

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

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.

Feb 23, 2023 • 39min
Episode 39: How to Have HARD Conversations (with Damon Owens)
Elizabeth Busby chats with Damon Owens about navigating conflict, habits of healthy communication, and how to have difficult conversations with your significant other.
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.

Feb 16, 2023 • 17min
Episode 38: Discerning Your Vocation is HARD (Sometimes)
People often look back on being young and going out on dates with nostalgic fondness, but the reality is the process of discerning your vocation can be really difficult and painful! The good news is, this is an opportunity for you to grow in holiness.
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.

Feb 9, 2023 • 33min
Episode 37: Marrying My High School Sweetheart (Discernment Story with Katie Schmitt)
Elizabeth Busby chats with Katie Schmitt about how she discerned marriage her high school sweetheart, Daniel.
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.

Feb 2, 2023 • 34min
Episode 36: The Research-Based Keys to a Happy Marriage (with Regina Boyd)
Elizabeth Busby chats with Catholic marriage therapist, Regina Boyd, to discuss the research proven keys to a successful, happy 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 Regina: www.reginaboyd.com
Instagram: @boydcounselingservices
Facebook: @ReginaBoydLMHC
Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here.
Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here.

Feb 14, 2022 • 29min
Episode 35: Valentine's Day!!! with Liv Harrison
Valentine's Day can be such a difficult day when you're single, and I want you to know that you're seen and known and loved in that space. So I've invited Liv Harrison back onto the podcast to talk with yall about the longing that you may feel today and what to do with it. We also tell some lovely Vday stories shared by my Instagram followers that will fill you with hope and laughter today. Stay close to Jesus today, sweet friends. He has 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.
This podcast is hosted by the Theology of the Body Instiute. Learn more about the Institute here.
Liv Harrison is known for being a professional speaker and emcee with a gift for humor, storytelling, and wisdom. People are her passion. She connects with everyone from junior high students to seasoned adults. Liv was the 2018 Host/Emcee to hundreds of Catholic youth at the Austin music festival, Godstock. Her work in marriage ministry keeps her connected with couples around Texas. Not only has Liv spoken all over Texas, but she has also spoken across the nation. She is presently serving the Junior League of The Woodlands as an active leader who often speaks to the 500 members. In May 2019 Liv successfully wrote, launched, and emceed the Genius Catholic Women’s Conference (geniuswomensconference.com) outside of Austin, TX. In December, of 2019 the Talitha Koum Initiative, LLC was formed to produce the Genius Catholic Women’s Conference. In March 2020 the unique Genius Catholic Women’s Conference launched in Dallas. Liv serves as President on the Executive Board of The Genius Collective; a non-profit that is in its final stages of development. Liv is currently a co-host on the Forte Catholic Podcast and the Discerning Marriage Podcast. On June 1, 2020 Liv launched her own interview/storytelling podcast titled Talk to Me with Liv Harrison: The Stories Behind Their Success. She now hosts three additional shows where she shares her laughter and joy with all of you. Lastly, she has been a frequent voice on Sirius XM and various other podcast programs both as a guest and as a co-host. She is married to her high school sweetheart and the mother of two.
https://www.thelivharrison.com
Instagram: @thelivharrison
Email: liv@thelivharrison.com
A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"!
Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here.
Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here.

Dec 31, 2021 • 23min
Episode 34: New Years Resolutions with Life Coach Steve Motyl
I don't know about you, but I love New Years resolutions...but very rarely am I able to keep them up all year! In case this is your situation, too, I've invited Steve Motyl, a Catholic relationship and lifestyle coach, to give us some tips to make good resolutions and stick to them. Cheers to a great 2022, yall!
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.
This podcast is hosted by the Theology of the Body Instiute. Learn more about the Institute here.
Shownotes
[Steve's email!](stevenmotyl@gmail.com)
Steve Motyl is a Certified Catholic Life Coach and Mentor who helps his clients achieve clarity for where they want to be in life and how to get there. With fatherly encouragement, authentic compassion, and honest prayer, Steve provides a life-giving encounter for his clients to share their story and engage their mind and heart; Asks thought provoking questions to help them articulate and align their longings, passions, gifts, and goals; Provides a safe, objective space for them to dream, plan, pray, and move forward transforming their own lives, and in turn enrich the lives of those around them. Steve has been dramatically impacted by Christopher and the Theology of the Body and thoroughly brings all that and more (30+ years of marriage, parenting, and professional mentoring) to his clients.
A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"!
Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here.
Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here.


