In this episode, Chris and Alisa Grace explore how Christian parents can thoughtfully approach the topic of Santa Claus while keeping Christ at the center of Christmas. They discuss the history and cultural role of Santa, research on child development and imagination, concerns about honesty and trust, and several practical approaches Christian families take. They also offer guidance for building Christ-centered traditions that nurture wonder, generosity, and spiritual formation in children.

Whether you're navigating this question with toddlers, teens, grandchildren, or extended family, this episode provides wisdom, reassurance, and practical rhythms to keep Christmas meaningful and Christ-focused.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/rxxoxeDb4sw

Connect with Us:

• Website: cmr.biola.edu
• Facebook: facebook.com/biolacmr
• Instagram: instagram.com/biolacmr
• YouTube: www.youtube.com/@biola-cmr
  
  

Join the Conversation:

• Subscribe to The Art of Relationships Podcast to never miss an episode.
• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform to help others discover the show.
• Share this episode with someone who could benefit from these relationship insights.
  Sign up for weekly updates and resources from the Center for Marriage and Relationships:
  👉 http://eepurl.com/bgsuQv

About the Hosts:

Chris Grace, Ph.D., and Alisa Grace are passionate about helping people build and sustain healthy relationships. As leaders of the Biola University Center for Marriage and Relationships, they combine the wisdom of Scripture with scholarly research to offer practical advice and insights. Learn more about their work at cmr.biola.edu.

In this episode, Alisa Grace sits down with licensed marriage and family therapist Willa Williams to unpack how your family of origin shapes the way you love, connect, and relate today. Together, they explore how childhood caregiving environments form your attachment style—secure, avoider, pleaser, or vacillator—and how those patterns often surface in adult relationships, marriages, and even your walk with God.

They break down how misinterpretations happen, why couples get stuck in pursue–withdraw cycles, and what to do when your emotional reactions today are rooted in yesterday’s wounds. Most importantly, Willa offers practical tools for growth, healing, and developing a more secure attachment—whether you grew up in a healthy home or a deeply broken one.

Whether you're navigating marriage, dating, friendships, or family relationships, this conversation will give you hope, language, and a roadmap to healthier connection.

Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/yW2OLLXVJdM

Resources Mentioned:

• How We Love — Milan & Kay Yerkovich: A foundational book on adult attachment styles and how childhood wounds shape marriage and communication. https://howwelove.com/shop/how-we-love-book/
• How We Love Attachment Style Quiz: A free online assessment to help you identify your attachment style and start meaningful conversations with loved ones. https://howwelove.com/love-style-quiz/
  
  

Connect with Us:

• Website: cmr.biola.edu
• Facebook: facebook.com/biolacmr
• Instagram: instagram.com/biolacmr
• YouTube: www.youtube.com/@biola-cmr

Join the Conversation:

• Subscribe to The Art of Relationships Podcast to never miss an episode.
• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform to help others discover the show.
• Share this episode with someone who could benefit from these relationship insights.
  Sign up for weekly updates and resources from the Center for Marriage and Relationships:
  👉 http://eepurl.com/bgsuQv

About the Hosts:

Chris Grace, Ph.D., and Alisa Grace are passionate about helping people build and sustain healthy relationships. As leaders of the Biola University Center for Marriage and Relationships, they combine the wisdom of Scripture with scholarly research to offer practical advice and insights. Learn more about their work at cmr.biola.edu.

In this episode, Chris and Alisa Grace explore how to teach kids genuine gratitude in a culture that constantly feeds entitlement. They talk about why “me-first” messaging (from social media, advertising, and peer groups) shapes the way kids see themselves, their stuff, and even God’s grace—and how parents can gently push back. Along the way, they share practical ideas like modeling gratitude in everyday frustrations, using dinnertime questions to help kids notice God’s goodness, shifting from “I have to” to “I get to,” and helping kids process disappointment (like missing out on Disneyland) without shaming their feelings. You’ll also hear creative practices—from gratitude walls and journals to serving the less fortunate and writing thank-you notes—that slowly form thankful hearts instead of entitled ones.

Whether you’re parenting preschoolers, navigating the teen years, co-parenting, grandparenting, or investing in kids as a teacher, coach, or mentor, this episode offers hopeful, realistic tools to cultivate gratitude in the next generation—and in your own heart.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/W2Dzkdfquwo

Resources Mentioned:

• Going Deeper Together: Spiritual Armor Required – A five-lesson course that helps couples recognize the enemy’s tactics and stand strong together with practical, biblical tools. http://t.ly/iTL9

Connect with Us:

• Website: cmr.biola.edu
• Facebook: facebook.com/biolacmr
• Instagram: instagram.com/biolacmr
• YouTube: www.youtube.com/@biola-cmr
  
  

Join the Conversation:

• Subscribe to The Art of Relationships Podcast to never miss an episode.
• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform to help others discover the show.
• Share this episode with someone who could benefit from these relationship insights.
  Sign up for weekly updates and resources from the Center for Marriage and Relationships:
  👉 http://eepurl.com/bgsuQv

About the Hosts:

Chris Grace, Ph.D., and Alisa Grace are passionate about helping people build and sustain healthy relationships. As leaders of the Biola University Center for Marriage and Relationships, they combine the wisdom of Scripture with scholarly research to offer practical advice and insights. Learn more about their work at cmr.biola.edu.

In this episode, we explore how couples can build habits that make marriage easier—and even more joyful—for the long haul. Guest Arlene Pellicane, author, speaker, and host of The Happy Home Podcast, joins Alisa to share insights from her new book Making Marriage Easier: How to Love and Like Your Spouse for Life. Together, they unpack biblical wisdom, research-based habits, and personal stories from Arlene’s 26 years of marriage.

They discuss common misconceptions about marriage, the power of gratitude and hope, and the four key habits that strengthen every relationship. Arlene and Alisa also dive into handling grief and loss, how couples can reconnect through simple moments of fun, and the impact of technology on intimacy and attention.

🎥 Watch on YouTube:
www.youtube.com/@biola-cmr

Resources Mentioned:

• Making Marriage Easier: How to Love and Like Your Spouse for Life – Arlene’s newest book filled with humor, biblical insight, and practical tools for a lasting marriage. 👉 https://www.amazon.com/Making-Marriage-Easier-Love-Spouse-ebook/dp/B0D99XK3R4
• The Happy Home Podcast – Arlene’s show helping families grow closer and live with joy. 👉 www.accessmore.com/pd/https/arlenepellicanecom/podcasts/
• Going Deeper Together: Spiritual Armor Required – A five-lesson online course by Chris and Alisa Grace equipping couples to recognize the enemy’s tactics and stand strong together. 👉 http://t.ly/iTL9
• How to Ask Better Questions – A free downloadable handout to help you become a better listener and question asker in marriage, friendships, and family life. 👉 https://assets.biola.edu/4396738754672012438/attachment/e06213efc42d52c08cca652e4ed63668/250620_-_CMR_-_Guides_and_Tip_Sheets_Ask_Better_Questions.pdf
• Follow Arlene:
  • Instagram: www.instagram.com/arlenepellicane/
  • Facebook: www.facebook.com/ArlenePellicaneAuthor/
  • Website: arlenepellicane.com/

Connect with Us:

• Website: cmr.biola.edu
• Facebook: facebook.com/biolacmr
• Instagram: instagram.com/biolacmr
• YouTube: www.youtube.com/@biola-cmr

Join the Conversation:

• Subscribe to The Art of Relationships Podcast to never miss an episode.
• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform to help others discover the show.
• Share this episode with someone who could benefit from these relationship insights.
  Sign up for weekly updates and resources from the Center for Marriage and Relationships:
  👉 http://eepurl.com/bgsuQv

About the Hosts:

Chris Grace, Ph.D., and Alisa Grace are passionate about helping people build and sustain healthy relationships. As leaders of the Biola University Center for Marriage and Relationships, they combine the wisdom of Scripture with scholarly research to offer practical advice and insights. Learn more about their work at cmr.biola.edu.

In this special Halloween-themed episode of The Art of Relationships, Dr. Chris and Alisa Grace uncover the “marriage monsters” that quietly creep into relationships when we’re not paying attention. From unspoken expectations and avoidance to contempt and emotional disengagement, these hidden habits can quietly erode intimacy, trust, and connection.

With their signature blend of biblical wisdom, psychological insight, and real-life experience, Chris and Alisa share how to identify these relationship “haunts” and—more importantly—how to fight back with humility, honesty, and grace.

Whether you’re navigating challenges with your spouse, fiancé, or close relationships, this episode offers hope-filled, practical tools to turn your “haunted house” back into a safe haven.

Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IAL0NYvpIqI

Key Topics Covered:

• The “Ghost of Unspoken Expectations” — how hidden assumptions breed frustration and resentment.
• The “Skeleton of Avoidance” — why silence and peace-at-any-cost can quietly destroy connection.
• The “Monster of Contempt” — the biggest predictor of divorce and how to replace it with appreciation.
• The “Phantom of Emotional Disengagement” — how busyness and neglect drain intimacy and what to do about it.

Resources Mentioned:

• Repair Checklist (Gottman Institute) — Practical statements to de-escalate conflict and build understanding.
• FamilyLife Weekend to Remember Marriage Getaway – Monterey, CA — Three days of teaching, connection, and renewal for couples.
• The Art (And Science) of Relationships — A 7-lesson online course from the CMR combining Scripture and research-backed insights on communication, conflict, and connection.

Connect with Us:

• Website: cmr.biola.edu
• Facebook: facebook.com/biolacmr
• Instagram: instagram.com/biolacmr
• YouTube: www.youtube.com/@biola-cmr

Join the Conversation:

• Subscribe to The Art of Relationships Podcast to never miss an episode.
• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform to help others discover the show.
• Share this episode with someone who could benefit from these relationship insights.
  Sign up for weekly updates and resources from the Center for Marriage and Relationships:
  👉 http://eepurl.com/bgsuQv

About the Hosts:

Chris Grace, Ph.D., and Alisa Grace are passionate about helping people build and sustain healthy relationships. As leaders of the Biola University Center for Marriage and Relationships, they combine the wisdom of Scripture with scholarly research to offer practical advice and insights. Learn more about their work at cmr.biola.edu.

In this episode, Chris Grace and guests explore what it truly means to find freedom and identity in Christ. Joined by Dr. John-Paul (J.P.) Foster and Dr. Matt Williams, they discuss insights from their new book, Finding Freedom in Jesus: 21 Attributes of Your Identity in Christ. Together, they unpack how understanding who God says you are transforms not only your sense of self but also your relationships, emotional health, and spiritual growth.

From battling negative self-talk to breaking free from shame, guilt, and false identities, this conversation dives deep into the biblical foundation of freedom and victory. You’ll hear powerful stories of transformation—from students and church members to an 87-year-old woman—showing that it’s never too late to live out your true identity in Christ. Whether you’re navigating challenges with friends, family, your spouse, or even your own self-worth, this episode offers practical wisdom to help you walk confidently in who God says you are.

Resources Mentioned:

• Finding Freedom in Jesus: 21 Attributes of Your Identity in Christ – By Dr. J.P. Foster & Dr. Matt Williams. A practical and theological guide to understanding who you are in Christ and experiencing spiritual freedom.
• Free Relationship Advice – Center for Marriage and Relationships (CMR) – Get confidential, biblically grounded, and practical advice from trained counselors to strengthen your relationships and prevent issues before they grow.
• Ron Blue Trust – Financial Planning for Couples – Faith-based financial advisors helping couples find peace and unity in their finances through biblically sound stewardship. Learn more at ronblue.com or connect with advisor Colby Gilmore at colby.gilmore@ronblue.com.

Connect with Us:

• Website: cmr.biola.edu
• Facebook: facebook.com/biolacmr
• Instagram: instagram.com/biolacmr
• YouTube: www.youtube.com/@biola-cmr
  
  

Join the Conversation:

• Subscribe to The Art of Relationships Podcast to never miss an episode.
• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform to help others discover the show.
• Share this episode with someone who could benefit from these relationship insights.
  Sign up for weekly updates and resources from the Center for Marriage and Relationships:
  👉 http://eepurl.com/bgsuQv

About the Hosts:

Chris Grace, Ph.D., and Alisa Grace are passionate about helping people build and sustain healthy relationships. As leaders of the Biola University Center for Marriage and Relationships, they combine the wisdom of Scripture with scholarly research to offer practical advice and insights. Learn more about their work at cmr.biola.edu.

In this episode, Chris and Alisa Grace explore the sensitive question many Christians wrestle with: If I had sex before marriage, am I forgiven? They discuss God’s design for sex, how He responds to sexual sin, and the emotional, spiritual, and relational healing that is possible. Along the way, they address shame, guilt, conviction, and the difference between God’s forgiveness and the enemy’s accusations, while offering practical steps toward freedom and restoration. Whether you’re navigating your own past, supporting a spouse, or walking with a friend through this struggle, this episode provides compassionate and hope-filled guidance for strengthening relationships.

Resources Mentioned:

• FamilyLife Weekend to Remember Marriage Getaway – Monterey, CA – A weekend away to invest in your marriage with biblical teaching, practical tools, and quality time together. Learn more and register here
• Talbot School of Theology – Equipping leaders in biblical truth and partnering with the CMR to expand resources for marriages and relationships. www.biola.edu/talbot
  
  

Connect with Us:

• Website: cmr.biola.edu
• Facebook: facebook.com/biolacmr
• Instagram: instagram.com/biolacmr
• YouTube: www.youtube.com/@biola-cmr

Join the Conversation:

• Subscribe to The Art of Relationships Podcast to never miss an episode.
• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform to help others discover the show.
• Share this episode with someone who could benefit from these relationship insights.
  Sign up for weekly updates and resources from the Center for Marriage and Relationships:
  👉 http://eepurl.com/bgsuQv

About the Hosts:

Chris Grace, Ph.D., and Alisa Grace are passionate about helping people build and sustain healthy relationships. As leaders of the Biola University Center for Marriage and Relationships, they combine the wisdom of Scripture with scholarly research to offer practical advice and insights. Learn more about their work at cmr.biola.edu.

In this episode, Chris and Alisa Grace explore the often-overlooked struggle of making friends in college. They discuss why college can feel more isolating than expected, the psychological and social hurdles that block new friendships, and the surprising reasons even extroverts feel lonely in new environments. Providing practical insights and encouragement, they share stories, scientific research, and biblical wisdom to help students take initiative, overcome social anxiety, and build meaningful connections.

Whether you're dealing with roommates, classmates, old high school friends, or you're navigating life as a commuter, this episode offers valuable advice to improve your relationships and feel less alone.

Resources Mentioned:

• How to Ask Better Questions (PDF) – A guide to asking questions that build deeper connection and spark better conversations.
• It’s Just Coffee (PDF) – A simple tool to help start low-pressure conversations and grow new friendships.
• Free Relationship Advice – Schedule a free session with a trained relationship advisor (in-person or virtual).

Connect with Us:

• Website: cmr.biola.edu
• Facebook: facebook.com/biolacmr
• Instagram: instagram.com/biolacmr
• YouTube: www.youtube.com/@biola-cmr
  
  

Join the Conversation:

• Subscribe to The Art of Relationships Podcast to never miss an episode.
• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform to help others discover the show.
• Share this episode with someone who could benefit from these relationship insights.
  Sign up for weekly updates and resources from the Center for Marriage and Relationships:
  👉 http://eepurl.com/bgsuQv

About the Hosts:

Chris Grace, Ph.D., and Alisa Grace are passionate about helping people build and sustain healthy relationships. As leaders of the Biola University Center for Marriage and Relationships, they combine the wisdom of Scripture with scholarly research to offer practical advice and insights. Learn more about their work at cmr.biola.edu.