

Discerning Marriage
Theology of the Body Institute
Discerning Marriage is a weekly podcast hosted by Elizabeth Busby, MTS, MS, LMFT. 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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 14, 2025 • 11min
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.

Feb 28, 2025 • 7min
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.

Feb 21, 2025 • 5min
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.

Jan 8, 2025 • 14min
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.

Jan 3, 2025 • 8min
Don’t Date Them If They Don’t Have These Green Flags.
Discover the uplifting side of dating as the discussion centers on essential green flags in potential partners! Learn how respect and shared values can build strong foundations. Delve into the significance of kindness and intentionality in seeking meaningful connections. It's all about fostering deeper emotional ties and celebrating the positive traits that can lead to a fulfilling relationship.

Dec 27, 2024 • 12min
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.

Dec 21, 2024 • 6min
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.

Nov 22, 2024 • 7min
How Date When You've Never Dated as a Catholic.
Are you a single Catholic who’s never been in a relationship and feeling unsure about dating? You’re not alone! In this episode of Discerning Marriage, Elizabeth Busby dives into why not having dating experience isn’t a disadvantage. She challenges the idea that dating more prepares you better for marriage and shares the beautiful advantages of approaching relationships with a fresh heart.
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.

Nov 15, 2024 • 8min
Episode 85: Will God Reveal Your Future Spouse to You?
Elizabeth addresses a thought-provoking question from Instagram: Does God reveal to us who our future spouse is? Elizabeth dives into examples from Scripture and the lives of saints, discussing how rare it is for God to give direct instructions about a future spouse. Instead, she emphasizes the importance of free will, discernment, and trust in God’s guidance as you navigate dating and marriage. This insightful video encourages you to approach marriage discernment with an open heart, prayer, and personal responsibility. Whether you’re single, dating, or discerning marriage, this episode is packed with wisdom and encouragement.
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.

Aug 28, 2024 • 13min
Masculine Modesty: How Can Men Dress More Modestly?
Discover how men can embrace modesty in their daily lives while upholding dignity and respect for themselves and others. In this insightful video, Elizabeth explores the often-overlooked topic of masculine modesty and provides practical advice for dressing in a way that upholds the dignity of both men and women. Learn how to make thoughtful choices that reflect your inner values and support the well-being of those around you.
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.


