Good Enough Living: Recent Episodes
Dr. John L. Cox
Good Enough Living podcast is about marriage, kids and growth - for normal people. You know, those of us who try real hard, but still screw it up!? Basically, GEL is a collection of seminars, talks and conferences by clinical psychologist, Dr. John L. Cox. Cox has been an outpatient psychologist for 30 years and has been doing conferences around the country for most of that time. This podcast is a collection of those conferences and talks. Tune in for how to make sense of your romantic relationship, your kids, and even issues like depression and dealing with jerky people. It's a good podcast...well, it's Good Enough.
A lot changes when our kids aren't kids anymore. In this episode, we explore the shifting relational dynamics that happen between grown kids and their parents—as children become adults—and even parents themselves. Especially for empty nesters and grandparents, this presentation with Q and A offers clarity, humor, and practical wisdom for navigating the parent/child/adult transition and building strong, life-giving new kinds of relationships in this new season.
A weekend parenting conference applicable to all ages of children. Talks include an overview of the "Big Picture" of parenting, a guide to the strategic discipline, and an exploration of how to best show love to our kids at different ages. Q and A with the group is also included.
A weekend parenting conference applicable to all ages of children. Talks include an overview of the "Big Picture" of parenting, a guide to the strategic discipline, and an exploration of how to best show love to our kids at different ages. Q and A with the group is also included.
A weekend parenting conference applicable to all ages of children. Talks include an overview of the "Big Picture" of parenting, a guide to the strategic discipline, and an exploration of how to best show love to our kids at different ages. Q and A with the group is also included.
A weekend parenting conference applicable to all ages of children. Talks include an overview of the "Big Picture" of parenting, a guide to the strategic discipline, and an exploration of how to best show love to our kids at different ages. Q and A with the group is also included.
A weekend parenting conference applicable to all ages of children. Talks include an overview of the "Big Picture" of parenting, a guide to the strategic discipline, and an exploration of how to best show love to our kids at different ages. Q and A with the group is also included.
In this sermon, Dr. John Cox explores the blessed friendship between God and Moses. Listen and learn how Moses' closeness to God and advocacy for his people points us to the overwhelming gift of the true advocate, Jesus Christ.
A two-part podcast in which Dr. Cox applies what he has observed in his clinical work to how we can better understand sin and find better traction in our growth to be more Christlike.
A two-part podcast in which Dr. Cox applies what he has observed in his clinical work to how we can better understand sin and find better traction in our growth to be more Christlike.
A conference exploring what kinds of things get in the way of our having safe, meaningful relationships in the church as God's people. We also ask what it looks like practically to be becoming more loving and lifegiving to each other.
A conference exploring what kinds of things get in the way of our having safe, meaningful relationships in the church as God's people. We also ask what it looks like practically to be becoming more loving and lifegiving to each other.
A conference exploring what kinds of things get in the way of our having safe, meaningful relationships in the church as God's people. We also ask what it looks like practically to be becoming more loving and lifegiving to each other.
A conference exploring what kinds of things get in the way of our having safe, meaningful relationships in the church as God's people. We also ask what it looks like practically to be becoming more loving and lifegiving to each other.
Dr. John Cox explores the complexities of conflict resolution in marriage, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, addressing hurt, and fostering understanding between partners. He introduces the concept of a win-win approach to conflicts, advocating for mutual respect and commitment in resolving issues. He explores various aspects of relationships, including psychological insights, the importance of repentance in marriage, managing anger in parenting, and the role of shame and forgiveness. Ultimately, this session encourages growth, curiosity, and a deeper understanding of oneself and one's partner.
00:00 Introduction and Humor in Relationships 02:05 Understanding Conflict in Relationships 06:04 The Dynamics of Fighting 10:07 The Importance of Timeouts 20:06 Self-Reflection and Understanding Triggers 29:46 The Role of Patterns in Conflict Resolution 34:09 Confronting Ourselves: The Journey Within 34:37 Addressing Hurt: The Key to Healing 37:01 Understanding and Validation: Healing Through Connection 45:07 The Win-Win Approach: Solving Conflicts Together 52:13 Creating a Safe Space: The Covenant of Marriage 01:03:08 Understanding Psychological Insights in Relationships 01:05:29 Navigating Marital Challenges and Repentance 01:07:37 Managing Anger and Conflict in Parenting 01:10:24 Forgiveness and Overcoming Shame 01:11:31 The Role of Emotions in Child Development 01:15:25 Conflict Resolution and Emotional Awareness 01:18:20 The Importance of Timeouts in Conflict 01:21:21 Balancing Abiding and Task-Oriented Personalities 01:33:50 Growth and Curiosity in Marriage
Dr. John Cox addresses the complexities of marriage, emphasizing the importance of intimacy and emotional connection. He discusses the challenges couples face and the necessity of understanding different levels of intimacy. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, he highlights the significance of empathy and communication in fostering a healthy relationship. The conversation also touches on the connection between intimacy and sexuality, and the need for couples to engage in life together to maintain their bond. In this conversation, Dr. Cox explores the complexities of intimacy and connection in marriage, emphasizing the importance of understanding emotional dynamics and the cyclical nature of relationship issues. He discusses the different emotional orientations of partners, the significance of being 'with' each other in times of need, and practical strategies for improving communication and connection. The conversation highlights the necessity of community support in marriage and the importance of recognizing that emotional needs should not solely be met by one's spouse.
In this marriage conference, Dr. John Cox explores the complexities of marriage, emphasizing the importance of understanding character abilities, emotional connection, and the need for growth rather than blame. The conference aims to provide insights into the core issues that couples face, encouraging them to work together towards mutual growth and understanding. Dr. Cox emphasizes the importance of setting healthy expectations, the role of curiosity in understanding one another, and the necessity of community for personal growth. The discussion also delves into the nature of anger and its roots, encouraging listeners to reflect on their emotional responses and the importance of humility before God.
00:00 Introduction to the Marriage Conference 07:40 Understanding the Core Issues in Marriage 14:15 The Problem of Incomplete Character Abilities 28:04 The Four I's of Marriage: Intimacy, Identity, Mutuality, and Impulses 41:53 Navigating Identity in Relationships 51:12 The Balance of Self and Partnership 01:01:55 Understanding Control and Submission in Marriage 01:07:12 Dealing with Imperfection and Pain 01:24:52 The Healing Power of Grief 01:29:54 Forgiveness and Self-Compassion 01:36:58 Impulse Control and Emotional Management 01:49:30 Embracing Incompleteness and Growth 02:06:28 The Power of Humility in Parenting and Relationships 02:12:52 Understanding and Adjusting Expectations 02:21:01 Finding and Building a Supportive Community 02:27:39 Navigating Emotional Continuums in Relationships 02:39:39 Worship and Humility Before God
In this episode, Dr. Cox explores the overlooked power of sadness as a healing emotion. By distinguishing sadness from other emotions like depression and self-pity, he emphasizes its unique role in facilitating healing and connection with others. Dr. Cox highlights that sadness is not a weakness but a vital part of the healing process, ultimately presenting it as a gift that can lead to deeper understanding and compassion.
In this final session from the 2025 Marriage Conference, Dr. John Cox explores the complex dynamics of forgiveness, particularly in the context of relationships and marriage. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the emotional and relational aspects of forgiveness, distinguishing between repentant and unrepentant individuals, and addressing the challenges that arise when trying to forgive. Dr. Cox discusses the differences between forgiveness and reconciliation, and the role of trust in rebuilding relationships after an injury has occurred.
In the third session of the conference, Dr. John Cox explores the complexities of dealing with difficult people in relationships, particularly in marriage. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the difference between repentant and unrepentant individuals, and how to engage with them effectively. The discussion covers strategies for setting limits, and the significance of addressing the style of communication rather than just the content. Ultimately, Dr. Cox provides practical insights and strategies for navigating these difficult dynamics, ultimately advocating for a redemptive approach to relationships.
In this second talk from the marriage conference, Dr. John Cox discusses the complexities of marriage, emotional needs, and the importance of understanding childhood experiences in shaping adult relationships. He provides insights into how couples can navigate their emotional landscapes to foster healthier connections and personal growth. Dr. Cox also addresses emotional awareness, the challenges of finding energy in difficult times, and the significance of building authentic community.
In this audio from a marriage conference, Dr. John Cox discusses the themes of marriage, emotional intelligence, and the impact of childhood experiences on adult relationships. The discussion covers conflict resolution, forgiveness, and the dynamics of marriage, highlighting the need for emotional maturity and self-awareness. Dr. Cox discusses how unmet emotional needs can lead to conflict and disappointment in relationships, and he provides strategies for recognizing and addressing these issues.
In this presentation to psychology students, Dr. John Cox discusses the intricacies of therapy, emphasizing the importance of understanding human growth and the role of relationships in healing. He critiques the current focus on biological explanations for mental health issues, advocating for a model that prioritizes the heart and relational experiences. Dr. Cox also explores the head-heart gap, the significance of attachment, and how therapy can serve as a structured form of fellowship, ultimately highlighting the need for community in the healing process. The discussion delves into various psychopathologies, including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, highlighting how these issues are often rooted in relational dynamics. Dr. Cox advocates for curiosity in therapy, the balance of love and limits, and the necessity of developing a strong sense of self. He also addresses the challenges faced by teenagers in their quest for autonomy and the importance of learning to navigate pain and loss within relationships. The conversation also explores the dynamics of depression, the necessity of emotional containment, and the role of relationships in healing and personal growth.
Dr. John Cox explores the overarching narrative of salvation as presented in the Bible, emphasizing the continuous thread of God's longing for humanity from creation through The Fall, the covenants with Noah and Abraham, the Exodus, the giving of the law, the establishment of kings, and ultimately the coming of Christ and His resurrection. Each chapter delves into significant events and figures, illustrating God's relentless pursuit of His people and His desire for a restored relationship with them. Purchase The One Story by Dr. Cox here. 00:00 Introduction to The One Story 03:09 The Creation and Fall 06:01 God's Promise of Redemption 08:56 The Flood and God's Covenant with Noah 12:05 The Call of Abraham 14:50 The Sacrifice of Isaac 17:59 The Exodus and God's Deliverance 22:01 The Law and God's Heart 25:54 The Kings and the Prophets 30:00 The Coming of Christ and Fulfillment of Promises 33:10 The Resurrection and Restoration
In this marriage conference, Dr. John Cox explores the complexities of marriage, emphasizing the importance of understanding character abilities, emotional connection, and the need for growth rather than blame. The conference aims to provide insights into the core issues that couples face, encouraging them to work together towards mutual growth and understanding. Dr. Cox emphasizes the importance of setting healthy expectations, the role of curiosity in understanding one another, and the necessity of community for personal growth. The discussion also delves into the nature of anger and its roots, encouraging listeners to reflect on their emotional responses and the importance of humility before God.
00:00 Introduction to the Marriage Conference 07:40 Understanding the Core Issues in Marriage 14:15 The Problem of Incomplete Character Abilities 28:04 The Four I's of Marriage: Intimacy, Identity, Mutuality, and Impulses 41:53 Navigating Identity in Relationships 51:12 The Balance of Self and Partnership 01:01:55 Understanding Control and Submission in Marriage 01:07:12 Dealing with Imperfection and Pain 01:24:52 The Healing Power of Grief 01:29:54 Forgiveness and Self-Compassion 01:36:58 Impulse Control and Emotional Management 01:49:30 Embracing Incompleteness and Growth 02:06:28 The Power of Humility in Parenting and Relationships 02:12:52 Understanding and Adjusting Expectations 02:21:01 Finding and Building a Supportive Community 02:27:39 Navigating Emotional Continuums in Relationships 02:39:39 Worship and Humility Before God
Dr. John Cox explores the themes of leadership and submission within the context of marriage, emphasizing the importance of self-sacrifice, humility, and mutuality. He discusses how loving leadership involves taking the initiative to address issues within the family and creating a safe and healthy culture. Dr. Cox also addresses the different dynamics of controlling and passive spouses, offering insights on how to navigate these challenges. Ultimately, he presents leadership and submission as a choreography of love rather than a hierarchical structure, encouraging couples to seek win-win solutions in their relationships.
In this fourth session from a weekend conference for parents of all ages, Dr. John Cox emphasizes the importance of balancing love and limits. He discusses how to teach children about relationships at different developmental stages, from infancy to adolescence, highlighting the significance of emotional connection, independence, and the role of parents in guiding their children through life's challenges. The conversation provides practical insights into nurturing healthy relationships and fostering resilience in children.
In this third session from a weekend conference for parents of all ages, Dr. John Cox continues to addresse the questions every parent asks as they seek to lovingly raise their children. He emphasizes the need for strategic parenting and provides examples of how to discipline children effectively. Dr. Cox also introduces the concept of teaching discipline and explains how it differs from control and coddling. Listen and find freedom as Dr. Cox teaches that a humble parent is better than a perfect parent.
Dr. John Cox closes out his session with a time of Q and A. Listen and find freedom as Dr. Cox teaches that a humble parent is better than a perfect parent. Questions:
:52 How to work together as parents when one leans more "love" and one leans more "limits"
6:35 What to do if a form of correction works well with one child, but even the mention of it to the second child creates a complete meltdown
14:15 How parents should work through a situation where they disagree on the consequences
22:50 How should parents think about screen time for their kids
In this second session from a weekend conference for parents of all ages, Dr. John Cox addresses the questions every parent asks as they seek to lovingly raise their children. Listen and find freedom as Dr. Cox teaches that a humble parent is better than a perfect parent.
Taken from a weekend conference for parents of all ages, Dr. John Cox addresses the questions every parent asks as they seek to lovingly raise their children. Listen and find freedom as Dr. Cox teaches that a humble parent is better than a perfect parent.
A deeper look at how forgiveness really works. Why can it be so hard to forgive? How do we heal from injuries? When should we forgive and when (maybe) should we not?
How can we engage hurtful, critical, or demanding aspects of our spouses, friends, or family members when they are chronically unkind and don’t seem to care?
All of us come to our romantic relationships with unmet longings or injuries from growing up. Unfortunately we tend to dump these issues in our marriages, and that causes problems. This talk helps make sense of what to do with those unresolved issues together so they don't corrupt your Adult/Adult relationship.
All of us come to our romantic relationships with unmet longings or injuries from growing up. Unfortunately we tend to dump these issues in our marriages, and that causes problems. This talk helps make sense of what to do with those unresolved issues together so they don't corrupt your Adult/Adult relationship.
A weekend parenting conference applicable to all ages of children. Talks include an overview of the "Big Picture" of parenting, a guide to the strategic discipline, and an exploration of how to best show love to our kids at different ages. Q and A with the group is also included.
A weekend parenting conference applicable to all ages of children. Talks include an overview of the "Big Picture" of parenting, a guide to the strategic discipline, and an exploration of how to best show love to our kids at different ages. Q and A with the group is also included.
A weekend parenting conference applicable to all ages of children. Talks include an overview of the "Big Picture" of parenting, a guide to the strategic discipline, and an exploration of how to best show love to our kids at different ages. Q and A with the group is also included.
A weekend parenting conference applicable to all ages of children. Talks include an overview of the "Big Picture" of parenting, a guide to the strategic discipline, and an exploration of how to best show love to our kids at different ages. Q and A with the group is also included.
A weekend parenting conference applicable to all ages of children. Talks include an overview of the "Big Picture" of parenting, a guide to the strategic discipline, and an exploration of how to best show love to our kids at different ages. Q and A with the group is also included.
How does a Christian make sense of depression? How do we find relief? This talk addressed why Christians get depressed, how it relates to our spiritual life, and how we can heal. Issues of despair and suicidal feelings are also addressed.
How does a Christian make sense of depression? How do we find relief? This talk addressed why Christians get depressed, how it relates to our spiritual life, and how we can heal. Issues of despair and suicidal feelings are also addressed.
We hear a lot about forgiveness or turning the other cheek, but sometimes hurtful or jerky people need limits and constraints on how they treat other people. This talk addresses how to be loving AND powerful to protect ourselves as well has how to help difficult people grown.
Forgiveness is a complex and nuanced issue. However, it is usually reduced to simple directives like "Well, you know you should forgive them!" This talk unpacks the complexity of true forgiveness. Why is forgiveness hard? Should you always forgive? What if the perp doesn't care? How do we forgive and resolve the injuries that other people have caused?
All of us come to our romantic relationships with unmet longings or injuries from growing up. Unfortunately we tend to dump these issues in our marriages, and that causes problems. This talk helps make sense of what to do with those unresolved issues together so they don't corrupt your Adult/Adult relationship.
All of us come to our romantic relationships with unmet longings or injuries from growing up. Unfortunately we tend to dump these issues in our marriages, and that causes problems. This talk helps make sense of what to do with those unresolved issues together so they don't corrupt your Adult/Adult relationship.
A weekend conference exploring the dynamics of marriage from a Christian perspective.... for those who are married to "keep" their relationship, and for singles to be better equipped to "find" a healthy marriage.
A weekend conference exploring the dynamics of marriage from a Christian perspective.... for those who are married to "keep" their relationship, and for singles to be better equipped to "find" a healthy marriage.
A weekend conference exploring the dynamics of marriage from a Christian perspective.... for those who are married to "keep" their relationship, and for singles to be better equipped to "find" a healthy marriage.
A weekend conference exploring the dynamics of marriage from a Christian perspective.... for those who are married to "keep" their relationship, and for singles to be better equipped to "find" a healthy marriage.
A weekend conference exploring the dynamics of marriage from a Christian perspective.... for those who are married to "keep" their relationship, and for singles to be better equipped to "find" a healthy marriage.