Simply RelationalWelcome 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.

]]>en-usfalseDarran Crager and Dr. Shelly Cragerhttps://cragerministries.com/Darran and Shelly Cragerauthordlcrager@gmail.comepisodicDarran Crager and Dr Shelly CragerKeeping the Momentum: Five Rhythms That Prevent DriftkCPKFQ-0aTue, 25 Aug 2026 07:00:00 GMT1597https://cragerministries.com/falseRediscover 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 daily with small, intentional acts
  • The difference between meaningful conversation and simple information exchange
  • Steps to repair before resentment builds, including the 4 Rs of healthy repair
  • Why laughing often together matters and how to make fun a priority
  • Ways to pursue Christ together as the foundation for all other rhythms




Find out how strong your marriage is. Take our Marriage Quiz at www.cragerministries.com.

Parenting Pause download: www.pauseparentingtool.com.

]]>9Warning Signs of Drifing in Your Marriage3IlX5zbErTue, 18 Aug 2026 07:00:00 GMT1107https://cragerministries.com/falseAre 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 distractions take priority over your relationship
  • The first alarming sign: you stop pursuing each other
  • How a lack of meaningful conversation signals trouble
  • The critical mistake of not noticing each other and allowing small issues to pile up
  • Why failing to repair hurts can create distance you didn't see coming




Find out how strong your marriage is. Take our Marriage Quiz at www.cragerministries.com.

Parenting Pause download: www.pauseparentingtool.com.

]]>8The Secret To Raising Wise Decision-Makers6RnI_FCk8Tue, 11 Aug 2026 07:03:00 GMT1573https://cragerministries.com/false



Find out how strong your marriage is. Take our Marriage Quiz at www.cragerministries.com.

]]>7Discipline Training Hearts, Not Controlling Behaviort5uGu_bNhTue, 04 Aug 2026 07:00:00 GMT1534https://cragerministries.com/falseIn 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 purpose of discipline matters more than the method (spanking, timeouts, etc)
  • The difference between biblical and cultural definitions of discipline
  • How generational approaches to discipline have shifted over time
  • Understanding and applying consequences that connect to your child's growth
  • The dangers of frustration-driven punishment and permissive gentle parenting




Find out how strong your marriage is. Take our Marriage Quiz at www.cragerministries.com.

]]>6Parenting Wisdom Why Connection Is the Key to Correction1b4wMKiTXTue, 28 Jul 2026 07:32:00 GMT1665https://cragerministries.com/falseIn this episode of Simply Relational, the focus returns to parenting with practical strategies rooted in biblical principles. Discover actionable steps to improve discipline and strengthen your relationship with your children.

·        Why cultivating roots is more important than focusing on "fruit" in biblical parenting

·        The real meaning of "connection before correction" and why it matters

·        Common discipline pitfalls like yelling and humiliation—and why they don't work

·        A simple three-step process: pause, connect, correct

·        How offering acceptable choices empowers children and prevents power struggles



Find out how strong your marriage is. Take our Marriage Quiz at www.cragerministries.com.

]]>5Growing Strong Roots Raising Children Who Bare Good Fruit0AgmyHNA6Tue, 21 Jul 2026 07:32:00 GMT1431https://cragerministries.com/falseUnlock practical biblical wisdom for parenting in today's world. Learn why growing strong roots matters more than perfect apples.

·        Why parents are overwhelmed by conflicting advice

·        The apple tree analogy for parenting and what truly matters

·        The difference between stewardship and ownership of children

·        How to help kids grow through struggles, not just escape them

·        The biblical foundation for building resilient, principled kids




Find out how strong your marriage is. Take our Marriage Quiz at www.cragerministries.com.

]]>4From Me to We Building Lasting Connection in Your Marriage4bxeajOMzTue, 14 Jul 2026 07:33:00 GMT1488https://cragerministries.com/falseDiscover how the baggage you bring into marriage shapes your relationship dynamic. Learn practical tips to move from “me” to “we” for a stronger, more connected partnership.

  • Why unresolved personal baggage impacts marriages for years
  • The “marriage suitcase” analogy and what you’re really carrying into your relationship
  • How family backgrounds influence conflict styles and communication
  • The danger of focusing on your partner’s flaws instead of strengths
  • Concrete steps and tools, like the marriage quiz, to help unpack issues and build unity



Find out how strong your marriage is. Take our Marriage Quiz at www.cragerministries.com.

]]>3The Myth of Balance Why Equal Isn't Biblical 2uEHND5VvTue, 07 Jul 2026 07:07:00 GMT1305https://cragerministries.com/falseAre you struggling to find balance in your relationships? This episode challenges the common myth of balance and reveals a more effective, biblical approach to priorities.

·        Why the idea of "finding balance" is misleading and damaging

·        The importance of establishing order, not equality, in your relationships

·        A practical visual using your hand to remember relationship priorities

·        How misplaced priorities impact marriage, parenting, and personal well-being

·        The scriptural foundation for putting God first and how it changes everything




Find out how strong your marriage is. Take our Marriage Quiz at www.cragerministries.com.

]]>2When Priorities Shift EverythingYv2d7QSAETue, 30 Jun 2026 08:28:00 GMT1055https://cragerministries.com/falseKick off your journey to stronger relationships with Dr. Shelly Crager and her husband as they share real-life examples and practical advice. In this episode, learn how your priorities shape your life and discover simple tools for lasting connection.


  • The importance of keeping your relationship priorities in order
  • Real-life stories on balancing marriage, parenting, and personal identity
  • The impact of mentorship and coaching in family life
  • Why your time, energy, and resources reveal your true priorities
  • A practical “stone” of wisdom to apply immediately to your relationships



Find out how strong your marriage is. Take our Marriage Quiz at www.cragerministries.com.

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