Reconnected Marriage Partners | Communicate Effectively, Sexual Intimacy, Expectations, Quality Time, Resolving Conflicts

Dr. Ebun and David Haastrup | Christian Marriage Coaches & Couple Connection Strategists

Are you feeling distant from your spouse while living under the same roof?
Frustrated about the increasing misunderstandings or tension in your marriage?
Do you have a longing desire to feel heard & understood but can’t seem to get through to your spouse?
Wish you spent more time connecting with your spouse instead of engaging in arguments that drain your energy?

If you can relate, you’re not alone.

Building a thriving marriage in these modern times takes hard work. When you add the responsibilities and demands of a growing career, family life, and the other stressors & unexpected challenges that sometimes show up, it can seem almost impossible…but it doesn’t have to be!

Hi, we are David and Ebun, son and daughter of the King, a married couple who are still best friends, and parents of three. After being married for over a decade —while also navigating 3 major family relocations, job losses, financial challenges & major health challenges along the way— we know first-hand some of the challenges couples face in our modern world.

We know what it’s like to feel disconnected as a couple while juggling the demands of work, life, and parenthood because we’ve been there. We also know what it feels like to become more intentional in our marriage and achieve a deeper level of connection & intimacy in a long-term marital relationship.

Yet, through it all, we’ve not only grown stronger as a couple but also as individuals. How did we get here? Get ready to find out because we can’t wait to share what we’ve learned, unlearned, relearned, and continue to learn on this journey.

Welcome to the Reconnected Marriage Partners Podcast!

In this podcast, you will find practical strategies to help you improve communication with your spouse, express your needs clearly, resolve conflicts without fighting, and manage disagreements in more productive ways so you can deepen your connection & understanding of each other, work smarter as a team and feel valued in your relationship. You’ll discover actionable tips & simple systems to help you spend more quality time together while living in a busy & distracted world so you can continue to strengthen your bond, increase intimacy, and stay connected over the years. You will also find life-changing biblical encouragement & inspiration on how to live more intentionally and rise up courageously in your life & marriage while keeping God at the Center.

If you’re tired of growing apart and ready to grow closer as a couple while experiencing more peace, harmony & unity in your home, then you’ve come to the right place! We invite you to join us on this journey, get ready to be inspired and gain valuable marital tips along the way as you take the next courageous step in building the stronger marriage you truly desire!
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➡️ Have questions about coaching? Pls send a quick email to coach@happymarriedfamily.com to schedule a 15mins free discovery call!

❓For other questions/inquiries:
-Email:coach@happymarriedfamily.com

[Disclaimer: The content presented in this podcast is provided solely for educational purposes and should be considered as general information. It is not intended to serve as therapy, psychological advice or professional medical care. We strongly recommend consulting your physician or mental health provider for personalized advice, support, or treatment concerning your well-being. In the event of a crisis, please dial 911 for immediate assistance].

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21 episodes
Updated Thursday

Episodes21

Newest first

Thursday · 38 min
EP 220 \\ Before It Turns Into Another Argument: The CALM Method for Marriage Conflict
📌 Join Our Free Live Online Workshop Tired of the exhausting arguments in your marriage? Learn what to do when tension starts building so you can restore connection and experience more peace at home. How To Stop Repeating The Same Exhausting Argument Without Waiting For Your Spouse To Change First 📅 Saturday, August 15, 2026 Register to join us live: https://workshop.happymarriedfamily.com/join Hi friend, Have you ever wished you could stop an argument before it spirals into the same exhausting cycle? In this special guest interview on the Rebuilding Us podcast, David joins host Dana Che to explore how emotional awareness can transform the way couples navigate conflict. Together, they discuss why the early years of marriage can be especially challenging, how our upbringing shapes the way we communicate, and why learning to regulate our emotions is essential for healthier communication. David also introduces the CALM Method, a practical four-step framework designed to help couples interrupt unhealthy conflict patterns before they escalate and move toward greater understanding and deeper connection in marriage. Whether you're newly married or have been together for years, this conversation will encourage you with practical tools you can begin applying today. Resources Mentioned 📘 A Couple's First 10 Years: A Christian Marriage Guide for Building a Strong, Lasting Relationship If you're navigating the early years of marriage—or know a couple who is—this book offers practical, faith-based guidance to help you build a strong, lasting relationship. ............................................................................................................................ 👇 Let’s Stay Connected! 📖 Get your copy of our book: A Couple’s First Ten Years Available on Amazon: https://mybook.to/ACouplesFirstTenYears 📧 Got questions or just want to say hi? Send an email to: coach@happymarriedfamily.com If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another couple who could benefit from it.
July 30 · 20 min
EP 219 \\ 4 Things Husbands Wish Their Wives Would Stop Doing (And What to Do Instead)
Hi friend! Today, we’re diving into one of those topics that might feel a little uncomfortable—but that’s exactly why it’s so important to talk about. Every marriage has its ups and downs. And sometimes, without even realizing it, we slip into habits that slowly create distance instead of building connection. In this episode, we’re talking about a few things husbands often wish their wives would stop doing—not because they’re trying to control or complain, but because they truly care. They’re longing to feel closer, more understood, and more at peace in the relationship. This isn’t about blame or finger-pointing—it’s about understanding each other better and growing together. So, whether you’re listening on your own or with your spouse, take a deep breath and lean in with an open heart. Some of it might sting a little—but it just might open the door to something really beautiful. ............................................................................................................................ 👇 Let’s Stay Connected! 📖 Get your copy of our book: A Couple’s First Ten Years Available on Amazon: https://mybook.to/ACouplesFirstTenYears 📧 Got questions or just want to say hi? Send an email to: coach@happymarriedfamily.com 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! 🎧 Tune in, take notes, and let’s build a deeper, more connected marriage—one intentional act at a time.
July 23 · 20 min
EP 218 \\ 4 Things Wives Wish Their Husbands Would Stop Doing (And What to Do Instead)
Hi friend! Marriage is a beautiful journey—but let’s be honest, it’s not always easy. Between work, life, and everyday routines, we can slip into habits we don’t even realize are hurting the very people we love most. That’s why today, we’re diving into a topic that hits home for so many couples: “4 Things Wives Wish Their Husbands Would Stop Doing.” We’re talking about those small, everyday moments—things that might make her feel unseen, unheard, or unappreciated… even if that was never your intention. These habits, if left unchecked, can slowly chip away at trust, intimacy, and connection. But here’s the good news: this isn’t about guilt—it’s about growth. Backed by biblical truth and practical wisdom, we’re unpacking what it really means to lead, love, and listen with intention. Whether you’re newly married or decades in, the fact that you’re here says something powerful: you care. And that’s exactly where change begins. This episode will challenge and equip you to love better—starting today. So open your heart, guys… and let’s get into it. ............................................................................................................................ 👇 Let’s Stay Connected! 📖 Get your copy of our book: A Couple’s First Ten Years Available on Amazon: https://mybook.to/ACouplesFirstTenYears 📧 Got questions or just want to say hi? Send an email to: coach@happymarriedfamily.com 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! 🎧 Tune in, take notes, and let’s build a deeper, more connected marriage—one intentional act at a time.
July 16 · 19 min
EP 217 \\ Want a Stronger and Happier Marriage? Focus on These 3 Areas of Growth
Hi friend, Want a stronger and happier marriage? Growth is essential. In this episode, we share three essential areas of growth that can help you build a stronger, happier, and more connected marriage. These key areas of growth have influenced our marriage goals and contributed to the level of success we have experienced in marriage. Want to find out more? Ready…Set…Tune in to find out more! ............................................................................................................................ 👇 Let’s Stay Connected! 📖 Get your copy of our book: A Couple’s First Ten Years Available on Amazon: https://mybook.to/ACouplesFirstTenYears 📧 Got questions or just want to say hi? Send an email to: coach@happymarriedfamily.com 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! 🎧 Tune in, take notes, and let’s build a deeper, more connected marriage—one intentional act at a time.
July 9 · 13 min
EP 216 \\ Frustrated by Marriage Conflicts? Here Are 3 Virtues You Need
Hi friend! In today’s episode, we delve into 3 virtues that you need in your marriage to keep the peace. Many of us do well with the first two, but the last one is where we fall short. What are these virtues and how do you go about attaining them? Curious to find out? Alright, tune in to listen to find out more. ............................................................................................................................ 👇 Let’s Stay Connected! 📖 Get your copy of our book: A Couple’s First Ten Years Available on Amazon: https://mybook.to/ACouplesFirstTenYears 📧 Got questions or just want to say hi? Send an email to: coach@happymarriedfamily.com 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! 🎧 Tune in, take notes, and let’s build a deeper, more connected marriage—one intentional act at a time.
July 2 · 12 min
EP 215 \\ One Simple Shift That Can Strengthen Your Marriage (Even If You're Short on Time)
Hi friend! Feel like you’re juggling a million things—kids, work, home life—and your marriage sometimes takes the backseat? In this episode, you will discover ONE simple shift that can help strengthen your marriage starting today… even if you’re raising a family and don’t have a lot of time to spare. It's something that has helped us grow in our relationship—even while parenting three children, living far from extended family, and managing the demands of everyday life here in North America. We’re sharing this because it’s more important now than ever—especially in a fast-paced world filled with distractions constantly fighting for your attention. ✨ Want to know what it is? 🎧 Tune in to listen to find out more! We pray this episode blesses you :) ............................................................................................................................ 👇 Let’s Stay Connected! 📖 Get your copy of our book: A Couple’s First Ten Years Available on Amazon: https://mybook.to/ACouplesFirstTenYears 📧 Got questions or just want to say hi? Send an email to: coach@happymarriedfamily.com 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! 🎧 Tune in, take notes, and let’s build a deeper, more connected marriage—one intentional act at a time.
June 25 · 14 min
EP 214 \\ The Courage to Reconnect: Partnering with God for a Stronger Marriage
Hi friend, If you’ve been married for a while, you already know this truth: staying connected as a couple goes far beyond paying the bills, keeping the home running, or juggling everyday responsibilities. And yes, these are important. But if you’re longing for more intimacy, emotional closeness, and unity in your marriage, one powerful choice you can make today is to partner with God and take courageous steps in your marriage—even when it feels uncomfortable or in the absence of immediate gratification. Whether you’re walking through a challenging season or simply hoping to strengthen the bond you already share, this episode offers gentle, biblical encouragement to help you move toward a more connected, God-centered marriage. We pray this episode blesses you:) ............................................................................................................................ 👇 Let’s Stay Connected! 📖 Get your copy of our book: A Couple’s First Ten Years Available on Amazon: https://mybook.to/ACouplesFirstTenYears 📧 Got questions or just want to say hi? Send an email to: coach@happymarriedfamily.com 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! 🎧 Tune in, take notes, and let’s build a deeper, more connected marriage—one intentional act at a time.
June 18 · 12 min
EP 213 \\ 3 Overlooked Ways to Show Love to Your Spouse That Matter More Than You Think
Hi friend! Looking for ways to show love to your spouse this week? In this episode, we’re diving into 3 intentional ways to express love in your marriage that will make a lasting impact. These simple yet powerful gestures will help your spouse feel truly seen, valued, and deeply loved. Whether your goal is to reconnect or strengthen your bond in marriage, here’s your gentle reminder: showing love doesn’t have to be complicated to be impactful. Small, intentional acts of love can create lasting change in your marriage. ............................................................................................................................ 👇 Let’s Stay Connected! 📖 Get your copy of our book: A Couple’s First Ten Years Available on Amazon: https://mybook.to/ACouplesFirstTenYears 📧 Got questions or just want to say hi? Send an email to: coach@happymarriedfamily.com 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! 🎧 Tune in, take notes, and let’s build a deeper, more connected marriage—one intentional act at a time.
June 11 · 10 min
EP 212 \\ 5 Thoughtful Questions to Strengthen Connection and Emotional Intimacy in Marriage
Hi friend! When was the last time you asked your spouse a question that made them pause and feel truly seen? In this episode, we're diving into 5 endearing, heartfelt questions you can ask your spouse to spark deeper connection, emotional intimacy, and meaningful conversation in your marriage. Whether you’ve been married for 5 months or 5 years, these questions will help you go beyond surface talk and truly show your spouse that you see them, hear them, and care deeply about who they are and what they’re going through. Grab a pen (or hit save!)—because these questions might just open the door to some of the most powerful conversations you’ve had in a while. ............................................................................................................................ 👇 Let’s Stay Connected! 📖 Get your copy of our book: A Couple’s First Ten Years Available on Amazon: https://mybook.to/ACouplesFirstTenYears 📧 Got questions or just want to say hi? Send an email to: coach@happymarriedfamily.com 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
June 4 · 14 min
EP 211 \\ Is Your Phone Competing With Your Spouse? How to Reconnect and Strengthen Your Marriage
Hi friend! It’s always with us—our phones. They wake us up, keep us company, and fill every quiet moment. But what happens when that constant connection starts pulling us away from the people right in front of us—especially our spouse? In today’s episode, we’re unpacking the subtle yet powerful impact phone distraction can have on your marriage. We’ll explore how this everyday habit might be quietly competing with your spouse—and more importantly, how to reclaim connection, intimacy, and intentional love in your relationship. If you’ve ever felt more connected to your screen than your spouse, this episode is for you. Alright, tune in to listen to find out more! ............................................................................................................................ 👇 Let’s Stay Connected! 📖 Get your copy of our book: A Couple’s First Ten Years Available on Amazon: https://mybook.to/ACouplesFirstTenYears 📧 Got questions or just want to say hi? Send an email to: coach@happymarriedfamily.com 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
May 28 · 16 min
EP 210 \\ One Ingredient Your Marriage Needs for More Connection & Intimacy: Rest
Hi friend! Let’s talk about something often overlooked—but essential—for a healthy, thriving marriage: REST. Not just physical rest, but the kind that restores your mind, heart, and your connection with your spouse. What if the closeness you’re craving isn’t about more time or better communication, but about learning to slow down together? In a world that celebrates busyness, many couples are quietly running on empty—tired, disconnected, and just trying to keep up. But what if rest isn’t a luxury? What if it’s one of the keys to thriving in your relationship? In today’s episode, we unpack why rest—not more effort—might be exactly what your marriage needs this season. If you desire deeper intimacy, emotional connection, and closeness, then this episode is for you. ............................................................................................................................ 👇 Let’s Stay Connected! 📖 Get your copy of our book: A Couple’s First Ten Years Available on Amazon: https://mybook.to/ACouplesFirstTenYears 📧 Got questions or just want to say hi? Send an email to: coach@happymarriedfamily.com 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
May 21 · 13 min
EP 209 \\ Angry With Your Spouse? Don’t Respond Yet. Ask Yourself These 5 Questions First
Hi friend! Are you in a place in your marriage where you’re feeling deeply upset with your spouse? Are you feeling so angry with your spouse about something he/she did and you’re just trying to figure out a way around it so you do not escalate the situation? If this sounds familiar, tune in to listen to this episode as we explore 5 questions to ask yourself before you respond or proceed to act on that next thought (Hint: The 5 questions can be found in the five-letter pneumonic, P.R.E.F.R). ............................................................................................................................ 👇 Let’s Stay Connected! 📖 Get your copy of our book: A Couple’s First Ten Years Available on Amazon: https://mybook.to/ACouplesFirstTenYears 📧 Got questions or just want to say hi? Send an email to: coach@happymarriedfamily.com 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
May 14 · 13 min
EP 208 \\ Marriage Conflict Management: 5 Essential Things You Need to Know
Hi friend! We cannot tell you that you will never experience conflict in marriage but what we can tell you is that if you know how to manage conflict or disagreements better, it will benefit your marriage. This will save you more time and energy not just in the present moment but also in the long run. This is why in this episode, I will be sharing 5 essential things to know for better conflict management in marriage so you can enjoy a closer and more connected relationship. So get Ready...Set...Tune in to listen to find out more! Links mentioned in this episode Understanding Conflict in Work – Meaning, Phases, Resolutions by Management Study Guide https://www.managementstudyguide.com/understanding-conflict.htm# ............................................................................................................................ 👇 Let’s Stay Connected! 📖 Get your copy of our book: A Couple’s First Ten Years Available on Amazon: https://mybook.to/ACouplesFirstTenYears 📧 Got questions or just want to say hi? Send an email to: coach@happymarriedfamily.com 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
May 7 · 11 min
EP 207 \\ About to Have a Difficult Conversation in Marriage? Here Are 5 Phrases to Try
Hi friend! Have you ever avoided a difficult conversation with your spouse, hoping to keep the peace, only to feel the tension build up over time? You’re not alone. It might feel easier in the moment, but unresolved issues can lead to frustration, distance, and even resentment in the long run. Even though difficult conversations sometimes come up in marriage, how we handle them makes all the difference. A tough discussion can either bring you closer together or create disconnection. That’s why in this episode, I’m sharing 5 simple yet powerful phrases that can help you navigate these moments with more understanding and connection. You’ll also learn how to respond when your spouse shares their concerns, so both of you feel heard, valued, and respected. Add these phrases to your “marriage toolbox” and continue building a strong, lasting relationship! 🎧 Ready to transform the way you and your spouse communicate? Hit play and let’s dive in! ............................................................................................................................ 👇 Let’s Stay Connected! 📖 Get your copy of our book: A Couple’s First Ten Years Available on Amazon: https://mybook.to/ACouplesFirstTenYears 📧 Got questions or just want to say hi? Send an email to: coach@happymarriedfamily.com 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! #MarriageCommunication #HealthyMarriage #ChristianMarriage #MarriageAdvice #FaithBasedMarriage #StrongerTogether
April 30 · 17 min
EP 206 \\ How To Get Your Spouse To Pay More Attention To You Without Starting a Fight
Hi friend! As spouses and individuals, we want to feel seen in our marriages. When it seems like our spouses are not paying attention to us the way we desire, or feel like we’re being taken for granted, disconnection and loneliness could begin to build up in marriage. The reality is that you may be doing things together and running a household but you feel this disconnect between you and your spouse. If this sounds like you, you’re not alone. We find that it is so easy for couples to fall into this lifestyle especially while living abroad with increasing demands and responsibilities in their lives. If your desire is to feel more connected to your spouse, in this episode we will be sharing 5 practical tips on how to get your spouse to pay more attention to you without starting an argument so you can feel seen in your marriage and start moving towards the goal of achieving a deeper connection in your relationship. We pray this episode blesses you. ................................................................................................................. 👇 Let’s Stay Connected! 📖 Get your copy of our book: A Couple’s First Ten Years Available on Amazon: https://mybook.to/ACouplesFirstTenYears 📧 Got questions or just want to say hi? Send an email to: coach@happymarriedfamily.com 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
April 23 · 15 min
EP 205 \\ The Hidden Habit That’s Keeping You from a Deeper Marriage Connection
Hi friend! We all know that building a thriving marriage takes effort. And when we think about strengthening our relationships, we often jump straight to the “how-to” tips — more date nights, better communication, deeper intimacy. But what if there’s something you need to stop doing first? Over the years, we’ve realized that sometimes, in order to create the deeper connection and intimacy we long for, it’s not about doing more — it’s about letting go of certain habits. And today, we’re unpacking one of the most common (and sneaky!) ones. Curious? Tune in to find out what might be quietly keeping you and your spouse from the closeness you truly desire. ................................................................................................................. 👇 Let’s Stay Connected! 📖 Get your copy of our book: A Couple’s First Ten Years Available on Amazon: https://mybook.to/ACouplesFirstTenYears 📧 Got questions or just want to say hi? Send an email to: coach@happymarriedfamily.com 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
April 16 · 12 min
EP 204 \\ What to Do When Your Spouse Isn’t Meeting Your Needs in Marriage
Hi friend, Feeling like your needs aren’t being met in your marriage? Wondering if love is starting to feel one-sided? You’re not alone—and you need a P.L.A.N. Marriage was designed to reflect God’s love. But what happens when you feel unseen, unheard, or emotionally disconnected? In today’s episode, we’re unpacking how to respond when your spouse isn’t meeting your emotional or relational needs—not with bitterness or shutdown, but with wisdom rooted in God’s Word. We’ll walk you through a simple, godly P.L.A.N. to help you respond with faith, courage, and intentional love—no matter where you are in your marriage. Whether you’re in a difficult season or just feeling the slow drift of disconnection, this conversation will help you lead with love, stay anchored in the truth of God’s Word, and invite Him into the unmet places of your heart. Let’s dive in. ................................................................................................................. 👇 Let’s Stay Connected! 📖 Get your copy of our book: A Couple’s First Ten Years Available on Amazon: https://mybook.to/ACouplesFirstTenYears 📧 Got questions or just want to say hi? Send an email to: coach@happymarriedfamily.com 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
April 9 · 11 min
EP 203 \\ When Your Spouse Isn’t Listening: 2 Communication Mistakes That Could Be Getting in the Way
Hi friend, Have you ever tried to express something important to your spouse—only to feel like your words aren’t landing? That disconnect can be incredibly frustrating, especially when all you want is to feel heard, seen, and understood by the person you love. Over the years, we've realized that sometimes it’s not just what we say—but how we say it—that either opens the door for connection or quietly pushes it shut. In this episode, we’re diving into two common mistakes couples make when trying to communicate, and how these habits might be keeping your spouse from truly listening. More importantly, we’ll show you what to do instead—simple shifts that can help you express your heart without creating more distance in the process. Alright, let's dig in. ................................................................................................................. 👇 Let’s Stay Connected! 📖 Get your copy of our book: A Couple’s First Ten Years Available on Amazon: https://mybook.to/ACouplesFirstTenYears 📧 Got questions or just want to say hi? Send an email to: coach@happymarriedfamily.com 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
April 2 · 11 min
EP 202 \\ Feeling Misunderstood in Your Marriage? 3 Possible Reasons (And What to Do Instead)
Hi friend! Are you feeling frustrated by the growing misunderstandings in your marriage—like no matter how hard you try, you and your spouse keep missing each other? If so, you’re not alone. In this episode, I’m sharing 3 possible reasons why these misunderstandings may be happening more often—and what you can do to start changing the narrative in your relationship. Alright, let’s dig in. ................................................................................................................. 👇 Let’s Stay Connected! 📖 Get your copy of our book: A Couple’s First Ten Years Available on Amazon: https://mybook.to/ACouplesFirstTenYears 📧 Got questions or just want to say hi? Send an email to: coach@happymarriedfamily.com 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
March 26 · 9 min
Listen Deeply: The Communication Skill That Makes Your Partner Feel Truly Heard | CourageoUS Love Challenge (Week 8)
Hi friend, One of the greatest gifts you can give your spouse is to truly listen. In this episode, David explores how deep, intentional listening can improve communication, restore emotional safety, and rebuild trust in a relationship. You’ll learn why validation, presence, and active listening are essential for creating a deeper emotional connection and reducing defensiveness. This final step in the CourageoUS Love Challenge will help you listen in a way that makes your partner feel heard, understood, and valued. Because when someone feels heard, connection begins to grow again. Your journey doesn’t end here—it continues one courageous step at a time. ................................................................................................................. 👇 Let’s Stay Connected! 📖 Get your copy of our new book: A Couple’s First Ten Years Available on Amazon: https://mybook.to/ACouplesFirstTenYears 📧 Got questions or just want to say hi? Send an email to: coach@happymarriedfamily.com 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!