding intimacy• A simple reflection exercise to better understand your own experienceIf this episode resonates with you, Christine would love to hear your story. You can share your experience by emailing christine@christinebongiovanni.com.You can also download the Gentle Start Guide to Better Communication to begin opening up difficult conversations with your spouse.And if you'd like personal support navigating your relationship, schedule a Courageous Love Conversation with Christine.CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving Relationship Does communication feel hard in your marriage? Get my Gentle Start Communication Guide, where I share a gentle daily practice that helps you stay present, name what's true for you, and build connection without escalation or problem-solving.Unlock deeper connection in your marriage with my free guide, Daily Prompts for Deeper Connection with Your Spouse—get it now! Start feeling more connected and loved in your marriage today with my free Reclaim More Love in Just 3 Days process. This process will have you learning how to shift your focus, in a healthy way, and nurture thoughts that build connection and transform how you feel about your marriage. More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings. ...
In this gem of an episode, Dr. Nibodhi explores how Ayurveda and Vedic astrology function as sister sciences within the Vedic tradition. Together, these powerful systems offer insight into the timing of our health—periods of vitality, disease, and imbalance—and provide guidance on how to approach remedies, healing, and greater consciousness. Dr. Nibodhi is truly a master of his craft. He is a lifelong student and practitioner of Naturopathy, Ayurveda, Yoga, Vedic Astrology and Indigenous Wisdom traditions. He is certified in Vedic psychology/ counselling, clinical nutrition, & yoga teacher/ yoga therapy as well as numerous certifications and trainings in other fields of Health and Consciousness. While he has formally studied at numerous schools his most profound studies came from one on one training with numerous Vaidyas, Yoga masters, Shamans and Elders and Healers from the Vedic traditions as well as various indigenous traditions. He has more than 3 decades of studies and experience in mindfulness and tantric meditation practice and offers guidance in personal and private practice. He is the author of six books on health and consciousness.He offers Vedic/Ayurveda Consultations in person and online. Sessions with Nibodhi give clients a deeper understanding of their total state of health and provide tools for creating greater well-being in their lives. Ayurvedic consultations with Nibodhi are a physical, emotional, and spiritual journey towards optimum, radiant health and consciousness. Nibodhi listens with deep awareness to your health and life concerns. He determines and explains your unique constitution, and offers you a completely individualised approach and protocol that supports your health and life goals.Sessions with Nibodhi may include, but are not limited to, individualised nutrition, dietary, and herbal protocols, yoga and/or other exercise, meditation, breathing exercises, and lifestyle practices which are personalised to bring you into optimum balance.Since 2003 he has been living half of each year in Kerala, India serving in a 100% Non-profit/Charitable, Ayurveda and Naturopathy Wellness Center where he also has taught week long Ayurveda-Yoga intensives twice a year since 2013.https://www.instagram.com/dr.nibodhi/To find out more or sign up for a consultation, email:Dr.Nibodhi@gmail.com _____________________________________________________YOUTUBE:D9 exploration:https://youtu.be/HTgYcjltyasCharacteristics of Your Spouse:https://youtu.be/i_cOvdSbjy0Soulmate Astrologyhttps://youtu.be/ExnDysvjzUwChristine:website: innerknowing.yogainstagram: astrologynow_podcastpatreon: patreon.com/astrologynowpodcast keywords: astrology, jyotish, Vedic astrology, sidereal astrology, nakshatras, spirituality, Christine Rodriguez, aries, libra, scorpio, libra, capricorn, Nakshatra, new moon, taurus, Venus, Jupiter, Pisces, Spirituality, horoscope, retrograde, eclipse, solar eclipse, new moon, lunar eclipse
Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here In this conversation, we're talking with Aria Lucey, whose husband Aiden is a longtime technician and Refrigeration Mentor Community Ambassador, discussing how the demanding refrigeration lifestyle impacts relationships and family. She shares early long-distance relationship stories and long-hour challenges, the need for intentional connection, and the importance of clear, honest communication, rather than assumptions. Aria also shares strategies for handling disagreements, making repairs after conflict, and managing kids while incorporating the demanding, often unpredictable work schedule of a refrigeration technician. In this episode, we cover: (02:49) Long Distance Relationships (05:37) Communication Strategies for Relationships (08:18 Fights with Your Spouse (10:17) Sharing Domestic Respinsibilities (12:33) On-Call Lifestyle for Tradespeople (14:35) Advice For New Relationships (19:58) Balancing Sick Days (25:03) Parental Leave And Family Planning (26:29) Taking Turns Supporting Careers (29:29) Dividing Household Responsibilities (34:51) Explaining On-Call To Kids (37:01) Advice For New Technicians Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 226. How Busy Technicians Can Better Manage Work and Family Life Episode 208. The Personal and Professional Sides of Refrigeration (That You Won't Learn in School) Episode 316. Strategies for Surviving and Thriving On-Call with Aidan Lucey
Send a textShame often hides beneath the surface of intimacy struggles in marriage. Many couples assume they simply need to try harder—communicate more, schedule time together, or change behaviors. But shame doesn't loosen its grip through effort alone.In this episode, Christine Bongiovanni explores how shame quietly shapes intimacy, why behavioral fixes often fail, and how secure love and emotional safety help the nervous system relax so deeper connection can grow.If intimacy has felt guarded or complicated in your marriage, this conversation will help you understand what may be happening beneath the surface—and what actually helps shame lose its power.You'll also hear practical next steps for building emotional safety and creating a new story around intimacy in your relationship.CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving Relationship Does communication feel hard in your marriage? Get my Gentle Start Communication Guide, where I share a gentle daily practice that helps you stay present, name what's true for you, and build connection without escalation or problem-solving.Unlock deeper connection in your marriage with my free guide, Daily Prompts for Deeper Connection with Your Spouse—get it now! Start feeling more connected and loved in your marriage today with my free Reclaim More Love in Just 3 Days process. This process will have you learning how to shift your focus, in a healthy way, and nurture thoughts that build connection and transform how you feel about your marriage. More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings. ...
Hi everyone, today we discuss the major upcoming transits for the month of March. We continue our previous conversations with a recap of Rahu/Mars volatility, the dreaminess of an exalted Venus, and how the planets of Intellect AND Knowledge are both retrograde. With Jupiter's direct motion on March 10th, we will begin gaining some clarity and direction while a few of us will receive a unique and welcome gift from the Universe. We will experience even more relief come the end of March when Mercury also goes direct... Our Roster: March 1st: Venus in PiscesMarch 3rd: Lunar Eclipse in Leo Purva Phalguni March 7th Venus and Neptune at 7 degreesMarch 10th: Jupiter Direct at 20 degrees Gemini PunarvasuMarch 13/14th: Rahu and Mars conjunct at 14 degrees of Aquarius / Shatabhisha (continue to watch for health related news)Kala Sarpa through July 31, 2026 March 14th: Sun in Pisces - April 13th/14thMarch 17th - March 24 Rahu/Mercury at 14 degrees of Aquarius March 18th: New Moon in Pisces 4 degrees Uttara Bhadrapada (Vedic New Year)March 20th: Mercury direct at 14 degrees of Aquarius , same degree as rahuMarch 25th: Venus in Aries YOUTUBE:D9 exploration:https://youtu.be/HTgYcjltyasCharacteristics of Your Spouse:https://youtu.be/i_cOvdSbjy0Soulmate Astrologyhttps://youtu.be/ExnDysvjzUwChristine:website: innerknowing.yogainstagram: astrologynow_podcastpatreon: patreon.com/astrologynowpodcast keywords: astrology, jyotish, Vedic astrology, sidereal astrology, nakshatras, spirituality, Christine Rodriguez, aries, libra, scorpio, libra, capricorn, Nakshatra, new moon, taurus, Venus, Jupiter, Pisces, Spirituality, horoscope, retrograde, eclipse, solar eclipse, new moon, lunar eclipse
Have you ordered, rated, and reviewed my new book, "Don't Burn Your Own House Down: Prioritizing Your Marriage, Your Spouse, and Yourself for a Deeper Connection"? If not, please take a second to do so!! If you've ever enjoyed my content, this is the greatest way that you could support me right now! THANK YOU! Change is expensive, but won't staying cost you even more? What if the reason you feel stuck, drained, or unhappy isn't because your life is hard, but because you've been "adding sugar" to what's actually bitter? In this episode, Lindsey Maestas shares what she calls the "Black Coffee Theory": a simple but transformative mindset shift that has changed the way she approaches relationships, work, habits, and her spiritual life. The concept is this: the happiest, most successful, most grounded people don't add sugar to things that are already bitter. They're honest with themselves that it's bitter, and they put the cup down. They don't distort reality to make something tolerable, they don't romanticize what hurts, and they don't convince themselves something is good just because they're afraid of what honesty might require. The Psychology This episode also explores the research behind why we do this in the first place: Cognitive Dissonance When our reality conflicts with our identity or beliefs, we feel internal tension. Instead of changing the situation, we often change the story. The Sunk Cost Fallacy We stay in situations because we've already invested so much — time, emotion, reputation, or faith — and leaving feels more painful than tolerating. Emotional Suppression and Resentment Research shows that consistently overriding internal signals leads to emotional exhaustion, resentment, and anxiety. When we ignore what drains us, our body and nervous system keep the score. Isaiah 5:20 warns: "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter." Reflection Questions Where am I adding "sugar" in my life right now? How can I be more honest with myself about what I want out of life? Am I enduring something that is refining me or am I tolerating something that is draining me? What would it look like to tell the truth about this situation before God? Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE for new episodes like this! Looking to build your own online course and social media presence? Learn more about how I built a multiple 6-figure business and how you can do it, too at: The Ultimate Money-Making Academy . Follow along with me on Instagram: @livingeasywithlindsey
Send a textIs sexual intimacy in your marriage really about desire… or something deeper?In Episode 255, Christine explores sexual formation in marriage and how early messages about sex shape trust, safety, and desire. What if “low desire” is actually guarded desire? And why don't behavior changes alone create lasting transformation?This episode begins a new journey into marital sexual transformation — one rooted in awareness, emotional safety, and understanding what your body learned long before you chose what you believe.Download The Gentle Start Guide to Better Communication or book a Courageous Love Conversation to continue the work.CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving Relationship Does communication feel hard in your marriage? Get my Gentle Start Communication Guide, where I share a gentle daily practice that helps you stay present, name what's true for you, and build connection without escalation or problem-solving.Unlock deeper connection in your marriage with my free guide, Daily Prompts for Deeper Connection with Your Spouse—get it now! Start feeling more connected and loved in your marriage today with my free Reclaim More Love in Just 3 Days process. This process will have you learning how to shift your focus, in a healthy way, and nurture thoughts that build connection and transform how you feel about your marriage. More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings. ...
Hi everyone!In this segment, we explore the upcoming Lunar Eclipse in Leo in Pūrva Phalgunī — an asterism associated with love, romance, creativity, pleasure, and the sacred creative force that flows through us when we are still, present, and at rest.We discuss practical strategies to consciously connect with and utilize this energy:Prioritizing rest as a creative actSoftening into receptivity rather than controlHealing wounds or authority, visibility, and recognitionReclaiming sensuality as ours to experience Meanwhile, Venus shifts into its sign of exaltation in Pisces, heightening emotion and awakening a longing for “higher love.” Romance may feel fated, spiritual, transcendent. But with heightened sensitivity comes potential illusion.There may be:Idealization in loveRose-colored glassesConfusion or mixed signalsKarmic themes surfacing in intimacy and partnershipWith both Saturn and Neptune influencing the field, we explore the tension between devotion and delusion, fantasy and maturity. The invitation is not to reject romance — but to balance it. To enjoy beauty and mysticism while remaining grounded and discerning.With the Leo–Aquarius axis activated, this eclipse also speaks to:Inner authority vs. collective influenceAncestral patterns around visibility and leadershipInvesting in causes we genuinely care aboutImpact doesn't have to be grandiose. It can look like:Small acts of generosityShowing up authenticallyChoosing integrity over applauseTune in to explore how this eclipse may manifest — and how to consciously work with its creative, romantic, and transformative potential.YOUTUBE:D9 exploration:https://youtu.be/HTgYcjltyasCharacteristics of Your Spouse:https://youtu.be/i_cOvdSbjy0Soulmate Astrologyhttps://youtu.be/ExnDysvjzUwChristine:website: innerknowing.yogainstagram: astrologynow_podcastpatreon: patreon.com/astrologynowpodcast keywords: astrology, jyotish, Vedic astrology, sidereal astrology, nakshatras, spirituality, Christine Rodriguez, aries, libra, scorpio, libra, capricorn, Nakshatra, new moon, taurus, Venus, Jupiter, Pisces, Spirituality, horoscope, retrograde, eclipse, solar eclipse, new moon, lunar eclipse
Today, Dr. Alexandra and fellow psychologist, author, and podcast host Dr. Tracy Dalgleish are digging into a dynamic that is notoriously difficult to navigate - if, of course, all the stereotypes and jokes and rhetoric are to be totally believed. Except in this conversation, they're handling it with the compassion, nuance, and understanding that all relationships deserve. They are dissecting the dynamic between a woman, her husband and her mother-in-law, and the complexities often found in that triangle. Dr. Tracy's book You, Your Husband, and His Mother explores this dynamic in such an insightful way and her offerings guide this conversation. She provides tools to help you understand the dynamics at play and to shift those dynamics in the most effective way we can: namely, by seeing our own patterns in relation to others', meeting those patterns with compassion and understanding, and changing up our own dance moves. In this episode, you will learn: Why this dynamic can be so challenging, as well as the ways each vertice of the triangle might show up to shape the dynamic Strategies for prioritizing your relationship amidst family pressures Dr. Tracy's Six Types of Mothers-in-Law and Three Styles of daughters-in-law About Dr. Tracy's VAULT method, which is an acronym that breaks down the steps you can take with your partner to shake up the dynamics of this triangle Resources worth mentioning from the episode: You, Your Husband, and His Mother: Create a Healthy Relationship with Your Mother-in-Law--and Your Spouse--in Five Simple Steps by Dr. Tracy Dalgleish: https://bookshop.org/p/books/you-your-husband-and-his-mother-create-a-healthy-relationship-with-your-mother-in-law-and-your-spouse-in-five-simple-steps-dr-tracy-dalgleish/ff98565f5a7ef87a Follow Dr. Tracy D on IG: https://www.instagram.com/drtracyd/?hl=en Dr. Tracy D's podcast Dear Dr. Tracy: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/dear-dr-tracy/id1452433255 Reimagining Love episode, Love, Acceptance, & Growth: The Insights We Glean from Couples Therapy with Dr. Tracy Dalgleish: https://www.dralexandrasolomon.com/podcasts/love-acceptance-growth-the-insights-we-glean-from-couples-therapy/ NYT article on Mankeeping that Dr. Tracy references: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/28/well/family/mankeeping-definition.html Continue the conversation with Dr. Alexandra Solomon: Ask a question! Submit your relationship challenge: https://form.jotform.com/212295995939274 Access Resources, like quizzes and courses: https://www.dralexandrasolomon.com/resources Order Dr. Alexandra's book, Love Every Day: https://bookshop.org/p/books/love-every-day-365-relational-self-awareness-practices-to-help-your-relationship-heal-grow-and-thrive-alexandra-solomon/19970421?ean=9781683736530 Cultivate connection by subscribing to Dr. Alexandra's Loving Bravely newsletter: https://newsletter.dralexandrasolomon.com/ Learn more on IG: https://www.instagram.com/dr.alexandra.solomon/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Send a textCBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving Relationship Does communication feel hard in your marriage? Get my Gentle Start Communication Guide, where I share a gentle daily practice that helps you stay present, name what's true for you, and build connection without escalation or problem-solving.Unlock deeper connection in your marriage with my free guide, Daily Prompts for Deeper Connection with Your Spouse—get it now! Start feeling more connected and loved in your marriage today with my free Reclaim More Love in Just 3 Days process. This process will have you learning how to shift your focus, in a healthy way, and nurture thoughts that build connection and transform how you feel about your marriage. More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings. ...
*Disclaimer* This episode contains adult content and is not recommended for young listeners. 284. DON'T MISS THIS! Controversial Sex Questions, Answered with Dr. Juli Slattery 1 Samuel 24:19b NIV “May the Lord reward you well for the way you treated me today.” *Transcription Below* Bio: Instagram Facebook Authentic Intimacy Website Java with Juli Podcast Thank you to Our Sponsor: Leman Property Management Company Questions and Topics We Cover: As Christ followers, should we use a friend's preferred names and pronouns? If one part of Scripture talks about turning the other cheek, is that the same as saying God expects you to stay in an abusive marriage? Is it reasonable to assume that once they have a smartphone, 100% of kids will be exposed to pornography? Previous Episodes on Sexual Intimacy on The Savvy Sauce, Including Past Episodes with Dr. Juli Slattery: Fostering a Fun, Healthy Sex Life with your Spouse with Dr. Jennifer Konzen Ways to Deepen Your Intimacy in Marriage with Dr. Douglas Rosenau Ten Common Questions About Sex, Shared Through a Biblical Worldview with Dr. Michael Sytsma Hope For Treating Pelvic Pain with Tracey LeGrand Treatment for Sexual Issues with Certified Sex Therapist, Emma Schmidt Talking With Your Kids About Sex with Brian and Alison Sutter Natural Aphrodisiacs with Christian Certified Sex Therapist, Dr. Douglas Rosenau Healthy Sexuality, Emotional Intelligence, and Parenting Children with Autism with Counselor, Lauren Dack Pain and Joy in Sexual Intimacy with Psychologist and Certified Sex Therapist, Dr. Jessica McCleese Identifying and Fighting Human Trafficking with Dr. Jeff Waibel Bridging the Gap Between Military and Civilian Families with Licensed Professional Counselor, Cuthor, Podcaster, and 2015 Military Spouse of the Year, Corie Weathers Enjoying a God-Honoring, Healthy Sex Life with Your Spouse with Certified Sex Therapist and Ordained Minister, Dr. Michael Sytsma Enjoying Parenting and Managing Conversations About Sex with Certified Sex Therapist and Author, Dr. Jennifer Konzen Conflict Resolution, Infidelity, and Infertility with Licensed Psychologist and Certified Sex Therapist, Dr. Jessica McCleese Hormones and Body Image with Certified Sex Therapist, Vickie George Passion Pursuit with Dr. Juli Slattery Female Orgasm with Sue Goldstein Erectile Dysfunction, Premature Ejaculation, and Treatments Available with Dr. Irwin Goldstein Turn Ons, Turn Offs, and Savoring Sex in Marriage with Dr. Jennifer Konzen Desire Discrepancy in Marriage with Dr. Michael Sytsma Answering Listener's Questions About Sex with Kelli Willard Anatomy of an Affair with Dave Carder Supernatural Restoration Story with Bob and Audrey Meisner Healthy Minds, Marriages, and Sex Lives with Drs. Scott and Melissa Symington Female Pornography Addiction and Meaningful Recovery with Crystal Renaud Day Building Lasting Relationships with Clarence and Brenda Shuler Healthy Ways for Females to Increase Sexual Enjoyment with Tracey LeGrand Pornography Healing for Spouses with Geremy Keeton Sexual Sin Recovery for You and Your Spouse (Part Two) Personal Development and Sexual Wholeness with Dr. Sibylle Georgianna Our Brain's Role in Sexual Intimacy with Angie Landry Discovering God's Design for Romance with Sharon Jaynes Sex in Marriage and Its Positive Effects with Francie Winslow, Part 1 Science and Art of Sexual Intimacy in Marriage, Part 2 Making Love in Marriage with Debra Fileta Mutually Pleasing Sex in Marriage with Gary Thomas Sex Series: God's Design and Warnings for Sex: An Interview with Mike Novotny Sex Series: Enhancing Female Pleasure and Enjoyment of Sex: An Interview with Dr. Jennifer Degler Sex Series Orgasmic Potential, Pleasure, and Friendship: An Interview with Bonny Burns Sex Series: Sex Series: Healthy Self, Healthy Sex: An Interview with Gaye Christmus Sex Series: Higher Sexual Desire Wife: An Interview with J Parker Sex Series: Six Pillars of Intimacy with Tony and Alisa DiLorenzo 215 Enriching Women's Sexual Function, Part One with Dr. Kris Christiansen 216 Enriching Women's Sexual Function, Part Two with Dr. Kris Christiansen 217 Tween/Teen Females: How to Navigate Changes during Puberty with Dr. Jennifer Degler 218 Secrets of Sex and Marriage: Interview with Dr. Michael Sytsma 222 Pornography: Protecting Children and Personal Healing, Victory, and Recovery in Christ with Sam Black Special Patreon Release: Holy Sex: An Interview with Dr. Juli Slattery Special Patreon Release: His Desires and Her Desires in the Bedroom with Dr. Jennifer Konzen 224 Surprising Discoveries of Sex in Marriage: An Interview with Shaunti Feldhahn 252 Maximizing Sexual Connections as Newlyweds to Long Term Marriages and Recovering from a Sexless Marriage with Dr. Cliff & Joyce Penner 260 Sex After Cancer with Dr. Kris Christiansen 277 Breaking Through Addiction in Marriage with Matthew and Joanna Raabsmith Connect with The Savvy Sauce on Facebook or Instagram or Our Website Gospel Scripture: (all NIV) Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.” Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.” John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession- to the praise of his glory.” Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.” Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“ Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“ Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” *Transcription* Music: (0:11 – 0:11) Laura Dugger: (0:11 – 2:21) Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, where we have practical chats for intentional living. I'm your host, Laura Dugger, and I'm so glad you're here. Today's message is not intended for little ears. We'll be discussing some adult themes, and I want you to be aware before you listen to this message. Leman Property Management Company has the apartment you will be able to call home, with over 1,700 apartment units available in Central Illinois. Visit them today at lemanproperties.com or connect with them on Facebook. My returning guest for today is Dr. Juli Slattery. She has authored another book entitled Surrendered Sexuality: How Knowing Jesus Changes Everything, and we're going to cover a few themes from this book, but I think what you're going to find most helpful are her candid responses to some really tricky questions related to dating and pornography, technology, thought life, shows that we watch as believers, divorce, and just intimacy in general as married couples. So, I think this is an episode that you're going to want to learn from yourself, but you'll also want to share with others because Dr. Juli has offered us such a gift as she directs us back to the heart issues and wisely guides us into sexual integrity in our own lives. Here's our chat. Welcome back to The Savvy Sauce, Dr. Juli. Dr. Juli Slattery: (2:21 – 2:21) Thanks so much for having me back. It's always a joy. Laura Dugger: (2:21 – 2:22) Well, I love that you've been a repeat guest many times. So, we get to just dive right in today because I'm going to link all of your previous episodes in the show notes. But to dive in, I'm just curious, as believers, where does your heart break as you see us compromising on God's design for sex? Dr. Juli Slattery: (2:22 – 3:31) Hmm. That's such a good question. You know, I think my heart breaks the most in that when we compromise God's design for sexuality, or even when we don't understand it or understand His goodness, it means that there is a breach in our relationship with God. And so, I am so passionate about what I do, not necessarily because I love talking about sexuality, but because for a lot of people, sexuality represents a wall between them and God, like an issue they can't resolve, or a place of shame that they just can't quite shake free from, or battle with sin that they feel like they're enslaved to. And so, those things mean that there's a limit to how much they invite God into their lives. And so, for me, that's where my heart breaks the most is, you know, ultimately, we were created for the greatest fellowship with God and anything that gets in the way of that is something that God cares about and something that I care about. Laura Dugger: (3:32 – 4:03) You say that well, and you've written many books, but in this most recent one, you plainly state one issue when you write, “You will not be able to obey God with your sexual thoughts, while binging shows and music that continually display the exact opposite.” And I love how practical that is. So, Juli, why do you think this has become so normalized? And I would say, especially in Christian marriages. Dr. Juli Slattery: (4:05 – 5:58) Yeah, you know, I think a lot of it is that the church has been historically really quiet about sexuality, you know, like we might talk about save sex for marriage, and don't cheat on your husband and that sort of thing. But the gray areas about how we think about our sexuality and kind of what we have the liberty and freedom to engage in, there's kind of silence, or maybe there's legalism. And I think in that space, what ends up happening is the culture is so forthright with a message about sexuality, like woven throughout every single show that you could stream on any platform, you know, your music on Spotify, even the news you consume, the Instagram feeds, whatever, it's consistently showing you a way to understand sexuality that is contrary to God's design, and the messaging can be so subtle, or so repetitive that we don't even realize we're ingesting it. And so, it's normal to talk about with your friends, like the latest season of The Bachelor, or, you know, the latest thing that you're streaming that if you really look at it, there's probably 100 references to sexuality that are outside of God's design. And so, we end up just having our mind conformed to this world. And the scripture says really clearly in Romans 12, that we can't offer ourselves to God while we're still thinking like the world thinks that it requires an act of transformation of our thinking. And I don't know that there's anywhere more than we need this than in the topic of understanding our sexuality. Laura Dugger: (6:00 – 6:59) Okay, so for I'm thinking of married couples, because I was recently at a wedding shower. And I love a friend from church. Her name is Dawn Karius. And she was giving the devotional and just sharing. You know, it's very easy to get married and fall into this trap. She was talking about what you watch specifically. And she said, so many couples will watch something together, watch a show before bed, but be really intentional. If that is what you choose to do, then the shows that you're watching, even though you're with your spouse, is that drawing both of you closer to Christ? Because if it's pulling you further away from Christ, it's also pulling you away from one another. And so, with all of that, and with what you've studied and written about, if a couple's hearing that and or some single person just hearing this, what would be your practical advice or encouragement for them? Dr. Juli Slattery: (7:00 – 9:29) Yeah, some of it is, we can't live in a bubble. You know, it's, I think that there are some couples will have the conviction that, you know, we're just going to get rid of all of our devices, we're going to get rid of every streaming service. And there's nothing wrong with that decision, you might feel convicted to do that. But for most couples, I would say, they're like, okay, we live in this world, we need to understand even the world we live in. And so, it's not like we're going to completely be cut off. But are we being discerning about what we consume? And what are the standards that we might hit where we might just say, “You know what, we don't need to be watching this.” You know, like I can think of one show in particularly that my husband and I were watching. And it was a well-written show. It was exciting. But there was just so much profanity and just gross kind of sexual content that after two or three episodes, we're both just like, “You know what, as good as the show is, we just, this isn't, we're not watching this. Like we need to stop.” And I think you need to have those discussions and you might have a different level of conviction than your spouse does. And that's okay, but at least have those conversations and you need to follow your conviction. But then the other thing I would say that is equally important, if not more important, what are you consuming that helps you get God's perspective of sexuality? And what I've found is that a whole lot of Christian married couples know very little about what it looks like to build a healthy sex life in their marriage. And they're not consuming anything that helps them know how to love each other better, how to overcome differences, even how their bodies work, how to focus on one another and enjoy sex in a holy erotic way. And so, even if you're watching and consuming very little content from the world, but you're not actively pursuing anything that gives you a biblical perspective, you're still going to end up defaulting to what the world says. And so, I think that again, it's equally as important or not, if not more important to be pursuing what's true and what's right and what's good. Laura Dugger: (9:31 – 9:53) I love that, how you flipped it. And that discernment piece is huge because we don't want to be desensitized to then that we're consuming and we also want to feed on the good. So, I think it even leads to a broader question, again, as Christ followers, how can we recognize if our conscience is being pricked? Dr. Juli Slattery: (9:54 – 12:05) Yeah, we can start by asking the Lord. You know, I mean, I think it's in, is it Psalm 139, where, you know, David is basically saying, “Search me, oh God, and know my thoughts, you know, show me if there's any offensive way within me.” I think that's a beautiful prayer as an individual and as a couple, like God, we want to honor you with what we consume in media, with what we think about, would you guide us and would you show us? And then I think we all have that experience of watching something or listening to something or reading something where we're like, “Uh, I don't know, like, this is sort of a gray area. Like, I'm uncomfortable here. I probably shouldn't be watching this.” Or “Wow, that's really, that's really in your face. Like that's really graphic.” And it's heeding the Holy Spirit when you get those prompts, instead of just pushing through and being like, “Ah, it's not that big of a deal. It's not going to affect me.” Like when you feel that sense of prompting, you respond to it and you say, “All right, I'm going to put this down. I'm going to shut this off.” And, um, you know, the scripture says that we can become callous to those promptings of the Holy Spirit if we are in a habit of just running right through that. But we become more sensitive to the Holy Spirit when we yield and when we obey. Um, and so, I think even just keeping track, you know, every day or every week, like where were the times regarding this or anything else that I really felt convicted by the Holy Spirit about maybe something I said about a friend, uh, or about a little white lie I told, you know, where were the times where I really felt the Holy Spirit nudging me and what did I do? Um, where do I need to confess that I didn't respond well? And where do I need to celebrate that? Yes, I listened, I obeyed, I yielded. Um, and so, I think that's a practice we get into of either ignoring that conviction or really yielding to it. Laura Dugger: (12:06 – 12:28) Hmm. And that gets after the heart issue, which Jesus is so concerned about our heart. And that's a very softened heart approach. Yes. I hope we can have. And as it relates to sexual integrity, then what are some other ways that we need to be on guard so that we're careful not to be misled? Dr. Juli Slattery: (12:29 – 13:37) Yeah, boy, I think there's just so much conversation. Um, again, even in Christian circles, sometimes around having a negative attitude towards sex, um, kind of accepting some forms of pornography as normal and even good, you know, husband bashing, wife bashing, you know, like complaining, kind of letting the thought feed in your mind of maybe I should have married somebody else. Maybe that my life would be easier if I, I weren't married to this person. I wish they were this or that. So, sort of that discontent that is natural to feel in marriage. But the question is, what do you do with it? Do you give it space to grow and to nurture, or do you bring that before the Lord? Um, so, I think those are some of the ways that we want to look at, like, how am I giving the enemy space in my life and in my marriage versus how am I inviting God to really reclaim what's broken here? Laura Dugger: (13:38 – 14:01) Well, and then even thinking of the other side to guard ourselves from having a critical and judgmental spirit toward others or just having self-righteous pride. Can you educate us on some common reasons why some people may be predisposed to struggle with some certain sexual sins? Dr. Juli Slattery: (14:02 – 17:20) Yeah, absolutely. I think that's so important, um, because the research really shows that some of us are more, I don't know if I'd say it that way, but we are going to be more predetermined maybe to struggle with things like pornography or same-sex attraction, or even hooking up. And it's never like a one plus one equals two exactly. But there are what we might say indicators or risk factors that make you more vulnerable to those kinds of sexual struggles. And some of them might be unhealthy family dynamics growing up, you know, none of us had a perfect family, but let's say you grew up in a family where one of your parents was like overtly critical towards you all the time. Maybe you went through a divorce with your parents where, um, you know, at a certain age, you just, your family fell apart and you're kind of looking for that stability and love. People who have experienced sexual trauma in childhood or the teen years are going to be more pre-dispositioned to want to understand that or act that out. People who might struggle with anxiety. And, you know, some of it is we got to understand that sex, because it elicits dopamine in our brain and oxytocin and endorphins, which are all really feel good kind of experiences and hormones and neurotransmitters. When we had a sexual experience at a young age, our brain can learn, “Oh, this is how I deal with stress. This is how I deal with depression. This is how I deal with loneliness.” So, a lot of times when you talk to somebody who has an ongoing struggle with a sexual temptation or sin, it's because they've learned as a pattern from maybe the time they were 10 years old or 12 years old or 15 years old, that this is how I dealt with the stress in my family. This is how I dealt with when my father died. This is how I dealt with when I was sexually abused. Like this was the way that I found to self-regulate and to self-medicate and to find comfort. And that can be masturbation. It can be pornography or again, you know, acting out sexually. And so, for people who have that kind of story, and this might be your spouse, or this might be against somebody that you're looking at and judging to just say, “You need to stop that behavior,” is often not going to be enough. They need to do the work of really looking at what am I using sex for? What are the wounds that I'm using sex to cover up? And how do I actually get the healing I need and find healthier and safer ways for me to cope with negative emotions? And that's why groups are really important for people who have sexual struggles. Counseling is really important. And again, that long journey of healing and freedom, not just a one-time decision that I'm going to try to never do this again. Laura Dugger: (17:21 – 20:19) Love that word freedom, even because that hope is available. And just pointing out how you said this is not deterministic. That's not what we're saying is if you experience something, you will act out sexually. But I agree with you that it is fascinating and helpful to hear the correlation of certain things that happen, especially in childhood, and how that plays out long-term. And I am blanking on which guest it was on The Savvy Sauce, but somebody was enlightening me. I think it was for females that if they were sexually abused, typically before a certain age, then they were more likely to struggle in marriage with wanting to completely avoid sex. But then if it was after a certain age, that it was completely opposite where they maybe used sex to medicate, or they were very aggressive and even would act out, let's say in single years, that they would sleep around with a bunch of partners if they had been wounded. And so, I just think it just, it helps us to not be judgmental of one another. We don't know the full story. Dr. Juli Slattery: (20:20 – 21:09) Yes. Yeah. There's always more there than we usually realize at first. And, you know, this plays out a lot in marriage because there are a lot of women who are married to guys who are addicted to pornography. And that's a deeply painful dynamic. That's really hard. But to understand that your husband didn't want to have this struggle, often doesn't know how to get out of it, you know, gives you compassion. It doesn't mean that you look the other way, you need to get help, and you need to insist on getting help. But it does give you empathy and compassion that there's something underlying this and feeding it. It's not just, “Oh, I think I'm going to, you know, look at porn and hurt my wife again,” that there's always a deeper dynamic at work. Laura Dugger: (21:10 – 21:50) Absolutely. And even an example from your book, I'll just read a quote where you said, “I spoke with a man who runs a sexual addiction program. He told me he had never met someone with sexual addiction, who did not also have significant sexual or psychological trauma in their past.” And I think it goes along with what we're saying. But if we also then flip it and look at more of the positive side, how can we rightly prioritize connection and intimacy in marriage as God intended? Dr. Juli Slattery: (21:53 – 24:24) I think first of all, we need to be convinced that this is worth it. You know, when we look at everything there is to do in life, there's so many worthy demands on our time. You know, from I want my house to look nice, and we need to make friends and we need to be an outreach to our community. And our kids are taking a lot of time and they should, and they've got all their activities and our church needs our help. Like when do you have time to do all this? And then, oh yeah, prioritize your marriage. And I think we have to become convinced that if we're not working on our marriage, and specifically if we're not working on the sexual connection in marriage, then all those other things have the potential to fall apart. That the way I've learned it over time is that sex is never going to be a neutral issue in your marriage. It's either going to be something that is bonding you together and causing you to work on the deeper levels of intimacy, even as you talk through sexual difficulties, or it's going to be something not immediately, but over time, that becomes a wedge between you. It might start as a wedge of resentment of my needs aren't getting met, or I feel like you're objectifying me or you're putting pressure on me. Or it might be a deeper wedge of a pornography addiction or something that's not being addressed. Or I don't trust my husband because of my trauma. And those things don't just stay dormant. The wedge becomes bigger and bigger and bigger until you get to the place where now you're not comfortable being in the same room anymore and you feel like roommates. And then now one of you is attracted to somebody else and the story plays on. And there are very wonderful godly men and women who have gotten married with every purpose to stay together. But a wedge like this has grown over time to the point where they're now thinking about divorce or one of them has cheated on the other. And so, we have to be convinced that honoring God in our lives means prioritizing our marriage, and it means working on this intimate aspect of our marriage so that we can be a stable foundation for our families and our churches and our communities. Laura Dugger: (24:26 – 24:39) And so, if we're getting as practical as possible, what are the best practices that you've seen in married couples who are happily married? How have you experienced that? Dr. Juli Slattery: (24:40 – 28:04) Yeah. I'll put it in kind of like a cliche sort of way because I think sometimes that's catchy. Number one, I would say they're couples who will resist the drift, who will repair the rift, and who will adjust to the shift. So, I can kind of break that down a little bit. But you know, the first thing is resisting the drift of you can go weeks without meaningfully connecting with your spouse. And I don't just mean sexually, but I mean like eye to eye, you know, just loving touch, just connecting to their hearts. And so, couples who know how to resist that drift, like they have regular times built into their calendar where this is where we connect every day. Like even for 10 minutes, this is where we hold each other's hands, we look at each other in the eye, we really connect with what's in your heart, how are you? And they have regular rhythms of once a week or once every other week, we're going to go out and do something fun together, just the two of us. We've worked through what sex looks like in this season. Like how many times do we want to have sex? Are we scheduling that? How are we making sure that's a priority? And so, that's the resisting the drift. And the second one is repairing the rift. And at every marriage, there are going to be things that tear you apart. And sometimes those things might be sexual in nature, like a temptation, an emotional affair, pornography use, sometimes it's going to be something else where you have a deep disagreement that you can't resolve on your own. And you need to be courageous enough to reach out for help and say, like, if we don't get help, if we don't address this issue, like it's going to become something that tears us apart. Any couple that you meet who is happily married for like 30 years or more, they can tell you a story of when they had a rift, and the kind of help that really address that. And then I think the third thing is adjusting to the shift. And in even the normal stages of marriage, there are shifts that happen. Like, you know, I'm in the stage right now where me and the people my age are going through biological changes with menopause and with aging. And, you know, some people are going through becoming grandparents and retirement. And there's all these shifts that are happening even naturally. There's other couples that are younger who are going through the shift of pregnancy and battling infertility. And some people are going through cancer. And there are things that happen that require you to shift your expectations. And to not just wish that it is like it used to be. But this is the marriage we have now. Here are the circumstances we have now. Here are the bodies we have now. How do we learn to love each other and embrace this season, given the changes that we're experiencing? And so, I think that's a framework that I've seen healthy couples navigate over time that really fosters intimacy. Laura Dugger: (28:05 – 29:29) That is incredible. I love how you put that. And I've shared with you before that my background is in Christian sex therapy. So, sex is a topic that does come up a lot and people feel comfortable sharing or asking questions. So, just in regular conversation, I want to recap two conversations that kind of show stances on both ends of the spectrum. And I'd love to hear your wisdom on how to respond to each one. So, first, there was a Christian married woman with children, and she was teaching younger women to say yes to every single sexual advance from their husband. And she said, “If your husband has the higher drive, and he wants to have sex twice a day, then consider yourself lucky. And don't ever say no, because your body is not your own.” Yeah, it's hard to recap. So, this is not my perspective. So, sharing both ends. So, that was one person. And then on the other end, I've heard a woman tell me, “You know, I just didn't feel like having sex for about a year and a half after we had our baby. So, I just told my husband, you're going to have to wait.” So, loaded question, but Dr. Juli, how would you respond to each of those? Dr. Juli Slattery: (29:29 – 32:31) Well, Laura, I feel like you probably would have just as good of response as I would to those. Yeah, I like that you're presenting those as two extremes, because they are two extremes. And I think both extremes kind of miss the heart. We want to be able to say yes to sex and intimacy. And being able to say yes means also being able to say no. In that first situation, essentially, what is going to end up happening is that that wife is going to start feeling like my husband wants me for sex. And I don't have the capacity to enjoy it twice a day. I'm starting to feel like an object or used. And the husband is never going to learn that covenant love requires self-denial. And at every level, you know, what did, what did Paul say to husbands in Ephesians 5, like love your wife as you love your own body and be willing to lay down your, your life for your wife. And that means being sensitive to the fact that she doesn't have the same sexual appetite as you do. She doesn't have the same biology you do, that it actually can be physically painful, emotionally traumatic for a wife to have sex when she's not physically ready. Really, that couple is not working on intimacy. They're, they're kind of reinforcing a pattern that sex is about the husband getting his needs and desires met only through the wife without considering her. And that might work for short term, but that's not building intimacy in the long term. And it's not teaching either of them. And that wife needs to learn her own sexual desires and patterns and be able to communicate those to her husband. So, that's what I would say in that first one. And the second one, essentially, you have a wife kind of having that more selfish perspective of, I only have sex when I want it and on my terms, instead of considering the husband. And, you know, how do I focus on him? How do I work on experiencing sexual desire? How do I foster that? Because it's important for my husband, it's important for our marriage. And I don't want to be selfish. And so, I think both of those situations are kind of approaching sex where one person gets to be selfish, and the other person has to sacrifice. That's ministry, that's not intimacy. And so, we really want to be at a place where both of us, the higher desire one and the lower desire one, are learning what does it look like to really love well, to love sacrificially and to communicate the ways that I feel loved. I don't know, what would you add to that or change? Laura Dugger: (32:31 – 33:11) That's why I asked you, you said that beautifully, better than I could have responded. And again, you're getting back to the heart of it and pointing us back to Jesus with each answer. And, you know, commonly people do struggle with having a safe place where they can ask candid questions about sex. So, I am going to throw some more at you. And some of these are ones that you wrote about. But just to give us a little taste, even of the book, or if somebody has a burning question like this, I'd love your healthy response. So, how do you respond when people ask, “How far is too far to go in a dating relationship?” Dr. Juli Slattery: (33:14 – 36:32) Yeah, I think people are looking for a line, you know, like, as long as I don't cross this line, are we good? And of course, I think their traditional line would be as long as you're not having intercourse. But I think that misses the larger context of the purpose of sex. I've had to be convicted of this in my own life. And we talked very early in our conversation about how we've just sort of ingested messages from the culture. And the culture says that healthy sexuality is an expression of how I feel, right? So, so if I feel safe with you, if I feel romantically connected to you, if I feel sexually attracted to you, then it would be healthy for me to engage sexually with you. And then Christians would come and say, yes, but as long as you don't cross this line. So, that's sort of the narrative that I think a lot of us have heard in the church. But if we look at, from a biblical perspective, God did not design sex to be an expression of how I feel. Okay, let that sink in for a minute. God did not design sex to be an expression of how I feel. He designed it to be a seal and a celebration of covenant, of the choice that a man and a woman make to covenant their lives to one another. And for them to say, just like I give you my whole life, I promise faithfulness to you. I promise that we are becoming one as a family. We have now a physical way to symbolize that in becoming one with our bodies. And so, even if I feel romantically attached to somebody I'm not married to, I don't act on that. Or even if I don't feel romantically attached to my husband, we work on our sex life because we're in covenant. And so, when you begin to understand sex from that standpoint, you answer that question differently of how far can I go? Why are you sharing your body with another person when you haven't shared your life with them? And, you know, I think that the standard is not legalistic, but the heart of the question is a lot, that's a harder question. You know, like it says, and I think 2 Thessalonians or 1 Thessalonians, you know, Paul says, the will of God is that you do not engage in sexual immorality. Don't take advantage of a brother or sister. And how many times in dating relationships do you look back and you're like, “Wow, I gave too much of myself to that person or I took too much of myself from that person. Like we engaged in things that now we're broken apart. Like I wish I could take back.” And so, what does it look like to honor each other? What does it look like to honor the Lord? So, I think those kinds of questions help you get to the heart of how do we steward dating relationships a lot better than looking for a line we're not supposed to cross. Laura Dugger: (36:33 – 37:31) When was the first time you listened to an episode of The Savvy Sauce? How did you hear about our podcast? Did a friend share it with you? Will you be willing to be that friend now and text five other friends or post on your socials anything about The Savvy Sauce that you love? If you share your favorite episodes, that is how we continue to expand our reach and get the good news of Jesus Christ in more ears across the world. So, we need your help. Another way to help us grow is to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts. Each of these suggestions will cost you less than a minute, but it will be a great benefit to us. Thank you so much for being willing to be generous with your time and share. We appreciate you. As Christ followers, should we use a friend's preferred names and pronouns? So, how would you respond to that? Dr. Juli Slattery: (37:32 – 39:20) Boy, this is a hot topic. There are people who have really strong opinions on this. You're saying, do I use a friend's preferred names and pronouns? And I think the fact that you have a friendship means that you can have a deeper conversation about the meaning of the names and pronouns. And I think that deeper conversation needs to happen. Because, you know, ultimately we don't like, we don't want to just say, “Oh yeah, whatever you want to call yourself is fine with me. Truth doesn't matter.” But on the other hand, we really want to get to the spiritual issue underneath this. And there's a, there's a big difference between somebody who doesn't know the Lord, doesn't know where you stand on any of this, and somebody that you can engage in a conversation with and seek wisdom on. I think there, there's probably more latitude to use somebody's preferred name than pronouns. And I think in friendships, sometimes you can work that through and just say, you know, “Hey, I love you. I understand where you're coming from. I'm going to try my best to use the name that you're asking. But the pronoun is something that I'm not comfortable with. And here's why. And just like I'm, I want to understand where you are. I hope that you would have grace and understand where I am.” So, in a friendship, you're able to have those kinds of conversations. Whereas if it's a coworker or it's a stranger or a neighbor, sometimes we can't have that level of conversation. And so, I, we might choose to handle the situation a little differently. Laura Dugger: (39:21 – 39:36) That's good. A hundred percent truth, a hundred percent love or kindness. And what if somebody asks, how much attention should we be giving these secondary issues as believers? Dr. Juli Slattery: (39:39 – 41:03) Boy, I, I think first of all, the secondary issues come out of the primary issues. So, the primary issue, and you know, the issue I wrote Surrendered Sexuality is about is if my life belongs to the Lord, then my whole life needs to belong to Him, including how I think about cultural issues, including how I treat my neighbor. And so, I don't see them as secondary issues. I see them as an outgrowth of the primary issue. I think when they become secondary issues are when we argue with other believers about it and it becomes the most important thing. Like I put you in a category based on, will you use preferred names and pronouns? And then I think we're missing what God calls us to. The primary issue is that we want to honor God and we want to love each other. And so, let's keep going back to that primary issue. How do I love my neighbor well? How do I honor God's truth well? How do I pursue unity within the body of Christ well, as we're navigating some of these secondary issues? So, you know, like if we're going back to the primary issue, it means that we have to talk about the secondary issues, but we talk about them in light of what's primary. Laura Dugger: (41:04 – 41:17) I like that. And I just have three more of these kind of tricky questions. So, another one, does pornography addiction qualify as reasons for a biblical divorce? Dr. Juli Slattery: (41:20 – 42:50) I would say, first of all, technically, if we look at the word for sexual immorality in the scripture, which is porneia, we would say, yeah, you know, pornography does qualify for that. But for the person who's asking this, maybe the woman who's asking this, I would say, why do you want to get out of the marriage? And what Jesus said is Moses permitted divorce because of the hardness of your heart. And I think a more important question is where's your heart and where's your husband's heart? Because I've seen people with pornography addictions who have really open hearts towards healing, and they're willing to get the help that they need. They're repentant. They're willing to do the work. They're willing to go through even a time of separation to show that they're serious about that work. And then there are people who have very hard hearts of, “This is who I am. I might go through the motions, but I'm really not interested in change.” And so, I think the pornography addiction is less the issue than the posture of the person's heart and their willingness to work. And if your spouse is willing to work, then I think it's on us to have soft hearts too, and to be open to the work that God can do. Laura Dugger: (42:51 – 43:34) That's good because saying you have to zoom out and see more of the story in that stance, because that's very different. Somebody who's working on it and hates the struggle and is wanting to break free versus being married to a narcissist who is abusing you and treating you in a certain way and addicted to pornography. So, you point out well that all of these questions have more to them. Okay. So, two more, if a spouse has had an emotional affair in the past with a coworker, but they still work with this person, what is the wise thing to do and how should they handle it if their spouse is uncomfortable with them still working there? Dr. Juli Slattery: (43:36 – 44:33) Yeah, boy, that's something that I would want to seek counseling on. You and your spouse really need to get with a counselor and talk that through. The generic advice in that situation would be to get a different job, to not have that relationship still a temptation or available. But there are sometimes very extenuating circumstances where that's not a possibility, or at least for now, that's not a possibility. And so, I would really encourage you to meet with a third party to sort through the details of your particular situation. Because it could be that your spouse isn't willing to take that hard step of cutting off that relationship, or it could be that they're willing, but again, there's extenuating circumstances. And I would really want a wise person who is engaging with you to help you navigate that. Laura Dugger: (44:34 – 44:44) But I love that, how you highlight that something to look for though, is that you would hope your spouse would be willing to make that right, especially if they were the offending. Dr. Juli Slattery: (44:46 – 44:46) Okay. Laura Dugger: (44:47 – 45:00) And then also, Juli, because scripture does talk about turning the other cheek, does that mean it's the same as saying God expects you to stay in an abusive marriage? Dr. Juli Slattery: (45:02 – 47:41) Absolutely not. If you were in an abusive marriage, you are not doing your spouse any good. You are allowing your spouse to be in a place where they're destroying their own life and they're destroying the people that they love. Now you say, okay, where biblically do we see this? We see that Jesus, he says in John, he says, “I laid down my life for my sheep. I lay it down willingly. No one has the authority to take it from me. I have the authority to lay it down and I have the authority to take it up again.” And we see Him living that out with religious leaders who were after Him all the time, who wanted to stone Him, who were accusing Him of things. It says over and over again that Jesus escaped from them. He just got out of there until it was time that the Father said, now is the time for you to give yourself for the world. So, we take that principle and we say, Jesus was not abused. Jesus did not let Himself be abused. He gave Himself as a lamb to the slaughter as a sacrifice for the Father and for the world. But that's very different. Up until that time, we see Him have great boundaries. We see Him not get, it even says He didn't entrust Himself to man because He knew what was in their hearts. I mean, He had boundaries with people that could have hurt Him. And I also love when we see this in the story of King David and Saul, when Saul is chasing David, Saul is abusive, right? He wants to kill David. And so, David escapes. And there's a situation where David has the power or the opportunity to kill Saul and he doesn't do it. And then Saul just is struck by his conscience, and he comes back to David. He goes, “You're a better man than I am. I'm so sorry. You know, come back with me and I'll treat you well.” And even though David doesn't take revenge, he doesn't go back with Saul. He's still, he's like, “You go your way. I'll go my way. I'm going to let the Lord judge between us.” And I think that's a great model. If you're in any kind of abusive relationship, you don't take revenge, but you also don't stay in that situation. You go your way, let them go their way, and you let God judge between you. And I think we see that over and over again in scripture. Laura Dugger: (47:42 – 48:19) I think that is so well said. And it reminds me of a somewhat recent conversation in 2025 with Stacey Womack who's saying with domestic violence, really the way God would see it is child abuse. And that kind of helps our paradigm because we are His child. And she elaborates on that. So, I said that that was the last one, but I actually thought of one more as it relates to our children. So, is it reasonable to assume that once a child has a smartphone, 100% of them will be exposed to pornography? Dr. Juli Slattery: (48:21 – 49:15) Yeah, it is. And I would say not just once they have a smartphone, because I know with one of my kids, we delayed the smartphone decision, but he had a learning disability that required him to have an iPad for school. And somehow, even though we locked down all the apps, somehow he's able to access it through that. Or it can be a gaming system, or it can be a friend's phone. And so, having a smartphone or device like that certainly makes it more probable. But you know, like our kids are surrounded by screens and technology, not just what's in our home, but in other people's homes and at school. And so, I think it's safe to assume, unfortunately, that yes, 100% of our kids are going to be exposed to pornography, probably by the time they're 13 or 14. Laura Dugger: (49:16 – 49:31) And sadly, some much younger than that. But even if there's parental controls, or filters put on, it is just something on my heart that we have to be so vigilant against. Dr. Juli Slattery: (49:32 – 50:12) Yeah, no, I felt like when, you know, I have three boys, and when they were all three kind of in those teen years, I felt like I was trying to plug holes in a boat, and there'd be new ones popping up all the time. Whether it's like apps, or you know, things that you think are completely safe. Somehow, pornography can get through. And our kids are smart, like they know the workarounds to the parental things. And that's why we just need to have conversation after conversation, just discipling them, not just protecting them from pornography, but discipling them through what they're inevitably going to be exposed to. Laura Dugger: (50:13 – 51:05) That's a great point that not just being reactive, but proactive. I think why I have such a heart for this is because practicing and doing therapy and having so many people come in those wounds, that if that addiction gets a stronghold, and that pornography use, it just can wreak havoc in people long term. And so, if we can do that hard work of discipling early on, it is such a blessing to our children, to the generation. So, I'm just so grateful for your candid responses. And I think it's also a helpful reminder just to never take on a burden that was never meant for us to carry. So, are there any ways that God has taught you to not try and do His business? Dr. Juli Slattery: (51:07 – 52:16) Yeah. Boy, that's such a great question. I've had to come to the conclusion that I can't convince anyone of right and wrong. You know, like, I can't convince anyone that pornography is wrong, or gay marriage is wrong, or you know, like, that's not my job. My job is to walk with the Lord with integrity and faithfulness and to testify as to who He is. And so much of this work, whether we're talking about marriage or our friends or our children, so much of this work has to be the Lord's work. And you reach a stage with your kids when they hit those teen years, where you realize the things my kids most need, I can't give them. I can't give them a relationship with God. I can't give them the desire to follow and seek the Lord. Like, I can model that for them. I can encourage them. But that is between them and the Lord. And if I try to control that, I'm just getting in the way of the work that God wants to do in their lives. Laura Dugger: (52:18 – 52:33) Goodness, I will need to write that down and reflect on that. That is so good, Juli. And there's still so much more that you could share with us. So, where is your preferred place that we can go online and continue learning from you? Dr. Juli Slattery: (52:34 – 52:48) Yeah, I would say two places. Number one, our website is authenticintimacy.com. And the second one is the podcast that I do called Java with Juli. It goes along with The Savvy Sauce, you know, like they kind of go together. Laura Dugger: (52:49 – 53:11) Yes, absolutely. We will certainly link to all of that in the show notes for today's episode. And you're familiar, I've asked you many times before, because we are called savvy, because savvy is synonymous with practical knowledge or discernment. So, as my final question for you today, Dr. Juli, what is your savvy sauce? Dr. Juli Slattery: (53:13 – 53:58) Oh, I don't even remember how I answered this the last few times. I think I may have said this before, but I think reading the dead old guys is one of my savvy sauce, like reading people who didn't live in this generation who loved the Lord. And learning from them is just, that's probably taught me more discernment than anything, because they just cut right through the cultural noise that I think sometimes can blind us. And they really help me see my heart for what it is and help me really want to pursue God at a deeper level. Laura Dugger: (53:59 – 54:03) Wow. Any specific recommendations that have been personal favorites there? Dr. Juli Slattery: (54:04 – 54:22) Yeah, I love A.W. Tozer. I love many of Andrew Murray's books, particularly Humility and Absolute Surrender. And C.S. Lewis is another great one, Mere Christianity. So, those are some that I would recommend you start with. Laura Dugger: (54:23 – 54:44) That is wonderful. Thank you for sharing that. And Juli, it's just always such a delight to get to share an hour of conversation with you. And you are just this beautiful mixture of bold and gentle and humble, all combined into one. So, thank you for being my returning guest today. Dr. Juli Slattery: (54:44 – 54:49) Oh, thank you. And it's such a pleasure to be with you. Thanks for your great questions. Laura Dugger: (54:51 – 58:33) One more thing before you go, have you heard the term gospel before? It simply means good news. And I want to share the best news with you, but it starts with the bad news. Every single one of us were born sinners, but Christ desires to rescue us from our sin, which is something we cannot do for ourselves. This means there's absolutely no chance we can make it to heaven on our own. So, for you and for me, it means we deserve death, and we can never pay back the sacrifice we owe to be saved. We need a savior, but God loved us so much. He made a way for his only son to willingly die in our place as the perfect substitute. This gives us hope of life forever in right relationship with him. That is good news. Jesus lived the perfect life. We could never live and died in our place for our sin. This was God's plan to make a way to reconcile with us so that God can look at us and see Jesus. We can be covered and justified through the work Jesus finished. If we choose to receive what he has done for us, Romans 10:9 says, “that if you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” So, you pray with me now. Heavenly father, thank you for sending Jesus to take our place. I pray someone today right now is touched and chooses to turn their life over to you. Will you clearly guide them and help them take their next step in faith to declare you as Lord of their life? We trust you to work and change lives now for eternity. In Jesus name we pray. Amen. If you prayed that prayer, you are declaring him for me. So, me for him, you get the opportunity to live your life for him. And at this podcast, we're called The Savvy Sauce for a reason. We want to give you practical tools to implement the knowledge you have learned. So, you're ready to get started. First, tell someone, say it out loud, get a Bible. The first day I made this decision, my parents took me to Barnes and Noble and let me choose my own Bible. I selected the Quest NIV Bible and I love it. You can start by reading the book of John. Also get connected locally, which just means tell someone who's a part of a church in your community that you made a decision to follow Christ. I'm assuming they will be thrilled to talk with you about further steps such as going to church and getting connected to other believers to encourage you. We want to celebrate with you too. So, feel free to leave a comment for us here. If you did make a decision to follow Christ, we also have show notes included where you can read scripture that describes this process. And finally, be encouraged. Luke 15:10 says, “in the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” The heavens are praising with you for your decision today. And if you've already received this good news, I pray you have someone to share it with. You are loved and I look forward to meeting you here next time.
Hi everyone! In today's segment, we review cosmic energy and how to best navigate the shift of Mars in Aquarius. We also explore the upcoming Mercury Retrograde, the nakshatra it will retrograde in, and how this may impact us on an individual and collective level. YOUTUBE:D9 exploration:https://youtu.be/HTgYcjltyasCharacteristics of Your Spouse:https://youtu.be/i_cOvdSbjy0Soulmate Astrologyhttps://youtu.be/ExnDysvjzUwChristine:website: innerknowing.yogainstagram: astrologynow_podcastpatreon: patreon.com/astrologynowpodcast keywords: astrology, jyotish, Vedic astrology, sidereal astrology, nakshatras, spirituality, Christine Rodriguez, aries, libra, scorpio, libra, capricorn, Nakshatra, new moon, taurus, Venus, Jupiter, Pisces, Spirituality, horoscope, retrograde, eclipse, solar eclipse, new moon, lunar eclipse
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!
Send a textMany couples aren't in crisis — they're in a quiet middle space.Not deeply connected. Not fighting constantly. Just… living around the ache.In this episode, Christine explores the subtle pattern where one partner reaches for change while the other avoids it — and how resignation slowly replaces longing.If you've ever told yourself, “We're okay,” while something inside you still feels distant or unfulfilled, this conversation will help you reconnect with your honesty — gently and without pressure.You'll learn:Why couples get stuck in emotional limboThe hidden cost of living in resignationThe subtle lies we tell ourselves about wanting moreReflective questions to help you reconnect with what you missHow to take a next step without forcing an outcomeIf this resonates, consider scheduling a Courageous Love Conversation — a space to gain clarity about where you are and what support might help.And if someone came to mind while listening, share this episode with them. It may be the nudge they need.CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving Relationship Does communication feel hard in your marriage? Get my Gentle Start Communication Guide, where I share a gentle daily practice that helps you stay present, name what's true for you, and build connection without escalation or problem-solving.Unlock deeper connection in your marriage with my free guide, Daily Prompts for Deeper Connection with Your Spouse—get it now! Start feeling more connected and loved in your marriage today with my free Reclaim More Love in Just 3 Days process. This process will have you learning how to shift your focus, in a healthy way, and nurture thoughts that build connection and transform how you feel about your marriage. More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings. ...
Today we discuss the upcoming solar eclipse on February 17th in the nakshatra of Dhanishta. We begin by doing a brief recap of some current affairs - we get into more personal astrology around the 9:45 mark with horoscopes coming at the end, per usual. This solar eclipse activates the Leo–Aquarius axis in a way that feels deeply personal and profoundly collective.Ketu in Leo indicates challenging celebrity worship, hierarchy, and the illusion of kingdoms and regimes. Who have we placed on pedestals? Where have we given our power away?Rahu in Aquarius brings a focus shift toward collective advancement - especially in health, innovation, and systems that serve humanity at large.We discuss:ReceptivityAbundanceWealth consciousnessMoney as energyShifting from being an audience to participant We break down horoscopes for all 12 signs while exploring the brilliance of Dhanishta - the nakshatra of radiance, rhythm, and remembering what makes us bright.YOUTUBE:D9 exploration:https://youtu.be/HTgYcjltyasCharacteristics of Your Spouse:https://youtu.be/i_cOvdSbjy0Soulmate Astrologyhttps://youtu.be/ExnDysvjzUwChristine:website: innerknowing.yogainstagram: astrologynow_podcastpatreon: patreon.com/astrologynowpodcast keywords: astrology, jyotish, Vedic astrology, sidereal astrology, nakshatras, spirituality, Christine Rodriguez, aries, libra, scorpio, libra, capricorn, Nakshatra, new moon, taurus, Venus, Jupiter, Pisces, Spirituality, horoscope, retrograde, eclipse, solar eclipse, new moon, lunar eclipse
Send a textValentine's Day expectations in marriage often go unspoken — and that's where disappointment begins.In this episode, Christine explores how waiting for your spouse to meet expectations without clear communication can create quiet resentment. You'll learn how to examine what you truly want, share your desires with clarity, and use Valentine's Day as an invitation for deeper connection rather than pressure.Christine also discusses how to express love without conditions, take care of your own heart when expectations aren't met, and start honest conversations that build intimacy over time.Resources mentioned:– Gentle Start Guide to Better Communication– Courageous Love Conversation
Hi everyone! Our segment is a little less conventional today. There has been so much information coming out that it is challenging to keep up with, analyze, and consider! The Epstein files were recently released (though many still are not and much of this information is heavily redacted) and it has catalyzed a shift in collective conscious. Who are our leaders really? Who are they affiliated with? What secrets are our favorite celebrities harboring? This is a topic that I care about deeply! I hope you find the connections to astrology interesting.FOUNDATION COURSEhttps://www.innerknowing.yoga/vedic-astrology-foundational-courseYOUTUBE:D9 exploration:https://youtu.be/HTgYcjltyasCharacteristics of Your Spouse:https://youtu.be/i_cOvdSbjy0Soulmate Astrologyhttps://youtu.be/ExnDysvjzUwChristine:website: innerknowing.yogainstagram: astrologynow_podcastpatreon: patreon.com/astrologynowpodcast keywords: astrology, jyotish, Vedic astrology, sidereal astrology, nakshatras, spirituality, Christine Rodriguez, aries, libra, scorpio, libra, capricorn, Nakshatra, new moon, taurus, Venus, Jupiter, Pisces, Spirituality, horoscope, retrograde, eclipse, solar eclipse, new moon, lunar eclipse
In this episode, we dive into the upcoming eclipse season on the axis of Leo and Aquarius. This eclipse cycle amplifies power-to-the-people energy which can create a tension between individual sovereignty and the powers that be. There will be powerful movements but also continued clash between person and state.We explore the combustible conjunction of Mars and Rahu, a transit that brings intense heat, passion, and ambition, but also raises the potential for conflict, attacks, impulsive actions, and major blow-ups if energy isn't consciously directed. Venus's involvement with Rahu highlights karmic themes around love, desire, and attachments. Relational patterns may resurface demanding clarity or release.Later in the month, Mercury retrograde under these conditions is especially disruptive, increasing the likelihood of miscommunications, travel delays (at worst, major issues or accidents involving travel) tech issues, and messages going sideways. Stay abreast to cosmic matters by taking notes on your calendar throughout the segment. BEGINNER CLASSInnerknowing.yoga > offerings > Beginner CourseYOUTUBE:D9 exploration:https://youtu.be/HTgYcjltyasCharacteristics of Your Spouse:https://youtu.be/i_cOvdSbjy0Soulmate Astrologyhttps://youtu.be/ExnDysvjzUwChristine:website: innerknowing.yogainstagram: astrologynow_podcastpatreon: patreon.com/astrologynowpodcast keywords: astrology, jyotish, Vedic astrology, sidereal astrology, nakshatras, spirituality, Christine Rodriguez, aries, libra, scorpio, libra, capricorn, Nakshatra, new moon, taurus, Venus, Jupiter, Pisces, Spirituality, horoscope, retrograde, eclipse, solar eclipse, new moon, lunar eclipse
On today's segment, we have a laid back conversation with Daniel about astrology, karma, and past life regression. When I met Daniel, we immediately clicked on metaphysics, time, alternate realities, death, and most importantly - child like humor. Periodically, we like to sit down and explore the cosmos in laid back and communal fashion. We hope you glean sparks of insight, inspiration, or feel a shift in perspective while listening to our banter. To Book with Daniel: https://www.thepastliferegressionist.comhttps://www.instagram.com/thepastliferegressionist/?hl=enYOUTUBE:D9 exploration:https://youtu.be/HTgYcjltyasCharacteristics of Your Spouse:https://youtu.be/i_cOvdSbjy0Soulmate Astrologyhttps://youtu.be/ExnDysvjzUwChristine:website: innerknowing.yogainstagram: astrologynow_podcastpatreon: patreon.com/astrologynowpodcast keywords: astrology, jyotish, Vedic astrology, sidereal astrology, nakshatras, spirituality, Christine Rodriguez, aries, libra, scorpio, libra, capricorn, Nakshatra, new moon, taurus, Venus, Jupiter, Pisces, Spirituality, horoscope, retrograde, eclipse, solar eclipse, new moon, lunar eclipse
My book, Don't Burn Your Own House Down: Prioritizing Your Marriage, Your Spouse, and Yourself for a Deeper Connection, will be here in ONE WEEK. (AHHH!!!) Please pre-order today!!! Barnes & Noble: Buy from B&N! (Preferred
Hi everyone!In this segment we discuss the upcoming new moon in Uttara Ashadha in Capricorn. We explore how becoming truly aligned with our values or morals can sometimes feel isolating. As we refine our convictions - certain relationships, identities, and paths may crumble as a natural consequence of our own commitment to our life. Uttara Ashadha teaches us that loneliness can be a rite of passage on the way to inner authority.YOUTUBE:D9 exploration:https://youtu.be/HTgYcjltyasCharacteristics of Your Spouse:https://youtu.be/i_cOvdSbjy0Soulmate Astrologyhttps://youtu.be/ExnDysvjzUwChristine:website: innerknowing.yogainstagram: astrologynow_podcastpatreon: patreon.com/astrologynowpodcast keywords: astrology, jyotish, Vedic astrology, sidereal astrology, nakshatras, spirituality, Christine Rodriguez, aries, libra, scorpio, libra, capricorn, Nakshatra, new moon, taurus, Venus, Jupiter, Pisces, Spirituality, horoscope, retrograde, eclipse, solar eclipse, new moon, lunar eclipse
As the year winds down, the noise of the past year gets louder. We see what we failed at and all that we've achieved. And then as January approaches, the world shouts at us to set our New Year resolutions, to chase fresh starts, to reinvent ourselves, to do more, be better, and try harder. But what if what your soul actually needs isn't a fresh start, but rest and obedience? Jesus doesn't heal through pressure, He heals through presence. In this episode, Lindsey Maestas shares a gentle, Jesus-centered reflection for the holiday season and end of the year. She challenges herself, and her listeners, to live faithfully this year instead of doing everything to be hotter, richer, more, more, more. Instead of pushing self-improvement or hustle spirituality, this episode invites you to slow down, breathe, and return to the heart of the gospel: Jesus is faithful, and he doesn't call us to live a burnt out life. Rooted in Scripture and lived experience, this episode speaks directly to women who feel quietly exhausted, emotionally spent, or spiritually worn down—especially those navigating marriage struggles, burnout, anxiety, or disappointment with how the year turned out. Have you already ordered my new book?! Don't Burn Your Own House Down: Prioritizing Your Marriage, Your Spouse, and Yourself for a Deeper Connection is available for pre-order NOW! Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE for more episodes like this!
Sheila Walsh’s happy childhood dissolved in an instant when her father suffered a devastating brain injury that led to violent outbursts, and ultimately, death by suicide. Sheila couldn’t understand why her dad hated her, but resolved to do better for her Heavenly Father. Hear why Sheila ended up in a psychiatric hospital at age 34, and how Jesus helped her see her truth worth as His child. Receive a copy of The Six Conversations and an audio download of "How to Have Meaningful Conversations with Your Spouse" for your donation of any amount! Your Gift DOUBLES to Help Deliver Hope and Joy! Save 2X the marriages and families this Christmas with your life-changing gift today! Get More Episode Resources If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.
Sheila Walsh’s happy childhood dissolved in an instant when her father suffered a devastating brain injury that led to violent outbursts, and ultimately, death by suicide. Sheila couldn’t understand why her dad hated her, but resolved to do better for her Heavenly Father. Hear why Sheila ended up in a psychiatric hospital at age 34, and how Jesus helped her see her truth worth as His child. Receive a copy of The Six Conversations and an audio download of "How to Have Meaningful Conversations with Your Spouse" for your donation of any amount! Your Gift DOUBLES to Help Deliver Hope and Joy! Save 2X the marriages and families this Christmas with your life-changing gift today! Get More Episode Resources If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.
Communication is a key factor in any healthy relationship, especially when nurturing your connection with your spouse. In this Best of 2025 episode, Heather Holleman and her husband, Ashley, join us to share practical insights on communicating effectively within marriage while living out a gospel-centered life together. Their encouragement serves as inspiration to guide you on how to strengthen your marriage through intentional care and conversations. Receive a copy of The Six Conversations and an audio download of "How to Have Meaningful Conversations with Your Spouse" for your donation of any amount! Your Gift DOUBLES to Help Deliver Hope and Joy! Save 2X the marriages and families this Christmas with your life-changing gift today! Get More Episode Resources If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.
In today's episode, I sit down with Marc Cameron, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, to explore one of the most influential (and often overlooked) elements of our emotional lives: attachment styles. Drawing from more than 80 years of research, Marc breaks down how our earliest experiences with our families shape the way we connect, communicate, handle conflict, and relate to the people closest to us well into adulthood. This episode offers a compassionate and scientifically grounded roadmap for understanding yourself and the people you love. Whether you identify as avoidant, anxious, vacillating, disorganized, or relatively secure, you'll walk away with clarity, validation, and practical tools for building healthier patterns of connection. Here is some of what we cover: Why attachment styles are not personality traits, but relational survival strategies formed early in life Why “secure” doesn't mean perfect; it means the relationship feels predictable and safe most of the time How attachment ruptures can be healed in adulthood through awareness and practice Why the holidays amplify attachment triggers—family roles, old wounds and unresolved expectations How to move toward secure attachment by learning emotional language, practicing repair, and using the comfort circle Connect with Marc Cameron: Instagram: How We Love (@howwelovebook) Facebook: How We Love Website: How We Love – Discover Your Love Style, Enhance Your Marriage Links Mentioned: How We Love: By Milan and Kay Yerkovich Understanding Your Attachment Style:By Marc Cameron Love Style Quiz – How We Love Freebies – How We Love Related Episodes: Building Healthy Relationships by Exploring Adult Attachment Patterns (Part 1) :: Charissa Lopez [Ep 498] Building Healthy Relationships by Exploring Adult Attachment Patterns (Part 2) :: Charissa Lopez [Ep 499] How to Align with Your Spouse in Parenting :: Dr. Kim Kimberling [Ep 491] What Does my Child Need :: Amy and Jeff Olrick [Ep 480] SofM 2024 Featured Sponsors: Thrive Causemetics: Complete your holiday look with Thrive Causemetics. Luxury beauty that gives back. Right now, you can get an exclusive 20% off your first order at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA Honeylove: Treat yourself or someone you love to Honeylove this holiday season and right now you can save 20% at honeylove.com/DMA Story Worth: Give your loved ones a unique keepsake you'll all cherish for years–Storyworth Memoirs! Right now save $10 or more during their Holiday sale when you go to Storyworth.com/dma.
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