What if everything you thought you knew about respect in marriage was wrong?
In this episode, we’re breaking the old myths wide open and redefining what respect truly means between spouses—and it’s more powerful (and practical) than you might think.
In “Let’s Talk About R-E-S-P-E-C-T” (MOG Episode #78), hosts Evan and Susan Money take you on a transformative journey to reshape your understanding of respect within marriage. Inspired by insights from Tim Ruffalovich, this episode dives deep into how respect isn’t something that can be demanded or handed out—it must be earned through intentional, consistent action.
Through their signature warmth and real-life anecdotes, Evan and Susan unpack their own unique acronym for RESPECT, offering you a fresh, actionable framework:
- R: Relate – Go beyond surface-level connection. Learn your partner’s love language, personality type, and strengths. And don’t forget: No one is a mind reader!
- E: Emotional Connection – Make intentional space to share and listen, even in life’s chaos. Discover the power of “couch dates” and genuine, agenda-free presence.
- S: Spiritual Growth – Lead by example in your faith journey and let your actions (not nagging) speak volumes.
- P: Physical Touch (Non-Sexual) – Bring back affectionate, non-sexual touch and ask your spouse how they want to be touched. Affection isn’t just for newlyweds!
- E: Encourage – Find out how your partner wants to be cheered on, and learn why praising the change you wish to see works better than nagging or “informing.”
- C: Consistency – Moody mates make for murky waters; consistency fuels trust. Learn strategies to keep negativity in check and fuel positive habits.
- T: Truth in Love (to Your Mate & Yourself) – Embrace self-awareness and honest conversations, and leave the masks behind for true depth and transparency.
Key Highlights:
- Why respect cannot be forced—and what truly earns it in marriage
- How understanding your partner’s unique wiring transforms closeness
- The secret to relating better: genuinely sharing what’s on your mind, rather than expecting psychic powers
- Fresh ideas for connecting emotionally—even in a packed schedule
- The role of spirituality (and why leading by example grows both partners)
- Debunking physical affection myths that sabotage intimacy
- The counterintuitive magic of encouraging what you want, not criticizing what you dislike
- How to handle moodiness, inconsistency, and ways to reset after slip-ups
- The importance of truth-telling, both with your spouse and with yourself for growth and healing
For more tools, inspiration, and to follow their journey to 100 weddings, be sure to check out marriageofgreatness.com and find Marriage of Greatness on Instagram.
Subscribe, listen in, and start raising the bar in YOUR relationship—respect isn’t a finish line…it’s a daily choice.
Timestamped Overview
00:00 "Marriage and Respect Insights"
03:51 "Understand Love Languages"
09:14 Improving Marital Communication
12:05 "Creating Space for Connection"
16:08 "Spiritual Growth by Example"
19:45 "Respectful Touch in Relationships"
20:34 Consent and Comfort in Touch
25:51 Consistency Empowers Personal Growth
26:56 Truth in Love: Self-Reflection
32:02 Be a Truth Teller
34:23 From Honesty to Transparency
37:02 "Marriage of Greatness Podcast"
