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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Should You Be Debt Free In Marriage?
June 7th, 2024 | Season 4 | 9 mins 49 secs
catholic, catholic dating, catholic formation, catholic podcast, catholic women, dating advice, discerning marriage, discernment, family, marriage, marriage and family, vocation, vocational discernment
Elizabeth shares her passionate insights on the importance of being debt-free in marriage. Discover how financial freedom can lead to a healthier, happier marriage and explore practical tips to achieve it.
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Episode 73: Should You Cancel Your Engagement?
May 29th, 2024 | Season 4 | 12 mins 32 secs
catholic, catholic dating, catholic formation, catholic podcast, catholic women, dating advice, discerning marriage, discernment, family, marriage, marriage and family, vocation, vocational discernment
Elizabeth addresses if a woman should go through with her wedding despite discovering her fiancé's porn addiction during marriage prep. Elizabeth offers compassionate advice on navigating this difficult situation, exploring the essential aspects of engagement, and the importance of freedom in marriage. If you're facing similar challenges or need guidance on engagement and marriage, this video is for you.
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How Get Over a Brutal Breakup When Everything Reminds You of Her.
May 22nd, 2024 | Season 4 | 13 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
Breaking up after a long-term relationship can feel like losing a piece of yourself, especially when you've shared deep physical and emotional connections. In this video, we discuss practical and spiritual steps to heal after such a devastating loss. From understanding the emotional and physiological impacts of breakups to finding comfort in faith and healthy coping mechanisms, we cover it all.
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Should I Let My Teen Date as a Christian Parent?
May 15th, 2024 | Season 4 | 20 mins 32 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 a parent of teens wondering whether to allow them to date? In this video, we dive deep into the complexities of teen dating from a Catholic Christian perspective. Learn about the importance of parental guidance, understanding adolescence, and the purpose of dating. Discover practical tips to help your teens navigate relationships with wisdom and discernment.
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Embrace Your Femininity With Brett Cooper's Incredible Journey.
May 8th, 2024 | Season 4 | 10 mins 37 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 as she explores the journey into femininity of Brett Cooper from TheCommentsSection . In a culture that often misunderstands its true beauty, Brett Cooper shares her insights on rejecting the cultural narrative and finding freedom in embracing femininity. Discover how to navigate the complexities of femininity and find empowerment in being true to yourself.
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This Lyric In Taylor Swift’s New Album Will Change Your Mind About Dating.
May 3rd, 2024 | Season 4 | 8 mins 54 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 Busby on Discerning Marriage as she dives into Taylor Swift's latest breakup anthem, "So Long London". In this video, Elizabeth explores the profound emotions and implications behind the lyrics, dissecting the depth of agony and longing expressed by Taylor Swift. From the perspective of dating, marriage, and fertility, Elizabeth offers insights into the significance of breakup songs in navigating the complexities of relationships. Whether you're going through a breakup or simply appreciate good art, this analysis will resonate deeply.
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Honest Advice for Dating As a Christian Teen.
May 1st, 2024 | Season 4 | 12 mins 30 secs
catholic, catholic dating, catholic formation, catholic podcast, catholic women, dating advice, discerning marriage, discernment, family, marriage, marriage and family, vocation, vocational discernment
Elizabeth dives deep into the complexities of dating as a teenager. Adolescence is a challenging time, filled with physical changes, emotional turmoil, and the desire for connection. But amidst the confusion, there's valuable advice to help you navigate this journey with wisdom and grace.
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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.