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Optimal Relationships Daily - Dating, Marriage and Parenting
Also in Relationships
Society & Culture
Simply Relational
by Darran Crager and Dr. Shelly Crager
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Latest episodes
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I'm Bored: The Two Words Every Parent Dreads
October 20, 2026 · 25 minFeeling overwhelmed by your kids’ complaints of boredom? Discover why today’s children struggle with downtime and what you can do about it. Explore the impact of structured activities and technology on kids’ creativity and…
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Three Paths: One Marriage
October 13, 2026 · 19 minDiscover the three paths marriages typically take and why so many couples grow apart without realizing it. Learn practical steps to assess and strengthen your relationship before it's too late. The real-life story of couples "having it…
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The Tug of War in Marriage
October 6, 2026 · 21 minStruggling with endless arguments that seem to go nowhere? Discover practical strategies for breaking the cycle and strengthening your marriage. The "rope" analogy for understanding marital conflictStep-by-step PAUSE method to manage…
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Don't Pick up the Rope: When your Child says "NO"
September 29, 2026 · 29 minLearn how to handle it when your child says "NO" without turning it into a power struggle. This episode gives practical steps to maintain authority and consistency as a parent. Why a child's "no" often starts power struggles and how to…
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Why Won't My Child Listen: Stop Repeating, Start Following Through
September 22, 2026 · 30 minStruggling with kids who don’t listen until you repeat yourself or raise your voice? In this episode, we cut through the noise and show you what really works to get children to follow through the first time. How to distinguish between…
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Why Won't My Child Listen: When It's not Disobedience
September 15, 2026 · 22 minStruggling to get your child to listen? This episode uncovers why your child’s behavior might not be disobedience and what you can do about it. The real reason kids don’t follow multi-step directionsHow “can’t” is different from “won’t”…
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Don't Miss the Warning Sign
September 8, 2026 · 20 minGet so focused on your goals that you miss the warning signs? In this episode, we share a real-life mountain climbing story with powerful lessons on determination and wisdom. The dangers of ignoring critical warning signs in pursuit of a…
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When the Drift Reaches the Bedroom
September 1, 2026 · 30 minWhen a marriage starts to drift, the first signs often show up in the bedroom. This episode tackles the real challenges couples face with intimacy and communication. Why intimacy struggles are often the first warning sign of marital…
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Keeping the Momentum: Five Rhythms That Prevent Drift
August 25, 2026 · 27 minRediscover momentum in your marriage with practical, actionable rhythms you can start today. In this episode, we break down the five essential habits that prevent relational drift and strengthen your connection. How to pursue your spouse…
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Warning Signs of Drifing in Your Marriage
August 18, 2026 · 18 minAre you missing the warning signs that your marriage is drifting? In this episode, we break down the four key danger zones couples face and how to spot them before it’s too late. The danger of becoming complacent and letting life…
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The Secret To Raising Wise Decision-Makers
August 11, 2026 · 26 minFind out how strong your marriage is. Take our Marriage Quiz at www.cragerministries.com.
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Discipline Training Hearts, Not Controlling Behavior
August 4, 2026 · 26 minIn this episode, we dive deep into the heart of effective, biblical discipline and what it truly means for parents. Get clear answers on common discipline debates and practical tools to guide your children toward strong character. Why the…
About the show
Welcome to Simply Relational, the podcast that helps you Elevate Marriages and Equip Parents to lead with faith, wisdom, and purpose. In a world that pulls families in every direction, this show is your reminder to slow down, reconnect, and realign your most important relationships with what matters most.
Hosted by Darran and Shelly Crager, Simply Relational brings real conversations to the table—ones that honor authenticity and guide couples toward stronger communication, deeper emotional connection, and Christ-centered parenting. Each episode blends biblical truths with practical strategies drawn from real life—helping you build a marriage that endures and a home that flourishes.
Whether you’re navigating the early years of parenthood, rediscovering your rhythm as a couple, or working to balance faith and family in modern life, Simply Relational offers teaching, stories, and expert insights to support you every step of the way.
You’ll hear from pastors, family coaches, and parents who have learned hard-won lessons about love, forgiveness, resilience, and joy. Expect heartfelt interviews, actionable guidance, and spiritual encouragement that renews your hope and empowers you to lead your home with grace and confidence.
At its heart, this podcast is more than advice—it’s a movement toward healthier communication, intentional parenting, and faith-filled living. Because when marriages grow stronger, families thrive, and communities are transformed.