Episode 157 - The Silent Killer of Marriage: Busyness, Margin, and Mission Together
December 2, 2025 • Derek Davidson, Gabrielle McCullough, Scott Kedersha • Genesis 2:25, Ephesians 5:15–17, Romans 12:1–2, Matthew 16:25
Busyness may look normal, but it’s quietly draining your marriage emotionally, physically, spiritually, and sexually. In this episode, Scott, Derek, and Gabrielle unpack why most of our busyness is a choice, how to discern when to say yes or no, and practical ways to create margin, live on mission, and protect what matters most at home.
Scriptures:
Romans 12:1-2
Ephesians 5:15-17
Matthew 16:25
Genesis 2:25
Questions to Discuss:
1. What are some of the reasons you and your spouse are overly busy in your lives and schedule?
2. What is the cost of your busyness to your marriage and family? (i.e., health, money, intimacy)
3. Which of your current commitments are true needs and which are really choices that reflect your lifestyle preferences or fear of missing out?
4. Who in your community group or trusted circle needs to speak into your level of busyness and help you evaluate your commitments?
Resources:
Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-41-why-busyness-might-destroy-your-marriage/id1667102563?i=1000626790196 - Why Busyness Might Destroy Your Marriage (feat. Gary Thomas)
Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-31-too-busy-to-get-busy-part-2-of-3-in/id1667102563?i=1000618456551 - Too Busy to Get Busy (Part 2 of 3 in a series on marital intimacy)
Book - https://www.amazon.com/emotionally-healthy-spirituality-impossible-spiritually/dp/0310348498/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1dh13rm0lnxvy&dib=eyj2ijoimsj9.qp6wzttnvvpbb66bak0qhhbwrtckvjqlehv-aclfbneyvibqr9-16na8iqldfzvpjpsdmpfdq3mwtetgmvij3xktsyz_fqesebw5xzsx3kyswsuier0hgtgwbnyo-pbhhjlceibnigxmjre8ea0qc0t1szywfvfpzenenzhqhhefntb5ewiovknpr5afsvbwyrnb9dv1jzyqdvlz5bexbconfw7nmwtqdednbmiu_sm.rtui2fagavyhs0zob8b9q13z3hyzzwhlct6cnag2rss&dib_tag=se&keywords=emotionally+healthy+spirituality&qid=1763934173&sprefix=emotionall%2caps%2c163&sr=8-1 by Peter Scazzero
Book - https://www.amazon.com/practicing-way-jesus-become-like/dp/0593193822/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=utf8&dib_tag=author&dib=eyj2ijoimsj9.kag1dgznr7vojahakwqrrpx-j6ccmifdllmrhvb8bujt5rwaicujsftmprxummlq4lh5gxntcy5vhtvor7cbzghohx7bkalyz7ycb9gifi62j26-ponowf2b7_x0344k_lagjodxrzgvdcv5rzodxeubapi6cqjyck6obuu80ohhfkipvhshwu91azcnwshxhlyyorxr3vgfurpfkqm9vmcdrq0ey02djvzedttff0c.-munj-fuf6b-zj2h2iuqypor1qju_iyuiqbjutp6xka, by John Mark Comer
Episode 348: Seeing the Supernatural (feat. Lee Strobel)
December 1, 2025 • Jonathan Pokluda, Kathy Davidson, Nate Hilgenkamp
We have a conversation with Lee Strobel about the evidence for supernatural things. God will work to bring joy to the angry heart, and even visions of Heaven to the dying. God is living and active and there is proof for it!
He Is With Us and Yet to Come
November 30, 2025 • Jonathan Pokluda • Matthew 1:22–23, Isaiah 9:2, Luke 1:78–79, Haggai 2:7, Isaiah 7:14
Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:22–23, Isaiah 9:2, Luke 1: 78–79, Haggai 2:7, Isaiah 2:4, and Ephesians 2:14–17
Jesus has already come, He’s with us right now, and yet we still feel the ache of wandering, darkness, and chaos in a world that’s not fully restored. Advent reminds us to hold onto hope in that tension, trusting that the same Jesus who came once will come again to make everything whole.
Jesus is with us in the wandering
Jesus is with us in the darkness
Jesus is with us in the chaos
Life Group Discussion:
How does remembering Jesus’ first coming give you confidence and hope while you wait for His return?
What kinds of darkness, personally or in the world, make you long for Jesus’ light the most?
What would it look like for you to “wait, watch, and hope” for Jesus in the middle of the chaos you’re experiencing right now?
Episode 156 - Five Priorities for a Faithful Marriage (Inspired by Dr. Gary Chapman)
November 25, 2025 • Derek Davidson, Gabrielle McCullough, Scott Kedersha • 2 Corinthians 5:18, Matthew 6:33, Matthew 22:37–40, Proverbs 4:23, Psalm 127:2
In this episode of More Than Roommates, Derek, Gabrielle, and Scott share five priorities that shape a faithful life and marriage, drawing insight from Dr. Gary Chapman’s long obedience in the same direction. They walk through what it looks like to keep Jesus first, prioritize your spouse and kids, live on mission together, and aim to finish faithful to the very end.
Questions to Discuss:
1. Who was your favorite teacher when you were growing up? Share with your spouse.
2. What does look like to be faithful for you right now in your current season of life?
3. When you look at your current rhythms, what (honestly) seems like your true first priority—Jesus, marriage, kids, work, comfort, or something else?
4. Which of the five priorities (Jesus, spouse, kids, mission, finishing faithful) do you sense the Lord highlighting most strongly for this season?
Scriptures:
MT 6:33
MT 22:37-40
PR 4:23
PS 127:3
2 Corinthians 5:18
Hebrews 12:1-2
2 Cor 4:2
Resources
Book - https://www.amazon.com/love-languages-secret-that-lasts/dp/080241270x/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=utf8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyj2ijoimsj9.meeluacpu9pbspr3cmlrvwrxv0ovhhtwpk3scsptcwuvne1dg70pudwaclrzzhpqlrfspqsymw8qk06provwyzglckovaxpjnyykqlbhnhwivchw-jq11itfyc81jzqg7uqcuwgaybuqt2gptg0hdj5f-ibsndpqxztp_kr8ock3-lk-kr9bx9leylvb3zjapgd3jasb7bxgvd30hgendf_jkbiuyhn6qxa4ennvhq79pd6e5ucf1oee1gczmiabomsd70i7-z3pjsemdrrmf4vkschrl0fpdzuqwelrjt0.9p6uwpahebyozretkruuvd0oeoxgff8w-pda57kko-0&qid=1763651288&sr=8-2, by Gary Chapman
Episode 347: Sleep, Alcohol, Food, and Your Brain (feat. Dr. Amen)
November 24, 2025 • Jonathan Pokluda, Kathy Davidson, Nate Hilgenkamp
In this episode we talk with world renown Brain expert, Dr. Amen. He gives insights on how to live in a way that your brain will like! Healthy brains lead to healthier lives!
Who is a Good Disciple?
November 23, 2025 • Jonathan Pokluda • Galatians 6
JP compared spiritual growth to physical therapy, most of us “get by” but don’t put in the work to get healthy. Galatians 6 shows what real disciples do: help others, confront sin, stay in the Spirit, and keep showing up. The ideal follower of Jesus prioritizes Him above everything else.
Deliver the distressed
Improve without comparison
Support the mission
Confront sin
Influenced by The Spirit
Persevere in discipleship
Love all people, especially those here
Exalt Christ alone
Life Group Discussion:
How do you balance helping others without taking on their burdens entirely?
What habits or practices help you focus on your own growth?
How can confronting sin bring freedom instead of guilt?
Episode 155 - More Blessed to Give: Learning to Be a Generous Couple
November 18, 2025 • Derek Davidson, Gabrielle McCullough, Scott Kedersha • 2 Corinthians 9:6–7, 1 Timothy 5:8, Luke 21:1–4, Acts 20:35
In this episode of More Than Roommates, Scott, Derek, and Gabrielle talk about what it looks like for couples to pursue generosity together—especially when fear, comparison, or family history make giving hard. They unpack biblical principles, personal stories, and practical ideas to help you build a thoughtful, cheerful, and faith-filled approach to money in your marriage.
Scriptures:
Luke 21:1-4
Acts 20:35
2 Corinthians 9:6-7
1 Tim 5:8
Questions to Discuss:
1. What keeps you from being generous with your finances as a couple?
2. When you think about being generous, what emotion rises up first—excitement or anxiety? Why do you think that is?
3. What will you and your spouse do if you differ in your views on generosity?
4. Where do you see a lack of faith showing up in how you handle money? Are you tempted to find security in a savings account more than in God’s provision?
Episode 346: Am I Doing Enough for God?
November 17, 2025 • Jonathan Pokluda, Kathy Davidson, Nate Hilgenkamp
In this episode we talk about the pressure of doing all of the right things in our relationship with God. How do we know if we are praying or reading the Bible enough? If you struggle with feeling guilt, this episode is for you!
Who is Leading You?
November 16, 2025 • Nate Hilgenkamp • Galatians 5:16–26
Nate reminded us that we’re all being led by something, and following the flesh only leads to anxiety, chaos, and ultimately destruction. But when we choose to walk with the Spirit, He grows real fruit in us, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Real change doesn’t happen overnight, but through daily steps of surrender as God builds roots that eventually produce fruit.
The Spirit and the flesh are in conflict
Acts of the flesh lead to death
Walking with the spirit leads to fruit
Life Group Discussion:
Where do you most feel the “tug-of-war” between what your flesh wants and what the Spirit wants?
When you look at the list of “acts of the flesh,” which ones tend to show up in your life, and how do they impact you?
Nate said spiritual growth is often slow, like the bamboo tree building roots. Where do you think God might be growing “roots” in you right now?
Episode 154 - Youth Sports Without Losing Your Marriage (feat. Ed Uszynski & Brian Smith)
November 11, 2025 • Brian Smith, Ed Uszynski, Scott Kedersha • Romans 12:1–2
In this episode of More Than Roommates, Scott and Derek interview authors of the book Away Game and longtime sport-ministry leaders Ed Uszynski and Brian Smith to help couples reframe youth sports as a discipleship opportunity instead of an all-consuming lifestyle. They unpack how to make thoughtful choices about Sundays, money, travel, and expectations—all for the sake of your marriage and your kids’ formation.
Scriptures:
Romans 12:1-2
Hebrews 10:24-25
PR 22:6
Questions to Discuss:
1. When we leave a game, what do we celebrate first—performance or character (effort, joy, self-control, love)? What does that reveal about our priorities?
2. Which fruit of the Spirit do we want to cultivate most in our family through sports this month? What’s one habit to reinforce it (before, during, and after games)?
3. Money & time check: Are our sports expenses and calendar aligned with our values for marriage, family, generosity, and rest? What needs adjusting?
4. Expectations audit: Are we subtly tying our child’s performance to our identity? How can we speak freedom and grace over them—and each other—this week?
Resources:
Book - https://www.amazon.com/away-game-christian-parents-navigating/dp/0830788360/ref=sr_1_1?crid=39hh556xozr9k&dib=eyj2ijoimsj9.dt7_x629qzrtnumk7ylb8_xckd7qaswwq7nzch9nhkube0obgrkufbsgrbyg284hvmzgddoacp5zglp-c9x_lx51sh3ab_kq72uafvzva6skops60cdlchonrbicuxs5wddheormcjifgjjiymrbd54f1xjkgwp9mdvx1phga3akbrhnwt31l72qs-35ovlo_c4go1cq0b468oa7lpl7yr1g8moyvhxrixnol9pex0u.orxmy9ngenir0mqwguptwvarcte5ujnhl-u5fmghnek&dib_tag=se&keywords=away+game&qid=1762116720&sprefix=away+game%2caps%2c182&sr=8-1, by Brian Smith & Ed Uszynski
Website - https://www.thechristianathlete.com/
Follow https://www.instagram.com/brianlinsey/ and https://www.instagram.com/euszynski/ on Instagram
Episode 345: Creating Real Community
November 10, 2025 • Jonathan Pokluda, Kathy Davidson, Nate Hilgenkamp
What happens if you have friends, but may not really feel like you have genuine community? In this episode we talk about how to create deep relationships with the people around you. It may be simpler than you realize!
The Only Way to Win the Prize
November 9, 2025 • Nate Hilgenkamp • Galatians 5:2–15
Nate shared how he got scammed chasing a “free trip to Hawaii,” comparing it to how the Galatians were tricked into thinking they had to earn God’s approval. Paul reminds us there’s only one way to true freedom, trusting Jesus, who already paid our debt. When we grasp that, we stop striving and start loving others out of gratitude.
There is only one way to pay for freedom
There are many distractions to keep us enslaved
Love is the only way to respond to freedom
Life Group Discussion:
Nate compared good works to worthless currency. What are some “currencies” you find yourself trying to use to earn God’s love?
How can you tell the difference between a good thing that’s from God and a distraction that keeps you stuck?
Who in your life could experience God’s love through your actions this week?
Episode 153 - What Every Married Couple Needs to Know About Going to Church Together
In this episode of More Than Roommates, Gabrielle, Derek, and Scott discuss non-negotiables, preferences, wise process, and why commitment to a local body is essential for your spiritual growth and your marriage. They discuss what to do when you and your spouse don’t see eye-to-eye.
Scriptures:
Hebrews 10:23-25
Acts 2:42-47
1 Corinthians 12
Romans 12
PS 19:14
Questions to Discuss:
1. What are our top five non-negotiables for a church? Where are we currently aligned—and where are we not?
2. How are we currently using our gifts to build up the body (1 Cor 12; Rom 12)? What’s one next step we can take to use our gifts?
3. If we’re considering a change, have we fasted, prayed, and invited community/leadership into the decision?
4. What past church experiences (good or painful) might be shaping our expectations today?
Resources:
https://www.amazon.com/sacred-pathways-nine-ways-connect/dp/0310361176/ref=pd_lpo_d_sccl_1/139-7843981-3700009?pd_rd_w=mfa7i&content-id=amzn1.sym.4c8c52db-06f8-4e42-8e56-912796f2ea6c&pf_rd_p=4c8c52db-06f8-4e42-8e56-912796f2ea6c&pf_rd_r=syzv17n2e1q4w709anfn&pd_rd_wg=c63hp&pd_rd_r=9bcc03d1-ecbb-4fa3-ad54-5af3de3e89e1&pd_rd_i=0310361176&psc=1, by Gary Thomas
Episode 344: Hearing and Obeying the Voice of God (feat. Jamie Winship)
November 3, 2025 • Jonathan Pokluda, Kathy Davidson, Nate Hilgenkamp
In this episode, we conclude our conversation with Jamie Winship. He shares about how he has learned to follow the voice of God in his life. If you’re eager to be challenged in your faith this episode is for you!
Are You a Product of Performance or the Promise
November 2, 2025 • Jonathan Pokluda • Galatians 4:21—5:1
JP reminded us that our hope isn’t in how well we perform for God but in the promise, He’s already kept through Jesus. From Abraham’s story, we see that those who live by performance become slaves to it, but those who trust God’s promise live free. So, stand firm, not in what you can do, but in what Christ has already done for you.
Performers become slaves to performance
People of the promise live free
Stand firm in Christ’s performance
Life Group Discussion:
How have past experiences—like family expectations, school, or church—shaped the way you view performance and worth?
How does trying to control outcomes—like Abraham and Hagar—keep us from trusting God’s promises?
What are some ways you’re tempted to rely on your own effort instead of Christ’s finished work?
Episode 152 - 5 Daily Conversations That Build Oneness
In this episode of More Than Roommates, Derek, Gabrielle, and Scott discuss some conversations couples that strengthen oneness every day. Couples won’t find the satisfaction, joy, and happiness they desire apart from intentional conversations with one another.
Scriptures:
Genesis 2:25
Galatians 6:2
1 Peter 5:7
Psalm 55:22
Psalm 139:14
Deut 31:6
Phil 4:8
Questions to Discuss:
1. Which one of you is more of the talker in your relationship/marriage?
2. On a scale of 1–10, how would you rate our marriage this week—and why?
3. What are you currently into (Scripture insight, song, show, book, podcast) and why does it resonate?
4. Share one future hope or dream—how might God use us there?
5. What one small daily or weekly rhythm would help us keep these five conversations going?
Resources:
Article - https://www.cnbc.com/2025/08/17/psychologist-people-in-the-happiest-relationships-talk-about-5-things-every-day.html
One of Scott’s favorite Instagram followers - https://www.instagram.com/everydaywithhk/
Episode 343: Who are you, really? (Feat. Jamie Winship)
October 27, 2025 • Jonathan Pokluda, Kathy Davidson, Nate Hilgenkamp
In this episode we talk to Jamie Winship about finding our true identity. Many of us have lived for decades without actually understanding who God says we are. We are all unique creations of God and He has a special role for each of us!
Turning Back or Turning to Christ
October 26, 2025 • John Elmore • Galatians 4:8–20
John Elmore teaches from Galatians 4:8–20 that we all face a daily choice: turn back to old habits and empty religion or turn toward Jesus. Real change doesn’t come from checking spiritual boxes but from knowing Christ and letting others call us back when we drift. The people and influences in our lives are shaping us, so choose the ones that lead you closer to Jesus, not back to bondage.
What are you tempted to turn back to?
Do you resent those who call you to repent?
Are your influences zealous for Christ?
Life Group Discussion:
Have you ever found yourself doing a lot for God but drifting from a real relationship with God? What did that look like?
Who in your life loves you enough to tell you the truth when you’re drifting, and do you listen to them?
What voices, environments, or habits are currently shaping who you are becoming, music, friends, social media, podcasts, culture?
Episode 151 - Four Marriage Trends You Can’t Ignore in 2025
In this episode of More Than Roommates, Derek, Gabrielle, and Scott unpack four marriage trends—crisis of resilience, digital disconnect, financial anxiety, and blurred lines between work and home—and offer practical ways to push back with biblical wisdom. We hope this episode helps you move from “roommates” to a joy-filled, God-honoring marriage.
Scriptures:
1 Cor 7:28
John 16:33
MT 7:24-27
Col 3:23
1 Cor 10:31
Jeremiah 17:5-8
Questions to Discuss:
1. Where have we expected marriage to be “easy,” and how can we build grit (perseverance + hope) together this month?
2. What are our top two phone/tech boundaries for date nights, evenings, and weekends? (Be specific: chargers, baskets, Focus modes, no-phone zones.)
3. What’s driving our financial anxiety—math, lifestyle, or comparison? What’s one action we’ll take this week (budget meeting, cut a subscription, set a savings/giving goal)?
4. How are our work/home lines blurred right now? Name one habit to protect family time (e.g., no email after 6pm, a daily shutdown ritual, office hours).
Resources:
https://www.ramseysolutions.com/money/financial-peace?srsltid=afmboooplklxoncahd8gjj2whqubxwtdti90i1ffvs0htclm9ayjd_pg
Episode 342: Should Christians Celebrate Halloween?
October 20, 2025 • Jonathan Pokluda, Kathy Davidson, Nate Hilgenkamp
Is there a way to celebrate Halloween in a way that honors God? Or are we overthinking it entirely? Check out this episode for more!
Who We Are to God Impacts Our Access
October 19, 2025 • Jonathan Pokluda • Galatians 4:1–7
Without Christ we were slaves, trying to earn God’s approval, but Jesus redeemed us and adopted us as sons and daughters. Now we don’t come to God by fear or performance, we come as family. Through the Holy Spirit, we get to enjoy access to our Father.
Without access to the Father, we are slaves
The Son has given us access through adoption
The Spirit enables us to enjoy our access
Life Group Discussion:
Where do you personally feel tempted to drift back into “slave mentality” in your walk with God?
What experiences with earthly fathers or authority figures might affect how you view God as Father?
What does it practically look like to enjoy God instead of just obeying Him from obligation?
