Discerning Marriage

Listen to Elizabeth's intro episode here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/1)! Discerning Marriage is a weekly podcast hosted by Elizabeth Busby, MTS, MS, LMFT. She is co-founder with her husband Ross of Discerning Marriage Ministries and the Next Step program. Regardless of your state in life, you can begin preparing for marriage right now. Whether you are single, dating, seriously dating, engaged, on a break, or grieving a breakup, you can make use of this time for fruitful growth toward becoming a healthy and holy spouse. Intentional discernment of marriage starts today, even if you haven't given or received an engagement ring. This podcast is also great for clergy and laypeople who prepare couples for marriage and parents who have teens and adult children who are dating and pursuing marriage! Elizabeth has an undergraduate degree in Psychology from Texas A&M University (whoop!), and she earned a Master's degree in Theological Studies from Ave Maria University, where she wrote her thesis on how St. John Paul II’s Theology of the Body can aid in the discernment of a vocation to marriage. Additionally, she holds a Master's degree in Counseling with a focus on marriage and family therapy from Southern Methodist University, and she works as a Marriage and Family Therapist. She has a passion for helping people fall in love with Jesus and helping people discern and live God’s joyful plan for holy marriages and family life. Next Step is a parish-based course written for seriously dating couples who want to discern more intentionally with each other. There is a lot of structure in place for people who are discerning a vocation to celibacy, but there isn’t a similar support network for people discerning marriage. Since the majority of the population is called to marriage, there is a glaring need for resources that can be used to help guide this discernment. Elizabeth and her team seek to fill that need with the Next Step program. Learn more here: https://www.discerningmarriage.com/next-step-program. This podcast is presented by Theology of the Body Institute, which promotes around the world John Paul II's revolutionary teaching on human life and love — the Theology of the Body. Learn more about the Institute's offerings here: https://tobinstitute.org. Endorsements "I first met Elizabeth Busby in 2009 when she was a college student working with a TOB ministry at Texas A&M. Now she’s not only a loving wife and mother, but also an accomplished professional counselor bringing John Paul II’s TOB to bear in all she does. She has worked alongside my colleagues and me since 2014 coordinating our network of intercessors and has become a trusted partner in our ministry. We are delighted to be launching her podcast Discerning Marriage under the TOB Institute umbrella. Having already been interviewed by Elizabeth about my own vocational discernment for the show, this podcast is going to be a great gift both for those looking for answers to questions about vocational discernment, and for those who just love hearing how God works in other people’s lives." Christopher West, Th.D. President, Theology of the Body Institute

Meeting When in Seminary + Reality vs. Romance + The Novena That Got Me Engaged X Jackie & Bobby Angel

What happens when you meet “the one” while he’s still discerning the priesthood? Elizabeth Busby sits down with Jackie & Bobby Angel to unpack their wild Theology of the Body Institute meet-cute, the moment “scales fell from my eyes,” and the prayer-story that includes a 54-day novena and a “future husband” journal.Plus: their most bracing dating advice—how to tell “reality vs. romance,” why wasting time is real, and what marriage should feel like when it’s right.👩‍❤️‍👨 Fresh Start: A Dating & Discerning Marriage Conference📸 ⁠Elizabeth’s Instagram⁠👩‍❤️‍👨 If you’re seriously dating and thinking about getting engaged, check out our ⁠Next Step⁠ course to help discern if you’re both ready for engagement.Theology of the Body Institute Resources: 🔥 ⁠⁠3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on the TOB⁠⁠ 💬 Text TOB to (404) 647-7682 ⚡️ ⁠⁠Support us & get access to leading TOB formation⁠⁠ 📚 ⁠⁠Course schedule⁠⁠ 🏔️ ⁠⁠Pilgrimages⁠⁠ 🛍️ ⁠⁠Store⁠

12-19
01:01:35

Signal Graces, Lust & the Future of the Church, and God Wants Your Youth | Cameron Riecker

A conversation to wake the sleeping giant inside men and women. From discernment, vocation, prayer, and sacrifice — this episode is a rallying cry to stop drifting and step into the mission God built you for.📸 Elizabeth’s Instagram👩‍❤️‍👨 If you’re seriously dating and thinking about getting engaged, check out our Next Step course to help discern if you’re both ready for engagement.Theology of the Body Institute Resources: 🔥 ⁠3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on the TOB⁠ 💬 Text TOB to (404) 647-7682 ⚡️ ⁠Support us & get access to leading TOB formation⁠ 📚 ⁠Course schedule⁠ 🏔️ ⁠Pilgrimages⁠ 🛍️ ⁠Store⁠

12-05
56:57

Demonic Activity, Confession, Discernment Story & the Future Jubilee | Dr. John Bergsma

Link to book: stpaulcenter.co/Jubilee Link to free companion: stpaulcenter.co/jubileecompanion Instagram accounts: @stpaulcenter @emmausroadpublishing and @john.s.bergsma📸 Elizabeth’s Instagram👩‍❤️‍👨 If you’re seriously dating and thinking about getting engaged, check out our Next Step course to help discern if you’re both ready for engagement.Theology of the Body Institute Resources: 🔥 ⁠3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on the TOB⁠ 💬 Text TOB to (404) 647-7682 ⚡️ ⁠Support us & get access to leading TOB formation⁠ 📚 ⁠Course schedule⁠ 🏔️ ⁠Pilgrimages⁠ 🛍️ ⁠Store⁠

11-21
59:20

Discernment Story, Homeschooling 8 Kids & Limiting Tech | Brian Holdsworth ​

Join us in this episode of Discerning Marriage for a deep dive into Brian's discernment story, how he and his beloved wife devote themselves to their eight children and how they have been able to limit technology in today's tech-driven culture. Stay until the end for a very practical discerning marriage advice drawn from Brian's experience as passionate Catholic and committed husband & father.Brian's resources:https://www.youtube.com/@BrianHoldsworthhttps://brianholdsworth.ca/📸 Elizabeth’s Instagram👩‍❤️‍👨 If you’re seriously dating and thinking about getting engaged, check out our Next Step course to help discern if you’re both ready for engagement.Theology of the Body Institute Resources: 🔥 ⁠3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on the TOB⁠ 💬 Text TOB to (404) 647-7682 ⚡️ ⁠Support us & get access to leading TOB formation⁠ 📚 ⁠Course schedule⁠ 🏔️ ⁠Pilgrimages⁠ 🛍️ ⁠Store⁠

11-12
01:10:32

The Simplicity of Discernment & Discernment with ADHD | The Simple Catholic - Matt Chicoine

In this conversation, Matt Chicoine shares the story of his marriage, how his upbringing and a neurodivergent mind led him to his wife (twice!), and the profound spiritual conviction that helped him discern the noise from his true calling. Stop complicating your life. Learn the one practical tip that transformed his spiritual life and can instantly ground your discernment today.Matthew's Links:https://thesimplecatholic.blog/https://www.instagram.com/thesimplecatholic/?hl=en📸 Elizabeth’s Instagram👩‍❤️‍👨 If you’re seriously dating and thinking about getting engaged, check out our Next Step course to help discern if you’re both ready for engagement.Theology of the Body Institute Resources: 🔥 ⁠3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on the TOB⁠ 💬 Text TOB to (404) 647-7682 ⚡️ ⁠Support us & get access to leading TOB formation⁠ 📚 ⁠Course schedule⁠ 🏔️ ⁠Pilgrimages⁠ 🛍️ ⁠Store⁠

10-25
54:38

DISCERNMENT STORY: Mother Natalia

Join Elizabeth & her spiritual mother Mother Natalia from Christ the Bridegroom monastery in this deep and hilarious convo where Mother shares her vocation and discernment story.On The Discerning Marriage Podcast, we walk with you on the journey to discover if marriage is God’s will for you, and if you already know that you’re called to marriage, we want to help you bring glory to God in your vocation.

10-10
58:27

Not All Men Look at Porn, Marrying a Sailor & Vocational Discernment with Eliza & Will Monts

Elizabeth Busby sits down with Eliza from Elizawritesthings & her husband Will Monts to unpack their journey of discernment, marriage, and mission. From the deck of a sailboat to the everyday beauty of fashion and faith, they share why Catholicism is not strange but our most natural way of living, how holiness should be visible in “normal” life, and why the world desperately needs authentic marriages that radiate Christ’s love.Eliza's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizawritesthings/?hl=enEliza's Substack: https://elizawritesthings.substack.com/On The Discerning Marriage Podcast, we accompany you on the journey to discover if marriage is God’s will for you, and if you already know that you’re called to marriage, we want to help you bring glory to God in your vocation.

09-22
01:25:02

When She Makes More Money, Infertility, Adoption & Getting Married at 40 with Emily & Chris Chapman

Join Elizabeth for a convo with Emily & Chris Chapman where they'll dive into the topics of raising a family when she's the primary money maker, infertility, adoption & getting married in later years.On The Discerning Marriage Podcast, we accompany you on the journey to discover if marriage is God’s will for you, and if you already know that you’re called to marriage, we want to help you bring glory to God in your vocation.

09-13
01:13:50

Longing, the Byzantine Church & Discernment w Mthr. Natalia

Join us for a mystical convo with Mother Natalia from Christ the Bridegroom monastery. They will dive DEEEP into longing, the Byzantine Church, Discernment & Elizabeth's pregnancy.On The Discerning Marriage Podcast, we accompany you on the journey to discover if marriage is God’s will for you, and if you already know that you’re called to marriage, we want to help you bring glory to God in your vocation.You're missing the view! Watch this episode ⁠on YouTube⁠

08-27
53:22

How to Stop Overthinking and Getting Anxious Over EVERYTHING .

Are you constantly second-guessing yourself, replaying conversations, or worrying about what others think? In this episode, Elizabeth Busby, a licensed marriage and family therapist, shares practical, faith-based strategies to overcome overthinking and anxiety. Discover the difference between clinical and situational anxiety, how scripture guides us to peace, and what steps you can take today to gain control over your thoughts. On The Discerning Marriage Podcast, we accompany you on the journey to discover if marriage is God’s will for you, and if you already know that you’re called to marriage, we want to help you bring glory to God in your vocation. You're missing the view! Watch this episode on YouTube Try Next Step: A Course for Discerning Marriage 📚 Get Elizabeth's ebook "10 Questions to Ask at the Beginning of Your Relationship" for free 🔥 Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body ⚡️ Join our Patron Community! Your monthly gift helps us continue to put out the message of Theology of the Body to the world 📚 Want to attend a course at the Theology of the Body Institute online or in person? Click the link to view our schedule 📍 We might be coming to a city near you! Check out our Made for More event schedule 🛍️ Check out our store! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here. Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here.

04-11
08:43

4 Practical Dating Tips for Catholic Dudes. (No. 4 Will Surprise You)

Are you a Catholic man looking to date with purpose? In this episode of Discerning Marriage, Elizabeth Busby shares four essential and practical tips for men who want to pursue a meaningful relationship. From personal hygiene to financial responsibility, integrity, and intentionality in dating—these insights will help you grow as a man and show up well in relationships. On The Discerning Marriage Podcast, we accompany you on the journey to discover if marriage is God’s will for you, and if you already know that you’re called to marriage, we want to help you bring glory to God in your vocation. You're missing the view! Watch this episode on YouTube Try Next Step: A Course for Discerning Marriage 📚 Get Elizabeth's ebook "10 Questions to Ask at the Beginning of Your Relationship" for free 🔥 Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body ⚡️ Join our Patron Community! Your monthly gift helps us continue to put out the message of Theology of the Body to the world 📚 Want to attend a course at the Theology of the Body Institute online or in person? Click the link to view our schedule 📍 We might be coming to a city near you! Check out our Made for More event schedule 🛍️ Check out our store! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here. Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here.

04-04
08:33

Why Take Marriage Advice from a Celibate Priest?

Can a celibate priest really give good marriage advice? In this episode of Discerning Marriage, Elizabeth Busby breaks down this common question with powerful insights. Drawing from theology, experience, and the wisdom of priests who deeply understand God’s design for marriage, she explains why their counsel is not only valuable but essential. On The Discerning Marriage Podcast, we accompany you on the journey to discover if marriage is God’s will for you, and if you already know that you’re called to marriage, we want to help you bring glory to God in your vocation. You're missing the view! Watch this episode on YouTube Try Next Step: A Course for Discerning Marriage 📚 Get Elizabeth's ebook "10 Questions to Ask at the Beginning of Your Relationship" for free 🔥 Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body ⚡️ Join our Patron Community! Your monthly gift helps us continue to put out the message of Theology of the Body to the world 📚 Want to attend a course at the Theology of the Body Institute online or in person? Click the link to view our schedule 📍 We might be coming to a city near you! Check out our Made for More event schedule 🛍️ Check out our store! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here. Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here.

03-28
06:10

How to Discern Marriage, Priesthood or Religious Life?

Are you afraid that God might call you to something you don’t want? Fear distorts discernment, but the truth is liberating. In this episode, Elizabeth Busby breaks down how to discern marriage, priesthood, or religious life with clarity and confidence. Learn why fear of celibacy might be holding you back, why desire plays a key role in God’s plan, and how to trust Him fully in your vocation. If you're discerning marriage, check out Next Step, our in-depth course designed to guide you through this process. Watch now and break free from fear! On The Discerning Marriage Podcast, we accompany you on the journey to discover if marriage is God’s will for you, and if you already know that you’re called to marriage, we want to help you bring glory to God in your vocation. You're missing the view! Watch this episode on YouTube Try Next Step: A Course for Discerning Marriage 📚 Get Elizabeth's ebook "10 Questions to Ask at the Beginning of Your Relationship" for free 🔥 Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body ⚡️ Join our Patron Community! Your monthly gift helps us continue to put out the message of Theology of the Body to the world 📚 Want to attend a course at the Theology of the Body Institute online or in person? Click the link to view our schedule 📍 We might be coming to a city near you! Check out our Made for More event schedule 🛍️ Check out our store! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here. Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here.

03-21
07:38

What Is "Allowed" in a Christian Marriage?

What physical intimacy is appropriate within marriage? In this episode of Discerning Marriage, Elizabeth Busby dives deep into the topic of healthy boundaries after marriage. With her expertise as a Master Theologian and licensed marriage and family therapist, she unpacks what truly upholds the dignity of both spouses in marital intimacy. https://youtu.be/dBxWCU1eUNc?si=CRMYNRvF4-bNelki https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M-JDHNqyG9I On The Discerning Marriage Podcast, we accompany you on the journey to discover if marriage is God’s will for you, and if you already know that you’re called to marriage, we want to help you bring glory to God in your vocation. You're missing the view! Watch this episode on YouTube Try Next Step: A Course for Discerning Marriage 📚 Get Elizabeth's ebook "10 Questions to Ask at the Beginning of Your Relationship" for free 🔥 Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body ⚡️ Join our Patron Community! Your monthly gift helps us continue to put out the message of Theology of the Body to the world 📚 Want to attend a course at the Theology of the Body Institute online or in person? Click the link to view our schedule 📍 We might be coming to a city near you! Check out our Made for More event schedule 🛍️ Check out our store! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here. Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here.

03-14
10:34

When Your Partner Has a Porn Addiction...

Struggling with a partner’s pornography addiction? You’re not alone. In this episode of Discerning Marriage, Elizabeth Busby shares practical and compassionate guidance on how to navigate this challenging situation. Learn why seeking professional help is crucial, why you shouldn’t be your partner’s accountability partner, and why incorporating pornography into your relationship is never the answer. On The Discerning Marriage Podcast, we accompany you on the journey to discover if marriage is God’s will for you, and if you already know that you’re called to marriage, we want to help you bring glory to God in your vocation. You're missing the view! Watch this episode on YouTube Try Next Step: A Course for Discerning Marriage 📚 Get Elizabeth's ebook "10 Questions to Ask at the Beginning of Your Relationship" for free 🔥 Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body ⚡️ Join our Patron Community! Your monthly gift helps us continue to put out the message of Theology of the Body to the world 📚 Want to attend a course at the Theology of the Body Institute online or in person? Click the link to view our schedule 📍 We might be coming to a city near you! Check out our Made for More event schedule 🛍️ Check out our store! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here. Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here.

02-28
07:03

Can Couples Have "Romantic Talk" Before Marriage?

Are romantic conversations before marriage okay? What about discussing desires for each other? In this video, Elizabeth Busby answers a viewer's question about boundaries in pre-marital relationships. She explains the difference between healthy expressions of love and conversations that may lead to inappropriate arousal. On The Discerning Marriage Podcast, we accompany you on the journey to discover if marriage is God’s will for you, and if you already know that you’re called to marriage, we want to help you bring glory to God in your vocation. You're missing the view! Watch this episode on YouTube Try Next Step: A Course for Discerning Marriage 📚 Get Elizabeth's ebook "10 Questions to Ask at the Beginning of Your Relationship" for free 🔥 Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body ⚡️ Join our Patron Community! Your monthly gift helps us continue to put out the message of Theology of the Body to the world 📚 Want to attend a course at the Theology of the Body Institute online or in person? Click the link to view our schedule 📍 We might be coming to a city near you! Check out our Made for More event schedule 🛍️ Check out our store! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here. Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here.

02-21
04:33

3 Practical Boundaries for Waiting Until Marriage

In this video, Elizabeth Busby dives into clear steps, real-life examples, and essential strategies to build intentional habits in your dating life. Whether you’re starting fresh or getting back on track, learn how to craft an environment that supports your goals and aligns with your values. Discover practical and actionable boundaries to help you honor your decision to wait until marriage. On The Discerning Marriage Podcast, we accompany you on the journey to discover if marriage is God’s will for you, and if you already know that you’re called to marriage, we want to help you bring glory to God in your vocation. You're missing the view! Watch this episode on YouTube Try Next Step: A Course for Discerning Marriage 📚 Get Elizabeth's ebook "10 Questions to Ask at the Beginning of Your Relationship" for free 🔥 Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body ⚡️ Join our Patron Community! Your monthly gift helps us continue to put out the message of Theology of the Body to the world 📚 Want to attend a course at the Theology of the Body Institute online or in person? Click the link to view our schedule 📍 We might be coming to a city near you! Check out our Made for More event schedule 🛍️ Check out our store! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here. Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here.

01-08
14:04

Don’t Date Them If They Don’t Have These Green Flags.

In today’s episode, we’re flipping the script and focusing on the positives of dating—specifically, the green flags you should look for in a potential partner. On The Discerning Marriage Podcast, we accompany you on the journey to discover if marriage is God’s will for you, and if you already know that you’re called to marriage, we want to help you bring glory to God in your vocation. You're missing the view! Watch this episode on YouTube Try Next Step: A Course for Discerning Marriage 📚 Get Elizabeth's ebook "10 Questions to Ask at the Beginning of Your Relationship" for free 🔥 Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body ⚡️ Join our Patron Community! Your monthly gift helps us continue to put out the message of Theology of the Body to the world 📚 Want to attend a course at the Theology of the Body Institute online or in person? Click the link to view our schedule 📍 We might be coming to a city near you! Check out our Made for More event schedule 🛍️ Check out our store! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here. Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here.

01-03
08:14

Will Your Wedding Night Be Awkward If You Wait Until Marriage?

In this heartfelt and honest video, Elizabeth Busby dives into the myths, fears, and truths surrounding intimacy for couples who choose to wait until their wedding night. On The Discerning Marriage Podcast, we accompany you on the journey to discover if marriage is God’s will for you, and if you already know that you’re called to marriage, we want to help you bring glory to God in your vocation. You're missing the view! Watch this episode on YouTube Try Next Step: A Course for Discerning Marriage 📚 Get Elizabeth's ebook "10 Questions to Ask at the Beginning of Your Relationship" for free 🔥 Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body ⚡️ Join our Patron Community! Your monthly gift helps us continue to put out the message of Theology of the Body to the world 📚 Want to attend a course at the Theology of the Body Institute online or in person? Click the link to view our schedule 📍 We might be coming to a city near you! Check out our Made for More event schedule 🛍️ Check out our store! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here. Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here.

12-27
12:15

The Most Overlooked Red Flags In Dating

In this episode of Discerning Marriage, Elizabeth Busby dives into some of the most overlooked red flags in dating that can impact your relationships and your future. While red flags like communication issues or dishonesty are often discussed, these subtle but significant factors might be flying under your radar. On The Discerning Marriage Podcast, we accompany you on the journey to discover if marriage is God’s will for you, and if you already know that you’re called to marriage, we want to help you bring glory to God in your vocation. You're missing the view! Watch this episode on YouTube Try Next Step: A Course for Discerning Marriage 📚 Get Elizabeth's ebook "10 Questions to Ask at the Beginning of Your Relationship" for free 🔥 Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body ⚡️ Join our Patron Community! Your monthly gift helps us continue to put out the message of Theology of the Body to the world 📚 Want to attend a course at the Theology of the Body Institute online or in person? Click the link to view our schedule 📍 We might be coming to a city near you! Check out our Made for More event schedule 🛍️ Check out our store! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here. Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here.

12-21
05:38

Mark Johnson

Where is the Catholic teaching in this? You ladies are about as humanistic as it gets.

10-15 Reply

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