How Spiritual Bypassing Is Ruining Your Marriage

In this episode of The Grounded Union Podcast, Brandon and Caitlyn dive into a topic that many couples struggle with but rarely talk about—spiritual bypassing. They break down how faith can sometimes be used as a shield to avoid addressing deeper relationship problems, leading to emotional disconnection and unresolved conflicts. They share personal stories of navigating addiction, faith, and marital struggles, offering both hard-earned lessons and practical steps for couples looking to build a stronger foundation. If you've ever been told to "just pray about it" when facing real relationship challenges, this episode is a must-listen. Our 2026 Grounded Union 2-Day Workshop:📍San Diego, CA — In-person & virtual📅 August 14th & 15th, 2026Workshop for Couples: Tap here to grab your ticketLooking for immediate support in your marriage?The Marriage Crisis Roadmap: Download the free guide here!Grounded Union Couples App: Tap here to applySave Your Marriage Webinar: Tap here to get lifetime accessFollow us on social: @brandontalksmarriage, @caitlyn_doerksen & @groundedunionYouTube Show available hereTimestamps & Key Moments:00:00:00 – Welcome & Event Announcements – In-person workshops are happening this year!00:02:00 – Caitlyn’s Story – Caitlyn recounts an Easter Sunday experience that revealed problematic church messaging about purity and temptation.00:05:50 – What Is Spiritual Bypassing? – A breakdown of how faith can sometimes be used to avoid real emotional work.00:07:42 – Our Personal Story – How they used religious beliefs to cope with addiction and relationship struggles—and why it didn’t work.00:14:30 – When Prayer Isn’t Enough – The importance of action alongside faith when facing real marital challenges.00:21:05 – The Wake-Up Call – A pivotal moment that forced them to confront their issues head-on.00:30:20 – Finding a Healthy Balance – How to incorporate spirituality into marriage without avoiding the tough conversations.00:41:10 – Practical Steps for Couples – Actionable advice on how to break free from spiritual bypassing and cultivate a stronger, more authentic relationship.00:50:15 – Final Thoughts & Takeaways – Wrapping up with key lessons and advice for couples struggling with this issue.