The Mixed Faith Relationship Podcast

In this episode, I share why getting outside is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to support your nervous system—especially when life feels “brutiful.” I talk about the connection between nature, regulation, and awe, and offer easy, practical ways to bring more calm, presence, and joy into your day just by stepping outside.

In this episode, I talk about those seasons of life when everything feels like a lot—and how that can overwhelm our nervous system. I share a simple but powerful analogy of life as a puzzle, especially when we’re in the messy middle and don’t have all the pieces yet. Instead of trying to figure everything out, I walk you through how to focus on what you can control, trust the process, and take the next right step with the pieces you have.

In this episode, I get real about my own experience with anger and share why it’s not something to fear or avoid. I talk about how anger is actually a protective emotion, what’s really going on underneath it, and the three common ways we tend to handle it—reacting, avoiding, or resisting. Most importantly, I walk you through a healthier approach: learning to allow and safely process anger so you can show up as the person you truly want to be.

In this episode I get pretty vulnerable and share some of my personal struggles and how I am navigating this bumpy part of being a human.

In this episode, I explore the simple but powerful impact of a smile. I share how smiling isn’t about pretending everything is okay—it’s about creating small moments of connection, lightness, and possibility, even in the middle of real life. We’ll talk about how a smile can shift your mood, influence your relationships (especially in mixed faith dynamics), and become a quiet but meaningful way to show up with more warmth and intention.

In this episode I share about 3 of the nervous states and why we show up the way we do. I share tons of practical examples of how we might react in our mixed faith relationships and offer tips on how we can respond instead. You don't want to miss this episode!

In this episode, I share one of my favorite (and slightly unconventional) self-care practices: mirror pep talks. I talk about how the way we speak to ourselves impacts our nervous system and why becoming a safe, supportive voice in your own life matters so much. I’ll walk you through how I use this simple daily practice to build self-compassion, celebrate small wins, and show up for myself—especially on the hard days.

In this 200th episode, I celebrate this incredible milestone by sharing one of my favorite tools: thinking of your nervous system like a sponge. I walk you through how we take on stress throughout the day—and more importantly, how to “wring it out” so you can feel more calm, grounded, and like yourself. This simple, practical concept can change the way you show up in your life and relationships, even in the hard moments.

Life can be both beautiful and brutal at the exact same time—and that’s what makes it brutiful. In this episode, I share reflections from a recent trip and talk about what it looks like to hold space for the joy and the heartbreak that often show up together in our lives. If you’ve ever felt grateful and grieving, hopeful and overwhelmed, all at once… you’re not alone. Join me as we explore how learning to embrace the brutiful parts of life can help us show up with more compassion for ourselves and the people we love.

In this episode, I share what it looks like when I’m dysregulated and not feeling like myself. I talk through how I meet my nervous system with compassion, add small moments of safety, and remind myself that it’s okay to not be okay. If life feels overwhelming right now, you’re not alone.

In this episode, I talk about the nervous system as our personal infrastructure and explain the Zone of Tolerance. I share how stress and trauma impact our capacity to cope—and simple, practical ways to build safety, resilience, and emotional flexibility in everyday life.

In this episode, I share why I’ve stopped saying, “I know exactly how you feel.” I open up about a personal experience with grief and explain how our unique nervous systems make it impossible to truly know someone else’s emotions. I also offer simple, more compassionate ways to show empathy and support.

When life feels overwhelming, I notice how easy it is to spend energy on things I can’t control. In this episode, I share a simple but powerful shift that helps me focus on what is within my control and create more calm and steadiness, even when life feels like too much.

Feeling unmotivated this winter? I get it. In this episode, I talk about motivation through a nervous-system lens and explain what I call the motivational triad—our brain’s drive to seek pleasure, avoid pain, and keep things easy. Using real-life examples (like winter walks, food choices, and hard conversations), I share simple, practical ways to work with your brain instead of fighting it, so motivation has a better chance to show up. If your get-up-and-go has gone missing, this episode is for you.

In this episode, we explore the powerful clarity that comes from the phrases “I am willing to” and “I am not willing to.” Learn how naming your willingness—and your limits—can reduce resentment, increase honesty, and create more safety and connection in mixed faith relationships.

In this episode, I talk about why being right feels so good—and why it so often creates disconnection. I share a simple (and funny) real-life example, explain what’s really happening in our nervous system when we feel threatened, and offer practical tools to help you slow down, get curious, and choose connection instead. This episode is especially for anyone navigating disagreement in a mixed-faith relationship and wanting more safety, understanding, and closeness without giving up who you are.

We are so excited to tell you all about The Mixed Faith Marriage Institute. In this episode we will tell you what it is, why we started it, what you will find there, and our plans for the future. Please go check it out!https://lds-mixed-faith-marriage-institute.thinkific.com/Feel free to reach out to us and let us know your ideas or resources that have worked for you.Email us at:[email protected]

In this episode, I share why New Year’s resolutions often fail and a gentler approach that actually works. I talk about comparison, unrealistic goals, and how under-promising with tiny, doable habits can lead to real, lasting change. If you’ve ever felt discouraged or ready to quit, this episode is for you.

In this conversation, Suzette and I open up about the real highs and lows of disagreement in our own mixed faith marriages. We explore why conflict shows up so often, what we see in our coaching work, and how disagreement doesn’t have to mean disconnection. We share practical strategies, personal stories, and simple tools to help you navigate differences with more calm, respect, and love.

Ever notice how easy it is to focus on what’s missing, what went wrong, or how you’re not where you “should” be? This episode explores The Gap and The Gain and how moving out of comparison and into awareness can change how you experience your life—right now, not someday.

In this episode, I dive into the calming, grounding practice of doodling—on paper, in your mind, or even traced lightly on your own palm. I share how doodling has helped me stay present during stressful moments (like in the dentist’s chair!), process both physical and emotional pain, and reconnect with my body through creativity. If you’re looking for a simple, soothing way to regulate your nervous system and anchor yourself in the moment, this episode is for you.

In this episode, I share a recent win from my mixed-faith family and highlight five simple principles that can help us support loved ones who have questions about faith. From responding with love to listening with humility and trusting the Lord, these tools can create more safety, compassion, and connection in our conversations.

In this episode of the Mixed Faith Marriage Mastermind, Suzette Halterman and I dive into how to make confident, connected decisions when you and your spouse don’t share the same beliefs. Together, we explore how to step out of indecision, claim your personal power, and create more peace and partnership—no matter what choices lie ahead.

The holidays—and life in general—can feel overwhelming. In this episode, I talk about how your nervous system responds to stress and why your breath is one of the quickest, most effective ways to bring your thinking brain back online. You’ll learn simple breathing techniques to help you stay calm, connected, and present—no matter what’s going on around you.

In this episode, I’m sharing simple ways to stress less and enjoy more this holiday season. We’ll talk about what happens to your nervous system during the holidays, why it can feel so overwhelming, and five simple ways—sleep, movement, nutrition, connection, and stress relief—to bring more peace and presence into the season.

In this episode, I’m talking about gratitude—the simple yet powerful practice that can transform how we see and experience life. I’ll share how gratitude can be something we do, something we practice, and something we feel, along with the physical, social, and emotional benefits it brings. We’ll explore how shifting our focus to what’s good, even in hard times, can help us feel more grounded, connected, and at peace.

In this episode, Chris shares how journaling has been a lifelong practice that helps her process thoughts, understand emotions, and find clarity in her mixed faith marriage and beyond. She explores the many benefits of putting pen to paper — from reducing stress to deepening self-awareness — and offers simple ways to make journaling a powerful tool for connection and growth.

In this episode, I talk with Shawnee Johnson about her deeply personal journey of leaving the Church and the challenges that came with it. Shawnee shares what that experience was like for her and what helped—and hurt—along the way. Together, we explore how those of us who are active, believing members can better support and love our friends and family who choose a different path, with more understanding, compassion, and connection.

In this episode of the Mixed Faith Marriage Mastermind, Suzette and I dive into the joys and challenges of navigating the holidays in a mixed faith marriage. We share personal experiences, practical tools, and heartfelt insights to help you honor both partners’ traditions, manage expectations, and create meaningful celebrations that reflect love, respect, and connection—no matter your beliefs.

In this episode, I share how slowing down to notice the beauty around us can reconnect us to joy, presence, and gratitude. From stargazing at Bear Lake to seeing the perfect pattern of a sunflower, wonder reminds us that life is full of miracles hiding in plain sight. Join me as we explore how embracing awe — like a curious child — can deepen our connection to ourselves, our loved ones, and something bigger than us.

In this episode, I share how spending time in nature helps me feel grounded and calm. Whether it’s the stillness of the mountains, the sound of running water, or the warmth of sunlight on my skin, these moments bring me back to the present — out of my head and into my body. I talk about how often we live in the past or the future, feeling worry, regret, or overwhelm, and how nature gently invites us back to the here and now. Join me as I explore how reconnecting with the natural world can help us find peace, presence, and a deeper sense of safety.

In this episode, we flip from tears to giggles and talk about the healing power of laughter. From silly memories and favorite jokes to playful moments and funny songs, laughter is one of the best ways to reset stress and bring more joy into our lives. Join me as we explore how to lighten up, be more intentional about fun, and remember my dad’s favorite commandment: “Thou shalt not get too damn serious.”

Crying is one of the most natural ways our bodies process emotions, yet so many of us feel embarrassed or uncomfortable when the tears come. In this episode, I explore why we often feel the need to apologize for crying, what tears can teach us, and how allowing ourselves—and others—to cry can actually deepen connection.

In this episode, I share one of my favorite grounding techniques—the 5-4-3-2-1 method. When our minds get stuck replaying the past or worrying about the future, this simple practice helps us drop into our bodies, calm our nervous system, and come back to the present moment. I’ll walk you through how it works, when I use it in my own life, and why it’s such a powerful tool for showing up as the person you want to be.

Suzette Halterman and I are teaming up for a conversation on how to approach General Conference in a way that builds connection instead of contention. We’ll share practical tools, personal experiences, and fresh perspectives to help you navigate this weekend with more peace, understanding, and love in your mixed faith marriage.

Parenting teens is an adventure all on its own—and when you add mixed faith dynamics, things can get even more complex. In this episode, I sit down with parenting coach Heather Frazier to talk about how to support our teenagers as they navigate questions, independence, and faith in their own way. We’ll explore how to build trust, keep communication open, and create strong connections that matter more than differences.Heather Frazier, known as the Teen Whisperer, is a respected authority on parenting teenagers. With a genuine passion for supporting families during the challenging adolescent years, Heather draws from her personal experiences as a mother of four. As the best-selling author of "How I Fixed My Teen," she shares a vulnerable and insightful journey, emphasizing the intersection of self-love and effective parenting. She is also the host of the popular podcast, Pivot Parenting, that features over 200 episodes, where she imparts practical strategies and empowering perspectives for parents seeking to strengthen their relationships with their teenagers.Here is a link to preorder Heather's newest book:  https://heatherfrazier.com/mom-got-jesus-wrong-book/

In this episode, I share what mental health really is—and what it isn’t. I talk about how it influences the way we think, feel, and show up in daily life, why it’s more than just the absence of a diagnosis, and how we can strengthen it no matter where we’re starting from.

In this episode, we’ll explore how nutrition impacts your mood, energy, and ability to stay grounded—especially in the ups and downs of mixed faith relationships. Small, simple changes can fuel big shifts in how you feel and connect.

In this episode, Chris Rich and Suzette Halterman share heartfelt reflections on what they wish they could tell their past selves as they navigated the ups and downs of mixed faith relationships. From learning to give themselves grace to embracing curiosity over fear, they offer honest insights and gentle encouragement for anyone on a similar path.

 In this episode, I explore how light and darkness impact your nervous system—and why syncing with natural rhythms is a foundational pillar of well-being. Learn simple ways to use sunlight and darkness to boost your mood, improve sleep, and support emotional regulation—especially in the context of a mixed faith relationship.

In this episode, I’m sharing some thoughts from a recent sacrament meeting talk about what it really means to look to Christ. We’ll explore how turning to Him not only blesses us spiritually, but also helps calm and regulate our nervous system. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or just need a reminder that you’re not alone—this one’s for you.

In this episode of the Mixed Faith Marriage Mastermind, Suzette and I dive into a common tension point: What about when beliefs (on either side) come before the relationship? We explore what happens when faith feels like the top priority—and how that can impact connection, communication, and trust. You’ll hear personal insights, coaching tools, and compassionate perspectives to help you navigate this dynamic with more clarity and love.

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 at bedtime, this one’s for you.

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 help you get the sleep your body and brain are craving.

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 and why it’s such a powerful tool for emotional health.

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 yourself and the people you love.

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 relationship, this episode is full of heart, humor, and practical ways to bring a little sunshine back into your life.