What if one of the most powerful tools for improving your relationship was already happening every month—just largely misunderstood? In this eye-opening episode of Marriage IQ, we sit down with mental health therapist and hormone cycle specialist Shera Jackson Harper to unpack the emotional, mental, and relational impact of the female hormone cycle.

From the quiet clarity of the menstrual phase to the radiant energy of ovulation and the problem-solving drive of the luteal phase, Shara explains how shifting hormones influence mood, motivation, sex drive, and communication—and why most couples are missing the cues.

We dive into:

When to have deep conversations (and when not to)

How to align intimacy with changing desires using a “sex menu”

Practical ways partners can support each other through the ups and downs

How to transform postpartum hormone shifts from frustration to teamwork

This episode will help you replace confusion with connection and frustration with empathy. It’s not about fixing hormones—it’s about learning to flow with them, together.

We made it—Marriage IQ turns one! And what a year it’s been.

In this special anniversary episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on everything we’ve learned (and fumbled through) during our first year of podcasting together. From unexpected challenges to unforgettable wins, we’re getting real about what it takes to build a podcast—and a stronger marriage—one episode at a time.

• Expectation vs. Reality: The truth about starting a podcast—hidden costs, time commitments, and the steep learning curve of content creation and tech trouble.

• Top Episodes + Listener Insights: Curious which topics hit home? We’re sharing your favorite episodes and a peek at our audience’s age, location, and listening habits.

• Marriage Meets the Mic: How vulnerability, authenticity, and real-life storytelling became the heart of what we do—and why we chose a broader vision than just talking about sex.

• Behind-the-Scenes Bloopers: Tech fails, awkward edits, and the unscripted moments that made us laugh (and grow).

• How Podcasting Changed Our Marriage:

  • It exposed weak spots we didn’t know were there

  • Taught us new ways to collaborate

  • Brought us closer through the work of talking it out, on and off mic

• What’s Next: Our biggest lessons, our hopes for the future.

💛 Whether you’re a long-time listener or brand new to Marriage IQ, this episode is a celebration of connection, curiosity, and the courage it takes to keep growing—together.

🎁 Don’t miss our anniversary giveaway! We’ve got something special to thank you for growing with us this year.

In this enlightening episode of Marriage IQ, Dr. Jeff Hill, a family finance researcher, and his wife, Tammy, a therapist and sex educator, join us to share their expertise about sex and money in marriage.

Dr. Jeff Hill uncovers surprising truths about how money impacts marriage—and it’s not about how much you make:

• Why financial stress is the real relationship killer, not your income level

• How transparent financial practices, like joint accounts, can create unity

• The dangers of "financial infidelity" and how to protect your relationship from it

Tammy Hill reveals her "Replenishment Model" for sexual intimacy—showing couples how to:

• Shift from goal-oriented sex to nurturing deep emotional and physical connection

• Cultivate a state of ongoing arousal and connection that sustains throughout life

• Apply practical tips to bring mindfulness and presence into your intimate experiences

• Open, honest conversations about money and sex

• Setting shared goals and working as a team to achieve them

• Creating generosity, trust, and unity in every aspect of your relationship

This episode isn't just about the practicalities of money and sex—it’s about helping you build a more connected, generous, and fulfilled marriage. If you want to transform the foundation of your relationship, this is the conversation you’ve been waiting for.