"It's only a joke..." but is it really?

Humor and sarcasm can be tricky in relationships—sometimes it’s playful, and other times it cuts deeper than intended. In this episode, you'll discover how joking, sarcasm, and humor play vital roles in healthy relationships—and what happens when jokes cross the line and reveal serious communication issues.

Steve Alessi and Mary Alessi open up about their own approach to humor, how sarcasm shaped their families, and how laughter can create closeness or mask deeper issues. You'll discover why some couples thrive by balancing seriousness and lightheartedness, and how to read the room when humor is (or isn’t) appropriate.

Learn how joking can be a sign of trust and intimacy—but also where it may hide unspoken truths, cause pain, or erode safety in marriage, family, or even business teams.

If you want stronger connections at home or work, you'll find practical tips for being mindful of your words, knowing when to turn off sarcasm, and embracing moments of seriousness - so you'll know when your partner's feelings are no laughing matter.

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In this episode, we cover our best strategies for improving communication in marriage - so that even your arguments can be turned into opportunities to build a stronger relationship with your spouse.

Communication challenges are at the heart of most relationship struggles, whether it's disagreements over chores, different ways of processing conflict, or mismatched expectations. Couples often find themselves in arguments that seem to go nowhere, but understanding each other's styles and showing empathy can transform these moments into opportunities for growth.

Join Steve and Mary Alessi as they offer practical marriage advice from nearly four decades of experience. They break down common misunderstandings, explain why "repair-rich" marriages thrive despite conflicts, and share ways to express your needs without triggering defensiveness. Learn how simple actions—like genuine apologies, recognizing your partner's strengths, and sharing the responsibility for household tasks—can create a healthier, happier home.

Whether you're a newlywed or a seasoned couple, you’ll get valuable tips on handling arguments, managing emotions, and supporting each other's value system.

Support the show

JOIN THE FAMILY BUSINESS WITH OUR NEWSLETTER

Sign Up for Our Family Business Newsletter and get more inside news from the Alessis + tips and strategies for a happier family!

Get free access to the newsletter

TEXT THE FAMILY BUSINESS DIRECTLY

You can connect with us via text to ask family questions and get updates on The Family Business!

Text FAMILY to 302-524-0800

CONNECT WITH THE FAMILY BUSINESS

• Follow Us on Instagram and Facebook
• Subscribe on YouTube
• Leave a review

MORE PODCASTS YOU'LL ENJOY

Listen to the Alessi sisters' daily devotional podcast
My Morning Devotional

Follow Our New Podcast with Mary Alessi and her twin sister Martha Munizzi

Watch The Mary and Martha Show

Ever feel overwhelmed by the endless decisions you have to make as a parent - not to mention the barrage of advice from experts with ever-changing opinions?

In this episode, we get the treat of having two of the next generation Alessi couples in the podcast booth - Chris Muina and Stephanie Alessi Muina, and Richelle and Christopher Alessi.

Together, they are jumping into the raw realities of raising young kids—sharing laughs, struggles, and honest takes on gentle parenting, immunization and trusting your doctors, discipline, and letting go of comparison. You'll discover how friendship, flexibility, and faith help keep balance when every family meal and doctor’s visit brings new choices and opinions.

Hear how they navigate the pressure to do everything “right,” wrestle with modern parenting controversies, and find peace by trusting their instincts and holding on to their parental authority.

You’ll walk away with fresh perspective on giving yourself grace, trusting your gut, and savoring the everyday chaos—plus get practical encouragement for loving your kids (and yourself) through both wins and mess-ups.

Support the show

Join our Podience Textline!

You can connect with us via text to ask questions and get updates!

Text FAMILY to 302-524-0800

Get our TFB Newsletter

Join our TFB Newsletter and get more inside news from the Alessis + tips and strategies for a happier family!

Get free access to the newsletter

Support the Family Business

• Follow Us on Instagram and Facebook
• Subscribe on YouTube
• Leave a review

Listen to the Alessi sisters' daily devotional podcast
My Morning Devotional

Follow Our New Podcast with Mary Alessi and her twin sister Martha Munizzi

Watch The Mary and Martha Show