IMbetween Podcast on Marriage, Parenting, Faith, and Everything In Between

We interview Chris Janssen, an author, life coach, and sobriety advocate. Chris shares her personal journey to sobriety, discusses her new book Grace Yourself: How to Show Up for the Sober Life You Want, and explores how addiction extends beyond substances to behaviours and thought patterns. She offers practical coaching tools for self-reflection and change, emphasizing self-compassion and the importance of defining sobriety individually. The conversation highlights the costs of numbing behaviours, the value of choosing growth over comfort, and encourages us to pursue authentic, fulfilling lives with grace and resilience. Meet Chris Janssen: Chris Janssen, MA, BCC, is a leading results coach in performance and mindset and a bestselling, award-winning author. She has worked with hundreds of sought-after athletes, creatives, soldiers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses internationally, helping them to close the gap between where they are and where they want to be. In addition to her academic achievements, Chris trained with and worked on Tony Robbins’ team of results coaches at the #1 personal development and peak performance strategy company in the world. As a board-certified coach with a master’s in counseling psychology and over 25 years of experience, Chris excels in helping high-achieving perfectionists navigate performance pressure, overcome self-sabotage and rewrite narratives. Through her successful and sustainable Living All In methods, clients learn to attach meaning to life events and circumstances beyond their control. A California native, Chris and her husband, Scott have been married for nearly 30 years. Together, they raised three children, now thriving young adults. Chris and Scott split their time between Los Angeles and Colorado and love to ski, golf, be with their horses and adventure outside. For the full show notes go to IMbetween.org/epsiode197 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 195 is one you won’t want to miss. Cassandra Speer—co-author of Ready As You Are—joins us for a powerful conversation on growth, purpose, and faith. Cass opens up about her journey from feeling completely unqualified tostepping into her calling as a Bible teacher and author. Her story is a reminder that God often calls us into spaces we never thought we could step into. We also discuss the courage it takes to navigate seasons of change, the beauty of supportive partnerships, how to foster unity in marriage, and what it means to silence feelings of inadequacy. Cass’s words will leave you encouraged to trust God’s provision and step boldly into your own calling—because you are more ready than you think. In This Episode, You'll Hear The Following: The concept of being "ready" for one's calling Overcoming limitations and fear in pursuing purpose Discussion of imposter syndrome and its impact Discerning God's purpose versus personal pride Navigating relationships and callings in different life stages Importance of supportive partnerships in pursuing dreams Challenges of navigating change and uncertainty in life transitions Necessity of unity and communication in marriage Encouragement for personal growth and embracing one's unique path Meet Cassandra Speer: Cassandra is a bestselling author, dynamic Bible teacher, host of the Hard and Holy podcast, and vice president of Her True Worth, a global ministry encouraging women to find their identity and validation in Christ alone. With a deep passion for the weary and wounded, Cass writes to offer hope and practical biblical encouragement to those searching for faith in the midst of life’s challenges. In addition to her writing and ministry work, Cass is pursuing a Master's in Biblical and Theological Studies at Denver Seminary. She lives in Oklahoma City with her husband and their three rowdy and wonderful children. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Daniel and Christina chat with Shannon Brink, a nurse practitioner and author. The episode delves into the theme of waiting, particularly through personal struggles and relationships. Shannon shares her battle with insomnia and the lessons she has learned about waiting on God, emphasizing empathy and support for loved ones in similar situations. The discussion highlights the emotional and spiritual dimensions of waiting, its impact on personal growth, and the importance of community and genuine connection during challenging times.In This Episode, You'll Hear About: The theme of waiting in life and its emotional impact. Personal struggles, particularly insomnia, and their influence on faith. The importance of empathy in relationships during waiting periods. Supporting loved ones who are also experiencing waiting. The dual nature of hope: for the present and the future. The challenges faced by couples during prolonged suffering. The significance of community and shared experiences in times of waiting. The role of vulnerability and honesty in relationships and parenting. The transformative potential of waiting for personal growth. Trusting in God's timing and presence amidst uncertainty. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Waiting is the Night: Finding Hope When You’re Stuck on the Other Side of Dawn by Shannon Brink Shannonbrink.org Meet Shannon Brink: Shannon Brink is a Nurse Practitioner living on the Canadian West Coast. She has 4 children and spent 5 years recently as a missionary nurse in East Africa. She writes on Shannonbrink.org and you can follow her various publications there including free devotionals and real conversations with others waiting on God.For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple, go to: IMbetween.org/episode193Connect with us on:Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We interview Christa Hardin, a relationship expert, author, and podcaster about the role of Enneagram types in intimacy and sexual relationships within marriage. Christa explains how understanding each type's natural tendencies can help couples navigate conflicts and enhance their intimate lives. She offers specific advice for every Enneagram type, emphasizing the importance of open communication, vulnerability, and emotional connection. The episode provides practical insights for couples to foster deeper connections and improve their intimate relationships by leveraging the Enneagram framework.In This Episode, You'll Hear About: Understanding the Enneagram and its relevance to intimacy in marriage. Natural states of intimacy for different Enneagram types and potential conflicts. Creating a safe environment for open communication about intimacy. Navigating differences in sexual desires and preferences between partners. Insights into the strengths and growth areas of each Enneagram type regarding intimacy. The importance of vulnerability and emotional connection in intimate relationships. Strategies for addressing and overcoming intimacy challenges specific to each Enneagram type. Encouragement for couples to explore deeper connections through understanding their Enneagram types. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: The Enneagram in Marriage: Your Guide to Thriving Together in Your Unique Pairing + Link for Bonus Chapter by Christa Hardin Enneagram and Marriage Listen to our previous Enneagram episodes: 155: THE ENNEAGRAM FOR UNDERSTANDING YOUR SPOUSE WITH DANI COOPER 134: ENNEAGRAM AND PARENTING: TIPS FOR CULTIVATING A CLOSER RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR KIDS BASED ON YOUR TYPE 121: NINE ENNEAGRAM QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU MAKE WISER DECISIONS WITH DR. DREW MOSER 98: HOW THE ENNEAGRAM CAN DEEPEN YOUR MARRIAGE CONNECTION WITH JEFF AND BETH MCCORD 70: RESOLVING CONFLICT WITH THE ENNEAGRAM WITH LAUREN GRAY 69: ENNEAGRAM AND COMMUNICATION STYLES WITH LAUREN GRAY 51: THE PERFECT GIFT FOR EVERY ENNEAGRAM TYPE WITH DR. DREW MOSER Take a look at our Enneagram printables. They are completely free! E-Book: The Perfect Gift For Every Enneagram Type The Enneagram Guide To Better Relationships Looking for an Enneagram test to find out your type? For a free Enneagram Test, please click here For a paid Enneagram Test (which will be more accurate), check out The Enneagram Institute Testing Center Meet Christa Hardin:Christa Hardin, MA is a relationship expert, author, as well as host of the popular Enneagram & Marriage Podcast. Christa has been working with and researching marriage for two decades, providing hope for couples struggling to find their light, love, and mission together in any relationship season. Her most recent Amazon best-selling title, "The Enneagram in Marriage: Your Guide to Thriving Together in Your Unique Pairing," is now available wherever you buy books. You can catch up with her on the podcast at @enneagramandmarriage on Instagram, Substack at "Of Light and Joy". You can find her website, blog, and Enneagram & Marriage podcast links at www.enneagramandmarriage.com.For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple, go to: IMbetween.org/episode191Connect with us on:Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In Episode 189, Daniel and Christina chat with Caroline Fausel, a health coach and wellness expert, about her newly released book, Simply Healthy Life. Caroline discusses the concept of a thriving life, emphasizing a holistic approach to health that includes physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. The episode covers practical steps for making healthy changes, the emotional connections people have with food, and the importance of sleep and exercise. Caroline also shares tips for developing consistent habits and the significance of Sabbath practices for overall wellness.In This Episode, You'll Hear About: Definition of a thriving life and its multi-dimensional aspects (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual). The emotional connections people have with food and how it affects eating habits. Practical steps for making healthy lifestyle changes, including the "magic wand exercise." The importance of creating a healthy home environment and understanding toxins in household products. The concept of "all the time" foods versus "sometimes" foods to promote a balanced diet. Strategies for improving sleep hygiene and its critical role in overall health. The significance of exercise and developing consistent habits for physical well-being. The role of self-awareness in understanding eating habits and emotional triggers. Incorporating Sabbath practices as a means of reconnecting with oneself and loved ones. The holistic approach to health that encompasses food, exercise, sleep, and emotional well-being. Links Mentioned In This Episode: A Simply Healthy Life: Your Guide to Cultivating a Happy, Connected, and Intentional Life by Caroline Fausel Olive You Whole Episode 111: What Your Doctor Wishes You Knew About Rest with Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith Mini Episode 4: When You Can't Sleep, Try This Meet Caroline Fausel:Caroline Fausel is the owner and blogger behind Olive You Whole, a successful clean-eating and lifestyle blog. She is passionate about helping women live healthier, more intentional lives. As a nationally certified health coach, she has developed a loyal community of followers who love her recipes and guidance on living a toxic-free lifestyle. Caroline is married to her college sweetheart, Chaz, and they have two precious kiddos, Ella Rae and Owen.For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple, go to IMbetween.org/episode189 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In Episode 187, Daniel and Christina chat with Erin Loechner—once a social media influencer with over a million followers—who made the radical choice to step away from the digital spotlight and embrace a low-tech lifestyle. Erin reflects on the impact of social media on her mental health, identity, and parenting, sharing how the constant pressure to stay “connected” was eroding what mattered most. In this conversation, she offers practical tips for reducing tech dependence, from simplifying devices to creating meaningful offline moments with loved ones, all while reminding us that true connection thrives in real life, not on screens.In This Episode, You'll Hear About The Following: The impact of social media on mental health and personal relationships. The decision to opt out of social media for family well-being. The evolution of social media from sharing to attention-seeking platforms. Experiences and benefits of living without social media. The importance of community and real-life connections. Practical steps for families to create a healthier relationship with technology. The role of parental controls and intentional tech use. The dangers of social media algorithms, especially for young users. The significance of authentic relationships over digital interactions. Encouragement for families to reflect on their technology use and its implications. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Pick up a copy of Erin's latest book, The Opt-Out Family: How To Give Your Kids What Technology Can't Read Erin's first book, Chasing Slow: Courage To Journey Off The Beaten Path Erin's Website Listen to our other episodes about raising kids in this tech era: Parenting In Our Digital Age Unplugging for Connection: How To Break The Distracted Parenting Cycle Netiquette: Teaching Our Kids Online Manners Breaking Up With Our Phones Meet Erin Loechner:Founder of global tech-free movement The Opt-Out Family, Erin Loechner is a former social media influencer who walked away from a million fans to live a low-tech lifestyle—and is now teaching others how to do the same. Her cutting-edge work has been praised in the New York Times, the Washington Post, the Wall Street Journal, the Huffington Post, and the Today Show. When she’s not scrawling on her trusty steno pad, Erin, her husband, and their three kids spend their days chasing alpenglow, reading Kipling, and biking to town for more tortillas.For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple, go to: IMbetween.org/episode187Connect with us on:Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We interview Dr. Charles Fay, president of the Love and Logic Institute, about parenting strategies from his book "Raising Mentally Strong Kids." Dr. Fay emphasizes allowing children to experience and learn from mistakes, fostering resilience, confidence, kindness, and responsibility. He discusses the negative side effects of overprotective parenting and introduces practical techniques for encouraging problem-solving and independence. The episode also explores the role of mental hygiene, highlighting the need to challenge automatic negative thoughts and promote truthful thinking to support children's mental health.In This Episode, You Will Hear About The Following: Parenting strategies for building resilience in children and teens. The importance of fostering confidence, kindness, and responsibility in youth. Current trends in youth mental health and their implications for parenting. The significance of allowing children to experience small failures for growth. The role of empathy in effective parenting and problem-solving. Differentiating between healthy and unhealthy struggles for children. The concept of "mental hygiene" and managing negative thoughts. Encouraging open discussions about parenting challenges and strategies. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Pick up a copy of Dr. Charles Fay's book Raising Mentally Strong Kids Listen to our previous episode about Why We Need To Teach Our Kids to Fail Listen more about the importance of joy in your children's lives: The 4 Habits of Raising Joy-Filled Kids Meet Dr. Charles Fay:Dr. Charles is an internationally recognized author, consultant, and public speaker. He is also president of the Love and Logic Institute, which became part of Amen Clinics in 2020. Millions of educators, mental health professionals, and parents worldwide have benefited from Dr. Fay's down-to-earth solutions to the most common and frustrating behaviors displayed by youth of all ages. These methods come directly from years of experience serving severely disturbed youth and their families in psychiatric hospitals, public and private schools, homes, and other settings. For more information, visit loveandlogic.comFor the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple, go to IMbetween.org/episode185Connect with us on:Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Daniel and Christina discuss the intricacies of marriage with Brian and Jen Goins and how marriage is like a living art form that demands creativity, evolves, and requires a blending of different perspectives and experiences. The episode highlights the re-release of "The Art of Marriage" series, which encourages couples to engage in open dialogue about love, intimacy, and the divine representation of God's love in marriage.In This Episode, You'll Hear About: Marriage as an art and the re-release of "The Art of Marriage" series The intention behind the creation of marriage and its purpose as a representation of God's love Importance of love, forgiveness, and intimacy in marriage Having healthy and transparent conversations about sensitive topics like sex and intimacy The "Art of Marriage" program as a platform for couples to grow together Stories of transformation and growth in marriages through the "Art of Marriage" program Emphasizing the power of humility, learning, and actively working towards building a strong and healthy marriage For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode183Connect with us on:Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Daniel and Christina explore the nuances of apologizing in relationships by discussing the 5 Apology Languages by Dr. Gary Chapman. They delve into the emotional depth of expressing regret, the challenge of accepting responsibility without excuses, the significance of making restitution to show sincerity, and the commitment required for planned change to rebuild trust. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, they underscore the importance of understanding and using these apology languages to foster forgiveness and reconciliation with the ones you love.In This Episode, You'll Hear About The Following: Importance of apologies in relationships What "fake" apologies are and what to watch out for The 5 Apology Languages: expressing regret, accepting responsibility, making restitution, planned change, and requesting forgiveness How forgiveness and trust are not to be equated Ways to discover your apology language and the apology language of others Resources Mentioned In This Episode: The 5 Apology Languages: The Secret To Healthy Relationships by Dr. Gary Chapman Why Won't You Apologize? Healing Big Betrayals and Everyday Hurts by Harriet Lerner Listen to our previous episode about The 7 New Love Languages and 4 Steps To Get Your Love Language Heard Do you need more help with learning to apologies? Listen to our previous episode: Do You Suck At Apologies? Here Are 4 Steps To Healing Hurts With Your For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode181Connect with us on:Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Daniel and Christina discuss strategies for deepening love in your relationship. They explore how to address complaints constructively, repair conflicts, and avoid contempt. They also highlight the role of physical touch, expressing gratitude, and the power of forgiveness in strengthening marital bonds. The episode provides practical advice and personal insights for couples looking to enhance their relationship and foster a deeper connection.In This Episode, You'll Hear About The Following: Addressing complaints without blame in a marriage Repairing conflicts and distinguishing between solvable and perpetual conflicts Sticking to the issues during arguments and avoiding contemptuous behaviour Understanding underlying emotions and addressing unmet needs in relationships Extending the time between feeling, thinking, and speaking in a relationship The significance of physical touch and the impact of oxytocin on reducing stress hormones Growing fondness and admiration in a marriage through gratitude and appreciation Seeking to understand before seeking to be understood and the role of forgiveness Practicing apologizing and forgiving in a marriage Timestamps: Share your complaint without pointing fingers (00:07:41) Discussing the difference between sharing complaints and criticizing your spouse, emphasizing the importance of addressing specific issues.Repair conflicts with skill (00:11:14) Exploring the concept of solvable and perpetual conflicts in relationships and the significance of addressing and bouncing back from disagreements.Stick to talking about the issues at hand (00:12:37) Emphasizing the importance of avoiding name-calling, personal attacks, and contempt in arguments, and the need to understand underlying emotions.The impact of contempt on relationships (00:15:07) Exploring the destructive nature of contempt in relationships, its role as a predictor of divorce, and the need to avoid displaying contemptuous behavior.Recognizing and addressing signs of contempt (00:16:26) Discussing how contempt can develop over time in relationships and the importance of recognizing and addressing signs of contemptuous behavior.Moving toward reconciliation and repairing (00:17:26) Highlighting the significance of acknowledging and apologizing for displaying contemptuous behavior and moving towards reconciliation and repairing the relationship.Extending the space between feelings and thoughts (00:17:48) Discussing how to extend the time between feeling anger and reacting, to respond instead.Showing love through physical touch (00:19:26) Exploring the benefits of physical touch in relationships and the impact of a six-second kiss.Growing fondness and admiration (00:21:18) Encouraging the practice of expressing gratitude and appreciation for one's spouse's positive qualities.Seeking first to understand and then to be understood (00:23:04) Emphasizing the importance of active listening and understanding in communication.Practicing apologizing and forgiving (00:28:19) Discussing the significance of forgiveness and the process of seeking and granting forgiveness in relationships.Conclusion and episode recap (00:31:56) Summarizing the six ways to deepen love in marriage and expressing gratitude to the audience.Resources Mentioned In This Episode:Learn the difference between perpetual and solvable conflicts and how to handle each of them: A Conflict-Free Marriage Is Not The Goal How To Fight With Your Spouse Without Ruining Your Marriage How To Repair Your Relationship After A Big Fight Learn about the importance of turning toward your spouse and responding to their "bids" What 15 Years Of Marriage Has Taught Us The 4 Keys To Long-Term Sexual Satisfaction For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode179Connect with us on:Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Daniel and Christina discuss the importance of discipleship at home. They emphasize the need for parents to set an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity, and discuss how children can sometimes guide and correct their parents. Sharing personal experiences, they explore the significance of aligning actions with words, as children learn more from what we do than what we say. They also discuss the importance of personal growth and helping children grow in these areas, and the role of spiritual disciplines in this process. They conclude by reflecting on the need for genuine faith and a consistent relationship with God.In this episode, you'll hear about the following: Importance of discipleship at home Setting an example for children in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity Grounding children in the truth of God's word Parents being open to their children as a source of guidance and correction Repairing relationships and apologizing to children Aligning actions with words Importance of personal growth and helping children grow Prioritizing worship and gathering as a church community Practicing spiritual disciplines and developing well-worn pathways in the brain For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode177Connect with us on:Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We interview Dr. Bob Paul about the concept of intensive marriage therapy and how it differs from traditional counselling. Bob explains the advantages of intensive therapy, such as addressing core issues and providing a focused environment for couples to work through their challenges. He also discusses the person-centred approach of their program, prioritizing the well-being of individuals while building healthy relationships. Bob addresses the suitability of intensive therapy for couples and emphasizes the importance of investing in relationships.In This Episode, You'll Hear About The Following: Intensive marriage therapy vs traditional weekly counselling sessions Advantages of intensive therapy Importance of individuals being whole and healthy for successful relationships Self-care and honouring God to bring the best selves to marriage and family Suitability for intensive therapy or traditional counselling The definition of a great marriage Resources, opportunities, and aftercare support provided by the program Recognizing when a couple is drifting apart and investing in the relationship Seeking professional help for couples hanging by a thread Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Hope Restored Marriage Intensive in Canada https://hoperestored.focusonthefamily.ca/ Hope Restored Marriage Intensive in the USA https://hoperestored.focusonthefamily.com/ The DNA of Relationships for Couples by Greg Smalley and Robert Paul - https://amzn.to/3M9TKng 9 Lies That Will Destroy Your Marriage: And the Truths That Will Save It and Set It Free - Robert Paul and Greg Smalley https://amzn.to/4041D3c Restoring Hope - Robert Paul, Robert Burbee, Christine Arnzen https://amzn.to/3S2knhM Reconnected: Moving from Roommates to Soulmates in Marriage - Greg and Erin Smalley https://amzn.to/3QtDIHz Meet Dr. Bob Paul: Dr. Robert Paul is the vice president of the Focus on the Family Marriage Institute. He is also one of the founders of its highly acclaimed Hope Restored marriage intensive programs. He is a licensed professional counselor, an international speaker, and co-author of a number of books including The DNA of Relationships and 9 Lies That Will Destroy Your Marriage.For the full show notes, including discussion prompts for you as a couple about this episode, go to IMbetween.org/episode175Connect with us on:Facebook | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices