084: Full Circle Moment

What’s the one belief most couples bring into marriage that could set them up for heartbreak?Find out in this can’t-miss episode, where hosts Evan and Susan Money have a full-circle moment with their own premarital counselors—and uncover transformational truths about love, expectations, and the true secret to a thriving marriage.In this heartfelt and revealing episode of the Marriage of Greatness podcast, Evan and Susan sit down with Gene and Teri Engle, the couple who guided them before their wedding over 25 years ago. Now, with 46+ years of marriage and decades of wisdom between them, Gene and Teri share candid insights about what most couples get wrong (and right!) about relationships.Highlights include:Why letting go—of souvenirs, expectations, and “perfect” traditions—may be the key to happiness at any stage of life.The gift Gene considers more precious than autographed Super Bowl helmets and NFL memorabilia.The single most dangerous lie couples believe about marriage (hint: it’s about mindreading).How the Engles have helped countless couples, and the warning signs that made them realize some relationships wouldn’t last.The myth of “happily ever after” and what fairy tales forgot to tell us.The importance of constant growth: why even marriage counselors go to couples therapy!Behind the scenes at Wimbledon, and how play and prayer continue to bring Gene and Teri together after more than four decades.Whether you’re newly engaged or decades into marriage, this episode will leave you inspired to invest in your relationship, ditch unrealistic expectations, and create meaningful, joy-filled traditions with your spouse.Timestamped Overview: 00:00 – Evan & Susan introduce Gene and Teri Engle, their premarital counselors02:00 – The significance of outgrowing attachment to things and embracing giving08:20 – The most memorable gifts exchanged in nearly five decades of marriage10:55 – What made the Engles’ marriage “different” from the start—and how their friends noticed15:35 – The biggest lies couples tell themselves and each other about marriage19:46 – Where do unrealistic expectations in marriage come from?23:07 – Love languages, communication, and why your spouse "doesn’t just know"26:48 – If your marriage was a movie… what would its title be?29:08 – How the Engles process seeing couples thrive—or not—after counseling32:11 – Why every couple, even the “strong” ones, need continued support34:39 – Dream trips, Wimbledon, and the value of “we” time throughout marriage38:41 – Keeping marriage the center: covenant, kids, and carving out couple time40:34 – The Engles’ final wisdom for staying connected, playful, and prayerful41:41 – Outro and how to follow the Marriage of Greatness journeyListen in for real talk, real laughs, and real hope from two couples committed to helping you move from good to great in your marriage!