About the show
Listen to Elizabeth's intro episode here!
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
Discerning Marriage on social media
Episodes
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What to Do If You Regret Your Sexual Past.
April 24th, 2024 | Season 4 | 11 mins 34 secs
catholic, catholic dating, catholic formation, catholic podcast, catholic women, dating advice, discerning marriage, discernment, family, marriage, marriage and family, vocation, vocational discernment
Join Elizabeth in this heartfelt discussion as she explores the topic of regret and finding healing in God's mercy. Drawing from personal experiences and insights, she delves into the profound message that your worth is not defined by your past choices. Discover how to navigate feelings of regret and shame, and learn practical steps towards healing and renewal. Whether you're struggling with past mistakes or seeking guidance for a loved one, this video offers hope and encouragement for the journey ahead.
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7 Intimate Relationship Activities That Aren't Sexual
April 17th, 2024 | Season 4 | 10 mins 7 secs
catholic, catholic dating, catholic formation, catholic podcast, catholic women, dating advice, discerning marriage, discernment, family, marriage, marriage and family, vocation, vocational discernment
In this video, we explore seven incredibly intimate activities you can engage in with your partner that don't involve any sexual elements. From fostering honest conversations to learning new things together, these activities are designed to bring you closer emotionally and spiritually. Join us as we delve into practical tips for building a strong and meaningful connection with your significant other.
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Should You Share Your "Body Count" On A First Date?
April 9th, 2024 | Season 4 | 2 mins 56 secs
catholic, catholic dating, catholic formation, catholic podcast, catholic women, dating advice, discerning marriage, discernment, family, marriage, marriage and family, vocation, vocational discernment
Should you talk about your body count on a first date? Join us as we explore the significance of boundaries, respect, and the impact of past experiences on future relationships. We address the sensitivity of discussing intimate details and suggest alternative topics for early conversations. Watch to learn why it's crucial to prioritize dignity and communication before entering into committed relationships.
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The Church Has Been Saying This for the Past 70 Years.
March 27th, 2024 | Season 4 | 13 mins 59 secs
catholic, catholic dating, catholic formation, catholic podcast, catholic women, dating advice, discerning marriage, discernment, family, marriage, marriage and family, vocation, vocational discernment
After a controversial article from The Washington Post titled "Women are getting off birth control amid misinformation explosion", Elizabeth discusses how the Catholic Church has been speaking for years about some of the issues addressed in the article.
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How to Breakup Without Hurting the Other Person.
March 19th, 2024 | Season 4 | 6 mins 16 secs
catholic, catholic dating, catholic formation, catholic podcast, catholic women, dating advice, discerning marriage, discernment, family, marriage, marriage and family, vocation, vocational discernment
Are you facing the challenging task of ending a relationship without causing unnecessary pain? In this video, Elizabeth explores compassionate ways to break up with someone while preserving their dignity. Learn valuable tips to navigate this difficult conversation and minimize emotional distress for both parties.
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The Beauty & Dignity of Women with Natural Womanhood
February 27th, 2024 | Season 4 | 38 mins 55 secs
catholic, catholic dating, catholic formation, catholic podcast, catholic women, dating advice, discerning marriage, discernment, family, marriage, marriage and family, vocation, vocational discernment
Today we’re joined by Erin Dewey and Jackie Aguilar from Natural Womanhood to discuss the beauty and dignity of women as created in the image of God and how Cycle Mindfulness is a way in which we can honor this mystery.
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Jordan Peterson's Best Advice for Newly Weds.
February 20th, 2024 | Season 4 | 10 mins 46 secs
catholic, catholic dating, catholic formation, catholic podcast, catholic women, dating advice, discerning marriage, discernment, family, marriage, marriage and family, vocation, vocational discernment
Elizabeth reacts to Jordan Peterson's crucial advice for newlyweds. Join us as we delve into the wisdom shared by Jordan, emphasizing the importance of not neglecting the romance in marriage. Discover practical tips on how to keep the spark alive, maintain the commitment to beauty and romance, and navigate the challenges that arise over time.
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How To Be Physically Intimate In Dating Without Sinning
February 13th, 2024 | Season 4 | 9 mins 11 secs
catholic, catholic dating, catholic formation, catholic podcast, catholic women, dating advice, discerning marriage, discernment, family, marriage, marriage and family, vocation, vocational discernment
Elizabeth gets into the details of how to be physically intimate in a dating relationship without sinning. She proposes a refreshing approach to sin that will give you a more freeing perspective on the issue. Elizabeth also provides practical tips and suggestions to navigate the waters of physical intimacy in dating.
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Men, We Need You.
February 6th, 2024 | Season 4 | 7 mins 21 secs
catholic, catholic dating, catholic formation, catholic podcast, catholic women, dating advice, discerning marriage, discernment, family, marriage, marriage and family, vocation, vocational discernment
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Episode 57: Marriage Will Destroy You.
January 30th, 2024 | Season 4 | 8 mins 17 secs
catholic, catholic dating, catholic formation, catholic podcast, catholic women, dating advice, discerning marriage, discernment, family, marriage, marriage and family, vocation, vocational discernment
Elizabeth explores the profound impact of marriage on personal transformation. Does marriage destroy or refine? Join us in this insightful discussion as we delve into the complexities of relationships, the sacrament of marriage, and the journey towards authentic holiness.
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Every Woman Wants This One Quality In a Man.
January 23rd, 2024 | Season 4 | 6 mins 58 secs
catholic, catholic dating, catholic formation, catholic podcast, catholic women, dating advice, discerning marriage, discernment, family, marriage, marriage and family, vocation, vocational discernment
Elizabeth tells us the one quality women seek in a Christian man. Learn why being a man who prays is the secret ingredient to a fulfilling relationship. If you're seeking to be a better husband or are on the path to marriage, this video is a must-watch.
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Why Women Shouldn't Trade Up.
January 17th, 2024 | Season 4 | 5 mins 35 secs
catholic, catholic dating, catholic formation, catholic podcast, catholic women, dating advice, discerning marriage, discernment, family, marriage, marriage and family, vocation, vocational discernment
Elizabeth delves into the topic of women "trading up" in marriages and why it's not a good idea. Addressing both the emotional and financial aspects, we explore the importance of honoring vows and staying committed. Discover the key to lasting happiness in marriage and why faith plays a crucial role. If you're navigating challenges in your relationship, this video provides valuable perspectives and guidance.