Why Conflict Is Not the Enemy of a Healthy Marriage | Guest: Dr. Sharon Hart-May

Welcome to the very first episode of the Marriage on the Daily with Julie B podcast, a show created to give couples in their first 10 years of marriage practical tools and real encouragement for building a healthy marriage. In this debut episode, host Julie B sits down with marriage and family expert Dr. Sharon Hart May, founder of Safe Haven Relationship Center and a pioneer of marriage intensives. Together, they tackle one of the most common myths newly married couples believe: if you marry the right person, you should not have conflict. Julie and Sharon unpack why conflict is not the enemy of marriage and how learning to argue well can actually strengthen connection. They explore how differences in personality, preferences, and expectations show up in everyday life, from chores, schedules and hobbies to finances and communication. You will hear practical insight on how conflict can either build intimacy or quietly erode it, depending on how couples respond. This conversation offers wisdom on staying connected during disagreements, avoiding harmful patterns like criticism and character attacks, and protecting the marriage bond as a safe haven. Sharon shares actionable guidance on how couples can focus on what truly matters, navigate differences without fear, and build rhythms that support teamwork instead of resentment. If you are newly married or simply want to grow in emotional maturity, communication, and connection, this episode sets the foundation for what Marriage on the Daily is all about. Because it is not the grand gestures that shape your marriage most, it is what you do on the daily.