Art of Spousing

Forgiveness is one of the most powerful—and most challenging—practices in marriage. In this episode, James and Lisa unpack what it really means to become “two great forgivers.” If you’ve ever felt stuck in cycles of hurt, repeating the same arguments, or struggling to move forward after conflict, this conversation will give you clarity and hope. You’ll discover why forgiveness is not about forgett...

What makes a marriage feel emotionally safe? In this episode of The Art of Spousing , James and Lisa talk about one of the most important foundations of a healthy marriage: emotional safety. Because most couples do not struggle because they do not love each other. They struggle because it does not always feel safe to share what is really happening inside. Together, they unpack seven practical ways...

Have you ever noticed how some couples just radiate joy while others seem to carry a cloud of negativity wherever they go? After 33 years of marriage, James and Lisa have discovered that the difference often comes down to one powerful choice: the intentional decision to bring light instead of gloom into your marriage. In this episode, they dive deep into what it really means to cultivate positivit...

In Part 2 of our series on the essential habits of a healthy marriage, we’re focusing on what it looks like to stop living by default and start building your relationship by design. We talk about consistency over perfection (not perfectly, but persistently), and we share practical ways to create momentum—plus a fun real-life story about “floating shelves” that became shorthand for turning tension....

A healthy marriage doesn’t happen on accident—it’s built with intention, practice, and a few simple rhythms that strengthen connection over time. In this episode, James and Lisa introduce four foundational habits that have shaped their marriage, their coaching, and the couples they’ve served for years. You’ll walk away with practical next steps you can start this week—especially around Habit 1 (Lo...

In this episode, James and Lisa dive into the Five Mindset Killers that can quietly sabotage your marriage—distortion, discouragement, doubt, distraction, and division. Based on John Gordon’s framework, they unpack how these "5 Ds" show up in real relationships and what to do when they start pulling you into emotional and spiritual drift. Learn how to recognize the signs early, interrupt the cycle...

What if the greatest influence on your marriage isn’t your circumstances, your history, or even your differences—but your mindset ? In this relaunch episode of The Art of Spousing , James and Lisa return with a powerful conversation about growth mindset vs. fixed mindset in marriage . Using the vivid illustration of hummingbirds and vultures, they explore how two people can walk through the same s...

In this deeply practical and insightful episode, James and Lisa unpack a powerful diagnostic tool from GiANT called the Peace Index . This framework helps individuals—and couples—measure five key areas that influence internal wellbeing: purpose, place, provision, personal health, and people. With honest reflection, engaging stories, and easy-to-use language, this episode equips you to recognize wh...

In this heart-opening episode, James and Lisa share exciting updates—including the relaunch of the Live Lead Last podcast—and how launching something new inevitably impacts marriage. They introduce the Change Equation , a powerful visual tool from GiANT that explains why real change happens—or doesn’t—in relationships. Through vulnerable personal stories and practical insights, they walk you throu...

Commitment in marriage is so much deeper than just staying under the same roof. In this episode of The Art of Spousing , James and Lisa Duvall explore what it really means to build a lifelong marriage rooted in intentional, daily choices. They unpack the four layers of commitment—personal, moral, spiritual, and structural—and share how couples can move from surviving to thriving, even when seasons...

In this heartwarming and practical episode of Art of Spousing , James and Lisa break down one of the most transformative tools for marriage communication: The Communication Code . Ever found yourself trying to be helpful, only to realize your spouse needed something entirely different? This episode will help you stop the cycle of misfires and start connecting more deeply. You’ll learn how to use f...

Let’s face it—married life can be a wild ride. Between never-ending to-do lists, navigating seasons of grief, and the everyday chaos of family life, it’s easy to lose sight of the fun . But what if we told you that learning to laugh together might just be one of the most powerful tools you have to build connection, reduce stress, and keep your love vibrant? In this episode, we explore why humor is...

Decision-making is a daily reality in marriage—sometimes small (what’s for dinner?) and sometimes huge (where do we live?). But if we’re not intentional, making decisions together can turn into a battleground or a passive-aggressive standoff. In this episode, we explore how to make decisions as a team, even when you and your spouse see things differently. We’ll walk through practical tools to navi...

Ever feel like you and your spouse are speaking two different languages? In this episode, we dive into The Five Voices —a powerful tool that helps you understand your unique communication style and how it interacts with your spouse’s. When you recognize your voice and your spouse’s, you can stop having the same frustrating conversations and start truly understanding each other. This episode will h...

This week, James and Lisa dive into a topic that affects every marriage: communication roadblocks . Whether you're struggling with distractions, misunderstandings, or emotional reactions, today’s episode is packed with practical tools and biblical wisdom to help you break through barriers and build a deeper connection with your spouse. Episode Highlights Why Communication is Foundational Communica...

In this episode, James and Lisa reflect on the lessons learned from 2024 and share practical steps for designing a thriving marriage in 2025. From navigating challenges like caregiving and career transitions to building a vision for the future, this conversation will inspire and equip you to create a marriage filled with intention and growth. What You’ll Learn in This Episode : Reflect on the Past...

In this episode of Art of Spousing , James and Lisa give listeners a behind-the-scenes look at their creative process as they develop a new framework for marriage growth: The Flywheel of Momentum. They share five key priorities that, when practiced intentionally, create synergy and depth in a marriage. From foundational communication to fostering growth, this episode is packed with practical insig...

In today’s powerful episode, James and Lisa welcome Ray and Linda, a couple who overcame deep challenges in their marriage, including a rare and often misunderstood condition called Intimacy Anorexia (IA) . Ray and Linda share how this condition impacted their marriage for decades, creating emotional distance and loneliness, even while they appeared outwardly successful. Through honest storytellin...

In this episode, James and Lisa explore the concept of liminality —the “in-between” seasons of marriage where uncertainty reigns, and you’re not quite where you were, but not yet where you’re going. Whether you're in a major life transition, feeling stuck, or simply unsure of what's next, this episode offers practical advice to navigate these challenging yet transformative moments in your marriage...

In this episode, James and Lisa return after a few months break to kick off a new season! They take us on a journey through the whirlwind of life changes they’ve faced, from becoming "empty nesters" to James' major career shift and Lisa’s experience caring for her mother. Together, they unpack how they navigated this season of transitions, challenges, and blessings while fighting to maintain a str...

Merry Christmas, and welcome to the season four finale of the Art of Spousing Podcast!  As we wrap up another incredible season, we're grateful for the journey we've shared and excited for what Season 5 will bring. In this episode, we're diving into the heart of Christmas, exploring traditions and memories that make this season so special. We reminisce about our own Christmas experiences. We invit...

In this heartwarming episode of Art of Spousing, we welcome Terry and Carol Moss, whose story is a testament to the beauty of God's grace and the power of second chances in marriage. With humor, honesty, and a deep faith, the Mosses open up about their journey from individual struggles and growth to finding unexpected love and unity in a blended family. They share the challenges of blending two fa...

In this episode of "The Art of Spousing" podcast, hosts James and Lisa bring their unique perspectives to the table, discussing the complexities and joys of marriage and family life. We start off with a light-hearted reflection on our own experiences, setting the tone for an episode filled with warmth, humor, and insightful discussions. They revisit a compelling Q&A session from a Re Engag gat...

Do you want to deepen your connection and foster a greater understanding in your relationship? Are you seeking a solution to enhance the love between you and your spouse? Look no further. Dr. Scott Symington joins us to share the key to achieving a heightened bond and a more profound connection with your spouse. Discover how intentional acts of love can transform your relationship and bring about...

Do you long for a marriage that not only survives adversity but thrives in the face of it? Are you seeking inspiration and guidance to strengthen your relationship? Look no further because today we have a special guest, Jeremy and Kourtney Roseberry, who will be sharing the key to achieving a resilient and flourishing marriage. They have overcome immense challenges and will reveal their solution f...