296 | we don't need each other anymore

This episode got raw. In Episode 2 of our series, we sit down as husband and wife and say the words that made us most vulnerable: we don’t need each other. What started as an honest conversation turned emotional—tears, tension, disagreements, and a level of vulnerability we’ve never shared publicly. We talk about breaking free from co-dependency, redefining partnership, and what it actually means to choose each other instead of needing each other to survive. We’d love to hear your thoughts— 👉 Did this episode resonate with you? 👉 Did it challenge how you see relationships? 👉 Any insights or personal experiences you want to share? Please keep the conversation respectful and open. This space is for reflection, not judgment. Momentous ▶ Thanks to Momentous for partnering with us! Get up to 35% off your first order using our link https://momentous.yt.link/qjjU1zE or code SHAWNANDREW to try Momentous Creatine Chews for yourself. Kachava ▶ Rewild your nutrition at https://www.kachava.com and use code EASTFAM. New customers get twenty dollars off an order of two bags or more, now through the 31st! Wayfair ▶ Get organized, refreshed, and back on track this new year for WAY less. Head to https://www.Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Dupe ▶ Using https://www.Dupe.com is insanely simple. Just paste any product URL — or even upload a photo — and it’ll instantly show you similar items for way less. There’s also an app and a browser extension if you want to make it even easier. No account needed, totally free. Start saving money with https://www.Dupe.com today. Go-GURT Simply ▶ Go-GURT Simply comes in flavors like Strawberry and Mixed Berry, and you can find it at a retailer near you. Just a quick note: Go-GURT Simply contains 16 grams of total sugar per serving and 5 grams per tube, while Original Go-GURT contains 23 grams of total sugar per serving and 7 grams per tube. Follow our podcast Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/shawnandandrewpods/ Follow My Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/ShawnJohnson Follow My Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/@shawnjohnson Shop My LTK Page ▶ https://www.shopltk.com/explore/shawnjohnson Like the Facebook page! ▶ https://www.facebook.com/ShawnJohnson Follow Andrew’s Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/AndrewDEast Andrew’s Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/@andrewdeast?lang=en (00:00) we don’t need each other (03:00) accolades, do they matter? (10:43) what’s factual vs what’s emotional (15:00) “it doesn’t mean anything if you’re by yourself” (18:47) can you have an integrated, codependent marriage? (26:05) we can, but we’re better as a team (31:11) “i could, but is that what i want?” (38:22) choosing each other (43:56) we don’t know, but we’re trying (52:16) is the grass greener? can i do this alone? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well... This series wasn’t planned. It started with us unpacking three phrases that have hit our marriage the hardest: “It’s not my job to make you happy.” “We don’t need each other.” “I’m going to let you down.” Each episode breaks down one of these conversation starters—and what followed was not easy. There are tears. There are real-time arguments. And there are very honest conversations we almost kept private. This is Part 1 of a three-part series. Parts 2 and 3 are coming over the next two weeks—stay tuned. We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. Do you agree? Have you had these conversations in your own relationship? ALSO — we have a BOOK. We’re so excited to finally share The Courage to Commit, releasing June 9, 2026. Pre-orders are available here: https://www.thecouragetocommit.com Love you guys!Shawn & Andrew Caraway ▶Caraway’s cookware set is a favorite for a reason — it can save you up to $190 versus buying the items individually. Plus, if you visit https://www.Carawayhome.com/EASTFAM, you can take an additional 10% off your next purchase. Wildgrain ▶ Right now, Wildgrain is offering our listeners $30 off your first box plus free Croissants for life when you go to https://www.Wildgrain.com/EASTFAM to start your subscription today. Cove ▶ Make protecting your home one of your New Year’s resolutions! Check out Cove at https://www.covesmart.com/eastfam or use code EASTFAM at checkout for up to 70% off your first order. And if you get a survey, be sure to let them know you heard about Cove from this podcast. OLIPOP ▶ Right now, you can actually get a free can of OLIPOP. Just buy any two cans in-store — any flavor, any retailer — and they’ll pay you back for one. Go to https://www.drinkolipop.com/COUPLETHINGS for all the details Follow our podcast Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/shawnandandrewpods/ Follow My Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/ShawnJohnson Follow My Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/@shawnjohnson Shop My LTK Page ▶ https://www.shopltk.com/explore/shawnjohnson Like the Facebook page! ▶ https://www.facebook.com/ShawnJohnson Follow Andrew’s Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/AndrewDEast Andrew’s Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/@andrewdeast?lang=en (00:00) the series we never planned for (01:56) I’m not here to make you happy! (04:09) life updates (reminder, this is a repost episode)  (06:10) why we are doing this & how we disagree  (14:20) “the point isn’t the “happiness”, it’s about support” (23:23) viewing emotions (andrew's pov)  (29:50) being fully known and loved  (34:04) do you run away if there is no happiness?  (39:45) balancing the variables  (44:18) marriage isn’t about your happiness  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thank you to GoGURT for sponsoring today's episode! Try the GoGURT Simply we talked about in this episode, it’s amazing! ▶ https://bit.ly/3HCC0BY Life after the holidays hits different 😅 In this episode we’re talking all about getting back into routines — the emotions, the chaos, the resets, and the small things that are helping our family find rhythm again. From first-week-back realities to simple hacks for calmer mornings, we’re sharing what’s actually working (and what’s definitely still a work in progress). Plus, a big shoutout to Go-GURT Simply!! Our kid and parent approved, grab-and-go snack this new year that is simply delicious. We love having them stocked in the fridge (and freezer!) for busy days, quick breakfasts, and constant snack requests. Tell us in the comments.... what are your best family routine reset hacks? Love you guys! Shawn & Andrew ▶ David is offering our listeners a special deal: buy 4 cartons and get the 5th free when you go to https://www.davidprotein.com/EASTFAM. ▶ Rewild your nutrition at https://www.kachava.com and use code EASTFAM. New customers get twenty dollars off an order of two bags or more, now through the 31st. ▶ Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at https://www.RocketMoney.com/EASTFAM Subscribe to our newsletter ▶ https://www.familymade.com/newsletter Follow our podcast Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/shawnandandrewpods/ Follow My Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/ShawnJohnson Follow My Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/@shawnjohnson Shop My LTK Page ▶ https://www.shopltk.com/explore/shawnjohnson Like the Facebook page! ▶ https://www.facebook.com/ShawnJohnson Follow Andrew’s Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/AndrewDEast Andrew’s Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/@andrewdeast?lang=en#GoGURTPartner #BacktoSchool #ShawnAndAndrewPods #Family Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re back with our goal setting methods for 2026! Today we sat down and went over our individual, relational and family goals for this year. This is something Andrew and I do every single year and it’s been so beneficial to set tangible goals for ourselves and re-evaluate as the year goes on. We would love for you to set your own goals and we’ve provided our free template below to help you get started. Let us know how it goes! Love you guys! Shawn and Andrew Download our FREE Goal Setting Method ▶ https://www.familymade.com/vision-setting Check out Cove at https://www.covesmart.com and use code EASTFAM for an additional 10% off your first order. BetterHelp makes it easy to get matched online with a qualified therapist. Sign up and get 10% off at https://www.BetterHelp.com/EASTFAM For a limited time, Home Chef is offering my listeners 50% off and free shipping on your first box, plus free dessert for life. Go to https://www.HomeChef.com/EASTFAM. Branch Basics is now available everywhere you shop: at Target, Amazon, and of course https://www.BranchBasics.com. And for anyone grabbing the Premium Starter Kit, you can get 15% off at https://www.BranchBasics.com with our code EASTFAM. Subscribe to our newsletter ▶ https://www.familymade.com/newsletter Follow our podcast Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/shawnandandrewpods/ Follow My Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/ShawnJohnson Follow My Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/@shawnjohnson Shop My LTK Page ▶ https://www.shopltk.com/explore/shawnjohnson Like the Facebook page! ▶ https://www.facebook.com/ShawnJohnson Follow Andrew’s Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/AndrewDEast Andrew’s Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/@andrewdeast?lang=en (00:00) why this has changed our life in every way (05:35) the power of reflecting on our goals (12:04) what “goal setting” actually looks like (25:55) after the five-minute timer (28:12) how goal setting helps plan the year (31:46) priming yourself for goal setting (35:30) our personal goals for 2026 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we’re taking a moment to reflect on our past year together- and honestly, what a year it’s been. We’re walking through everything that happened: the trips we never imagined we’d take, the amazing guests we've had on this show, the chaos that came with doing Special Forces, writing our upcoming book, settling into a new house, and all the unexpected highs and lows in between. This year challenged us, stretched us, and changed us in ways we’re still processing, but it also reminded us how lucky we are to do life- and this podcast, together. Most importantly, we just want to say thank you. We truly wouldn’t be here without you- our listeners. Your support, messages, and encouragement mean more to us than we can ever fully explain. We’re beyond grateful to have this community and so excited to celebrate another year of Couple Things with you. Here’s to what’s next 🤍 Love you guys! Shawn and Andrew Omaha Steaks ▶ Save big on gourmet gifts and more holiday favorites with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://www.OmahaSteaks.com. And for an extra $35 off, use code EASTFAM at checkout!! Follow our podcast Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/shawnandandrewpods/ Follow My Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/ShawnJohnson Follow My Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/@shawnjohnson Shop My LTK Page ▶ https://www.shopltk.com/explore/shawnjohnson Like the Facebook page! ▶ https://www.facebook.com/ShawnJohnson Follow Andrew’s Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/AndrewDEast Andrew’s Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/@andrewdeast?lang=en (00:00) why a year in review (00:42) moving into our new house (01:45) our special forces experience (02:23) a brand new book (03:39) the trip of a lifetime (06:10) college game day and pvf (06:35) beam kids + instant hydration (07:14) charity involvement (07:45) tijuana, family trips, a doctorate & more (11:40) how much you all loved the special forces episodes (16:25) connecting with arthur brooks (20:14) more special forces love (21:50) behind the scenes at the olympics (24:42) special forces and cutting back commentary (25:45) getting to interview the best people (32:21) comments from you all (32:55) this year’s stats (34:26) what we’re grateful for in 2025 + looking ahead to 2026 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We opened up a Q&A on Instagram and told you nothing was off limits… and you did not disappoint. In this episode, we’re answering the wild, vulnerable, uncomfortable, and spicy questions you sent in. If you’ve ever been curious, nosy, or just wanted the uncut version, this one’s for you. 😂 Love you guys! Shawn and Andrew Beam ▶ Go to https://www.shopbeam.com/couplethings and use code COUPLETHINGS for up to 40% off Beam Kids All-In-One Super Powder!! Kachava ▶ Calm the holiday chaos. Go to https://www.kachava.com and use code EASTFAM for 15% off your next order. Omaha Steaks ▶ Save big on gourmet gifts and more holiday favorites with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://www.OmahaSteaks.com. And for an extra $35 off, use code EASTFAM at checkout!! Follow our podcast Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/shawnandandrewpods/ Follow My Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/ShawnJohnson Follow My Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/@shawnjohnson Shop My LTK Page ▶ https://www.shopltk.com/explore/shawnjohnson Like the Facebook page! ▶ https://www.facebook.com/ShawnJohnson Follow Andrew’s Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/AndrewDEastAndrew’s Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/@andrewdeast?lang=en (00:00:00) back to our regular programming (00:04:58) let’s end the year with a nothing-is-off-limits q&a (00:05:29) comment of the day (00:07:59) how much do we care about what people think of us? (00:10:31) what do we argue most about? (00:13:29) how do we make our money? (00:18:02) handling different sex drives (00:21:41) cremated or buried? (00:23:22) how long until you’d marry again? (00:24:18) being intentional about my relationship with food and aware of triggers (00:26:29) starting fresh on youtube (00:27:37) how faith shapes partnerships (00:27:47) working through parenting guilt (00:29:55) what happened to our coffee project? (00:30:54) our current insecurities (00:33:45) postpartum mama on health, fitness, and supplements (00:35:01) mental health check-in (00:38:06) handling different political viewpoints (00:40:20) celebrity look-alike (00:41:20) some things are off-limits 👀 (00:42:07) how we handle it when our spouse “lets us down” (00:45:25) our current plan for our dream compound (00:47:25) supporting your spouse through a miscarriage (00:49:46) social media and marriage (00:51:56) how do we “chill”? (00:53:40) relationships with our in-laws (00:54:30) top-of-the-list spicy times (00:56:45) the products we promote and why Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

we decided to dedicate this episode of the podcast to a topic that’s both messy and powerful: redemption and second chances. in this episode, we talk through real-life examples, unpack what it actually means to see someone grow and change, and explore how to recognize when a second chance is deserved versus when boundaries need to stay in place. it’s a conversation about the complexity of human relationships, the courage it takes to offer grace, and the unexpected ways redemption can show up when you least expect it. we dive into the messy, emotional, and ultimately hopeful process of giving people the opportunity to do better—and what that can teach all of us about empathy, trust, and forgiveness. Love you guys, Shawn and Andrew Nurture Life ▶ head to https://www.NurtureLife.com/EASTFAM and use code EASTFAM for 55% off your first order PLUS free shipping. Branch Basics ▶ get yourself and your loved ones the gift of clean with Branch Basics. For a limited time only, our listeners get 15% off and free shipping on their premium Starter Pack when you use code EASTFAM at https://www.branchbasics.com/EASTFAM. Follow our podcast Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/shawnandandrewpods/ Follow My Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/ShawnJohnson Follow My Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/@shawnjohnson Shop My LTK Page ▶ https://www.shopltk.com/explore/shawnjohnson Like the Facebook page! ▶ https://www.facebook.com/ShawnJohnson Follow Andrew’s Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/AndrewDEast Andrew’s Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/@andrewdeast?lang=en (00:00) we believe everyone deserves redemption (11:40) tabloids, social media, and headlines don’t tell the full story (17:11) are there asterisks to redemption? (20:46) how do we create a world with less harm? (23:40) the idea of “good” or “bad” being tied to feeling loved (27:20) we are all on the same playing field (31:50) people’s comments on who is “deserving” of redemption (37:40) the foundational lessons we teach kids but forget as adults (40:45) marriage, redemption, and owning our mistakes (47:40) pause, stay curious, and keep standing in “the race” (51:51) practices and reflections for a redemption mindset Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we sit down with Jake and Ashlyn Burger- a powerhouse couple whose story blends faith, resilience, and purpose. Jake is a MLB player known not just for his talent on the field, but for his openness about mental health and the challenges that shaped his career. Ashlyn, a former athlete herself, brings warmth, honesty, and strength, and together they’ve built a platform that goes far beyond sports. The Burgers are also the founders of the Burger Family Foundation, created to support mental health initiatives and give back to communities in meaningful, accessible ways. https://www.burgerfamilyfoundation.org/about Through their foundation, they’ve become advocates for transparency, encouragement, and breaking the stigma around mental health conversations, especially for young athletes. In this conversation, we dove into everything from Jake’s journey through injuries and setbacks, to how the couple balances life, marriage, and being parents. We touched on their heart behind the foundation, their passion for serving others, an inside look at their relationship and the realities of navigating MLB life as a family, and the vulnerable moments that shaped their perspective. We had lots of laughs with our new friends and can't wait to hear what you guys think!! Love you guys! Shawn and Andrew Subscribe to our newsletter ▶ https://www.familymade.com/newsletter Follow our podcast Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/shawnandandrewpods/ Follow My Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/ShawnJohnson Follow My Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/@shawnjohnson Shop My LTK Page ▶ https://www.shopltk.com/explore/shawnjohnson Like the Facebook page! ▶ https://www.facebook.com/ShawnJohnson Follow Andrew’s Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/AndrewDEast Andrew’s Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/@andrewdeast?lang=en Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Coming to you LIVE answering all your hot topic questions for us…. Special Forces, life updates, our new house, the past few weeks.. and even more exiting, maybe teasing a NEW project coming next year!! 👀 Drop all your questions below and we’ll cover as much as we can!! Love you guys, Shawn and Andrew SKIMS ▶ If you’re still working through your holiday list, the SKIMS Holiday Shop is officially open now at SKIMS.com/couplethings KACHAVA ▶ Go to kachava.com and use code EASTFAM for 15% off your next order! Omaha Steaks ▶ Visit OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off sitewide during their Sizzle All the Way Sale. And for an extra $35 off, use promo code EASTFAM at checkout. Terms apply. See site for details. Subscribe to our newsletter ▶ https://www.familymade.com/newsletter Follow our podcast Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/shawnandandrewpods/ Follow My Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/ShawnJohnson Follow My Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/Shawnjohnson Shop My LTK Page ▶ https://www.shopltk.com/explore/shawnjohnson Like the Facebook page! ▶ https://www.facebook.com/ShawnJohnson Follow Andrew’s Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/AndrewDEast Andrew’s Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/Andrewdeast?lang=en (00:00) WE ARE LIVE (01:39) house and moving updates (11:30) shout out to the best community (12:43) being proud of andrew (14:35) videos from home and how our family got updated (15:40) the ds on dancing with the stars? (16:48) no cameras on vs. cameras off for the interrogation (19:08) shawn could never do the cold (20:21) we want someone with the last name east to cross the finish line (20:43) how it was reuniting after the show (22:09) details about the mic pack we wore (23:00) andrew’s broken ribs (23:55) the after-show trauma (25:26) did we ever want to vw? (let me know if this should be “volunteer” or something else!) (33:00) our favorite trips from this year (34:26) how we navigate trying to be present in the home (37:30) our manuscript is done (39:13) going from 2 to 3 kids (43:00) how to balance 2 under 2 (46:12) send your baby shower and wedding invites our way :) (47:09) navigating being active during pregnancy (48:30) do we want more kids? 👀 (49:40) staying firm in our faith (50:45) our christmas traditions (53:35) our current 2026 goals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We made it to the FINALE- and nothing could’ve prepared us for what this last episode threw at us. At this point, we were exhausted, worn down, and hanging on by whatever grit we had left. The DS pushed us into the most intense test of the entire course: capture, interrogation, zero sleep, and moments that forced us to stay locked in when our minds wanted to tap out. We are so proud of each other walking into that final challenge together and we’re even more grateful you’ve been watching along with us. This finale was raw, surreal, and honestly one of the hardest things we’ve ever done. Can’t wait to hear what you think and wrap up this wild journey with you. Love, Shawn & Andrew From Shawn: Self doubt has creeped in over the years… after retirement, a failed comeback, and 3 kids. I wondered if I could. I feared I couldn’t. But dang….. it sure feels good knowing I did! I finished! It hurt. I learned a lot. I healed a lot. I’m better for it. Thank you to the DS for pushing me. You taught me so much! Getting those smiles and hugs at the end was the greatest reward! Thank you for being the best coaches ever. And to Gia… I’m so fricken proud of you! You pushed so hard and never gave up! Love you lady!" Nurture Life ▶ Head to https://www.NurtureLife.com/EASTFAM and use code EASTFAM for 55% off your first order PLUS free shipping NOBLTravel ▶ Biggest sale yet!!! Head to https://www.NOBLTravel.com for up to 58% OFF your entire order. After you purchase, they will ask you where you heard about them. PLEASE support our show and tell them our show sent you. Subscribe to our newsletter ▶ https://www.familymade.com/newsletter Follow our podcast Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/shawnandandrewpods/ Follow My Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/ShawnJohnson Follow My Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/@shawnjohnson Shop My LTK Page ▶ https://www.shopltk.com/explore/shawnjohnson Like the Facebook page! ▶ https://www.facebook.com/ShawnJohnson Follow Andrew’s Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/AndrewDEast Andrew’s Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/@andrewdeast?lang=en (00:00) no more lies to hide!!! (01:00) doing this together and what that meant to us (02:27) the start of interrogation… but it should’ve been called something else 👀 (05:20) what we were most fearful of (07:20) honoring my wife (10:45) giving context as the hours ticked by (13:50) clarifying the confusion and trying to understand the “game” (27:20) weaving in and out of the different realities with the interrogators (29:50) what happened for 12+ hours during interrogation (32:50) them challenging our alibis during the dunking phase (42:50) navigating all the processing since being off the show (48:55) what happened after andrew left (50:35) officially passing the course (54:00) what it was like heading home (56:15) closing thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices