Ever said "I'm sorry" just to move on? You're not alone. In this episode, we’re talking about how to apologize in a way that actually heals and not just hushes the hurt. We'll share what experts say about why it's so hard to say sorry, what makes an apology sincere, and how humility can transform even the most awkward moments into deeper connection.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE
Why apologizing feels so difficult (and what’s really behind it)
How to make "I'm sorry" more than just words
The difference between regret and a true apology
What humility has to do with healing and reconciliation
A practical, faith-based process for rebuilding trust after hurt

KEY TAKEAWAYS
Real apologies focus on the other person's pain, not our own discomfort.
Humility is the foundation of every meaningful apology.
"I'm sorry if…" or "I'm sorry but…" aren't true apologies—they're defenses.
Taking responsibility rebuilds connection faster than explaining your intent.
A sincere apology requires empathy, ownership, and change.

US TIME CHALLENGE

Look back at your most recent apologies. Were they centered on your own feelings or your spouse's experience? This week, practice making your next "I'm sorry" one that reflects humility, empathy, and love.

STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Ashleigh's weekly e-newsletter at AshleighSlater.com, so you never miss what's next. 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
“Study: The states that apologize the most” by Matt Zajechowski
“Why is it so hard to apologize?” TedX Talk by Michael Ballard
“Why Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word” by F. Diane Barth
Sorry, Sorry, Sorry: The Case for Good Apologiesby Marjorie Ingall and Susan McCarthy

 

Ever said "I'm sorry" just to move on? You're not alone. In this episode, we&rsquo;re talking about how to apologize in a way that actually heals and not just hushes the hurt. We'll share what experts say about why it's so hard to say sorry, what makes an apology sincere, and how humility can transform even the most awkward moments into deeper connection.
WHAT YOU&rsquo;LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE
<ul>
<li>Why apologizing feels so difficult (and what&rsquo;s really behind it)</li>
<li>How to make "I'm sorry" more than just words</li>
<li>The difference between regret and a true apology</li>
<li>What humility has to do with healing and reconciliation</li>
<li>A practical, faith-based process for rebuilding trust after hurt</li>
</ul>
KEY TAKEAWAYS
<ul>
<li>Real apologies focus on the other person's pain, not our own discomfort.</li>
<li>Humility is the foundation of every meaningful apology.</li>
<li>"I'm sorry if&hellip;" or "I'm sorry but&hellip;" aren't true apologies&mdash;they're defenses.</li>
<li>Taking responsibility rebuilds connection faster than explaining your intent.</li>
<li>A sincere apology requires empathy, ownership, and change.</li>
</ul>
US TIME CHALLENGE
Look back at your most recent apologies. Were they centered on your own feelings or your spouse's experience? This week, practice making your next "I'm sorry" one that reflects humility, empathy, and love.
STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Ashleigh's weekly e-newsletter at AshleighSlater.com, so you never miss what's next.&nbsp;
LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
<ul>
<li><a href="https://preply.com/en/blog/states-that-apologize-most/">&ldquo;Study: The states that apologize the most&rdquo;</a> by Matt Zajechowski</li>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GK8eqwWqw-k&amp;t=106s">&ldquo;Why is it so hard to apologize?&rdquo; </a>TedX Talk by Michael Ballard</li>
<li><a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-couch/201404/why-sorry-seems-be-the-hardest-word">&ldquo;Why Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word&rdquo;</a> by F. Diane Barth</li>
<li><a href="https://a.co/d/5X77q7i">Sorry, Sorry, Sorry: The Case for Good Apologies</a> by Marjorie Ingall and Susan McCarthy</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;

The best marriages have a teamwork mentality. Spouses serve each other, support each other, and celebrate each other. They tackle life together, and when one slips, the other gives grace. Husbands and wives can be vulnerable with each other because they know they rise and fall as one.

Do you want a marriage like this? On each episode of the Team Us: Christian Marriage Podcast, married couple Ted and Ashleigh Slater come alongside you and your spouse as friends and mentors. They talk openly, honestly, and humorously about the betters and the worsts of their marriage, sharing how grace, commitment, cooperation, and lots of laughter have kept them united over the years.

Whether you’re newly married and desire to build a strong foundation, or you’ve been married longer and your relationship needs a little TLC, you’ll gain practical, realistic ideas for strengthening your Team Us.

Want more from Ted and Ashleigh? Visit https://ashleighslater.com/

The best marriages have a teamwork mentality. Spouses serve each other, support each other, and celebrate each other. They tackle life together, and when one slips, the other gives grace. Husbands and wives can be vulnerable with each other because they know they rise and fall as one. Do you want a marriage like this? On each episode of the Team Us: Christian Marriage Podcast, married couple Ted and Ashleigh Slater come alongside you and your spouse as friends and mentors. They talk openly, honestly, and humorously about the betters and the worsts of their marriage, sharing how grace, commitment, cooperation, and lots of laughter have kept them united over the years. Whether you&rsquo;re newly married and desire to build a strong foundation, or you&rsquo;ve been married longer and your relationship needs a little TLC, you&rsquo;ll gain practical, realistic ideas for strengthening your Team Us.
Want more from Ted and Ashleigh? Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://ashleighslater.com/" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://ashleighslater.com/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1734531595589000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2LFlxWt0Zt3Sfr5fZIzek5">https://ashleighslater.com/</a>

The best marriages have a teamwork mentality. Spouses serve each other, support each other, and celebrate each other. They tackle life together, and when one slips, the other gives grace. Husbands and wives can be vulnerable with each other because...

Team Us: A Christian Marriage Podcast

The best marriages have a teamwork mentality. Spouses serve each other, support each other, and celebrate each other. They tackle life together, and when one slips, the other gives grace. Husbands and wives can be vulnerable with each other because they know they rise and fall as one.

Do you want a marriage like this? On each episode of the Team Us: Christian Marriage Podcast, married couple Ted and Ashleigh Slater come alongside you and your spouse as friends and mentors. They talk openly, honestly, and humorously about the betters and the worsts of their marriage, sharing how grace, commitment, cooperation, and lots of laughter have kept them united over the years.

Whether you’re newly married and desire to build a strong foundation, or you’ve been married longer and your relationship needs a little TLC, you’ll gain practical, realistic ideas for strengthening your Team Us.

Want more from Ted and Ashleigh? Visit https://ashleighslater.com/

The best marriages have a teamwork mentality. Spouses serve each other, support each other, and celebrate each other. They tackle life together, and when one slips, the other gives grace. Husbands and wives can be vulnerable with each other because they know they rise and fall as one. Do you want a marriage like this? On each episode of the Team Us: Christian Marriage Podcast, married couple Ted and Ashleigh Slater come alongside you and your spouse as friends and mentors. They talk openly, honestly, and humorously about the betters and the worsts of their marriage, sharing how grace, commitment, cooperation, and lots of laughter have kept them united over the years. Whether you&rsquo;re newly married and desire to build a strong foundation, or you&rsquo;ve been married longer and your relationship needs a little TLC, you&rsquo;ll gain practical, realistic ideas for strengthening your Team Us.
Want more from Ted and Ashleigh? Visit <a href="https://ashleighslater.com/" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://ashleighslater.com/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1734531595589000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2LFlxWt0Zt3Sfr5fZIzek5">https://ashleighslater.com/</a>

Why Saying "I'm Sorry" Feels So Hard and How to Get It Right

In this episode, we explore the surprisingly powerful world of micro-habits—those tiny actions that take less than five minutes but, when repeated, create meaningful and lasting change in your marriage. From simple daily rituals to small moments of gratitude to chore-based love notes, you’ll discover how small things practiced often can strengthen connection, build warmth, and shape the overall direction of your relationship.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE
What micro-habits are and why researchers say they matter
How 1% improvements compound into significant transformation over time
Why micro-moments help keep couples from slipping into “roommate mode”
Three daily micro-habits that build connection, gratitude, and emotional safety
Practical examples of how we use these habits in our own marriage

KEY TAKEAWAYS
Small habits practiced consistently create meaningful change over time.
Micro-moments protect connection and help couples avoid “roommate mode.”
Specific gratitude (“Thank you for…”) shifts focus toward what’s working.
Everyday chores can become tangible expressions of love.
Simple rituals—like hello, goodbye, and goodnight kisses—strengthen emotional and physical connection.

US TIME CHALLENGE

Choose one micro-habit and practice it every day this week. It can be one of the three we shared or be a micro-moment unique to your relationship. Consistency is the goal, not size. Let the small thing do its quiet, steady work.

STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST
Follow Ashleigh: Instagram @teamuspodcast | Facebook @ashleighslaterauthor
Subscribe to Team Us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen so you don’t miss an episode.
Join our community: Get updates, resources, and encouragement for your marriage by signing up for Ashleigh’s weekly email newsletter at AshleighSlater.com.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear (https://a.co/d/9kNsP4L)
“5 Micro-Moments That Predict the Health of Your Marriage” by Shlomo and Rivka Slatkin at the Marriage Restoration Project (https://themarriagerestorationproject.com/5-micro-moments-that-predict-the-health-of-your-marriage/)
“The Art of Micro-Routines: How 5-Minute Habits Can Transform Your Day” by Glossy Magazine (https://theglossymagazine.com/the-art-of-micro-routines-how-5-minute-habits-can-transform-your-day/)
“12 Micro Moves for Your Marriage” by Ted Lowe (https://allprodad.com/12-micro-moves-for-your-marriage/)

In this episode, we explore the surprisingly powerful world of micro-habits&mdash;those tiny actions that take less than five minutes but, when repeated, create meaningful and lasting change in your marriage. From simple daily rituals to small moments of gratitude to chore-based love notes, you&rsquo;ll discover how small things practiced often can strengthen connection, build warmth, and shape the overall direction of your relationship.
WHAT YOU&rsquo;LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE
<ul>
<li>What micro-habits are and why researchers say they matter</li>
<li>How 1% improvements compound into significant transformation over time</li>
<li>Why micro-moments help keep couples from slipping into &ldquo;roommate mode&rdquo;</li>
<li>Three daily micro-habits that build connection, gratitude, and emotional safety</li>
<li>Practical examples of how we use these habits in our own marriage</li>
</ul>
KEY TAKEAWAYS
<ul>
<li>Small habits practiced consistently create meaningful change over time.</li>
<li>Micro-moments protect connection and help couples avoid &ldquo;roommate mode.&rdquo;</li>
<li>Specific gratitude (&ldquo;Thank you for&hellip;&rdquo;) shifts focus toward what&rsquo;s working.</li>
<li>Everyday chores can become tangible expressions of love.</li>
<li>Simple rituals&mdash;like hello, goodbye, and goodnight kisses&mdash;strengthen emotional and physical connection.</li>
</ul>
US TIME CHALLENGE
Choose one micro-habit and practice it every day this week. It can be one of the three we shared or be a micro-moment unique to your relationship. Consistency is the goal, not size. Let the small thing do its quiet, steady work.
STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST
<ul>
<li>Follow Ashleigh: Instagram @teamuspodcast | Facebook @ashleighslaterauthor</li>
<li>Subscribe to Team Us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen so you don&rsquo;t miss an episode.</li>
<li>Join our community: Get updates, resources, and encouragement for your marriage by signing up for Ashleigh&rsquo;s weekly email newsletter at AshleighSlater.com.</li>
</ul>
LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
<ul>
<li>Atomic Habits: An Easy &amp; Proven Way to Build Good Habits &amp; Break Bad Ones by James Clear (<a href="https://a.co/d/9kNsP4L">https://a.co/d/9kNsP4L</a>)</li>
<li>&ldquo;5 Micro-Moments That Predict the Health of Your Marriage&rdquo; by Shlomo and Rivka Slatkin at the Marriage Restoration Project (<a href="https://themarriagerestorationproject.com/5-micro-moments-that-predict-the-health-of-your-marriage/">https://themarriagerestorationproject.com/5-micro-moments-that-predict-the-health-of-your-marriage/</a>)</li>
<li>&ldquo;The Art of Micro-Routines: How 5-Minute Habits Can Transform Your Day&rdquo; by Glossy Magazine (<a href="https://theglossymagazine.com/the-art-of-micro-routines-how-5-minute-habits-can-transform-your-day/">https://theglossymagazine.com/the-art-of-micro-routines-how-5-minute-habits-can-transform-your-day/</a>)</li>
<li>&ldquo;12 Micro Moves for Your Marriage&rdquo; by Ted Lowe (<a href="https://allprodad.com/12-micro-moves-for-your-marriage/">https://allprodad.com/12-micro-moves-for-your-marriage/</a>)</li>
</ul>

3 Micro-Habits That Make Marriage Better

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/304a15f9-c430-4a78-afd0-b3b2000a1550/transcript

In a previous episode, we talked about the power of saying, “I’m sorry.” Today, we’re taking the next step and diving into forgiveness, specifically, what it looks like to forgive our spouse. Forgiveness isn’t always easy, but it’s one of the most powerful ways to strengthen a marriage. In this episode, we explore what forgiveness really is (and isn’t), why it’s vital for lasting love, and how practicing it can lead to healing, trust, and deeper connection.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE
Why forgiveness plays such a big role in happy, lasting marriages
What forgiveness truly means from both a biblical and relational perspective
Three things forgiveness is not and why those distinctions matter
How to navigate the process of forgiving when it still hurts
Practical ways to rebuild trust after forgiveness
How to think like a forgiving person and create a culture of grace in your marriage

KEY TAKEAWAYS
Forgiveness is a process, not a one-time decision.
Forgiveness doesn’t erase responsibility or instantly restore trust.
Choosing to forgive frees your heart from bitterness and opens space for connection.
Repair—not just resolution—is what rebuilds intimacy after conflict.
Thinking like a forgiver starts by asking God to help you see your spouse through His eyes.

US TIME CHALLENGE

This week’s challenge is to think about how you think. When your spouse does something that frustrates or hurts you, pause and ask yourself: Am I thinking like a forgiver or like a victim? Invite God to reshape your thoughts, helping you move toward grace and understanding.

STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST
Follow Ashleigh: Instagram @teamuspodcast | Facebook @ashleighslaterauthor
Subscribe to Team Us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen so you don’t miss an episode.
Join our community: Get updates, resources, and encouragement for your marriage by signing up for Ashleigh’s weekly email newsletter at AshleighSlater.com.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
“How Forgiveness Can Transform Your Marriage” by the Gottman Institute (https://www.gottman.com/blog/forgiveness-can-transform-marriage/)
“Real Answers to Real Relationship Questions” from Chad Moore at Sun Valley Community Church (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exzwsCITlVM)
“What the Bible Really Says About Love” from Chad Moore at Sun Valley Community Church (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQSMJWhRNFo)
“What forgiveness is not: 5 common misconceptions” by Laura Petherbridge (https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/content/what-forgiveness-is-not-5-common-misconceptions)
“The Art of Repair: Transforming Conflict Into Closeness” by Greg Smalley (https://www.klove.com/resources/life/the-art-of-repair-transforming-conflict-into-closeness-11585)

 

 

In a previous episode, we talked about the power of saying, &ldquo;I&rsquo;m sorry.&rdquo; Today, we&rsquo;re taking the next step and diving into forgiveness, specifically, what it looks like to forgive our spouse. Forgiveness isn&rsquo;t always easy, but it&rsquo;s one of the most powerful ways to strengthen a marriage. In this episode, we explore what forgiveness really is (and isn&rsquo;t), why it&rsquo;s vital for lasting love, and how practicing it can lead to healing, trust, and deeper connection.
WHAT YOU&rsquo;LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE
<ul>
<li>Why forgiveness plays such a big role in happy, lasting marriages</li>
<li>What forgiveness truly means from both a biblical and relational perspective</li>
<li>Three things forgiveness is not and why those distinctions matter</li>
<li>How to navigate the process of forgiving when it still hurts</li>
<li>Practical ways to rebuild trust after forgiveness</li>
<li> How to think like a forgiving person and create a culture of grace in your marriage</li>
</ul>
KEY TAKEAWAYS
<ul>
<li>Forgiveness is a process, not a one-time decision.</li>
<li>Forgiveness doesn&rsquo;t erase responsibility or instantly restore trust.</li>
<li>Choosing to forgive frees your heart from bitterness and opens space for connection.</li>
<li>Repair&mdash;not just resolution&mdash;is what rebuilds intimacy after conflict.</li>
<li>Thinking like a forgiver starts by asking God to help you see your spouse through His eyes.</li>
</ul>
US TIME CHALLENGE
This week&rsquo;s challenge is to think about how you think. When your spouse does something that frustrates or hurts you, pause and ask yourself: Am I thinking like a forgiver or like a victim? Invite God to reshape your thoughts, helping you move toward grace and understanding.
STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST
<ul>
<li>Follow Ashleigh: Instagram @teamuspodcast | Facebook @ashleighslaterauthor</li>
<li>Subscribe to Team Us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen so you don&rsquo;t miss an episode.</li>
<li>Join our community: Get updates, resources, and encouragement for your marriage by signing up for Ashleigh&rsquo;s weekly email newsletter at AshleighSlater.com.</li>
</ul>
LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;How Forgiveness Can Transform Your Marriage&rdquo; by the Gottman Institute (<a href="https://www.gottman.com/blog/forgiveness-can-transform-marriage/">https://www.gottman.com/blog/forgiveness-can-transform-marriage/</a>)</li>
<li>&ldquo;Real Answers to Real Relationship Questions&rdquo; from Chad Moore at Sun Valley Community Church (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exzwsCITlVM">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exzwsCITlVM</a>)</li>
<li>&ldquo;What the Bible Really Says About Love&rdquo; from Chad Moore at Sun Valley Community Church (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQSMJWhRNFo">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQSMJWhRNFo</a>)</li>
<li>&ldquo;What forgiveness is not: 5 common misconceptions&rdquo; by Laura Petherbridge (<a href="https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/content/what-forgiveness-is-not-5-common-misconceptions">https://www.focusonthefamily.ca/content/what-forgiveness-is-not-5-common-misconceptions</a>)</li>
<li>&ldquo;The Art of Repair: Transforming Conflict Into Closeness&rdquo; by Greg Smalley (<a href="https://www.klove.com/resources/life/the-art-of-repair-transforming-conflict-into-closeness-11585">https://www.klove.com/resources/life/the-art-of-repair-transforming-conflict-into-closeness-11585</a>)</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Why Forgiveness Is Key to a Happier Marriage

The holidays can sometimes feel overwhelming. Between all of the shopping, decorating, and events, it’s easy for us as couples to stay busy without really connecting. In this episode, we share ten fun and affordable holiday date ideas to help you slow down, laugh together, and enjoy the season as a team. You’ll hear creative ways to make time for each other and find joy in everyday moments.

 KEY TAKEAWAYS
The holidays don’t have to be stressful or expensive to be meaningful.
Simple, shared experiences can bring you closer together.
Making time for each other is one of the best gifts you can give this season.

US TIME CHALLENGE

Come up with a holiday date idea of your own—something simple that fits you as a couple—and make it happen. Then share it with us at AshleighSlater.com or on social media! We’d love to hear how you’re making time for each other this Christmas.

STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST
Follow Ashleigh: Instagram @teamuspodcast | Facebook @ashleighslaterauthor
Subscribe to Team Us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen so you don’t miss an episode.
Join our community: Get updates, resources, and encouragement for your marriage by signing up for Ashleigh’s weekly email newsletter at AshleighSlater.com.

TEAM US RESOURCES
Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/)
FREE Team Us Study Guide (https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/)

 

The holidays can sometimes feel overwhelming. Between all of the shopping, decorating, and events, it&rsquo;s easy for us as couples to stay busy without really connecting. In this episode, we share ten fun and affordable holiday date ideas to help you slow down, laugh together, and enjoy the season as a team. You&rsquo;ll hear creative ways to make time for each other and find joy in everyday moments.
&nbsp;KEY TAKEAWAYS
<ul>
<li>The holidays don&rsquo;t have to be stressful or expensive to be meaningful.</li>
<li>Simple, shared experiences can bring you closer together.</li>
<li>Making time for each other is one of the best gifts you can give this season.</li>
</ul>
US TIME CHALLENGE
Come up with a holiday date idea of your own&mdash;something simple that fits you as a couple&mdash;and make it happen. Then share it with us at AshleighSlater.com or on social media! We&rsquo;d love to hear how you&rsquo;re making time for each other this Christmas.
STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST
<ul>
<li>Follow Ashleigh: Instagram @teamuspodcast | Facebook @ashleighslaterauthor</li>
<li>Subscribe to Team Us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen so you don&rsquo;t miss an episode.</li>
<li>Join our community: Get updates, resources, and encouragement for your marriage by signing up for Ashleigh&rsquo;s weekly email newsletter at AshleighSlater.com.</li>
</ul>
TEAM US RESOURCES
<ul>
<li>Team Us: The Unifying Power of Grace, Commitment, and Cooperation in Marriage (<a href="https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/">https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/</a>)</li>
<li>FREE Team Us Study Guide (<a href="https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/">https://ashleighslater.com/team-us/free-team-us-study-guide/</a>)</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;

Why Saying "I'm Sorry" Feels So Hard and How to Get It Right

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