191: The Power of Pathological Positivity in Marriage

Podcast Guest: Dr. Paul Jenkins

August 24th, 2026

191 Paul

Listen to the Show:

In this Episode

In this episode of Stronger Marriage Connection, Dr. Paul Jenkins joins Dave Schramm and Liz Hale to explore how positivity can transform the way we think about ourselves, our circumstances, and our marriages. Paul explains his positivity model and the two processes our minds are constantly engaged in: evaluation and creation. He shares how accepting reality, practicing gratitude, and intentionally choosing where to focus can help couples create greater hope and connection. Listeners will also learn practical strategies like the “Gratitude Power Up” and “Better by Eight” to begin strengthening their marriage today.

“The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Marriage Commission.”

Chapters

00:00 – The Power of Positivity
03:37 – Paul’s Journey to Positivity
06:13 – We Are the Troops
08:48 – Positivity Starts With Yourself
12:35 – Understanding the Positivity Model
14:43 – Our Minds Constantly Evaluate
18:01 – The Two Broken Ankles Story
21:18 – How Comparison Changes Perspective
24:50 – Moving From Evaluation to Creation
26:02 – Anxiety, Hope, and the Future
27:48 – Applying Positivity to Marriage
30:38 – Positivity Versus Toxic Positivity
35:13 – Finding the Good in Marriage
37:00 – The Gratitude Power Up
41:33 – Improve From a Place of Gratitude
44:19 – Better by Eight
46:40 – Small Actions Create Better Marriages
49:18 – Making Your Thoughts Work for You
52:04 – Choosing Love in Marriage
53:08 – Takeaway of the Day

Insights

Paul Jenkins: Choice is at the heart of positivity. Healthy positivity doesn’t mean ignoring difficult realities—it means accepting and making peace with what is, then choosing how to move forward. When we recognize that our thoughts and responses are choices, we can intentionally choose love, gratitude, and positivity. .
Liz Hale: Choose to see your marriage through a positive lens. Paul’s statement, “My marriage is the best marriage I know of,” is a powerful reminder that how we choose to view and appreciate our relationship matters.
Dave Schramm: Awareness precedes choice. Becoming aware of our thoughts and perspective gives us the ability to see things differently and make different choices. By first accepting what is, even when circumstances are difficult, we can move into creation mode and intentionally build something better.

About Paul Jenkins:

Dr. Paul Jenkins is a professional psychologist, author, speaker, positivity expert, and personal development coach with more than 25 years of experience. He is the author of Pathological Positivity and Portable Positivity, books designed to help people harness powerful psychological principles to create greater happiness and personal growth.

Dr. Paul is the host of Live On Purpose Radio, which he has hosted since 2007, and the founder of Live On Purpose Central. He has also served as President of the National Speakers Association, Mountain West, and has made numerous radio and television appearances.

Known for presenting psychological science in an engaging and practical way, Dr. Paul helps people understand how their brains work and apply powerful principles to their personal, family, and professional lives.