Blended Families, “Usness,” and the Power of Humility w/ Ron Deal

In this episode, Aaron sits down with Dan and Sam, a couple passionate about weaving adventure and faith into every part of family life. They share how parenting hasn’t stopped their pursuit of exploration—it’s deepened it. Together, they talk about the importance of viewing marriage as a ministry, prioritizing family as your first disciples, and how community and faith sustain their journey. They also discuss the heart behind their book Always Choose Adventure, encouraging listeners to live with purpose and intentionality, no matter the season.Takeaways:Marriage is a ministry, and your family is your first mission field.Adventure doesn’t end with kids—it becomes even more meaningful.Community and faith are foundational to a strong marriage.Always Choose Adventure challenges families to pursue God’s calling with courage and joy.Connect with Dan & Sam:Authors of Always Choose Adventure https://a.co/d/i3IPPepFollow them on Instagram: @DanAndSamFollow Marriage After God:Instagram: Marriage After God - https://www.instagram.com/marriageaftergodInstagram: Unveiled Wife - https://www.instagram.com/unveiledwifeInstagram: Husband Revolution - https://www.instagram.com/husbandrevolutionSupport this podcast:Shop: https://shop.marriageaftergod.com/Become a patron: https://marriageaftergod.com/patronSmith Family Resources, Inc © 2025Keywords: adventure, marriage as ministry, family discipleship, intentional parenting, faith, community, purpose, exploration, Christian livingSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/marriageaftergod/donations

In today’s episode, Aaron chats with Ron Deal, licensed marriage and family therapist, author, and speaker, who specializes in blended families and stepfamily dynamics. Together they explore the unique challenges and opportunities within blended families. With over 30 years in family ministry, Ron shares wisdom on how humility, emotional regulation, and a shared sense of "usness" can transform marriages. He unpacks how neuroscience supports biblical truths about relationships and encourages the church to better support couples in every season.Key Takeaways:Blended families need intentional care and support.The church must invest in stronger marriage ministries.Emotional dysregulation often fuels conflict cycles.Humility is a pathway to healing and unity.“Usness” strengthens a couple’s shared identity.Neuroscience affirms biblical principles of connection.Awareness can help couples rewrite their conflict patterns.Relationship struggles can deepen our dependence on God.Connect with Ron DealWebsite: https://rondeal.org/Reactive Coping Style Assessment: https://rondeal.org/reactivecopingstylePodcast: FamilyLife Blended PodcastFollow Marriage After God:Instagram: Marriage After God - https://www.instagram.com/marriageaftergodInstagram: Unveiled Wife - https://www.instagram.com/unveiledwifeInstagram: Husband Revolution - https://www.instagram.com/husbandrevolutionSupport this podcast:Shop: https://shop.marriageaftergod.com/Become a patron: https://marriageaftergod.com/patronSmith Family Resources, Inc © 2025Keywords: blended families, marriage ministry, spiritual growth, conflict, humility, usness, neuroscience, discipleship, church supportSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/marriageaftergod/donations

In this episode, Aaron sits down with Vince Revo as he shares his powerful testimony of transformation—from addiction and unbelief to redemption through Christ. Vince opens up about the challenges of church planting, the weight of online ministry, and how his marriage and family have been central to his walk with God. This conversation highlights the role of conviction, repentance, and grace in the process of sanctification.Key Takeaways:Church planting affects the whole family—intentionality is key.Online ministry requires clarity and healthy boundaries.Redemption stories reveal the power of the gospel.Marriage is a refining ground for sanctification.Conviction and repentance fuel spiritual growth.Fix your eyes on Jesus—daily grace sustains us.Connect with Vince Revo:Instagram: @vincerevo Youtube: RevoReportResources: https://www.patreon.com/vincerevoFollow Marriage After God:Instagram: Marriage After God - https://www.instagram.com/marriageaftergodInstagram: Unveiled Wife - https://www.instagram.com/unveiledwifeInstagram: Husband Revolution - https://www.instagram.com/husbandrevolutionSupport this podcast:Shop: https://shop.marriageaftergod.com/Become a patron: https://marriageaftergod.com/patronSmith Family Resources, Inc © 2025Keywords: faith, marriage, church planting, online ministry, testimony, redemption, sanctification, conviction, repentance, family dynamics summarySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/marriageaftergod/donations

In today’s episode, Aaron chats with author and Bible teacher Zach Windahl about faith, family, and biblical literacy. They dive into Zach’s personal journey—from wrestling with doubt during college to embracing a deeper understanding of Scripture. The conversation explores the power of homeschooling, the value of entrepreneurship in raising kids, and how reading the Bible in context transforms lives. Zach shares insights from his new book The Bible Simplified and offers encouragement for families to make God’s Word central in their homes.Key Takeaways:Zach’s early faith was shaped by his mom’s perseverance through health challenges.College brought doubts, revealing how environment can influence belief.Homeschooling provides freedom to blend education with faith.Teaching kids to think critically—and entrepreneurially—is essential.Reading the Bible aloud can deepen both understanding and belief.Context is key: knowing the Bible’s background brings clarity and meaning.Many Christians haven’t read the entire Bible—and they’re missing out.Families are encouraged to grow together in Scripture and prayer.Connect with Zach Windahl:Instagram: @zachwindahl Book: The Bible, Simplified https://a.co/d/0YAtsnaWebsite: https://zachwindahl.com/Follow Marriage After God:Instagram: Marriage After God - https://www.instagram.com/marriageaftergodInstagram: Unveiled Wife - https://www.instagram.com/unveiledwifeInstagram: Husband Revolution - https://www.instagram.com/husbandrevolutionSupport this podcast:Shop: https://shop.marriageaftergod.com/Become a patron: https://marriageaftergod.com/patronSmith Family Resources, Inc © 2025Keywords:faith, Bible study, Christian living, homeschooling, education, entrepreneurship, scripture, family, devotionals, personal growthSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/marriageaftergod/donations

In this episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron Smith sits down with Bethany Beal, co-founder of Girl Defined, to talk about her journey from the modeling world to biblical ministry. Together, they unpack what it means to embrace womanhood in today’s culture, the vital role of family, and the impact of social media on identity.Bethany shares powerful insights from her new book Made to Be She, encouraging women to reclaim their worth, set healthy boundaries, and return to God’s design for family, motherhood, and womanhood.Key Takeaways:Bethany’s modeling background gave her a deeper understanding of true worth and identity.Social media has reshaped how women perceive themselves—parents must stay aware and engaged.Fathers play a crucial role in shaping a daughter’s confidence and identity.The cultural shift encouraging women to leave the home has altered family dynamics.Home-cooked meals and intentional motherhood reflect a deeper, often lost, tradition.Birth control has changed the way society and even the church view family and children.Children are a blessing—our heart posture toward them reveals our theology.Made to Be She is a call for women to embrace biblical womanhood and the high calling of motherhood.This episode is a powerful reminder to stand firm in God’s truth and raise the next generation to do the same.Connect with Bethany Beal:Instagram: @girldefinedBook: Made To Be SheWebsite: https://girldefined.com/meet-usFollow Marriage After God:Instagram: Marriage After God - https://www.instagram.com/marriageaftergodInstagram: Unveiled Wife - https://www.instagram.com/unveiledwifeInstagram: Husband Revolution - https://www.instagram.com/husbandrevolutionSupport this podcast:Shop: https://shop.marriageaftergod.com/Become a patron: https://marriageaftergod.com/patronSmith Family Resources, Inc © 2025KEY WORDS: family dynamics, father-daughter relationship, womanhood, identity, boundaries, cultural influence, traditional values, Girl Defined, self-worth, femininity, womanhood, family dynamics, feminism, birth control, motherhood, societal movements, parenting, traditional roles, family values, Christian perspectiveSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/marriageaftergod/donations

In today’s episode, Aaron sits down with Stephen Moore to talk about faith, family, and the beauty that unfolds when we trust God’s timing. Stephen opens up about his journey with infertility, the emotional and spiritual challenges that came with waiting, and how God led him and his wife to adopt two sons before blessing them with a biological daughter.They discuss:The pain and hope found in seasons of infertilityHow adoption became a gospel-centered callingThe unexpected joy of growing their familyThe power of prayer and God’s faithfulnessStephen’s involvement with WinShape Camps and their mission to reach kids with the gospelThe value of community, discipleship, and device-free environments for deeper connectionThis conversation is a great reminder that even when life doesn’t go according to plan, God is always working for our good. Whether you're walking through a season of waiting or wondering how to trust God with your family story, Stephen’s testimony will encourage and inspire you.Connect with Stephen Moore:Instagram: @winshapecampsWinShape Camps for Communities: winshapecamps.orgFollow Marriage After God:Instagram: Marriage After God - https://www.instagram.com/marriageaftergodInstagram: Unveiled Wife - https://www.instagram.com/unveiledwifeInstagram: Husband Revolution - https://www.instagram.com/husbandrevolutionSupport this podcast:Shop: https://shop.marriageaftergod.com/Become a patron: https://marriageaftergod.com/patronSmith Family Resources, Inc © 2025KEY WORDS: marriage, family, adoption, infertility, faith, parenting, God's timing, personal story, encouragement, providence, prayer, faith, adoption, hope, suffering, Windshape Camps, children's ministry, infertility, family, Christian valuesSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/marriageaftergod/donations

In today’s episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron sits down with Dave and Ann Wilson—authors, speakers, and co-hosts of the FamilyLife Today radio show—to talk about the power of words in marriage. After 45 years of marriage, they’ve learned firsthand how speaking life, showing kindness, and embracing humility can radically transform a relationship.We discuss their new book How to Speak Life to Your Husband and the simple but profound ways encouragement can deepen emotional connection, heal past wounds, and reignite love. Whether you're in a season of joy or struggle, this conversation will give you practical tools to help your marriage thrive.In this episode, we cover:Why the foundation of society is built on strong familiesThe power of encouragement and positive affirmation in marriageHow our upbringing shapes the way we love and communicateWhy timing matters when discussing sensitive topicsHow transparency and humility lead to healingPractical steps for strengthening your relationship todayWhether you’re newly married or decades in, this conversation will remind you of the incredible influence your words have—and how speaking life can change everything.Connect with Dave and Ann Wilson:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DJKOpYHP3eu/?hl=enOrder Their New Book, How To Speak Life To Your Husband, Here: https://a.co/d/76RfWt2 Order their book, No Perfect Parents, Here: https://a.co/d/8U0uYARFollow Marriage After God:Instagram: Marriage After God - https://www.instagram.com/marriageaftergodInstagram: Unveiled Wife - https://www.instagram.com/unveiledwifeInstagram: Husband Revolution - https://www.instagram.com/husbandrevolutionSupport this podcast:Shop: https://shop.marriageaftergod.com/Become a patron: https://marriageaftergod.com/patronSmith Family Resources, Inc © 2025KEY WORDS: marriage, family, faith, repentance, communication, personal stories, humility, encouragement, relationships, books, marriage, communication, emotional needs, kindness, encouragement, transformation, positive words, spiritual principles, relationship advice, personal growthSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/marriageaftergod/donations

In today’s episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron sits down with Elizabeth Andreyevskiy—a Christian life coach, wife of nearly 16 years, and mother of four—who helps overwhelmed moms manage their emotions with biblical truth and practical tools. Drawing from a strong foundation of Christian values, Elizabeth shares how her journey through marriage and motherhood exposed deeper struggles with anger, self-regulation, and shame—and how God used those challenges to transform her heart.In this episode we explore:The emotional struggles many moms face, including anger and shameHow Elizabeth began recognizing her triggers and regulating her responsesWhy spiritual leadership in marriage is essential for a thriving homeThe power of prayer, compassion, and authenticity in parentingHow to embrace hope when motherhood feels overwhelmingElizabeth's story offers encouragement for every mom who feels stuck in cycles of guilt or frustration.Whether you're a mom in the trenches or a parent seeking more peace at home, this conversation will leave you feeling seen, supported, and inspired to grow.Connect with Elizabeth Andreyevskiy:Podcast: Emotionally Healthy LegacyWebsite: emotionallyhealthylegacy.comEmail: [email protected] Training: endmomshame.comInstagram: @emotionally_healthy_legacyFollow Marriage After God:Instagram: Marriage After God - https://www.instagram.com/marriageaftergodInstagram: Unveiled Wife - https://www.instagram.com/unveiledwifeInstagram: Husband Revolution - https://www.instagram.com/husbandrevolutionSupport this podcast:Shop: https://shop.marriageaftergod.com/Become a patron: https://marriageaftergod.com/patronSmith Family Resources, Inc © 2025KEY WORDS: marriage, parenting, spiritual leadership, anger management, family dynamics, Christian moms, cultural influences, family values, personal growth, motherhood, parenting, anger management, self-improvement, emotional health, motherhood, mental health, Christian parenting, coping strategies, personal growth, family dynamicsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/marriageaftergod/donations

In this episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron Smith interviews Austin J. Holt about the intersection of marriage, ministry, and personal growth. Austin is a Christian entrepreneur, coach, and ministry leader dedicated to helping couples build thriving, Christ-centered marriages. Together with his wife, Rachel, he co-founded The Conscious Christian Marriage, a coaching program that integrates biblical principles with psychological insights to support high-performing Christian couples in deepening their connection and purpose .During our conversation, Austin shares how he and his wife Rachel transitioned from wedding photography to marriage ministry, driven by a desire to strengthen their own relationship and help others do the same. Married for 14 years with four children, they’ve learned to prioritize marriage as their first ministry, especially in the face of challenges like Rachel’s parents’ divorce.In this conversation we explore:The power of humility, grace, and obedience in marriage and faith.The difference between biblical prosperity and the prosperity gospel.Why ministry starts at home and why marriage should come before other obligations.The impact of encouragement, appreciation, and speaking life into one another.The importance of taking responsibility and making it easy for your spouse to love you.Austin emphasizes that every marriage can grow with intentionality, mentorship, and faith at the center. Whether you're in a season of growth or struggle, this conversation will encourage and equip you to pursue a Christ-centered marriage—starting right where you are.Please subscribe to our channel on YouTube, iTunes, or Spotify and leave us a star rating and review to help us reach new listeners. Your support and feedback means the world to us!Connect with Austin J. Holt:Instagram: @consciouschristianmarriageWebsite: https://www.consciouschristianmarriage.com/Follow Marriage After God:Instagram: Marriage After God - https://www.instagram.com/marriageaftergodInstagram: Unveiled Wife - https://www.instagram.com/unveiledwifeInstagram: Husband Revolution - https://www.instagram.com/husbandrevolutionSupport this podcast:Shop: https://shop.marriageaftergod.com/Become a patron: https://marriageaftergod.com/patronSmith Family Resources, Inc © 2025KEY WORDS: marriage, ministry, coaching, family, relationships, faith, personal growth, wedding photography, entrepreneurship, continuous learning, humility, obedience, biblical prosperity, marriage ministry, encouragement, appreciation, relationship advice, spiritual leadership, family focus, personal responsibilitySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/marriageaftergod/donations

In today's episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron interviews Amanda Hayhurst, author of "Pray for Him" and seminary graduate whose marriage was restored after infidelity. Through her personal journey of reconciliation, healing from father wounds, and walking through her son's cancer diagnosis, Amanda shares how prayer transformed her approach to marriage and relationships.In this vulnerable conversation, we explore:How attempting to be the Holy Spirit in our spouse's life creates frustration instead of changeThe transformative power of surrendering control and praying consistently for your husbandWhy authentic community was crucial to Amanda's marriage surviving infidelityThe freedom that comes when we stop trying to fix others and start interceding for themHow suffering can create a raw dependency on God that we often miss in comfortable seasonsThe importance of feeling our emotions before God rather than numbing themPractical ways to discern when to give advice versus when to simply listenThe healing journey from carrying father wounds into marriage to finding identity in ChristWhether you're struggling with a desire to change your spouse, walking through a season of betrayal, feeling isolated in your pain, or simply wanting to deepen your prayer life, this conversation offers hope and practical wisdom for surrendering control and trusting God with your relationships.Please subscribe to our channel on YouTube, iTunes, or Spotify and leave us a star rating and review to help us reach new listeners. Your support and feedback mean the world to us!Connect with Amanda Hayhurst:Book: "Pray for Him"Website: https://amandahayhurstwrites.com/Instagram: @amandahayhurstwritesFollow Marriage After God:Instagram: Marriage After God - https://www.instagram.com/marriageaftergodInstagram: Unveiled Wife - https://www.instagram.com/unveiledwifeInstagram: Husband Revolution - https://www.instagram.com/husbandrevolutionSupport this podcast:Shop: https://shop.marriageaftergod.com/Become a patron: https://marriageaftergod.com/patronSmith Family Resources, Inc © 2025KEY WORDS: Marriage After God, Aaron Smith, Amanda Hayhurst, prayer in marriage, infidelity restoration, authentic community, father wounds, healing, reconciliation, marriage struggles, surrender, control issues, comparison, Holy Spirit, marriage transformation, suffering, child's illness, vulnerability, spiritual leadership, self-publishingSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/marriageaftergod/donations