Heart and Soulution

BONUS MATERIAL: In this episode of Heart and Soulution, Mike and Kristen Jones revisit the concept of repair techniques, which are tools used to de-escalate tension before an argument spirals out of control. The hosts introduce Dr. Gottman’s Four Horsemen—criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling—as negative behaviors that predict relationship failure if left unaddressed. To illustrate these concepts, they share a personal anecdote called the "mattress debacle," where poor communication and defensiveness led to a significant argument over disposing of an old bed. Ultimately, the hosts emphasize the importance of emotional intelligence and viewing disagreements as opportunities to grow closer rather than "winning" a fight. Through their own experiences, they demonstrate that even healthy relationships require continuous investment in a "positive perspective bank" to survive inevitable friction.  © 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including "Heart and Soulution theme", "Card of the day", "Get to Know You Theme", "If We're Asking Other People Theme" and all background music; written and created by Mike Jones; produced and mastered with Suno.com. Reference material and Resources to dive deeper:Song referenced: "Fix You", Coldplay (2005)⁠Gottman, J. M., & Silver, N. (2002), The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work. Harmony Books. Connect with Heart and Soulution:​Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation @heartandsoulution.

In this episode of Heart and Soulution, hosts Mike and Kristen Jones interview their long-time friends, Brandon and Megan Collins, to explore the evolution of their twenty-year relationship. The couple discusses their origins in a conservative "purity culture" environment, explaining how they prioritized a friendship-first foundation before marrying young. They detail their unique approach to intentional communication, which includes daily check-ins and avoiding "fighting" in favor of constructive processing. The conversation highlights how they navigate parenting teenagers while keeping their marriage the primary focus through consistent date nights. Finally, Brandon and Megan share how vulnerability and community support helped them endure a multi-year period of personal struggle and mental health challenges.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including "Heart and Soulution theme", "Card of the day", "Get to Know You Theme", "If We're Asking Other People Theme" and all background music; written and created by Mike Jones; produced and mastered with Suno.com.Reference material and Resources to dive deeper:Song mentioned: "Come Away With Me" by Nora Jones (2002).Connect with Heart and Soulution:​Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@heartandsoulution.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of Heart and Soulution, hosts Mike and Kristen Jones explore strategies for revitalizing romantic intimacy and physical connection within a marriage. Drawing from the song "You've Lost That Loving Feeling," the couple discusses the importance of vulnerability and open communication to overcome feelings of rejection or insecurity. They highlight practical suggestions from various relationship experts, such as intentional physical closeness, sharing household activities like bathing, and maintaining a playful, flirtatious atmosphere. A significant portion of the conversation focuses on improving self-image and establishing a "sacred" space for the couple, free from the distractions of children or pets. Ultimately, the hosts encourage listeners to become "marriage explorers" by consistently prioritizing their partner’s needs and emotional satisfaction.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including "Heart and Soulution theme", "Card of the day", "Get to Know You Theme" and all background music; written by Mike Jones, produced and mastered with Suno.com.Reference material and Resources to dive deeper:​⁠⁠⁠⁠Married Sex⁠⁠⁠⁠, by Gary Thomas and Debra K. Fileta, published in 2021 by Zondervan publishing, available on Amazon in multiple formats. ⁠The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work⁠. Gottman, J. M., & Silver, N. (2002),Gottman, J. M., & Silver, N. (2002), Harmony Books. The Emotionally Healthy Leader, Pete Scazzero (2015), focuses on the core premise that spiritual maturity and emotional maturity are inseparable.Episode title and content references: You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin' , by The Righteous Brothers.Connect with Heart and Solution:​Share Your Ideas: Let Mike and Kristen know your ideas for future episodes and engage in the conversation on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode of Heart and Soulution, hosts Mike and Kristen Jones interview Jim and Joan Pagones, a couple married for over 44 years. The conversation highlights the couple’s fortuitous meeting in local politics and the humorous proposal that nearly went awry due to Jim’s reputation as a prankster. A central theme is their shared faith, as they recount their simultaneous, independent decisions to follow Christ years into their marriage. They also discuss overcoming significant health challenges, including cancer and diabetes, which they credit with strengthening their bond. Jim and Joan emphasize the importance of spiritual unity, financial transparency, and never going to bed angry. The episode concludes with a lighthearted "this or that" game, showcasing how their distinct personalities have complemented one another throughout their lifelong partnership.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including "Heart and Soulution theme", "Card of the day", "Get to Know You Theme", "If We're Asking Other People Theme" and all background music; written and created by Mike Jones; produced and mastered with Suno.com.Reference material and Resources to dive deeper:​⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Resource we mentioned: SYMBIS Assessment information ⁠https://www.symbis.com/⁠Song mentioned: "⁠Just the Way You Are⁠" by Billy Joel (1977)Connect with Heart and Soulution:​Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@heartandsoulution.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​Share Your Ideas: Let Mike and Kristen know your ideas for future episodes and engage in the conversation on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode of Heart and Soulution, Mike and Kristen Jones critique the claims of a Maryland pastor who says that the Bible does not explicitly forbid sex outside of marriage. The hosts argue that such teachings are false doctrines that contradict clear scriptural mandates regarding holiness and the exclusivity of the marital bond. They emphasize that God designed sexual intimacy as a sacred gift to be enjoyed specifically within marriage, serving as a physical representation of Christ’s relationship with the church. By citing various biblical passages, they highlight that sex is intended for mutual pleasure and bonding, rather than just procreation. The discussion also addresses the "purity culture" of the past, suggesting the church should focus more on the positive beauty of intimacy within God's boundaries. Finally, the couple shares personal anecdotes about their own meeting and early relationship to illustrate the lasting value of a God-centered marriage.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including "Heart and Soulution theme", "Card of the day", "Get to Know You Theme" and all background music; written by Mike Jones, produced and mastered with Suno.com.Reference material and Resources to dive deeper:​⁠⁠⁠Married Sex⁠⁠⁠, by Gary Thomas and Debra K. Fileta, published in 2021 by Zondervan publishing, available on Amazon in multiple formats. Article - https://churchleaders.com/news/511217-no-limits-baptist-preacher-says-theres-no-biblical-basis-for-abstaining-from-premarital-sex.htmlAll scriptures referenced can be accessed through the free Bible app, YouVersion.Episode title reference: Beautiful Things, by Benson Boone.Connect with Heart and Solution:​Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation ⁠⁠⁠⁠@heartandsoulution.⁠⁠⁠⁠​Share Your Ideas: Let Mike and Kristen know your ideas for future episodes and engage in the conversation on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode from Heart and Soulution, Mike and Kristen Jones interview a young married couple, Ally and Zach, to provide a real-world look at modern relationships. The guests recount their eight-year journey, which began at a Buffalo Wild Wings, survived three years of long-distance dating, and culminated in a 2024 wedding. They share lighthearted stories about a nervous proposal involving a ring hidden in a sock and more serious reflections on their faith-centered ceremony. The discussion also highlights the importance of premarital counseling and the value of having a supportive community to navigate the early years of marriage. Finally, the couple offers advice on intentional communication and shares humorous anecdotes about buying a house and surviving travel mishaps.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including "Heart and Soulution theme", "Card of the day", "Get to Know You Theme" and all background music; generated with Suno.com.Reference material and Resources to dive deeper:​⁠⁠⁠⁠Resource we mentioned: SYMBIS Assessment information https://www.symbis.com/Song mentioned: "Love Someone" by Lukas Graham (2018)Connect with Heart and Solution:​Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@heartandsoulution.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​Share Your Ideas: Let Mike and Kristen know your ideas for future episodes and engage in the conversation on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode, Mike and Kristen Jones discuss the physical and psychological advantages of sexual intimacy within a marriage. Drawing from medical journals and personal anecdotes, the couple highlights how regular intimacy can improve cardiovascular health, boost the immune system, and reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels. They candidly address the social taboos surrounding the topic, encouraging couples to view sex as a God-designed tool for both health maintenance and emotional bonding. The conversation emphasizes that consistent frequency fosters a deeper sense of security and mental closeness between partners. To conclude the episode, the hosts share a lighthearted story about their own engagement at a themed restaurant, adding a personal touch to their professional advice.Disclaimer: The hosts are not medical doctors or scientists. They encourage anyone dealing with trauma, abuse, or serious medical/mental health issues to seek professional help.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including "Heart and Soulution theme", "Card of the day", "Get to Know You Theme" and all background music; generated with Suno.com.Reference material and Resources to dive deeper:​⁠⁠⁠Married Sex⁠⁠⁠, by Gary Thomas and Debra K. Fileta, published in 2021 by Zondervan publishing, available on Amazon in multiple formats. "Sexual Healing"Artist: Marvin GayeWriters: Marvin Gaye, Odell Brown, David RitzLabel: Columbia/CBS RecordsPublisher: EMI Blackwood Music Inc. and EMI April Music Inc.Copyright Info: ℗ 1982 Columbia Records, a division of Sony Music EntertainmentConnect with Heart and Solution:​Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation ⁠⁠⁠⁠@heartandsoulution.⁠⁠⁠⁠​Share Your Ideas: Let Mike and Kristen know your ideas for future episodes and engage in the conversation on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode of Heart and Soulution, hosts Mike and Kristen Jones discuss the relationship benefits of traveling as a couple after returning from a Caribbean cruise. They recount personal anecdotes, such as a tense walk through Grand Turk and a close encounter with a barracuda while snorkeling, to illustrate how shared adventures build a "memory bank." They emphasize that pushing past one's comfort zone and navigating unexpected travel challenges fosters better communication and teamwork. By intentionally unplugging from work and daily stressors, Mike and Kristen argue that couples can deepen their connection and create lasting stories. Ultimately, they encourage partners to prioritize dedicated time together through new experiences, regardless of the destination.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including Heart and Soulution theme, Island Theme Variation, Card of the day jingle and all background music; generated with Suno.com.Connect with Heart and Solution:Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation ⁠⁠⁠⁠@heartandsoulution.⁠⁠⁠⁠Share Your Ideas: Let Mike and Kristen know your ideas for future episodes and engage in the conversation on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode of the Heart and Soulution podcast, Mike and Kristen Jones explore the complex nature of grief, using the recent passing of Kristen’s father to illustrate how to process loss more effectively. They move beyond the traditional "pull up your socks" mentality of previous generations to examine grief as a multi-layered experience that involves more than just death; it encompasses disappointment, missed expectations, and significant life transitions. They talk of what they have learned and share it with humility and rawness.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including Heart and Soulution theme, Card of the day jingle and all background music; generated with Suno.ai.Reference material and Resources to dive deeper:Weller, Frances; The Wild Edge of Sorrow: Rituals of Renewal and the Sacred Work of Grief; 2015; North Atlantic Books.The Place We Find Ourselves podcast with Adam Young; Five part series on grief (episode 132).Connect with Heart and Solution:Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation ⁠⁠⁠@heartandsoulution.⁠⁠⁠Share Your Ideas: Let Mike and Kristen know your ideas for future episodes and engage in the conversation on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.

In this special episode, Mike and Kristen Jones celebrate the life and legacy of Kristen’s late father, a retired Navy officer who recently passed away. They describe him as an extraordinarily generous man who frequently sacrificed his own career dreams to support his family’s stability and goals. The couple shares lighthearted anecdotes about his unique dietary habits, his humorous "billisms," and the way he warmly welcomed Mike into the family despite his unconventional appearance. They also highlight his character and humility, specifically noting his willingness to apologize and his joy in helping others. Ultimately, the hosts use his life as a reminder to live intentionally and consider the lasting impact one’s actions have on loved ones.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including Heart and Soulution theme, Card of the day jingle and all background music; generated with Suno.ai.Reference material and Resources to dive deeper:Emotionally Healthy Relationships by Pete and Gerri Scazzero. ⁠⁠Workbook and video training course.⁠⁠⁠⁠Genogram exercise and Unbiblical Family Commandments⁠⁠.Connect with Heart and Solution:Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation ⁠⁠⁠@heartandsoulution.⁠⁠⁠Share Your Ideas: Let Mike and Kristen know your ideas for future episodes and engage in the conversation on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode, Mike and Kristen Jones discuss the importance of learning from the past to avoid repeating mistakes in romantic and family relationships. Drawing on the book Emotionally Healthy Relationships, they explore how family of origin shapes a person’s views on conflict, success, and emotions through inherited "commandments." They emphasize that while individuals often adopt unhealthy generational patterns, it is never too late to rewrite these rules and pursue healing. By using tools like the genogram, couples can visually map out their family history to identify where dysfunction began and where positive shifts occurred. Ultimately, the discussion encourages listeners to examine their upbringing to build more intentional, authentic, and emotionally healthy foundations for their current lives.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including Heart and Soulution theme, Card of the day jingle and all background music; generated with Suno.ai.Reference material and Resources to dive deeper:Emotionally Healthy Relationships by Pete and Gerri Scazzero. Workbook and video training course.Genogram exercise and Unbiblical Family Commandments.Connect with Heart and Solution:Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation ⁠⁠@heartandsoulution.⁠⁠Share Your Ideas: Let Mike and Kristen know your ideas for future episodes and engage in the conversation on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠.

In this episode of the Heart and Soulution podcast, hosts Mike and Kristen Jones explore the critical roles of vision and mission statements within personal and family relationships. While common in corporate settings, the hosts argue that many couples lack a clear direction for their lives together, leading to potential conflict and unmet expectations.They discuss the differences between Vision and Mission and give ideas on how to define, and refine these statements. Mike and Kristen discuss the benefits for having a shared vision and mission. For those who are dating, discussing life visions can help determine if two people are heading in the same direction or if their paths are fundamentally incompatible. Kristen and Mike share How to Create Your Vision and Mission and outline a practical process for couples to develop these statements. (C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including Heart and Soulution theme, Card of the day jingle and all background music; generated with Suno.ai.Connect with Heart and Solution:​Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation ⁠⁠⁠⁠@heartandsoulution.⁠⁠⁠⁠​Share Your Ideas: Let Mike and Kristen know your ideas for future episodes and engage in the conversation on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode of the Heart and Soulution podcast, Mike and Kristen Jones continue their deep dive into the unrealistic and false sexual expectations that can impact intimacy within a marriage. Borrowing concepts from the book Married Sex, they discuss how getting clear on your own expectations and understanding your spouse's is the first step toward building a healthier connection.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including Heart and Soulution theme, Card of the day jingle and all background music; generated with Suno.ai.Reference material and Resources to dive deeper:​⁠⁠Married Sex⁠⁠, by Gary Thomas and Debra K. Fileta, published in 2021 by Zondervan publishing, available on Amazon in multiple formats. Connect with Heart and Solution:​Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation ⁠⁠⁠@heartandsoulution.⁠⁠⁠​Share Your Ideas: Let Mike and Kristen know your ideas for future episodes and engage in the conversation on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode of Heart and Soulution, Mike and Kristen Jones discuss sexual expectations in marriage, citing the book Married Sex. They argue that personal beliefs shaped by culture and upbringing influence intimacy. Couples must communicate realistic, agreed-upon expectations and debunk myths to foster deep intimacy.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including Heart and Soulution theme, Card of the day jingle and all background music; generated with Suno.ai.Reference material and Resources to dive deeper:⁠Married Sex⁠, by Gary Thomas and Debra K. Fileta, published in 2021 by Zondervan publishing, available on Amazon in multiple formats. Connect with Heart and Solution:Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation ⁠⁠@heartandsoulution.⁠⁠Share Your Ideas: Let Mike and Kristen know your ideas for future episodes and engage in the conversation on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠.

In this episode, Mike and Kristen Jones launch the second season of Heart and Soulution by discussing physical intimacy within marriage. They highlight the importance of intentionality and character, arguing that a healthy sex life requires effort and kindness outside of the bedroom. The hosts reference the book Married Sex to address common challenges, noting that a high percentage of couples face frustrations in this area. They encourage listeners to investigate health, relational, and spiritual factors that may hinder intimacy rather than accepting a decline as a natural part of aging. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize that sexual closeness is a divine design intended to distinguish the marital bond from all other relationships.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including Heart and Soulution theme, Card of the day jingle and all background music; generated with Suno.ai.Reference material and Resources to dive deeper:Check out material from the Parrott's by visiting their ⁠website⁠ or by following them on instagram ⁠@lesandleslie.⁠Married Sex, by Gary Thomas and Debra K. Fileta, published in 2021 by Zondervan publishing, available on Amazon in multiple formats. Connect with Heart and Solution:Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation ⁠@heartandsoulution.⁠Share Your Ideas: Let Mike and Kristen know your ideas for future episodes and participate in their weekly poll on ⁠Instagram⁠.

In this episode of the "Heart and Soulution" podcast, Mike and Kristen Jones focus on navigating the holiday season with family, particularly Thanksgiving and Christmas. They share personal anecdotes about their experiences with family traditions, the challenges of blending families, and managing holidays with adult children and in-laws. They discuss the importance of setting healthy boundaries, the difficulty of managing unrealistic expectations during family gatherings, and the need for empathetic listening when dealing with challenging relatives like an "Uncle Mortimer." The discussion wraps up with practical advice for couples to form a united front, strategies for gracefully ending contentious discussions, and suggestions for creating a positive, engaging environment to minimize conflict.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including Heart and Soulution theme, Card of the day jingle and all background music; generated with Suno.ai.Reference material and Resources to dive deeper:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Table Topics Tabletop Sets: Questions to start great conversations.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The YouVersion Bible App.⁠⁠Connect with Heart and Solution:Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation ⁠⁠⁠@heartandsoulution.⁠⁠⁠Share Your Ideas: Let Mike and Kristen know your ideas for future episodes and participate in their weekly poll on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode of "Heart and Soulution," Mike and Kristen Jones, discuss relationships and grief. They begin with casual conversation about the end of their first podcast season, eventually revealing that they will be discussing the heavy topic of grief. They explore personal experiences with grief, noting that Kristen especially was not taught how to grieve effectively and that this avoidance proved problematic later in life. The conversation is informed by resources like the podcast, The Place We Find Ourselves, and Francis Weller's book, The Wild Edge of Sorrow, with the Mike and Kristen drawing parallels between Weller's concepts and biblical perspectives on mourning. They include the passage about beauty for ashes in Isaiah 61:3. Ultimately, they reflect on healthy grieving processes for individuals and couples, emphasizing the importance of not avoiding grief and offering support to those who are suffering.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including Heart and Soulution theme, Card of the day jingle and all background music; generated with Suno.ai.Reference material and Resources to dive deeper:Weller, Frances; The Wild Edge of Sorrow: Rituals of Renewal and the Sacred Work of Grief; 2015; North Atlantic Books.The Place We Find Ourselves podcast with Adam Young; Five part series on grief (episode 132).⁠The YouVersion Bible App.⁠Connect with Heart and Solution:Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation ⁠⁠@heartandsoulution.⁠⁠Share Your Ideas: Let Mike and Kristen know your ideas for future episodes and participate in their weekly poll on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠.

Want to know how to stop the hamster wheel in your relationship? In this episode of Heart and Soulution, Mike and Kristen Jones discuss the concept of the "crazy cycle" in romantic relationships, which they relate to Dr. Emerson Eggerichs's book, Love and Respect, derived from Ephesians 5 in the Bible. The core idea is that disrespect from the wife causes a lack of love from the husband, which in turn causes more disrespect, creating a self-perpetuating cycle that must be broken by one partner choosing to change their behavior, focusing on unconditional love and unconditional respect. The hosts emphasize the importance of emotional intelligence, managing expectations, and clear communication for couples to prevent or exit this cycle, making a crucial caveat near the end. (C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including Heart and Soulution theme, Card of the day jingle and all background music; generated with Suno.ai.Reference material and Resources to dive deeper:• Dr. Gary Smalley's "Keys to Lasting and Loving Relationships" Chapman, Gary D., and Jennifer M. Thomas. The Five Languages of Apology: How to Experience Healing in All Your Relationships. Moody Publishers, 2008. Follow on instagram.Chapman, Gary D. The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts. Northfield Publishing, 2015. Follow on Instagram.Scazzero, P., & Scazzero, G. (2022). Emotionally Healthy Relationships: Discipleship that deeply changes your relationship with others (Updated ed.). Zondervan. EHS Website.The YouVersion Bible App.⁠⁠⁠⁠Table Topics Tabletop Sets: Questions to start great conversations.⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with Heart and Solution:Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation ⁠@heartandsoulution.⁠Share Your Ideas: Let Mike and Kristen know your ideas for future episodes and participate in their weekly poll on ⁠Instagram⁠.

In this episode of "Heart and Soulution," hosts Mike and Kristen Jones focus on improving marriage and relationships with a biblical perspective. The discussion centers on a recent marriage conference they hosted, utilizing material from an organization called Grace Marriage, which emphasizes a grace-based rather than performance-based approach to relationships. Throughout the episode, the hosts introduce and discuss several biblical principles and verses related to conflict resolution, humility, and intentionality, such as Proverbs 15:1 and Philippians 4:8, offering practical advice like the "621 challenge" for dedicated time together and the "boxing or dancing" analogy for approaching disagreements. They conclude by encouraging listeners to focus on self-reflection and serving their spouse, hinting at future episodes that will explore specific roles within marriage.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including Heart and Soulution theme, Card of the day jingle and all background music; generated with Suno.ai.Reference material and Resources to dive deeper:Check out material from the Parrott's by visiting their website or by following them on instagram @lesandleslie.Learn more about the ministry resources of Grace Marriage at their website or by following them on Instagram @grace_marriage.⁠⁠⁠Table Topics Tabletop Sets: Questions to start great conversations.⁠⁠⁠Connect with Heart and Solution:Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation @heartandsoulution.Share Your Ideas: Let Mike and Kristen know your ideas for future episodes and participate in their weekly poll on Instagram.

In this episode of Heart and Soulution, Mike and Kristen Jones engage in an open discussion about life transitions and change, particularly within the context of marriage and family life. They explore various types of transitions, including those that are initiated by choice (such as getting married or changing jobs) and those that are unexpectedly imposed (like losing a job or the death of a loved one). The conversation extensively uses the couple's personal experiences, including a major job loss and subsequent geographical move, to illustrate how they managed significant change as a couple. Key advice offered for navigating these transitions focuses heavily on communication, mutual support, and adapting to changing roles, such as when children grow up and leave home.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including Heart and Soulution theme, Card of the day jingle and all background music; generated with Suno.ai.Connect with Heart and Solution:Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation @heartandsoulution.Share Your Ideas: Let Mike and Kristen know your ideas for future episodes and participate in their weekly poll on Instagram.

In this episode of the "Heart and Soulution" podcast, Mike and Kristen Jones, begin with the announcement of a giveaway winner for a Table Topics Date Night game. The main focus of the episode is a discussion on parenting boundaries, drawing heavily on the principles and laws outlined by clinical psychologist Dr. Henry Cloud, author of the book Boundaries. Mike and Kristen use their own experiences raising their four children to illustrate how they implemented these principles, emphasizing the importance of consistency, modeling good boundaries, and teaching age-appropriate responsibility through mechanisms like a unique chore and allowance system. They discuss different age ranges, from newborns (zero to one) focused on trust and nurturing, to adolescents (12 to 18), where parents must learn to release control and allow for growing independence.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including Heart and Soulution theme, Card of the day jingle and all background music; generated with Suno.ai.Reference material and Resources to dive deeper:Cloud, Henry, and John Townsend. Boundaries with Kids: How Healthy Choices Grow Healthy Children. Zondervan, 2001.⁠⁠Table Topics Tabletop Sets: Questions to start great conversations.⁠⁠Connect with Heart and Solution:Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation @heartandsoulution.Share Your Ideas: Let Mike and Kristen know your ideas for future episodes and participate in their weekly poll on Instagram.

In this episode of Heart and Soulution, Mike and Kristen Jones diiscuss relationship dynamics and how to maintain love and friendship in a marriage, particularly after becoming parents. They begin with a casual conversation about their home life, mentioning challenges like yard work and a ladder fall, before pivoting to a listener's question about avoiding feeling like co-parents rather than spouses. The hosts emphasize the importance of intentionality, prioritizing the spouse, and making love a daily choice, and they explore strategies for building a stronger partnership, such as improving communication, sharing dreams, and preventing the "grenade" effect of major life changes like having a child. They conclude by discussing the need to treat each other as adult partners rather than children, and to woo one another according to their individual needs, reaffirming that the marriage relationship is the primary unit even with children.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including Heart and Soulution theme, Card of the day jingle and all background music; generated with Suno.ai.Reference material and Resources to dive deeper:Gottman, J. M., & Silver, N. (2002), The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work. Harmony Books.⁠⁠Table Topics Tabletop Sets: Questions to start great conversations.⁠⁠Connect with Heart and Solution: Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation @heartandsoulution.Share Your Ideas: Let Mike and Kristen know your ideas for future episodes and participate in their weekly poll on Instagram.

In this episode of Heart and Soulution, Mike and Kristen Jones delve into the concept of apology languages, a crucial tool for improving relationships personally and professionally. Inspired by an incredible story of forgiveness, they explore the five distinct ways people give and receive apologies, based on the work of Gary Chapman and Jennifer Thomas. They explain why a simple "I'm sorry" might not always be enough and how understanding your own and your partner's primary apology language can lead to genuine forgiveness and rebuilding trust. The episode concludes with a "Conversation Card of the Day" and an exciting giveaway for listeners.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, generated with Suno.ai.Resources we mentioned:Chapman, Gary D., and Jennifer M. Thomas. The Five Languages of Apology: How to Experience Healing in All Your Relationships. Moody Publishers, 2008.Chapman, Gary D. The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts. Northfield Publishing, 2015.Apology Language Assessment: https://5lovelanguages.com/quizzes/apology-language

In this follow-up to their previous discussion on fighting (4 Ways to Repair Trash Talk), Mike and Kristen dive deeper into practical tools for healthy conflict resolution. They begin by reframing conflict not as a negative, but as a necessary and good opportunity for relationship growth. Kristen breaks down the complex, multi-step process of communication and negotiation, showing how easily misunderstandings can lead to frustration, unmet expectations, and hurt. This leads to the core topic of the episode: "bids" for connection, a concept from Dr. John Gottman. A bid is any attempt to connect with your partner, and how you respond—by "turning towards" them to engage or "turning away" and shutting them down—is crucial for the health of your relationship. Mike and Kristen also discuss common conflict pitfalls, such as "harsh startups" and getting caught in a "crazy cycle" of negative reactions. They emphasize that it only takes one person to de-escalate a situation and make a change that will shift the entire dynamic of the relationship. Finally, they offer practical, easy-to-implement guidelines that couples can agree on to navigate disagreements more productively.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including Heart and Soulution theme, Card of the day jingle and all background music; generated with Suno.ai.Reference material and Resources to dive deeper:Gottman, J. M., & Silver, N. (2002), The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work. Harmony Books.⁠Table Topics Tabletop Sets: Questions to start great conversations.⁠Connect with Heart and Solution: Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation @heartandsoulution.Share Your Ideas: Let Mike and Kristen know your ideas for future episodes and participate in their weekly poll on Instagram.

In this episode of Heart and Soulution, Mike and Kristen Jones explore the dynamics of conflict in relationships, drawing heavily on Dr. Gottman's research. The hosts discuss how healthy couples manage disagreements through "repairs," which are techniques to de-escalate tension and foster constructive conversation. They also introduce "the Four Horsemen"—criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling—as behaviors that can severely damage a relationship, contrasting them with the concept of a "relationship bank" where positive interactions build reserves to mitigate negative ones. The episode concludes with a playful segment featuring a "date night" question to encourage deeper couple communication.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including Heart and Soulution theme, Card of the day jingle and all background music; generated with Suno.ai.Reference material and Resources to dive deeper:Gottman, J. M., & Silver, N. (2002), The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work. Harmony Books.Table Topics Tabletop Sets: Questions to start great conversations.Connect with Heart and Solution: Follow on Instagram: Join the conversation @heartandsoulution.Share Your Ideas: Let Mike and Kristen know your ideas for future episodes and participate in their weekly poll on Instagram.

In this episode of Heart and Soulution, Mike and Kristen explore how understanding individual strengths and differences can lead to stronger, more harmonious partnerships.The couple discusses how personality assessments, particularly the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, can be powerful tools for self-awareness and relationship growth. Mike, a certified Myers-Briggs practitioner, emphasizes the importance of understanding one's core wiring, distinguishing between nature and nurture. Mike and Kristen share personal anecdotes, including the infamous "Flooring Incident of 2020," (actually 2021) to illustrate how their different approaches to tasks, stemming from their distinct Myers-Briggs types, can create both challenges and opportunities for collaboration. Ultimately, the couple highlight that these assessments are not meant to box individuals in or provide excuses, but rather to foster awareness, curiosity, and leverage differences for mutual benefit within a relationship.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, generated with Suno.ai.Links:• More about the MBTI (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator) https://www.themyersbriggs.com/en-US/Products-and-Services/Myers-Briggs

Join Mike and Kristen Jones on the Heart and Soulution podcast as they delve into the enduring wisdom of Dr. Gary Smalley's, "Keys to Lasting and Loving Relationships" video series. Despite Dr. Smalley's passing, this powerful resource, containing 19 videos and over 20 hours of content, remains available at smalleyinstitute.com. Mike and Kristen share how this series, which they discovered decades ago, continues to impact their marriage and offers timeless lessons that are still applicable today. They discuss key concepts such as treating your spouse like a celebrity, finding value in "camping experiences" (difficult times), communicating through "emotional word pictures," understanding the fundamental differences between men and women, and the four essential elements for a thriving relationship (security, communication, bonding experiences, and meaningful touch). They also touch upon personality types, like the "Golden Retriever," and strongly recommend this series as a valuable tool for couples or small groups.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, generated with Suno.ai.Links:• Dr. Gary Smalley's "Keys to Lasting and Loving Relationships" Resource: https://www.smalleyinstitute.com/offers/57F5JbDR/checkout

The Heart and Soulution podcast with Mike and Kristen Jones offers an overview of their experiences with premarital counseling and the early challenges in their marriage. They discuss using the SYMBIS assessment ("Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts") and the importance of community and shared resources for navigating difficulties. Mike and Kristen emphasize that conflict can be a tool for growth and advocate for intentionality in relationships and sharing learned insights with others. They also credit Dr. Gary Smalley's video series as a significant positive influence on their marriage.(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, generated with Suno.ai.Resources we mentioned:SYMBIS Assessment informationhttps://www.symbis.com/Dr. Gary Smalley video serieshttps://www.smalleyinstitute.com/offers/57F5JbDR/checkout

In this episode of "Heart and Soulution," Mike and Kristen Jones focus on intentional communication within relationships, particularly marriage. They discuss the importance of speaking and listening with purpose, highlighting common pitfalls such as the tendency to "fix" problems rather than simply listening. Mike and Kristen introduce strategies like asking if someone needs a solution or just an ear and emphasize empathetic listening, where understanding a perspective is prioritized over agreement. The conversation also touches on the impact of personality types on communication and the value of expressing feelings clearly to foster healthier interactions.Heart and Soulution Theme song and all background music:(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, generated with Suno.ai.Books that we mentioned: Gottman, J. M., & Silver, N. (2002), p. 133, The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work. Harmony Books.Scazzero, P., & Scazzero, G. (2022). Emotionally Healthy Relationships: Discipleship that deeply changes your relationship with others (Updated ed.). Zondervan.Follow us on Instagram: ⁠heartandsoulution⁠

In this episode of Heart and Soulution, Mike and Kristen discuss the importance of boundaries, specifically safeguards, within committed relationships. They use a recent public scandal involving a CEO caught in an inappropriate situation at a concert to illustrate the consequences of lacking strong safeguards. Mike and Kristen suggest that couples should proactively define and maintain clear boundaries, even those that might seem extreme, to prevent their relationship from being compromised. They share their personal rules, such as not messaging members of the opposite sex privately on social media and maintaining open access to each other's devices, emphasizing that these are chosen to protect their marriage and avoid even the appearance of impropriety. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to engage in honest conversations with their partners to establish their own mutually agreed-upon safeguards, ensuring the health and longevity of their relationship.

The inaugural episode of the Heart and Soulution podcast, hosted by married couple Mike and Kristen Jones, centers on the crucial role of intentionality in fostering strong, enduring relationships. Drawing from their 30 years of marriage and Kristen's experience as a certified relationship coach, they explain that a healthy relationship requires effort and deliberate action, much like filling a jar with "big rocks" (priorities) before adding smaller ones. Mike and Kristen emphasize the importance of scheduled connection, such as date nights, to prevent couples from drifting apart. They also suggest practical steps for couples to identify their own "big rocks," encouraging open communication, brainstorming, and even "playfully fighting" for individual priorities to ensure mutual understanding and compromise.Heart and Soulution Theme song and all background music:(C) 2025 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, generated with Suno.ai.Books that we mentioned: Gottman, J. M., & Silver, N. (2002), p. 133, The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work. Harmony Books.Scazzero, P., & Scazzero, G. (2022). Emotionally Healthy Relationships: Discipleship that deeply changes your relationship with others (Updated ed.). Zondervan.Follow us on Instagram: heartandsoulution

Introducing a brand new podcast launch called Heart and Soulution with Mike and Kristen Jones. This podcast is all about learning to do relationships better. Season 1 begins August 6th!