The Mixed Faith Relationship Podcast

In this episode, I’m sharing practical tools for those frustrating nights when sleep just won’t come. You’ll learn how to use the Safety Sequence, gentle somatic practices, and simple breathing techniques to help your nervous system settle. I’ll also remind you why beating yourself up for not sleeping never helps—and what to do instead. If you’ve ever felt stuck in stress, restlessness, or worry a...

In this episode, I’m talking about one of my favorite topics— sleep —and why it’s such an important pillar for nervous system health. I’ll share how sleep expands our window of tolerance, why that old advice to “never go to bed angry” might actually backfire, and how getting more rest can completely change how we show up in our relationships. I’ve got some practical tips and a little science to he...

In this episode, Chris dives into how movement supports a regulated nervous system and why it’s one of the foundational pillars of well-being—alongside sleep, nutrition, connection, and stress management. From gentle stretching to more energizing activity, movement helps your body process stress, boost mood, and build resilience. Tune in to learn simple ways to bring more movement into your day an...

In this episode of the Mixed Faith Marriage Mastermind, Chris Rich and Suzette Halterman dive into the topic of defensiveness—what it looks like, why it shows up, and how it impacts connection in mixed faith relationships. You’ll hear personal insights, practical tools, and questions to help you shift from protection mode to connection mode when conversations get tense.

Some people just set off our nervous system—and that doesn’t mean anything is wrong with us. In this episode, we explore why certain interactions feel unsafe, especially in mixed faith relationships, and how to respond with compassion, not judgment. Your body’s trying to protect you. Let’s learn to listen.

n this episode, Chris unpacks the concept of coregulation —how our nervous systems learn to settle and feel safe through connection with others. From infancy to adulthood, we’re wired to co-regulate with safe people, pets, and even the Savior. Tune in to hear real-life examples (including from mixed faith relationships), how coregulation supports healing, and how you can offer this calming gift to...

In this episode, Chris explores the powerful role connection plays in regulating and healing the nervous system. Whether it's connection with yourself, loved ones, strangers, nature, pets, or God—your body is wired to thrive in safe, supportive relationships. Tune in to learn why connection is more than just emotional support—it’s a biological necessity that can transform your well-being.

After a whirlwind May (aka Maycember ), Chris shares a powerful reminder about creating comfort and care for ourselves—especially when life feels overwhelming. Inspired by a thoughtful gift from a friend, she introduces the idea of building your own “Sunshine Basket”—a personalized toolkit of simple, nervous-system-soothing practices. Whether you’re navigating stress, burnout, or a mixed faith rel...

In this episode, certified life coach Chris Rich is joined by fellow coach LeAnn Austin for an honest and heartfelt conversation about navigating mixed faith families. Together, they explore the challenges, growth, and unexpected gifts that come when loved ones hold different beliefs. Tune in for practical tools, personal stories, and compassionate insights to help you build stronger, more connect...

In this episode of the Mixed Faith Marriage Mastermind, certified life coach Chris Rich and relationship coach Suzette Halterman dive into the complexities of navigating religious practices in a mixed faith home. With honesty, compassion, and practical wisdom, they explore how couples can honor their individual beliefs while creating a shared space of respect, flexibility, and connection. Whether...

In this empowering episode, Chris shares her recent experience speaking at the She’s Local: Pioneer Valley Conference for Women. Through a Q&A format, she explores how the stories we tell ourselves can either hold us back or propel us forward. You’ll hear real-life examples of how shifting your narrative can build resilience, self-compassion, and confidence. If you’re ready to reclaim your rol...

In this heartfelt episode, Chris Rich explores the unseen ways YOUR presence makes a difference. Through personal reflection and a favorite quote, she shares how even in the hard and uncertain moments, your life is lighting up the world—more than you realize.

In this episode, we're diving into the foundation of a healthy, resilient nervous system—because just like a house, if the foundation isn't solid, everything else is at risk. Chris breaks down six key components: sleep, nutrition, movement, sunlight, connection, and stress management, and shares practical ways to strengthen each one. You'll walk away with simple tools to support both y...

In this brief episode, I share how daffodils remind me of hope, resilience, and the strength to bloom after life's storms. Join me as we explore finding light and inspiration in unexpected places. Could you do me a favor?  Please leave a review on your preferred podcast platform. It helps more people find the podcast.   I would also love to hear any insights or questions you have. You can also fin...

Join me, Brooke, and Suzette in this episode of the Mixed Faith Marriage Mastermind as we dive deep into the role of expectations in our relationships. We explore where our expectations come from, how they shape our interactions, and ways to communicate them effectively in mixed faith marriages. Tune in for an honest, thought-provoking conversation that might just transform the way you see your ow...

Anxiety isn’t just in our minds—it shows up in our bodies, too. In today’s episode, I’m getting real about my own experience with anxiety as I prepare for an upcoming dental procedure. My nervous system is on high alert, and instead of fighting it, I’m leaning in with self-compassion, movement, breathwork, and connection. Join me as I walk through simple, practical ways to regulate the nervous sys...

When stress keeps building without an outlet, it can leave you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and constantly on edge. In this episode, we’ll explore how your nervous system responds to stress, why it’s crucial to release that pressure, and simple ways to let off steam. You’ll learn how to complete the stress cycle, create more calm, and give your body the safety it needs to thrive.

In this episode, we explore the four main stress responses— fight, flight, freeze, and fawn —and how they show up in mixed faith relationships. Understanding how your brain and body react to stress can help you respond with intention rather than reactivity. You'll learn to recognize these patterns, identify common triggers, and discover practical tools to regulate your nervous system. Whether...

In this special Mixed Faith Marriage Mastermind episode, Chris Rich is joined by Brooke Booth and Suzette Halterman to explore the role of grief in mixed faith relationships. When faith shifts or expectations change, grief is a natural response—but it’s often misunderstood or overlooked. Together, we discuss how grief shows up, why it matters, and how to process it in healthy ways. You’ll learn pr...

In this episode, we dive into the 80/20 rule and how it impacts your reactions—especially in a mixed faith relationship. You’ll learn that 20% of your response comes from your thoughts , while 80% comes from your nervous system’s automatic reactions . I’ll share practical tools to calm your body, shift your perspective, and navigate challenging moments with more ease and understanding. If you’ve e...

In this powerful episode, I sit down with my dear friend and nervous system expert, Leah Davidson, to dive into the complex topic of religious trauma . We explore how trauma impacts the nervous system, the connection between mind and body, and practical tools to foster healing and resilience. Whether you're navigating your own faith journey or supporting a loved one, this conversation offers compa...

In this episode, we’re diving into a simple yet powerful tool—the Safety Sequence—to help you shift out of stress mode and bring your rational brain (your CEO) back online. When navigating a mixed faith relationship, monkey mode reactions like fight, flight, or freeze can make hard conversations even harder. By asking, Am I safe? Do I feel safe? and then relaxing your body, you can regain clarity,...

How much should you share with your kids in a mixed faith family? In this episode, Brooke Booth, Suzette Halterman, and I discuss navigating faith conversations with honesty, respect, and age-appropriate awareness. We’ll share strategies, common pitfalls, and insights to help you feel more confident in guiding your children through questions, beliefs, and family dynamics.

Do you ever wonder if or where you fit into the complex mosaic of church and life? In this episode I share a talk I recently gave in Stake Conference that will help us to create more unity and connection in our lives. Could you do me a favor?  Please leave a review on your preferred podcast platform. It helps more people find the podcast.   I would also love to hear any insights or questions you h...

In this episode, I sit down with renowned LDS sex therapist Dr. Jennifer Finlayson-Fife to explore the complex topic of sexual shame. Together, we discuss its origins, how it impacts relationships—especially in a mixed faith context—and practical ways to foster healing, understanding, and deeper connection. Whether you're navigating personal struggles or seeking to strengthen your partnership, thi...