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Family Brand: Take Back Your Family

We at Family Brand want to raise a war cry to families everywhere. Now is the time to TAKE BACK YOUR FAMILY. Develop a family culture where relationships last, and each member of the family is seen and valued for who they are. It is absolutely possible to raise a family today without fear of the future. Define who you are as a family, and what you stand for. Stop looking at the future with fear and uncertainty and start looking forward with a possibility of more. More love. More joy. More connection. More resolve. The world needs strong families now more than ever. Let us show you how.

Latest Episodes:

246. The Family Brand New Year's Kickoff: How We End the Year on Purpose Dec 19, 2025

Show notes

The Family Brand New Year's Kickoff: A Tradition That Builds Culture

Every year, right after Christmas — during those quiet, in-between days when no one quite knows what day it is — our family slows down and does something that has become one of our most meaningful traditions.

We reflect. We celebrate. And we intentionally step into the new year together.

In this solo episode, Melissa walks you through the Family Brand New Year's Kickoff, a simple, free activity that hundreds of families download every year — and come back to again and again. This year's version has been fully updated, and families continue to share how impactful it's been, from sparking meaningful conversations to even becoming the moment they announced a new baby to their kids.

Melissa explains why reflection matters just as much as goal-setting, and how looking back before looking forward helps families build clarity, gratitude, and momentum. She shares how to use the reflection questions with kids of all ages (even toddlers), how to keep the process light and pressure-free, and why there's no "right" way to do this — just a way that works for your family.

She also breaks down two of the most loved parts of the kickoff:

Choosing a family word (or phrase) for the year — a shared language that shapes how your family shows up
The annual Family Award Ceremony — a powerful moment where each child (and spouse!) is recognized not for achievements, but for who they are and how they showed up

Melissa shares a deeply touching story about a family friend whose son, now leaving on a two-year mission, named this New Year's award ceremony as one of his favorite family memories — a reminder that these small traditions often leave the biggest impact.

Finally, she walks through how they create vision boards as a family, why perfection isn't the goal, and shares a beautiful personal story about a vision board image that unexpectedly showed up for her on a bridge in Spain — a moment that felt like a quiet wink from God.

This episode is an invitation to slow down, reflect, and start the year with intention — not pressure. You don't need a perfect plan. You just need a moment to pause and ask: Who do we want to be this year, together?

LINKS:

All Links Family Brand!

Links For This Episode:

https://familybrand.com/kickoff

Episode Minute By Minute:

01:20 – Introducing the Family Brand New Year's Kickoff
02:30 – Why reflection is often skipped (and why it matters)
03:30 – How the reflection questions work
04:30 – Keeping it light and pressure-free for kids
05:30 – Adapting the activity for younger children
06:30 – Using everyday moments (car rides, walks) for reflection
07:30 – Choosing a family word or phrase for the year
08:45 – Shared language and building family culture
10:00 – The Family Award Ceremony explained
11:15 – Why awards are about who they are, not what they did
12:15 – A powerful story about a son leaving on a mission
13:30 – Vision boards: why they matter
14:45 – How to make vision boards simple and fun
16:00 – Encouraging kids without forcing perfection
17:00 – Melissa's vision board story from Spain
19:30 – Feeling seen, aligned, and intentional
20:45 – Don't forget to honor your spouse
21:45 – Where to download the kickoff + how to share
22:45 – Final encouragement for the new year

245. Language Creates: How the Words You Use Shape Your Life and Family Dec 12, 2025

Show notes

As we head into a new year, Chris and Melissa wanted to revisit a conversation that has quietly shaped their family more than almost anything else: the power of language.

This idea — that language creates — was one of the very first topics ever discussed on The Family Brand Podcast, and it's still one of the most talked-about episodes to this day. Because once you see it, you can't unsee it.

In this episode, Chris explains why language is never neutral. The words we use are either rooted in possibility or anchored in limitation — and over time, they shape our beliefs, our behaviors, our marriages, our kids, and even what we believe is possible for our lives.

Melissa shares real-life moments where she's seen language create identity — including a powerful story about how a single sentence labeled one of their children as "shy," and how quickly that label became part of his self-story. Together, they unpack how easily we talk ourselves out of what we want by using phrases like "I should," "I need to," or "that could never work."

They also explore how we often spend far more energy talking about what we don't want, don't like, don't have, or what isn't working — and how simply shifting our language can begin to change how life occurs for us. From an Uber conversation about health, to a heartbreaking post about a mother who hadn't seen her daughter in 14 years, this episode brings the concept of language into everyday life.

This isn't about toxic positivity or pretending things are perfect. It's about awareness. It's about noticing the words you use — with yourself, with your spouse, and with your kids — and asking whether they're creating freedom or reinforcing fear.

As Chris says, "If you upgrade your language, you upgrade your life." And as a family, that's a powerful place to start.

LINKS:

All Links Family Brand!

Episode Minute By Minute:

00:00 – Holiday season, basketball season, and family life right now
01:45 – Why this conversation matters heading into a new year
02:30 – Revisiting one of the most impactful Family Brand episodes ever
03:10 – "Language creates" — what that actually means
04:10 – Words create either possibility or limitation
05:10 – How language shapes the culture of your home
06:00 – The Uber story: "I should go to the gym"
07:40 – Anchored in limitation vs. rooted in possibility
08:40 – Why guilt and shame don't create change
10:10 – The four language traps: don't want, don't have, don't like, isn't working
11:30 – Shifting energy toward what does work
13:10 – A heartbreaking story about language and impossibility
15:00 – Declaring what you want — then ripping the seed out
16:30 – Why staying limited feels safer than change
18:20 – Language creates identity (the "shy" story)
20:00 – How parents unintentionally label their kids
21:45 – Upgrading language without guilt or pressure
23:10 – Social media, negativity, and reinforcing limitation
24:30 – A simple experiment: change your language for one week
25:45 – Helping your kids shift language without correcting them
26:45 – Final takeaway: talk about what works
27:20 – Family Brand Quiz + free PDF invitation

244. Chief Reminding Officer: Why Great Leaders Repeat Themselves Dec 05, 2025

Show notes

Chief Reminding Officer: The Power of Repetition in Your Family

If you've ever felt like a broken record as a parent — constantly reminding your kids (or yourself) of the same things over and over — this episode will make you feel a whole lot better.

This week, Chris and Melissa talk about something they've been feeling in both their home and business lately: that quiet drift that happens when you stop doing the simple things that actually work. The routines that keep your house running. The systems that make your marriage stronger. The habits that help your family thrive.

And the truth they came back to? Most families don't need a brand-new plan… they just need to remember the one they already have.

Chris shares a conversation that pushed him to revisit Excellence Wins by Horst Schulze, the cofounder of the Ritz-Carlton. One line jumped off the page:

"Great leaders are really just Chief Reminding Officers."

At the Ritz, they review the same guiding principles every 21 days — not because people don't know them, but because repetition is what keeps a culture alive.

As Chris and Melissa talk through examples from their own home, you'll hear how easy it is to slip into "sloppy" seasons — dishes piling up, routines disappearing, date nights pushed aside. Not because something is wrong… but because we forget what works.

Melissa shares why repetition used to feel boring to her — and how she learned to see it as one of the most loving, grounding things you can do for your family. When you remind your kids who they are, remind your spouse what your marriage is about, or remind yourself what your family values… you're strengthening your culture every single time.

This episode will make you feel encouraged, not overwhelmed. You'll walk away remembering that you don't need to reinvent your life — you probably already have the tools, rhythms, and values that work. You just need to return to them, repeat them, and keep reminding the people you love most.

LINKS:

All Links Family Brand!

Episode Minute By Minute:

00:00 – Recap: Family Brand Blitz and 20th anniversary reflections
01:30 – Introducing today's topic: becoming the Chief Reminding Officer
02:00 – Why repetition and reinforcement are underrated leadership traits
03:00 – The "authentic conversation" that sparked this episode
04:00 – Lessons from Excellence Wins and the Ritz Carlton's 21 rules
05:30 – "Ladies and gentlemen serving ladies and gentlemen" — defining culture
06:30 – Why repetition sustains identity better than constant reinvention
08:00 – Applying business lessons to family life
09:00 – How Family Brand uses corporate exercises to shape home culture
10:00 – Responding to the "we need something new" mindset
11:30 – The real fix for "sloppiness" in teams and families
12:30 – Why date nights and routines matter more than new ideas
13:30 – How small sacrifices lead to peace and structure
14:30 – The "Family Works When…" and "Marriage Works When…" exercise
15:30 – Writing down what makes your family thrive
16:30 – Reinforcing vs. reinventing: the real job of leadership
17:00 – Melissa's insight: learning to love the act of reminding
18:00 – Final takeaway: stop fighting repetition — embrace it as the path to peace

243. How to Raise More Free-Range, Confident, and Adventurous Kids Nov 28, 2025

Show notes

Have you ever caught yourself saying "no" to your kids' adventures out of pure instinct — only to wonder later if maybe the risk was worth it? In this episode, Chris and Melissa talk about how they're learning to raise kids who are more confident, capable, and adventurous by saying yes a little more often.

The idea started after Melissa read The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt — a powerful book that explores how modern parenting and constant digital connection have created more anxious, less independent kids. Together, they reflect on how the shift from outdoor play to screens has changed childhood, and what parents can do to reclaim freedom and resilience for their kids.

They share personal stories from their own family — like letting their teenage son navigate New York City solo, their kids exploring Paris and Croatia by themselves, and their 10-year-old's first bike ride to school (which included a coyote sighting and a dog chase). Each story carries the same theme: that a little bit of risk, independence, and real-world adventure is not just okay — it's essential.

Chris and Melissa also discuss how media consumption has shaped our fears, why the world may not actually be more dangerous than it used to be, and how giving kids appropriate autonomy builds courage and confidence. They tackle the smartphone dilemma too — why they're rethinking when their kids get phones, and what it means to trade "connection" for constant anxiety.

This episode will inspire you to loosen the reins just a bit, trust your kids more, and rediscover the joy of letting them learn through life — not just lectures. As Chris puts it, "Adventure builds confidence. Confidence builds courage. And courage builds character."

LINKS:

All Links Family Brand!

Links For This Episode:

https://www.anxiousgeneration.com

Episode Minute By Minute:

00:00 – The inspiration behind today's topic: The Anxious Generation
01:00 – Introducing the Family Brand Croatia Cruise (June 20–27!)
03:00 – Letting their 17-year-old explore New York City alone
05:00 – How independence builds confidence and perspective
06:00 – Kids navigating Paris, Croatia, and new cities on their own
08:00 – The 10-year-old's first solo bike ride (and wild encounters)
10:00 – How small risks create big growth and resilience
11:00 – Is the world really more dangerous than it used to be?
12:00 – The role media plays in fueling parental anxiety
13:00 – What The Anxious Generation teaches about freedom vs. fear
15:00 – Revisiting your family's smartphone rules
16:00 – Chris's powerful analogy: "Would you pay for your child's destruction?"
17:00 – The Harvard study on boredom and why it's good for kids
18:00 – Rediscovering stillness and creative thought
19:00 – Building community around shared parenting values
20:00 – Changing the narrative: why "different" is good
21:00 – Rewriting your family's agreements — it's never too late
22:00 – Holiday reflections: gifts that inspire adventure, not anxiety

242. Faith, Family, and the Songs That Heal: A Conversation with Angie Killian Nov 14, 2025

Show notes

Making Jesus Famous One Song at a Time with Angie Killian

This week, Melissa sits down with award-winning songwriter and composer Angie Killian, whose music has touched millions of hearts around the world. Angie's songs — like her viral hit "My Own Sacred Grove" — have been streamed over 30 million times and translated into dozens of languages, inspiring faith, joy, and connection in homes everywhere.

But Angie's story didn't start with fame or recognition. It began in the quiet moments of motherhood — rocking a newborn in the middle of the night, wrestling with exhaustion and postpartum depression, and hearing a simple melody that became her lifeline. That small spark of light led Angie to write songs for her children about Jesus, love, and hope — songs that would eventually bless families all over the world.

Melissa and Angie dive deep into the power of music — especially for children. Angie shares how melodies and lyrics can plant truth deep in a child's heart and why music is one of the most powerful tools parents can use to teach faith. She offers practical ideas for families who want to bring more music into their homes — from listening in the car to singing together at bedtime or joining a local children's choir.

They also explore what it looks like to balance motherhood and creative callings. Angie opens up about the guilt she once felt spending time on her music instead of chores or endless to-do lists — and how she came to realize that pursuing her God-given gifts made her a more joyful, grounded mom.

From writing songs during nap times to her new preschool project Tiny Disciple Songs, Angie's story is a powerful reminder that light often breaks through in unexpected places — and that creativity, faith, and motherhood can coexist beautifully.

LINKS:

All Links Family Brand!

Episode Minute By Minute:

00:00 – Introduction: Melissa shares how she discovered Angie's music
02:00 – The piano over countertops story: a mom's early sacrifice for music
04:00 – How a sleepless night sparked Angie's songwriting journey
06:00 – Writing songs for her children through postpartum depression
08:00 – Learning the craft of songwriting and sharing vulnerable work
10:00 – How music shaped her family life — and how her kids now sing with her
13:00 – The joy of raising musical children and creating together
14:30 – Why children's songs hold unique power for faith and memory
16:00 – Practical ways to use music as a spiritual teaching tool in your home
18:00 – Finding balance between sports, choir, and faith-based activities
20:00 – The rise of Christian music in the mainstream (and why it matters)
23:00 – CCM vs. Worship: understanding modern Christian music
24:00 – Angie's favorite songs and how "I Am Thankful" came to life
25:00 – "Making Jesus Famous" — her mission behind the music
27:00 – The miracle behind My Own Sacred Grove and trusting God's timing
30:00 – Navigating creativity, family, and guilt as a mom
32:00 – Why pursuing your calling makes you a better parent
33:00 – What's next: Holy Road, Wonderfully Made, and Tiny Disciple Songs
35:00 – Final thoughts and Melissa's reflections on using music to teach faith

241. Living with Intention: The Daily Habits That Build a Life You Love Nov 07, 2025

Show notes

Living with Intention: The Daily Habits That Build a Life You Love

This week, Melissa continues the conversation from Episode 239 — The #1 Thing Standing Between You and the Life You Want — where she shared the importance of getting clear on what you want. Now, in Part Two, she goes deeper into what to do once you've found that clarity, and how to live with intention even in the middle of life's stress, chaos, and constant demands.

Click here to listen to part one on Apple!

Click here to listen and read on our website!

In this episode, Melissa shares insights from a workshop she recently gave to women at her church about living intentionally and managing the mental load that comes with modern life. She explains what "intentional living" really means — making choices based on your values and goals instead of defaulting to busyness or comparison — and walks through a practical exercise you can do right now: asking yourself, What do I really want?

She guides listeners through a journaling activity that reveals recurring themes, hidden desires, and areas where you might need more clarity. Then, she moves into the second half of the conversation — managing stress in real life. From a day spent painting with her kids that turned chaotic to simple strategies for lowering stress hormones like dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin, Melissa shows that living intentionally doesn't mean living perfectly — it means noticing what's working and making small, conscious adjustments.

She also highlights one of the most underused yet powerful tools for reducing anxiety and increasing self-awareness: journaling. Melissa shares research showing its benefits and how writing down what's in your head — no matter how messy — can be both healing and clarifying.

This episode is a gentle, encouraging reminder that you don't have to overhaul your life to live more intentionally. Sometimes it's as simple as pausing, reflecting, and asking: What's one thing I can do today to move closer to the life I truly want?

LINKS:

All Links Family Brand!

Episode Minute By Minute:

00:00 – Welcome to Part Two of the Living with Intention series
01:00 – Why this episode stands alone but connects to clarity (Part One)
02:00 – What intentional living actually means — and what it doesn't
03:30 – Knowing what you want and living in alignment with it
05:00 – Why this question — "What do I want?" — keeps showing up
06:30 – The writing exercise: ask yourself the question seven times
08:00 – Identifying patterns and themes in your answers
09:00 – How clarity leads to alignment and purpose
10:00 – Transition: managing the mental load of daily life
11:00 – The painting story — and how "small stress" still adds up
12:30 – The four happiness chemicals and how to activate them
13:30 – Dopamine: reward yourself and celebrate small wins
14:00 – Oxytocin: connection through touch, kindness, and service
14:30 – Serotonin: stability through sun, nature, and mindfulness
15:00 – Endorphins: joy through laughter, movement, and music
16:00 – The surprising science behind journaling and stress relief
17:30 – Why journaling is powerful — and why we often avoid it
19:00 – How confronting your thoughts can lead to healing
20:00 – Creating your personal plan of action
21:00 – One small step toward more peace and less stress
22:00 – Closing encouragement: be still, do what brings you joy, and live with intention

243. You Are What You Consume: How Media Shapes Your Family Oct 31, 2025

Show notes

You Are What You Consume: How Media Shapes Your Family

What we watch, listen to, and read matters more than we realize. In this episode, Chris and Melissa open a conversation that every family needs to have: how the media we consume — from music and books to shows and social media — shapes who we become.

It all started with a walk and a conversation about Taylor Swift's latest album, but the discussion quickly turned into something much deeper: how to discern light from darkness in a world full of noise, artificial positivity, and subtle influence. Chris shares the idea of hidden darkness — how things that appear good on the surface can sometimes carry messages that slowly erode our values. Melissa adds practical examples from their own family, from karaoke songs that sounded fun until the lyrics popped up on the screen, to noticing mood and behavior shifts in their kids after certain music or books.

They discuss everything from letting kids read Harry Potter too early, to streaming algorithms that quietly shape what we watch, to the way humor and sarcasm in "innocent" family sitcoms can normalize disrespect and contention. Chris and Melissa don't pretend to have it all figured out — in fact, they share openly how they're still navigating this as parents. But they emphasize one thing: the goal isn't perfection, it's vigilance.

The takeaway? Be intentional and stay vigilant. Pay attention to what you — and your kids — are consuming. Ask whether it elevates and inspires, or subtly dulls your light. Because as Melissa reminds us, "That's who we become."

LINKS:

All Links Family Brand!

Episode Minute By Minute:

00:00 – Family Brand Blitz retreat reminder
02:00 – The Taylor Swift album conversation that sparked this episode
04:00 – "Light or darkness?" — Chris on hidden darkness and artificial light
06:00 – How small influences add up: the justification trap
08:00 – The Pink Pony Club karaoke story (and what it revealed)
10:00 – Joy vs. artificial light — how to discern the difference
11:30 – What happens when your child falls asleep to the wrong playlist
13:00 – How books, music, and media can shift behavior
15:00 – The Harry Potter moment: knowing when your kids are ready
17:00 – Recognizing subtle influences in "family" shows
18:30 – Modeling behavior and what kids learn from on-screen families
20:00 – The danger of "it's not that bad"
21:00 – The justification test: if you're defending it, it's worth questioning
22:00 – Artists who choose light over fame — Forest Frank's example
23:30 – Using your family values as a filter for what you consume
24:00 – The Family Brand lens: "Does this elevate and inspire?"

242. Building Family Identity Through Dia De Los Muertos Oct 24, 2025

Show notes

How to Celebrate Dia De Los Muertos as a Family (and Why You Should)

Every year around this time, Chris and Melissa share one of their favorite family traditions — celebrating Dia De Los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. What started years ago as an invitation to a friend's backyard gathering has turned into a cherished Family Brand tradition that connects their kids to their heritage in the most fun and meaningful way.

In this episode, Chris and Melissa unpack why Dia De Los Muertos is so powerful, how it has evolved in their home, and why they believe every family can benefit from celebrating it — no matter your background. Far beyond face paint or costumes, this holiday is about remembering those who came before us, honoring their legacy, and helping our children understand where they come from.

Melissa shares research from the article "The Stories That Bind Us," which reveals that kids who know about their family history are more resilient, grounded, and confident. Chris adds that Dia De Los Muertos has become their built-in reminder each year to tell those stories, building both identity and belonging for their children.

They walk through practical ways to celebrate — from hosting a full neighborhood party with a food potluck and an ofrenda (altar) to something as simple as sharing popcorn and stories about a grandparent at home. Whether you want to go all-out or keep it small, this episode will leave you inspired to make it your own and create a tradition that helps your family feel more connected, seen, and rooted.

LINKS:

All Links Family Brand!

Links For This Episode:

Movie- Disney's 'Coco': https://movies.disney.com/coco
Article - "The Stories that Bind Us" by Bruce Feiler: https://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/17/fashion/the-family-stories-that-bind-us-this-life.html
Dia De Los Muertos Invitation: https://www.canva.com/design/DAFQjqjuXGo/N4wG0U-JXTTSBCdohrtjUw/edit?utm_content=DAFQjqjuXGo&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton

Episode Minute By Minute:

00:00 – Intro: Why Dia De Los Muertos matters to the Family Brand
01:00 – What is Dia De Los Muertos and how the Pages started celebrating
02:00 – The meaning behind the holiday: honoring heritage and ancestors
03:00 – The science of family history: "The Stories That Bind Us" study
04:00 – Why knowing family stories builds resilience and identity in kids
05:00 – How Chris and Melissa adapted the tradition for their own family
06:00 – Hosting your first Dia De Los Muertos gathering
07:00 – Setting up an ofrenda like in the movie Coco
08:00 – Bringing food that represents your family's heritage
09:00 – Inviting kids to share stories about relatives and ancestors
10:00 – Why storytelling and tradition make this night unforgettable
11:00 – Making it simple: popcorn, photos, and one meaningful story
12:00 – Turning small moments into powerful family connections
13:00 – Creative ideas: Canva invites, neighborhood gatherings, or movie nights

241. Why Unity Starts at Home: Building Strong Families in a Divided World Oct 17, 2025

Show notes

Creating Unity in a Divided World

In this powerful and emotional episode, Chris and Melissa explore one of the most timely and important topics of our day — unity. The world feels more divided than ever, and yet, as Chris and Melissa remind us, the healing of that division starts at home.

Drawing inspiration from past guests like Connor Boyack and Bubba Page, and from recent events in their faith community, Chris and Melissa discuss what it means to "save America at the dinner table." They share how strong, connected, unified families raise strong, confident kids who bring peace and leadership into the world — and how that ripple of unity begins with the way we talk to each other at home.

They also reflect on the late President Russell M. Nelson's message, "Peacemakers Needed," and how we can apply it in our homes. From resisting anger and contention to learning the art of response over reaction, the episode dives deep into what real peace looks like in practice — even when it's hard.

Chris and Melissa open up about their own marriage and parenting journey, from moments of frustration to raising kids who make their own decisions. They discuss what it means to love your children — and one another — through disagreement and imperfection, reminding listeners that there's no such thing as a perfect family, only families committed to growing together.

With stories ranging from spiritual reflection to a fun nod to Bob Marley's "One Love," this conversation is both sobering and hopeful. It's an invitation to look inward, lead your family with compassion, and become a peacemaker — one conversation, one dinner table, and one act of love at a time.

LINKS:

All Links Family Brand!

Links For This Episode:

Article- "Peacemakers Needed" by Russell M. Nelson: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2023/04/47nelson?lang=eng
Thomas McConkie on the Family Brand Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/51-finding-identity-through-navigating-a-faith/id1536495798?i=1000540847056

Episode Minute By Minute:

00:00 – Introduction: Why unity matters more than ever 01:00 – "Saving America at the dinner table" — what that really means 02:00 – Division in the world and how it mirrors our homes 04:00 – Honoring President Russell M. Nelson and his message "Peacemakers Needed" 06:00 – "Anger never persuades, hostility builds no one" — lessons from faith 08:00 – How to respond instead of react: the braided whip story 10:00 – Social media, contention, and how to model peace 12:00 – The Michigan tragedy and practicing compassion online 14:00 – Raising kids who make their own choices — and loving them through it 16:00 – When children disappoint us and how to respond with unity 18:00 – The dangers of polarization and division inside families 20:00 – How to foster unity when your kids feel pressure to "look perfect" 21:00 – Creating stillness and listening for divine inspiration in your parenting 22:00 – The power of asking guiding questions like "Will this create more peace?" 24:00 – Modeling respectful disagreement for your kids 25:00 – Leadership lessons from President Nelson and his counselors 26:00 – Why true courage looks like peacemaking, not fighting 27:00 – Bob Marley, "One Love," and finding examples of real-world unity 28:00 – Closing thoughts: how to be a unifier in your home and beyond

240. How to Support Your Spouse Through Every Season of Marriage Oct 10, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Chris and Melissa get real about what it means to truly support your spouse—not just when it's easy, but through every season of life and marriage.

Inspired by a listener question, they dive into what support actually looks like when your goals, energy, and responsibilities are constantly shifting. From the early days of raising five kids under nine to their current phase of parenting more independent children, they reflect on how their definition of support has evolved — and how communication has been the key at every step.

Chris shares a powerful mindset shift: that supporting your spouse isn't just something nice to do, it's part of the commitment of marriage — a responsibility to breathe life into each other's dreams. Melissa opens up about learning to ask for help (and release the guilt around it), while Chris admits the times he didn't show up as fully as he could have.

They talk about everything from balancing business and family life, to handling burnout and travel seasons, to how "leaving each other alone" can sometimes be the best form of support. Through honesty and humor, they show that the healthiest marriages don't avoid conflict — they communicate through it.

Whether you're newlyweds or empty nesters, this episode is full of practical wisdom, grace, and laughter. You'll walk away encouraged to check in with your spouse, redefine what support looks like in your current season, and remember that you're on the same team — even when life feels messy.

LINKS:

All Links Family Brand!

Episode Minute By Minute:

00:00 – Welcome + Family Brand Blitz retreat details
02:00 – Listener question: how do you support your spouse's goals?
03:00 – Chris's shift from "it's her responsibility" to "it's my privilege"
05:00 – How support changes with each season of marriage
07:00 – Supporting each other through early parenting years
09:00 – Asking for help and releasing the guilt
11:00 – The danger of "you should just know" in marriage
13:00 – Roping, hobbies, and finding balance in personal passions
15:00 – Learning to let go of scorekeeping and resentment
17:00 – Getting clear on what you want instead of complaining
18:00 – Different definitions of support (even when it's takeout for dinner!)
20:00 – Communication as the foundation for support
23:00 – The power of challenge: pushing your spouse to grow
25:00 – Melissa calling Chris out on chasing others' dreams
27:00 – Investing in each other's dreams and identities
29:00 – Navigating travel seasons and defining family goals together
31:00 – How alignment and communication make everything easier
33:00 – Why date night is key for staying connected
34:00 – Support vs. complaining: use your energy for creation, not criticism
35:00 – Final thoughts and encouragement to support each other better

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