Making Marriage Stronger (Part 2)

Doug wraps up his discussion of 15 ways to strengthen your marriage and shares tips for planning 5 fun at-home dates. PLUS: The Friday Rant.

Listener question and comments:

  • Alex – I would like to become Catholic but my wife does not and I want to know what to do. We have 5 kids. (8:25)
  • R.J. – I could use some advice on being a grandparent. I’m going down to help my son out, and it’s been a while since I’ve been around the kids. I want to make sure I’m helpful and know how to best be there for them. (43:41)

Resources:

Making Marriage Stronger (Part 1)

https://relevantradio.com/2026/08/making-marriage-stronger/

Gottman Card Decks

https://www.gottman.com/couples/apps/

Ways to strengthen your marriage

  1. Start with small rituals
  2. Listen like you actually mean it
  3. Schedule some fun time together
  4. Speak appreciation out loud
  5. Keep learning about each other
  6. Handle conflict without keeping score
  7. Share household responsibilities evenly
  8. Put the phone down
  9. Support each other’s interests
  10. Laugh together when life gets tense
  11. Have regular check-ins about the relationship
  12. Build a culture of compliments
  13. Create shared goals together
  14. Make physical affection a priority
  15. Celebrate milestones together

5 fun at home date nights

  1. Dance together
  2. Read poetry together
  3. Play board gmes and card games
  4. Wine and charcutarie board
  5. Make a photo album