Longtime couple Louis and Nadra Lord shared their journey of marriage, family, and commitment. Celebrating 18 years of marriage, they offered listeners an honest look at what it takes to sustain love beyond the wedding day.
Louis Lord, a Morehouse College graduate and former corporate professional, now serves as Community Service Coordinator for Douglas County and a teen counselor at the Andrew and Walter Young YMCA in Atlanta. His wife, Nadra Lord, a Spelman College alumna, has dedicated nearly 25 years to education, working primarily in special education and currently serving at Banneker High School in Fulton County. Together, they are raising their 17-year-old son, Ellison.
The couple’s story began during their freshman year at the Atlanta University Center, where they met while cross-registered for classes at Spelman and Morehouse. Though they went their separate ways after college, fate brought them back together years later at a college reunion. “I walked into the reunion party and the first thing I saw was that smile and those freckles,” Louis recalled, noting that moment as the turning point that reignited their connection.
During the conversation, the Lords emphasized that longevity in marriage has little to do with appearances and everything to do with commitment. Both agreed that their “secret sauce” is honoring the promises they made to one another and to their family. “It’s the promise that we made to each other,” Nadra said. “At the end of the day, it’s the three of us, and we ride for each other.”
The couple also spoke candidly about love languages, conflict resolution, and the importance of understanding differences. Louis shared that physical touch is central to how he feels connected, while Nadra explained that acts of service are how she expresses love.
Rather than presenting a flawless picture of marriage, the Lords embraced honesty, admitting they sometimes go to bed upset but always return to care and intentional gestures. Small acts, such as Louis removing Nadra’s glasses when she falls asleep or morning routines that signal love even after disagreement, reflect the daily work of partnership.
Louis also discussed his role as co-author of Parent Engagement: The Parent Cheat Code for Student Success, a book focused on empowering families to play an active role in their children’s academic and social development. Drawing from his professional and personal experience, he stressed that engaged parenting is a critical factor in student success.
To listen to the full interview, click the link above.