Join us for a heartfelt discussion on navigating the grieving process of infertility with our friends Kate and JJ Tomlin, who bring both wisdom and warmth to this sensitive topic. As we reminisce about the joys of friendship and parenting, we dive deep into the emotional challenges that come with losing a child, sharing personal experiences and insights that resonate with many. The Tomlins emphasize the importance of allowing space for grief while also holding onto hope, reminding us that God’s goodness remains steadfast even in the hardest moments. With humor and authenticity, we also explore the intricacies of marriage, communication, and the value of vulnerability in relationships. This final episode of Season One is not just about grief; it's about finding light in dark times and supporting one another through life's toughest challenges.

We are currently between seasons and aren't taking any more call-ins at this time.

In This Episode:

• The grieving process of infertility is often overlooked, yet it is crucial to address.
• Finding a balance between grief and hope is essential, especially after miscarriages.
• Establishing boundaries with in-laws can protect mental health and strengthen marriages.
• It's vital to take individual responsibility in marriage and not blame your spouse.
• Learning to communicate needs and emotions is key to a healthy relationship.
• The journey of parenthood can be challenging but also deeply rewarding, full of growth.

Show Notes:

Wrapping up the first season of Marriage on the Line, this episode features a deep dive into the often-taboo subject of infertility with guests Kate and JJ Tomlin. The hosts bring warmth and humor to the table, recounting their personal experiences with the Tomlins, which sets a relatable backdrop for the more serious discussions ahead. The episode explores the grieving process associated with infertility, where Kate and JJ share their heart-wrenching journey through two miscarriages. Their openness offers a rare glimpse into the emotional complexities of this struggle, emphasizing that even those who have experienced parenthood can face profound grief when dealing with loss.

Throughout the episode, the Tomlins share invaluable insights on the importance of communication in relationships, particularly during challenging times. They discuss how each partner may cope differently with grief, underlining the necessity of creating a supportive environment where both parties can express their feelings. Furthermore, they touch on the themes of patience and gratitude, encouraging listeners to find hope amidst their pain. The episode serves as a powerful testament to love’s resilience, showcasing how couples can grow closer through shared trials and the importance of cherishing every moment, even the painful ones. As they conclude, listeners are left with a sense of hope and community, encouraged to reach out and connect with others who share similar experiences.

Links referenced in this episode:

• heartofdating.com
• ashleywillis.net
• contentbuilders.co
• daveandashley.com
• @daveandashleywillis
• @marriageonthelinepodcast
• Extreme Ownership...

Dave and Ashley dive into the joys and challenges of Christmas traditions with their friends Caleb and Stefanie Rouse. The conversation highlights how Christmas can amplify both the happiness and stress in relationships, especially when it comes to navigating in-law dynamics and unmet expectations. Caleb and Stefanie share their own experiences of creating meaningful traditions as a couple while balancing family commitments. They emphasize the importance of setting boundaries to protect their time together, which helps them savor the holiday spirit. With playful anecdotes and heartfelt insights, they inspire listeners to embrace the season with gratitude and intentionality, reminding us that the true gift of Christmas lies in connection and presence with loved ones.

We are currently between seasons and aren't taking any more call-ins at this time.

In This Episode:

• Christmas can amplify both joy and stress, so it's crucial to create personal boundaries.
• Setting aside time for just each other during the holidays is vital for marital joy.
• Finding shared interests and creating new traditions can strengthen your relationship during Christmas.
• It's important to manage unmet expectations during the holiday season to avoid disappointment.
• Practicing gratitude for your spouse can significantly enhance your marriage, especially during challenging times.
• Being intentional about your thought life and focusing on the positive aspects of your partner is essential.

Show Notes:

The holiday season often brings both joy and stress, especially for married couples navigating family traditions and expectations. In this engaging discussion, Dave and Ashley invite Caleb and Stefanie Rouse to share their experiences with Christmas and how it impacts their relationship as well as their families. They dive into the dual nature of Christmas — as a time of joy and celebration, but also as a period that can amplify underlying tensions and unmet expectations in family dynamics. The Rouses discuss their cherished traditions, such as cutting down their own Christmas tree and creating new rituals that blend their families’ customs, illustrating the importance of establishing boundaries to ensure quality time together amidst the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.

Stefanie emphasizes the need to let go of perfectionism during the holidays, advocating for a focus on gratitude and presence rather than getting caught up in the chaos. The conversation touches on the significance of creating personal traditions and how couples can work together to find shared interests that deepen their connection. Caleb shares his reflections on missing his family during the holidays, which adds a layer of emotional depth to their story. The episode resonates with listeners who can relate to the challenges and joys of navigating holiday expectations, making it a timely and relevant exploration of marriage during the festive season.

Links referenced in this episode:

• @daveandashleywillis
• @marriageonthelinepodcast
• daveandashley.com
• stefanieandkaleb.com

Sarah, a newlywed, poses a heartfelt question about navigating intimacy in her first year of marriage, especially after saving herself for marriage while her husband did not. She shares the challenges she faces due to her mental and physical health struggles, including a recent diagnosis of PCOS, which complicates their sexual relationship. Dave and Ashley Willis acknowledge the importance of communication, grace, and understanding in building intimacy, emphasizing that a fulfilling sex life takes time and is not always perfect. They highlight that intimacy is built through various forms of connection outside the bedroom, and they encourage Sarah to embrace the journey rather than succumb to societal pressures. The conversation also touches on the significance of prayer in their relationship and offers practical resources for couples navigating similar challenges, reminding listeners that they are not alone in these struggles.

In This Episode:

• The transition into married intimacy can be challenging, especially after waiting until marriage.
• Communication is crucial in navigating sexual intimacy, especially when facing health issues.
• It's important to give yourself grace as you and your partner learn together.
• Mental and physical health struggles can significantly impact intimacy, requiring ongoing conversations.
• Social media portrays unrealistic expectations for sexual relationships, emphasizing the need for open dialogue.
• Finding joy and creativity in intimacy can strengthen your bond as a couple.

Show Notes:

Navigating the complexities of intimacy in marriage can feel daunting, especially for newlyweds like Sarah, who reached out with a heartfelt question about her sexual relationship with her husband. After a year of marriage, Sarah, who saved herself for marriage, finds herself grappling with intimacy, feeling pressure due to her upbringing and societal expectations. During this episode, Ashley and Dave Willis offer insights into the challenges many couples face when transitioning from dating to marriage, particularly regarding sex. They discuss how the expectations surrounding intimacy can often lead to feelings of inadequacy and confusion, especially when one partner has a different sexual history. The couple emphasizes the importance of communication, grace, and understanding in the process of building a fulfilling sexual relationship. They encourage Sarah to view intimacy not just as a physical act but as an emotional and spiritual connection, which can deepen over time.

The Willis' dives into practical advice, such as the significance of creating a comfortable environment for intimacy and the need for couples to explore various forms of connection beyond intercourse. They remind listeners that intimacy can be playful and does not always have to culminate in sex, promoting a mindset that values the journey of discovery between partners. Through their candid conversation, they acknowledge the impact of personal health issues, like Sarah's struggles with PCOS, on libido and overall intimacy, asserting that such challenges can be tackled together. As they share their personal experiences, they highlight the importance of patience and perseverance in cultivating a healthy sex life, ultimately framing these struggles as opportunities for growth and deeper connection within the marriage.

Links referenced in this episode:

• @daveandashleywillis
• @marriageonthelinepodcast
• daveandashley.com