Marriage After God

In today's episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron interviews Hannah Keeley, "America's #1 Mom Coach" and author of "Mom Fog: 8 Steps to Overcoming Mom Fatigue Syndrome." After finding herself overwhelmed, in debt, and sobbing in a pile of laundry as a young mother, Hannah experienced a profound transformation that led her to develop the Mom Mastery Method™ - an 8-step formula that has helped thousands of mothers radically transform their lives.In this enlightening conversation, we explore:How cultural lies about motherhood create unnecessary burdens and how to reject themWhy the "mom brain" physically changes after having children and how to work with these changes instead of against themThe surprising impact of screen time on our ability to be present with our familiesFour practical ways to interrupt negative thought patterns and replace them with God's truthHow to create your own unique vision of motherhood that aligns with how God designed youThe power of living in the present moment rather than dwelling on past regrets or future anxietiesWhy yielding to God instead of surrendering creates a fundamentally different approach to parentingWhether you're struggling with mom fatigue, feeling overwhelmed by the demands of parenting, or simply wanting to experience more joy in your role as a mother, this conversation offers biblical wisdom and practical steps for breaking free from "Mom Fog" and embracing the beautiful calling of motherhood.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 Hannah Keeley:Book: "Mom Fog: 8 Steps to Overcoming Mom Fatigue Syndrome"Website: https://hannahkeeley.comMom Mastery University: https://mommastery.comInstagram: @hannahkeeleyFollow 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, Hannah Keeley, motherhood, Mom Fog, mom brain, Mom Fatigue Syndrome, Mom Mastery Method, parenting, family life, negative thought patterns, screen time, present moment, biblical parenting, joy in motherhood, Christian parenting, overwhelm, mom identity, marriage, self-compassion, biblical truth

In today's episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron interviews Melissa Dougherty, author of "Happy Lies" and Christian apologist with over 285,000 YouTube subscribers. Melissa shares her remarkable journey from New Thought spirituality to biblical Christianity after being deceived by metaphysical teachings that masqueraded as Christian wisdom. Now through her ministry, books, and videos viewed over 18 million times, she helps believers identify and reject what she calls "a stealthy message of encouragement to live your truth, seek happiness, find your identity through sexual freedom, and think your desires into existence—often with the name of Jesus attached as an endorsement."In this enlightening conversation, we explore:How subtle New Thought philosophies infiltrate Christian churches by posing as "metaphysical Christianity"Why New Thought ideas are more dangerous to Christians than New Age conceptsThe deceptive allure of "law of attraction," toxic positivity, and manifestation teachingsFour key questions to identify counterfeit teachings: Is it new? Is it secret? Who is emphasized? Who gets the glory?The connection between New Thought and modern movements like progressive Christianity and prosperity gospelHow to differentiate between authentic biblical teachings and counterfeit theology that elevates self over ChristPractical ways to test spiritual concepts against the authority of ScriptureWhether you're questioning beliefs you've unknowingly adopted, supporting someone caught in deceptive teachings, or simply wanting to strengthen your discernment against what Melissa calls "happy lies," this conversation offers biblical wisdom and practical steps for recognizing truth in our self-obsessed world.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 Melissa Dougherty:Book: "Happy Lies: How a Movement You (Probably) Never Heard Of Shaped Our Self-Obsessed World" (Zondervan, January 2025)Website: https://melissadougherty.co/YouTube: https://youtube.com/MelissaDoughertyPodcast: The Melissa Dougherty PodcastInstagram: https://instagram.com/MelissaLDoughertyFollow 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, Melissa Dougherty, New Thought, New Age, biblical discernment, spiritual deception, Happy Lies, law of attraction, manifestation, prosperity gospel, Christian apologetics, biblical truth, spiritual warfare, testing spirits, divine image, metaphysical Christianity, toxic positivity, progressive Christianity, self-empowerment, spiritual counterfeits

In today's episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron interviews John-Michael Bout, executive director of Into the Light Ministries and father of three. Drawing from his personal journey of addiction that began at age eight and his eventual freedom through accountability and community, John-Michael shares powerful insights about equipping families to navigate biblical sexuality in an increasingly explicit digital world. His ministry creates free resources that help parents protect their children while training them to develop spiritual integrity and discernment.In this eye-opening conversation, we explore:Why the average age of pornography exposure is now eight years old and what parents can do about itHow pornography addiction is increasingly affecting women and the unique shame they experienceThe importance of focusing on God's beautiful design for sexuality rather than just prohibitionsPractical strategies for having age-appropriate conversations with children about sexualityWhy simply protecting children isn't enough—they need training to navigate temptationHow the porn industry actively targets children and the tactics they use to create early exposureThe vital difference between protecting our children and preparing them for adulthoodWhy technology safeguards alone won't solve the problem of pornographyThe power of community support in raising children with sexual integrityFree resources available to help parents navigate these difficult conversationsWhether you're a parent concerned about protecting your children, a spouse supporting a partner through recovery, or someone personally struggling with pornography, this conversation offers biblical wisdom, practical tools, and hope for building a home of integrity and freedom.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 John-Michael Bout:Into the Light Ministries: intothelightministries.caFree Resources: "Parenting and Pornography" and "TechSafe" seriesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/intothelight_ministries/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 After God, Aaron Smith, John-Michael Bout, Into the Light Ministries, pornography, biblical sexuality, parenting resources, digital integrity, family protection, children's discipleship, technology safeguards, sexual purity, Christian parenting, media discernment, spiritual formation

In today's episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron interviews Mike and Holly Worley, founders of Spark Discipleship. High school sweethearts who have been married for 16 years, they share their journey through the challenges of early marriage, healing from past trauma, and discovering the power of authentic community. With three children and a passion for discipleship, the Worleys candidly discuss the mistakes they made and the lessons they learned about building a thriving marriage centered on Christ.In this vulnerable conversation, we explore:How being a safe person for your spouse creates space for healing from past traumaThe three critical mistakes many couples make early in marriage that can limit growthWhy simply attending church isn't enough—true commitment means active participationThe difference between having friends and having authentic Christian communityPractical steps for finding and pursuing mentorship from older, wiser couplesHow marriage becomes richer and deeper through years of sanctification togetherThe importance of walking alongside others in their struggles rather than trying to fix themWhy healthy marriages are meant to be disciple-making partnershipsThe healing process that happens when couples work through past trauma togetherHow vulnerability and honesty open the door to genuine connection and growthWhether you're newly married, struggling with past trauma, feeling isolated in your faith journey, or simply wanting to strengthen your marriage, this conversation offers biblical wisdom and practical encouragement for becoming a disciple-making couple.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 Mike & Holly Worley:Website: sparkdiscipleship.comFree Resources: "Five Practices of a Thriving Marriage," "Weekly Huddle Guide," and "Investing Spiritually in Your Spouse"Ministry: Helping couples build thriving marriages through church commitment, authentic community, and mentorshipFollow 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, Mike Worley, Holly Worley, marriage mentorship, authentic community, church commitment, healing from trauma, safe relationships, biblical marriage, disciple-making couples, Spark Discipleship, marriage discipleship, Christian community, marriage sanctification

In today's episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron interviews Sathiya and Shaloma Sam, founders of Deep Clean Coaching. After five years of marriage and welcoming their 15-month-old son, they share their journey of building a ministry that helps men overcome pornography addiction while maintaining a strong marriage foundation. Sathiya transparently discusses his personal struggle with pornography and how it shaped his passion to help others find freedom, while Shaloma offers valuable perspective on supporting a spouse through recovery.In this transparent conversation, we explore:How to build a ministry without sacrificing your marriage, including the importance of non-negotiable date nightsWhy confessing temptations is often more powerful than confessing mistakes in breaking addiction cyclesThe healing power of bringing struggles into the light through open and honest communicationHow shame keeps us trapped in cycles of addiction and secrecyPractical ways spouses can create a safe environment for confession and vulnerabilityThe role of empathy and compassion in supporting a partner through recoveryWhy pornography addiction is fundamentally an intimacy disorderHow focusing on the light rather than obsessing over darkness leads to freedomThe dangers of the "trickle truth" approach and why complete honesty is necessaryWhy healthy marriages and families are the backbone of a thriving societyWhether you're struggling with pornography, supporting a spouse through recovery, or seeking to build a ministry while protecting your marriage, this conversation offers biblical wisdom, practical strategies, and hope for lasting freedom.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 Sathiya & Shaloma Sam:Deep Clean Coaching: https://www.sathiyasam.com/Podcast: Man Within https://www.sathiyasam.com/podcastInstagram: @sathiyasam - https://www.instagram.com/sathiyamesam/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 After God, Aaron Smith, Sathiya Sam, Shaloma Sam, pornography recovery, sexual integrity, confession, marriage ministry, addiction freedom, vulnerability, intimacy disorder, marriage support, spouse healing, transparency, biblical freedom, overcoming shame, marriage first

In today's episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron interviews Keith Simon, co-author of "Joyful Outsiders" and co-host of the Truth Over Tribe podcast. After 35 years of marriage and raising four children, Keith shares his wisdom on how Christians can positively influence culture without conforming to it. As a pastor in Columbia, Missouri, Keith explains how believers can embrace their role as outsiders in an increasingly post-Christian world, while maintaining joy and unity within the diverse body of Christ.In this thought-provoking conversation, we explore:How Christians have always been outsiders since Genesis 3, and why this role should be embraced rather than resistedThe six different ways believers can engage culture: as ambassadors, trainers, builders, protesters, advisors, and artistsWhy unity doesn't require uniformity, and how the diversity of gifts within the church strengthens our cultural witnessThe dangers of retreating from, conforming to, or fighting against culture instead of joyfully engaging itHow parents can raise children who are confident in their faith despite cultural oppositionThe importance of seeing other Christians as teammates rather than competitors, even when approaches differWhy Jesus calls us to be "in the world but not of it" and how to navigate this tensionHow focusing on Christ as King brings perspective to political and cultural changesPractical ways families can cultivate joy in their faith journey regardless of external circumstancesWhether you're feeling discouraged by cultural shifts, struggling to know how to engage with the world around you, or seeking to raise children with a confident faith, this conversation offers biblical wisdom for approaching life as a joyful outsider.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 Keith Simon:Book: "Joyful Outsiders: Six Ways to Live Like Jesus in a Disorienting Culture" (co-authored with Patrick Miller)Website: joyfuloutsiders.comPrevious Book: "Truth Over Tribe: Pledging Allegiance to the Lamb, Not the Donkey or the Elephant"Podcast: Truth Over Tribe and Ten Minute Bible TalksFollow 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, Keith Simon, joyful outsiders, Christian engagement, cultural influence, biblical unity, cultural diversity, Christian parenting, faith and culture, body of Christ, Christian witness, biblical perspective, cultural outsiders, church unity, Truth Over Tribe

In today's episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron interviews Arlene Pellicane, author of ten books including her latest, "Making Marriage Easier." After 25 years of marriage and raising three children (two now in college), Arlene shares practical wisdom about cultivating a thriving marriage relationship. Her humorous approach combined with biblical principles offers couples a refreshing perspective on how small, intentional decisions can transform their relationship.In this insightful conversation, we explore:The four core decisions that make marriage easier: playing by the rules, giving thanks, serving one another, and taking fun seriouslyWhy addressing small issues before they become "dragons" is essential for marital healthHow to understand your spouse's perspective and find humor in your differencesThe importance of intentionally prioritizing your marriage above parentingPractical ways to nurture your relationship while raising childrenWhy honest communication about sensitive topics builds trust and intimacyHow cultivating an attitude of gratitude transforms your marriage perspectiveThe value of seeking wisdom from couples with strong marriagesSimple, specific actions that can lead to significant relational changeWhy humility is the foundation for receiving feedback from your spouseWhether you're newlyweds learning to navigate life together, parents struggling to find balance, or a couple looking to inject more joy into your relationship, this conversation offers practical wisdom for making marriage not just work, but thrive.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 Arlene Pellicane:Website: makingmarriageeasier.com (get free date night ideas!)Book: "Making Marriage Easier"Podcast: The Happy HomeSpokesperson for National Marriage Week, a movement to shift the culture to value marriage once againOther Books: "Parents Rising" and "Screen Kids" (co-authored with Dr. Gary Chapman)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 After God, Aaron Smith, Arlene Pellicane, making marriage easier, marriage priorities, family relationships, intentional parenting, gratitude in marriage, marriage communication, marriage humor, serving your spouse, marriage decisions, biblical marriage, marriage boundaries, marriage fun

In today's episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron and Jennifer Smith return together to share powerful insights from their family life. As parents of six children, they discuss their intentional approach to parenting, how they're preparing their children for life's challenges through the Word of God, and the refining process they've experienced in their marriage through recent challenges. They also share exciting news about their new children's books and reflect on seven years of podcast ministry.In this heartfelt conversation, we explore:How setting aside intentional one-on-one time with each child creates space for meaningful spiritual growthThe power of asking questions instead of only pointing out character issues with our childrenWhy preparing our children with the gospel equips them for life's "winter seasons" of hardshipHow Scripture familiarity creates a foundation children can return to in adulthoodThe importance of humility and self-reflection in personal and marriage growthWays that challenges and hardships serve as refining opportunities for couplesThe impact of praying together during emotionally challenging seasonsHow God uses devotional practices to reveal areas where we need to growWhether you're a parent seeking practical ways to disciple your children, a couple walking through a refining season, or simply looking for encouragement in your spiritual journey, this conversation offers biblical wisdom and real-life examples for growing together in faith.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 Aaron and Jennifer Smith:New Children's Books: "This is How You Love Your Mommy" and "This is How You Love Your Daddy" (Available on Amazon) https://amzn.to/41fFtfpExperiencing God Devotional by Henry Blackaby (Recommended resource)https://amzn.to/4klshP5Follow 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, Jennifer Smith, intentional parenting, spiritual disciplines, children's discipleship, marriage refinement, gospel-centered parenting, biblical parenting, marriage challenges, spiritual growth, family devotions, character development, Christian parenting, Bible study

In today's episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron interviews Jinger Duggar Vuolo, New York Times bestselling author of People Pleaser: Breaking Free from the Burden of Imaginary Expectations. Jinger shares her personal journey—from growing up on TLC's reality shows as part of the Duggar family and being raised under the strict teachings of Bill Gothard, to realizing the heavy cost of seeking constant approval. In this honest conversation, she reveals how asking the question “Who am I?” led her to break free from people-pleasing tendencies, embrace her true identity in Christ, and discover the beauty of community.In this inspiring conversation, we explore:How growing up in the public eye and under rigid expectations shaped her early identity and relationships.The lasting impact of Bill Gothard’s teachings on her life, and the struggle to disentangle truth from man-made rules.The transformative journey of self-discovery—learning to rely on God for approval and self-worth.The role of authentic community in healing from the burden of people pleasing.Practical insights on parenting in the spotlight and maintaining family privacy in today’s digital age.How her marriage with Jeremy provided the space to overcome people pleasing and cultivate honest, loving communication.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 Jinger Duggar Vuolo:Book & Audiobook: People Pleaser – available wherever books are sold Discover more about her journey in her other works, including Becoming Free Indeed, The Hope We Hold, and the children’s book You Can Shine So Bright.https://www.jingerandjeremy.comFollow 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, Jinger Duggar Vuolo, People Pleaser, people pleasing, identity in Christ, reality TV upbringing, Duggar family, Bill Gothard, authentic parenting, self-discovery, community, faith journey

In today's episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron interviews Chris and Jessica Speas, long-time friends and ministry partners. From their whirlwind five-month courtship to marriage, through seasons of spiritual growth and challenges, they share how God has shaped their relationship over 13 years. After surviving a devastating tornado in Tennessee, their experience led to spiritual renewal and Jessica's ministry teaching women about biblical prophecy.In this inspiring conversation, we explore:Why seeking "calm" in relationships is more valuable than emotional highs and lowsHow to maintain marriage commitment even when feelings fluctuateThe importance of letting the Holy Spirit work in your spouse instead of trying to control themWhy community is essential for spiritual growth and marriage healthThe power of choosing to stay married through difficult seasonsHow God uses challenging circumstances to draw us closer to HimWays to rebuild spiritual intimacy after seasons of stagnationThe beauty of allowing God to work through trauma for ministry purposesWhether you're newlyweds seeking wisdom, walking through a spiritually dry season, or looking to deepen your faith together as a couple, this conversation offers practical insights and hope for building a marriage that honors God.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 Jessica Speas:Instagram: @jessica_speasBible Prophecy Teaching and Resources - https://stan.store/JessicaSpeasMaranatha ApparelFollow 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, Chris Speas, Jessica Speas, marriage commitment, spiritual growth, biblical community, tornado testimony, faith renewal, prophecy ministry, marriage wisdom, Holy Spirit, Christian marriage, biblical truth