• E196// It doesn't matter what I do, I'm never going to get it right
    Dec 3 2025

    In this episode I continue the discussion from last week about negative communication cycles, focusing specifically on emotional withdrawers. I'll share a personal story and explore why some people withdraw emotionally in relationships. We delve into how childhood experiences and societal expectations shape this behavior. I highlight the struggles that withdrawers face, such as feeling unsafe expressing emotions and the pressure of perceived failure. By understanding their experiences, we aim to foster empathy, and improve communication. Join me to learn more about how to offer grace and nurture a healthier relationship.

    03:06 Understanding Withdrawers

    04:07 The Impact of Upbringing on Withdrawers

    05:07 Withdrawers in Professional Life

    06:51 The Emotional Struggles of Withdrawers

    10:40 Empathy for Withdrawers

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    15 mins
  • E195// THIS is the REAL reason you struggle with communication.
    Nov 25 2025

    In this episode, we dive into the root causes of disconnection in marriages focusing on unmet emotional needs and negative communication cycles. I share a personal story showcasing how recognizing these cycles and responding differently can transform interactions. Using a practical exercise, I explain the mechanics of negative communication and how it perpetuates disconnection. Tune in to understand how you can stop these cycles and start feeling connected again. Don't forget to check out the free video training and our community resources - If you’re already on my insider list, I’ve included it with this week’s email.

    00:23 Understanding Communication Issues in Relationships

    01:19 Personal Story: Handling a Partner's Mood

    04:09 The Negative Communication Cycle Explained

    04:38 Visualizing the Communication Cycle

    13:14 Impact of Negative Cycles on Emotional Needs

    14:29 Conclusion and Resources

    Wait!!! Before you go!

    Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!

    Work with me:

    • Schedule a 45 min 1:1 coaching call: https://thegracefueledwife.com/coaching

    Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.

    • Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity
    • Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news: https://thegracefueledwife.com/insider
    • Download the visual aid from this episode (If you’re already on my insider list it will be included with this week’s email): https://thegracefueledwife.com/cycle
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    16 mins
  • E194// 3 Steps to diffuse an argument today!
    Nov 18 2025

    In this episode, I give you some tips on how you can put defensiveness aside and respond with grace when a situation gets challenging! We explore the emotions behind defensiveness and how to navigate them effectively by learning the three key steps to deescalate an argument. I also share how validating feelings and communicating from a place of understanding can make a huge difference in your relationships.

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back

    01:13 A Personal Story of Defensiveness

    02:28 Reflecting on Emotional Reactions

    05:52 Practical Steps to Deescalate Arguments

    09:15 Final Thoughts and Announcements

    Wait!!! Before you go!

    Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!

    Work with me:

    • Schedule a 45 min 1:1 coaching call: thegracefueledwife.com/coaching

    Not ready to work with me yet? These are some ways to learn about me for free.

    • Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity
    • Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news. Thegracefueledwife.com/insider
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    11 mins
  • E193// Why is it easier to talk to my bestie than my husband?
    Mar 5 2025

    In this episode, I share insights gained from my recent experiences in therapy training, highlighting the importance of emotional safety in relationships. I discuss how a clinician's listening approach influenced my willingness to share and how this relates to fostering emotional intimacy in marriage.

    I further explore how being a safe spouse means being present and non-judgmental, which requires self-awareness and understanding of what safety feels like. Join me as I reflect on my personal journey and offer practical advice on how to model this crucial aspect of a healthy marriage.

    02:32 Personal Reflections and Training Insights

    03:34 Understanding Emotional Safety

    06:29 Applying Emotional Safety in Marriage

    07:59 Restoration and Final Thoughts

    Wait!!! Before you go!

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    • Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity
    • Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news. Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com
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    12 mins
  • E192// Why I scrapped my most popular episode and what's new for 2025!
    Jan 10 2025

    In this episode, I address my hiatus from the podcast and the reasons behind it. I discuss my evolving perspective on marriage therapy, shaped by both personal experiences and professional training. Join me as I share insights from my journey, touching on the importance of working on personal issues before tackling couples therapy. This year, my goal is to provide you with tools for achieving security and intimacy in your relationships. Follow along every week as we embark on this journey together. Until next week, my friends!

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    • Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news. Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com
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    9 mins
  • E191// How to be accountable for change in your marriage WITHOUT being a doormat!
    Oct 1 2024

    Understanding Grace, Boundaries, and Wisdom in Marriage

    In this episode, we revisit episode number two, where I discuss how we can't change our husbands, only ourselves, and the importance of offering grace. Taking it a step further, I address common concerns about feeling like a doormat and emphasize the difference between silence and wisdom. Silence is fear-driven while wisdom involves choosing the right moment to express oneself. We delve into practical steps such as using effective communication, setting boundaries, and regulating emotions to foster a healthy marital environment. Through empowering ourselves, we build stronger, more loving relationships. Join me in our community for more discussions!

    02:29 Reflecting on Episode Two

    03:08 Understanding Grace in Marriage

    04:19 The Difference Between Silence and Wisdom

    05:25 Biblical Insights on Fear and Wisdom

    08:00 Practical Steps to Change and Communication

    11:13 The Power of Boundaries

    11:46 Emotional Regulation and Final Thoughts

    12:46 Building Community and Closing Remarks

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    • Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity
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    14 mins
  • E190// How to regulate your emotions and be less reactive w. Samantha Skelly
    Sep 23 2024

    Harnessing the Power of Breathwork to Regulate Emotions and Trauma

    This week's episode features an enlightening conversation with Samantha Skelly, founder and CEO of Paws Breathwork. Samantha shares her journey from battling anxiety and an eating disorder to discovering the transformative potential of breathwork. She explains how breathwork can help regulate emotions, reduce trauma responses, and create space between triggers and reactions, which can be particularly beneficial in relationships. We explore the science behind breathwork, its spiritual connections, and its practical applications. Samantha also guides us through a brief breathwork exercise, demonstrating its immediate impact. For those interested in further exploring breathwork, Samantha offers resources through her Breathwork app and facilitator training. This episode is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve emotional regulation and overall mental well-being.

    00:00 Introduction to Emotional Control

    02:03 Meet Samantha Skelly: Breathwork Expert

    03:52 Samantha's Journey to Breathwork

    07:16 The Science and Impact of Breathwork

    11:05 Breathwork in Relationships

    24:21 Practical Breathwork Exercise

    34:16 Final Thoughts and Resources

    Learn more about our guest here!

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samanthaskelly/

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    • Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity
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    40 mins
  • E189// Is that normal? Discerning through marital disappointment vs. destructive abuse
    Sep 18 2024

    Understanding Emotional Abuse: Disappointing vs. Destructive Marriages

    In this episode of the Grace Fueled Wife Podcast, I'm delving into the critical difference between disappointing and destructive marriages. Building on last week's discussion about emotional abuse, I reference Leslie Vernick's book, 'Emotionally Destructive Marriage,' to provide clarity. We explore what it means to feel emotionally unsafe and identify when it crosses into abuse. We'll also discuss the importance of fully disclosing your situation to a therapist for proper guidance and support, even if it means going alone. This episode aims to offer insights and resources for those struggling in emotionally abusive relationships and emphasizes that you do not have to live in such a nightmare, even as a Christian. Stay tuned as we navigate these heavy but essential topics together.

    00:00 Introduction: The Fear of Speaking Up

    00:29 Understanding Emotional Abuse

    02:44 Disappointing vs. Destructive Marriages

    03:36 Real-Life Examples and Quotes

    05:24 Therapist's Role and Client Disclosure

    10:59 Mandated Reporting and Emotional Safety

    15:14 Concluding Thoughts and Resources

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    • Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity
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    19 mins