

Discerning Marriage
Theology of the Body Institute
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
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
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 27, 2025 • 53min
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

Apr 11, 2025 • 9min
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.

Apr 4, 2025 • 9min
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.

Mar 28, 2025 • 6min
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.

Mar 21, 2025 • 8min
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.

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.


