

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

Dec 29, 2023 • 2min
If You Can Say "YES" to THIS, He/She Might Be the One.
Elizabeth poses a crucial question that can determine if your partner is truly meant for you. Discover the litmus test for a lasting relationship and gain insights into making a healthy and holy discernment.
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 13, 2023 • 6min
Episode 48: I Know How Your Relationship Will End.
Elizabeth knows how your relationship will end. In this video we discuss a crucial topic: the fate of your relationship. Is it headed for marriage or a breakup? Elizabeth explores the significance of intentional dating and offers insights into the vulnerability required for authentic relationships. Learn why dating casually may hinder your ability to discern marriage and discover the beauty that comes from embracing vulnerability. Don't miss out on valuable advice for navigating the complexities of relationships.
Try Next Step: A Course for Discerning 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.

Dec 6, 2023 • 9min
How to Know If You're Ready to Get Married.
Elizabeth Busby discusses how to know if you're truly ready for marriage. From dispelling common misconceptions to embracing humility, Elizabeth covers three essential signs to consider before taking the plunge. Don't miss this insightful guide to preparing for a lifelong commitment!
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 28, 2023 • 7min
Why Marriage Prep Is Shorter Than Driver's Ed.
Elizabeth delves into the topic of marriage preparation. Why is it that marriage prep radically shorter than driver's ed? Elizabeth passionately shares her insights and introduces an innovative solution to this challenge. Don't miss out on this thought-provoking discussion that could transform your approach to discerning marriage.
Next Step: A Course for Discerning Marriage: https://tobinstitute.kartra.com/page/NextStep
00:00 Introduction
00:22 Discerning a Vocation
00:51 Time Spent Discerning Marriage
02:02 Contrast with Celibacy
04:01 Next Step: A Course For Discerning 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
Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body
Click here to join our Patron Community! Your monthly gift helps us continue to put out the message of Theology of the Body to the world. Thank you!
Want to attend a course at the Theology of the Body Institute online or in person? Click here to view our schedule
Shownotes
Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here.
Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here.

Nov 20, 2023 • 10min
Breaking Up And Getting Back Together.
Elizabeth delves into the challenging topic of breaking up and getting back together. Discover valuable insights on rebuilding trust, navigating post-breakup changes, and approaching the renewed relationship with fresh eyes.
📚 Get Elizabeth's ebook "10 Questions to Ask at the Beginning of Your Relationship" for free: https://tobinstitute.kartra.com/page/xIt287
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
Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body
Click here to join our Patron Community! Your monthly gift helps us continue to put out the message of Theology of the Body to the world. Thank you!
Want to attend a course at the Theology of the Body Institute online or in person? Click here to view our schedule
Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here.
Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here.

Nov 13, 2023 • 8min
Episode 44: Struggling with Chastity in Dating?
Elizabeth discusses the challenges of maintaining chastity in a relationship while deeply loving Jesus. We discuss the importance of embracing your desires, the impact of past sex education, and the significance of sexual intimacy in God's plan. She shares practical advice on how to avoid crossing physical boundaries and maintain chastity. Discover strategies to strengthen your relationship while upholding your dignity.
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
Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body
Click here to join our Patron Community! Your monthly gift helps us continue to put out the message of Theology of the Body to the world. Thank you!
Want to attend a course at the Theology of the Body Institute online or in person? Click here to view our schedule
Shownotes
Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here.
Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here.

Nov 4, 2023 • 16min
Episode 43: Catholic Marrying a Non Catholic? Here's What You Need To Know.
Elizabeth discusses the challenges and considerations when Catholics marry non-Catholics. She candidly explores the complexities of such marriages, touching on aspects like practicing faith, sexual morality, and raising children. Whether you're a Catholic contemplating such a union or someone interested in understanding the dynamics, this video provides valuable insights.
Get Elizabeth's ebook "10 Questions to Ask at the Beginning of Your Relationship" for free
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
📸 Discerning Marriage Instagram @DiscerningMarriage: https://www.instagram.com/discerningmarriage/reels/?hl=en
🔥 Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body: https://www.tobforfree.com/
⚡️ Click the link to join our Patron Community! Your monthly gift helps us continue to put out the message of Theology of the Body to the world. Thank you! https://www.tobpatron.com/
📚 Want to attend a course at the Theology of the Body Institute online or in person? Click the link to view our schedule: https://tobinstitute.org/programs/tobi-schedule/
📍 We might be coming to a city near you! Check out our Made for More event schedule: https://tobinstitute.org/live-events/
🏔️ Want to join Christopher on one of our pilgrimages? Click here: http://tobpilgrimages.com/
🛍️ Check out our store! https://shop.corproject.com/
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Social Media:
📸 TOBI Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tobinstitute/
🟦 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TOBInstitute/
Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here.
Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here.

Mar 16, 2023 • 34min
Episode 42: The Do's and Don'ts of Breaking Up (with Kateri Bean from Catholic Match)
Whether you've realized you need to break up with the person you're with, you're beloved just broke up with you, or you're happily dating and want some advice should you discern the relationship needs to end, this episode with Kateri Bean from Catholic Match will be super helpful.
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
Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body
Click here to join our Patron Community! Your monthly gift helps us continue to put out the message of Theology of the Body to the world. Thank you!
Want to attend a course at the Theology of the Body Institute online or in person? Click here to view our schedule
Shownotes
Kateri's links:
4 Signs You Should Probably Break Up
Rebuilding Trust Through Prayer After a Bad Breakup
The Do's and Don'ts of Breaking Up
Should You Get Back Together With Your Ex? There Are a Few Things to Consider
How to Find Healing and Growth After a Bad Breakup
How to Reject a Date (With Kindness!)
Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here.
Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here.

Mar 9, 2023 • 36min
Episode 41: Answering Your Questions about Dating (with Dr. Mario Sacasa)
What do you do if you can't get past the second date? Any tips for dating in your 40s? What are the stages of dating? Dr. Mario Sacasa and Elizabeth Busby answer your questions
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
Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body
Click here to join our Patron Community! Your monthly gift helps us continue to put out the message of Theology of the Body to the world. Thank you!
Want to attend a course at the Theology of the Body Institute online or in person? Click here to view our schedule
Shownotes
Dating Well
Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here.
Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here.

Mar 2, 2023 • 42min
Episode 40: Pro Advice for Dating Long Distance (with Will and Rebekah Hickl)
This couple discerned marriage across the Atlantic Ocean! It’s safe to say, they are pros at long distance dating. In this episode, Elizabeth chats with Will and Rebekah Hickl about their experience of long distance discernment as they share practical wisdom for other couples dating long distance.
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
Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body
Click here to join our Patron Community! Your monthly gift helps us continue to put out the message of Theology of the Body to the world. Thank you!
Want to attend a course at the Theology of the Body Institute online or in person? Click here to view our schedule
Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here.
Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here.


