What does real healing look like after betrayal—and who walks with you when the shock wears off and the long road begins?

In this episode of The Redeemed Marriage Podcast, Rusty and Heather sit down with Pennye Dees, the woman who stepped into Heather’s life just days after her confession of infidelity. Pennye shares her story, her calling, and why she believes deeply in walking with people patiently, faithfully, and over the long haul.

The conversation explores the earliest days after betrayal, what mattered most spiritually and emotionally, and why true healing requires more than quick fixes. Pennye offers wisdom for betraying spouses who want to do the right thing but feel overwhelmed, as well as for betrayed spouses who are trying to discern whether real heart change is taking place.

Listeners will gain clarity around questions many couples quietly wrestle with: What does true repentance look like beyond words? How can someone tell if a heart is genuinely turning toward Jesus rather than simply seeking relief from consequences? What signs point to lasting transformation instead of temporary behavior change?

The episode also casts vision for the often-overlooked gift of mentoring. Pennye explains why mentors are so critical during seasons of crisis and healing, what they provide that even well-meaning friends or pastors may not, and how to begin seeking that kind of support.

For couples in crisis, in recovery, or simply longing for deeper discipleship and accountability, this episode offers hope, wisdom, and a clear reminder that healing was never meant to be done alone.

In this lighthearted and completely unscripted Christmas episode, Rusty and Heather shake things up with a game that was not planned and definitely not rehearsed. Heather presses play on a Christmas song and without warning, Rusty races to guess the title, and then—on the spot—has to turn that song into real, practical marriage advice. No notes. No preparation. Just quick thinking, honest insight, and a lot of laughter.

What unfolds is a mix of singing, playful pressure, and surprisingly meaningful moments as familiar Christmas songs spark unexpected conversations about love, connection, and what really matters in marriage. The advice isn’t polished or prepackaged—it’s raw, spontaneous, and rooted in real life.

This episode is a reminder that marriage growth doesn’t always have to be heavy to be helpful. Sometimes the best wisdom shows up when guards are down, expectations are low, and joy leads the way. If you’re looking for encouragement, laughs, and a fresh way to think about your marriage during the Christmas season, this one delivers.

The Redeemed Marriage Website

The Christmas season is full—but marriage still matters.

In this episode, Rusty and Heather take a lighter turn and talk about the importance of intentional fun, laughter, and making memories with your spouse, especially during the busy holiday season. When life feels full, connection doesn’t happen by accident—and sometimes the best thing a marriage needs is simply time to enjoy each other again.

They share why creating space for fun dates and shared experiences can strengthen a relationship and highlight their 12 Dates of Christmas resource—simple, meaningful date ideas designed to help couples be intentional and reconnect during the season.

They also introduce a playful resource called Missed Call From Santa, a fun way to surprise a spouse or children with a personalized message that brings laughter and joy into the home.

For couples feeling stretched thin this Christmas, this episode is an invitation to slow down, be intentional, and choose connection—one date, one laugh, and one memory at a time.

12 MORE! Dates of Christmas FREE Download

Missed Call From Santa