A Letter to the Wife Wanting a Marriage That Lasts a Lifetime // Kathryn Whitaker

In this third episode of the Letters to Wives season, my guest is Kathryn Whitaker. She’s been married to her husband, Scott, for almost thirty years. We’re talking about the advice she wishes she would go back and give herself, how hard seasons have impacted her marriage, and what she’s looking forward to in her marriage as her kids all grow up and leave the house. 

She’s also giving her advice on how to disagree with your spouse in a way that still honors them and your marriage, as well as when and how to reach out to a good marriage therapist for help healing your marriage. 

So, if you’re looking for advice and encouragement when it comes to building a marriage that not only lasts, but is truly joyful, life-giving, and authentic, sister, this letter is for you.

Topics we cover:

• Kathryn’s story as a Catholic woman

• The advice Kathryn would give to herself at the beginning of her relationship

• How a 44 day NICU stay imploded Kathryn’s marriage and how she and Scott have found healing

• How to make time to connect with your spouse so you don’t wake up twenty years from now realizing you don’t know your spouse

• Knowing when you need the help of a marriage therapist and what to do if your spouse isn’t interested in therapy together

• Three ways to work through disagreements in a way that honors your spouse and your marriage together

• What Kathryn is looking forward to in this next season of her marriage as her kids head off to college

• How Kathryn lives out the feminine genius in her ordinary, daily life as a wife

Resources for you:

• Check out Kathryn’s book, Live Big, Love Bigger

• Visit Kathryn’s website

• Listen to Kathryn’s radio show and NICU support podcast

• Follow Kathryn on Instagram

• Subscribe to Naptime Notes and get early, ad free access to all the Letters to Women episodes for just $5 a month

Discussion questions:

1. As you reflect on your own marriage, what are some things about your spouse, yourself, and your marriage that you’ve learned along the way?
   

2. How can you make time to connect with your spouse if you’re in a busy season of life?
   

3. When you disagree with your husband, do you handle the conflict in a way that honors your spouse and your marriage? If not, what changes can you make the next time an argument arises?
   

4. What are you looking forward to in this current season of your marriage?