Podcast
The Connected Life
Hosted by Justin and Abi Stumvoll · EN
The Connected Life is a thought-provoking conversation about all the beautiful and messy ups and downs of life. Join Life Consultants Justin & Abi Stumvoll as they share vulnerable stories and practical wisdom that will lead you on a journey of connecting with yourself, others, and the world right in front of you. Their authentic, no-BS style will make you laugh, challenge you to dig deep, face your fears, and inspire you to love yourself and others more.
23episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
345: When to Lock it Down
Aug 11, 202501:05:31Tap to summarizeChoosing who to commit to isn’t just about attraction or chemistry—it’s about alignment in values, emotional health, and the ability to grow together. But what are the signs that it's time to lock it down? In this episode, Justin and Abi explore the essential markers of a thriving relationship—like emotional resilience, shared core values, the ability to repair after conflict, and a mutual commitment to growth. They share candid stories from their own relationship, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how they navigated misaligned expectations, shifting values, and the fears that come with commitment. If you’ve ever wondered whether your relationship has what it takes to last—or if you’re already married and want to strengthen your foundation—this conversation offers grounded, practical insight to help you evaluate, grow, and build something that can actually go the distance. You can WATCH us at https://www.justinandabi.com/theconnectedlife Don’t forget to RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
Transcribe →344: The Cure to Relationship Drama
Aug 4, 202501:03:23Tap to summarizeMost of us think we’re being observant when we’re really just making snap judgments. Our brains are designed to make quick assumptions—to keep us safe—but in relationships, those assumptions can quietly erode connection. But what if there was a way to promote safety and strengthen the relationship? In this episode, Justin and Abi unpack the power of curiosity as an antidote to relational drama, disconnection, and unspoken resentment. They explore how misunderstandings show up in marriages, friendships, workplaces—even parenting—and how easy it is to misread someone’s actions without ever checking in. Lastly they share how to implement curiosity in ways that are practical and easily doable no matter where you’re at in the process. With humor, honesty, and actionable wisdom, this episode will help you slow down, ask better questions, and create more safety and clarity in your connections. You can WATCH us at https://www.justinandabi.com/theconnectedlife Don’t forget to RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
Transcribe →343: Become a Badass at Dating Pt. 2
Jul 28, 202500:50:02Tap to summarizeFalling for someone is easy. But building something that actually lasts? That takes a whole different skill set. In part two of this series, Justin and Abi are joined by Bryant Ellis, the owner and CEO of The Adventure Challenge to take a plunge into what really matters after the first few dates. They explore the difference between red flags and nervous system triggers, how to recognize someone’s true character over time, and why curiosity is more important than snap judgment. They also unpack why so many people lose attraction in long-term relationships, the key mindset shifts that help relationships stay connected and alive, and how to navigate major differences in beliefs and values. If you’ve ever wondered how to spark love and keep the flame burning bright, this episode is just right for you! You can WATCH us at https://www.justinandabi.com/theconnectedlife Don’t forget to RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
Transcribe →342: Become a Badass at Dating Pt. 1
Jul 21, 202500:43:47Tap to summarizeMany of us didn’t grow up learning how to date in a world of endless options and quick rejections, and those of us who have don't know a life without it. So it’s no wonder so many people feel disoriented, burned out, or discouraged by the dating scene. In this episode, Justin and Abi are joined by Bryant Ellis, owner and CEO of The Adventure Challenge, for a candid conversation about how online dating is changing our brains—and what it takes to stay grounded and authentic in the process. Together, they explore the hidden impact of dating app culture, how to stay human in the middle of it, and what to do with the fear of rejection that stops so many people from putting themselves out there. They also talk about how to approach dating with purpose instead of passivity, how to create a plan for emotional resilience, and how to build genuine connection in a culture of swiping. If you’ve ever wondered how to date with clarity and confidence (without losing your soul in the process), this episode is for you! You can WATCH us at https://www.justinandabi.com/theconnectedlife Don’t forget to RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
Transcribe →341: Staying Connected When Life Gets Stressful
Jul 14, 202501:01:09Tap to summarizeWe all hit seasons where life feels too big to carry—and often, our relationships take the hit. Stress doesn’t just affect our schedules; it hijacks our emotions, shrinks our capacity, and makes the people we love feel like the problem instead of the support. In this episode, Justin and Abi get personal about what stress has looked like in their relationship—from the chaos of remodeling their house to raising a new puppy. They share how stress brought out their worst patterns, triggered old wounds, and tested their ability to stay connected. Through real-life stories, they explore the impact of nervous system overwhelm and the small (but powerful) tools that helped them repair—again and again. If you’ve ever found yourself more reactive, more distant, or more overwhelmed than you want to be—or if you’re walking through a hard season and trying to stay connected—this episode is for you. You’ll walk away with language for what’s happening, practical steps for navigating stress together, and a reminder that hard seasons don’t have to break you—they can make you stronger. You can WATCH us at https://www.justinandabi.com/theconnectedlife Don’t forget to RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
Transcribe →340: The Courage to Rethink Your Faith Pt. 2
Jul 7, 202501:02:56Tap to summarizeEver felt like asking hard questions about your faith might cost you everything? Like belonging, respect, or the relationships you once felt safest in? You’re not alone—and you’re not crazy for wrestling with it. In part two of this two part series, Justin and Abi continue their vulnerable conversation on deconstruction, diving into the emotional, relational, and spiritual fallout that often comes with challenging long-held beliefs. They unpack the difference between thoughtful deconstruction and reactionary destruction, how fear-based faith systems distort love, and why agenda-free connection is essential for healing and growth. From shifting value systems to the heartbreak of judgment and rejection, they share the real-life mess and beauty of evolving faith. Whether you’re rethinking your theology, questioning church culture, or navigating spiritual differences in your closest relationships, this episode will remind you: you’re not alone! You can WATCH us at https://www.justinandabi.com/theconnectedlife Don’t forget to RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
Transcribe →339: The Courage to Rethink Your Faith Pt. 1
Jun 30, 202500:58:47Tap to summarizeAt some point, many of us reach a moment when our beliefs no longer fit the reality we’re living. In this episode, Justin and Abi open up about their personal journeys through deconstruction—what it looked like, what it cost, and how it ultimately deepened their faith. They unpack why questioning your faith isn’t rebellion—it’s often a necessary part of maturing spiritually. Whether sparked by suffering, disillusionment, or simply the invitation to grow, deconstruction invites us to reassess what we believe and why. But it’s not just about tearing things down—it’s about making space for love, humility, and a more authentic connection with God. This conversation covers everything from the emotional upheaval of spiritual uncertainty to the gift of discovering God is bigger—and kinder—than we imagined. If you’ve ever felt like you don’t belong in the faith circles you once called home, or like asking questions makes you dangerous, this episode will help you feel seen. Deconstruction doesn’t mean losing faith. Sometimes it’s the most radical act of trust. You can WATCH us at https://www.justinandabi.com/theconnectedlife Don’t forget to RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
Transcribe →338: Hormones: The Relationship Plot Twist
Jun 23, 202501:09:34Tap to summarizeFor many couples, navigating hormones can feel like walking through a minefield—unpredictable, emotionally charged, and often misunderstood. In this episode, Justin and Abi get personal about the challenges that come with PMS and shifting hormone cycles, offering a candid look into how it’s impacted their relationship over the years. From the physical discomfort to the emotional whiplash, Abi shares what it feels like to be in a hormone storm, while Justin gives voice to what it’s like to be on the receiving end. Together, they unpack misconceptions and dig into the power of validation, emotional ownership, and learning to communicate clearly—even when your nervous system is screaming. If you've ever felt crazy, dismissed, powerless, or unsure how to support your partner (or be supported), this episode is for you. You can WATCH us at https://www.justinandabi.com/theconnectedlife Don’t forget to RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
Transcribe →337: Boundaries in Romance Pt. 2
Jun 16, 202500:57:40Tap to summarizeSetting boundaries can sound easy in theory. But trying to implement boundaries when your nervous system is fried and you're knee-deep in a conversation that’s going off the rails is a whole different story. At times it can feel impossible, but with the right tools, anyone can become good at it. In part two of this series, Justin and Abi get personal about the real-life messiness of learning to set and hold boundaries in romantic relationships. They talk about how unresolved childhood patterns shaped their earliest conflicts, how compassion without boundaries created chaos, and how learning to communicate needs around capacity, time, and space helped protect their connection. They also open up about the painful trial-and-error of figuring out what respect looks like in practice—not just in intention. If you've ever felt guilty for needing space, afraid to disappoint someone, or confused about how to set boundaries without creating more distance—this episode is for you. You won’t want to miss out. You can WATCH us at https://www.justinandabi.com/theconnectedlife Don’t forget to RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
Transcribe →336: Boundaries in Romance Pt. 1
Jun 9, 202500:59:59Tap to summarizeFor many of us, setting boundaries sounds reasonable outside of a romantic relationship. But what happens once you’re in deep—sharing a life, a home, and a bed? How do you navigate that kind of nearness? In part one of this two part series, Justin and Abi get personal about the power of boundaries inside a romantic relationship. They unpack the painful dance between autonomy and connection and share the chaos of their early years: the unspoken expectations, the fights about leaving parties, and the struggle to find themselves without losing each other. They also discuss how healthy boundaries preserve individuality while also becoming bridges to intimacy. If you want to create a thriving relationship where both parties feel secure to be fully themselves this series is just what you’re looking for. You won’t want to miss out. You can WATCH us at https://www.justinandabi.com/theconnectedlife Don’t forget to RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!
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