On this episode of the Grace Fueled Wife, we get to dive into conversations all about marriage, healing, and the power of stories with the exceptional Tracy Johnson. Tracy's work at Restory Counseling inspired me on my own journey to becoming a marriage therapist. She gives us the scoop on what it means to engage our personal stories in marriage and how that can supercharge healing. Tracy shares a deeply moving personal story about the weight of past experiences and the healing power of having someone witness your pain. We then delve into Restory's Year of Good Dates, an awesome tool Tracy's team developed that's all about sparking connection through shared storytelling. Tracy also drops details about what you can expect from the Thrive Marriage Lab, which is like a gym membership for your marriage! This program brings resources, growth opportunities, and a real community spirit straight into your relationship. If you're all about creating a deeper, richer connection in your marriage, this episode is filled with tons of valuable takeaways. Check it out!

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:24 Exploring Your Marriage Story

01:17 Guest Introduction: Tracy Johnson

03:43 Understanding the Role of Family of Origin in Marriage

06:50 Advice for Reengaging a Disengaged Spouse

09:39 The Importance of Self-Awareness in Marriage

11:03 The Role of Loneliness in Marriage

13:34 The Concept of 'ACK': Awareness, Curiosity, Kindness

16:47 A Year of Good Dates: Engaging Each Other's Story

21:24 A Drive to Dairy Queen: A Personal Story

22:43 Understanding the Impact of Past Experiences

23:36 The Power of Witnessing and Understanding

24:29 The Role of Trauma in Relationships

26:58 Choosing to Remember: A Path to Healing

28:26 The Importance of Personal Work in Relationships

30:10 The Power of Story Work and Witnessing

37:22 The Thrive Marriage Lab: A Resource for Couples

40:51 Closing Thoughts and Appreciation

You can find Tracy’s info here:

ReStory Counseling:

• Website: https://www.restory.life
• Facebook: facebook.com/ReStory.Life
• Instagram: @storyrestored

Thrive Marriage Lab:

• Website: https://www.restory.life/thrive CODE: GFW for 20% off!
• FREE 12 Months of Dates: How date nights can lead to connection Subscribe here: www.restory.life/thrive-dates
• How healthy is your marriage? Take our FREE marriage assessment here: https://www.restory.life/marriage-assessment
• Instagram: @ThriveMarriageLab
• Youtube: @ThriveMarriageLab

Wait!!! Before you go!

Here are some ways you can work with me or become a part of my community!

• Schedule a FREE discovery call: https://gracefueledwifecall.gr8.com/
• Become an Insider and get updates on all the podcast news. Gracefueledwifesteps.gr8.com
• Join my community on Facebook - The Grace Fueled Wives Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/GraceFueledWifeCommunity