Discerning Marriage artwork

Discerning Marriage

62 episodes - English - Latest episode: 1 day ago -

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

Christianity Religion & Spirituality Society & Culture Relationships marriage catholic catholicism discernment dating relationships elizabeth busby single young adult theology of the body
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Episodes

What to Do If You Regret Your Sexual Past.

April 24, 2024 19:00 - 11 minutes - 21.6 MB

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 jo...

7 Intimate Relationship Activities That Aren't Sexual

April 17, 2024 20:00 - 10 minutes - 19 MB

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. On The Discerning Marriage Podcast, we accompany you on the journey to discover if marriage i...

Should You Share Your "Body Count" On A First Date?

April 09, 2024 20:00 - 2 minutes - 5.54 MB

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. Elizabeth Busby discusses how to know if you're truly ready for marriage. From dispelli...

The Church Has Been Saying This for the Past 70 Years.

March 27, 2024 20:00 - 13 minutes - 26.1 MB

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. 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...

How to Breakup Without Hurting the Other Person.

March 19, 2024 17:00 - 6 minutes - 11.8 MB

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. 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...

The Beauty & Dignity of Women with Natural Womanhood

February 27, 2024 18:00 - 38 minutes - 72.3 MB

Today we’re joined by Erin Dewey and Jackie Aguilar from Natural Womanhood to discuss the beauty and dignity of women as created in the image of God and how Cycle Mindfulness is a way in which we can honor this mystery. https://naturalwomanhood.org https://naturalwomanhood.org/cycle-mindfulness-club-leadership-team/ Erin Dewey is the Education Coordinator for Natural Womanhood. She recently graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in Biomedical Sciences, with the goal of pursuing PA...

Jordan Peterson's Best Advice for Newly Weds.

February 20, 2024 19:00 - 10 minutes - 20.1 MB

Elizabeth reacts to Jordan Peterson's crucial advice for newlyweds. Join us as we delve into the wisdom shared by Jordan, emphasizing the importance of not neglecting the romance in marriage. Discover practical tips on how to keep the spark alive, maintain the commitment to beauty and romance, and navigate the challenges that arise over time. 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 c...

How To Be Physically Intimate In Dating Without Sinning

February 13, 2024 18:00 - 9 minutes - 17.2 MB

Elizabeth gets into the details of how to be physically intimate in a dating relationship without sinning. She proposes a refreshing approach to sin that will give you a more freeing perspective on the issue. Elizabeth also provides practical tips and suggestions to navigate the waters of physical intimacy in dating. 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 wan...

Men, We Need You.

February 06, 2024 18:00 - 7 minutes - 13.8 MB

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...

Episode 57: Marriage Will Destroy You.

January 30, 2024 18:00 - 8 minutes - 15.5 MB

Elizabeth explores the profound impact of marriage on personal transformation. Does marriage destroy or refine? Join us in this insightful discussion as we delve into the complexities of relationships, the sacrament of marriage, and the journey towards authentic 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 vocati...

Every Woman Wants This One Quality In a Man.

January 23, 2024 20:00 - 6 minutes - 13.1 MB

Elizabeth tells us the one quality women seek in a Christian man. Learn why being a man who prays is the secret ingredient to a fulfilling relationship. If you're seeking to be a better husband or are on the path to marriage, this video is a must-watch. 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...

Why Women Shouldn't Trade Up.

January 17, 2024 17:00 - 5 minutes - 10.5 MB

Elizabeth delves into the topic of women "trading up" in marriages and why it's not a good idea. Addressing both the emotional and financial aspects, we explore the importance of honoring vows and staying committed. Discover the key to lasting happiness in marriage and why faith plays a crucial role. If you're navigating challenges in your relationship, this video provides valuable perspectives and guidance. On The Discerning Marriage Podcast, we accompany you on the journey to discover if ma...

The Four Horsemen of Relationships. (They'll Make You Miserable)

January 08, 2024 21:00 - 7 minutes - 14 MB

Join Elizabeth as she unfolds the Four Horsemen of Relationships and how they will harm your relationship and communication with your significant other. In this video Elizabeth talks about the research of John and Julie Gottman and how their findings have concluded that criticism, contempt, defensiveness and stonewalling will hurt your relationship and potentially lead to divorce. On The Discerning Marriage Podcast, we accompany you on the journey to discover if marriage is God’s will for you...

If You Can Say "YES" to THIS, He/She Might Be the One.

December 29, 2023 18:00 - 2 minutes - 4.4 MB

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 (https...

Episode 48: I Know How Your Relationship Will End.

December 13, 2023 18:00 - 5 minutes - 10.5 MB

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 complexit...

How to Know If You're Ready to Get Married.

December 06, 2023 18:00 - 8 minutes - 16.2 MB

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...

Why Marriage Prep Is Shorter Than Driver's Ed.

November 28, 2023 18:00 - 7 minutes - 13.5 MB

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 Discernin...

Breaking Up And Getting Back Together.

November 20, 2023 18:00 - 9 minutes - 18.5 MB

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 ...

Episode 44: Struggling with Chastity in Dating?

November 13, 2023 08:00 - 8 minutes - 15.3 MB

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 di...

Episode 43: Catholic Marrying a Non Catholic? Here's What You Need To Know.

November 04, 2023 07:00 - 15 minutes - 14.2 MB

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 (https://tobinstitute.kartra.co...

Episode 42: The Do's and Don'ts of Breaking Up (with Kateri Bean from Catholic Match)

March 16, 2023 07:00 - 33 minutes - 30.8 MB

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 yo...

Episode 41: Answering Your Questions about Dating (with Dr. Mario Sacasa)

March 09, 2023 08:00 - 36 minutes - 33.4 MB

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 (https://tobin...

Episode 40: Pro Advice for Dating Long Distance (with Will and Rebekah Hickl)

March 02, 2023 08:00 - 41 minutes - 38.4 MB

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 g...

Episode 39: How to Have HARD Conversations (with Damon Owens)

February 23, 2023 08:00 - 39 minutes - 36.1 MB

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 (https://youtu.be/vpIRaZpMA6Q) Get 3 FREE sess...

Episode 38: Discerning Your Vocation is HARD (Sometimes)

February 16, 2023 08:00 - 16 minutes - 15.5 MB

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 t...

Episode 37: Marrying My High School Sweetheart (Discernment Story with Katie Schmitt)

February 09, 2023 08:00 - 33 minutes - 38 MB

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 (https://www.youtube.com/live/2cdPt6Bg4lY?feature=share) Get 3 FREE sessions (https://tobinstitute.kart...

Episode 36: The Research-Based Keys to a Happy Marriage (with Regina Boyd)

February 02, 2023 08:00 - 34 minutes - 39.2 MB

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 (https://youtu.be/MGHFd4jspw8) Get 3 FREE sessions (https://tobinstitute.ka...

Episode 35: Valentine's Day!!! with Liv Harrison

February 14, 2022 08:00 - 29 minutes - 40.1 MB

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...

Episode 34: New Years Resolutions with Life Coach Steve Motyl

December 31, 2021 11:00 - 23 minutes - 32 MB

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 h...

Episode 33: Joseph and Mary's Marriage with Christopher West

December 24, 2021 11:00 - 24 minutes - 33.1 MB

Merry Christmas!!! In honor of my favorite feast day, I invited Christopher West to talk with us about Mary and Joseph's marriage and what that marriage in particular has to do with Jesus's BIRTHday, that holy night around the manger! This was a really fun conversation; I hope you love it! 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 ...

Episode 32: Surrender with Stacey Sumereau

December 17, 2021 11:00 - 31 minutes - 42.8 MB

Surrender to his will and God's timing is the beginning to every good discernment - this is so true, but at the same time, so difficult! I'm joined by Stacey Sumereau to discuss this important topic and some tips for implementing it into your life! 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 hos...

Episode 31: Healing from Sexual Abuse - An Interview with Kiki Rocha

December 13, 2021 21:30 - 30 minutes - 42.5 MB

If you're a sexual abuse survivor, dating and or in deep desire of changing generational patters, listen in! Kiki Rocha talks about her coaching mission that is anchored by her own story of much brokenness— incestual sexual abuse by her father, cheating, divorce, single parent mother, among other wounds. She believes women, due to the epidemic of fatherlessness, are seeing themselves, their sexuality and dating life through their unredeemed woundedness which leads to perpetuating the same g...

Episode 30: Discerning Through Cancer and a Breakup with Maggie Eckburg

December 03, 2021 21:45 - 30 minutes - 42.2 MB

On this episode, Maggie shares her unique journey toward marriage with her now husband of ten years and father to her three children, Jacob. This couple knows suffering. Before they were even engaged, they faced Maggie's cancer diagnosis, as well as Jacob's own health scares that led to them both having spent time at each other's hospital bedside. Once the physical healing came, the need for spiritual and emotional healing became evident and it was clear that more discernment work was needed,...

Episode 29: Jeanette Clark's Discernment Story

November 12, 2021 15:45 - 33 minutes - 46.3 MB

Jeanette Clark, classmate with Christopher West in her Master's of Theological Studies degree from the JPII Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family and wife of the Executive Director of the TOB Institute, got married in her late 20s after a cross country move and a breakup with her future husband. Join us as we discuss her full discernment story! 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...

Episode 28: Beauty and Your Wedding Day with Spoken Bride's Stephanie Calis

October 29, 2021 10:00 - 35 minutes - 48.1 MB

All brides and grooms want their wedding day to be special and beautiful, but did you know that this can actually be a way to glorify God with your relationship?? Join me as I talk with Stephanie Calis {of Spoken Bride Ministry!} about how to press deeply into your desire for a beautiful wedding day and how that can be a powerful witness to your guests! We also talk about her wedding planning book, which is a wonderful tool for you and your significant other to use when the time comes and a w...

Episode 27: Original Solitude with Bill Donaghy

October 22, 2021 16:00 - 25 minutes - 35.5 MB

The ache of longing to be in your vocation can be agonizing. Amazingly, Pope St. John Paul II pressed into this theme in his discussions on what he calls original solitude. Renown Theology of the Body expert Bill Donaghy joins me as we discuss what original solitude is and why it matters to 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 glo...

Episode 26: The Courage to be Married with Damon and Melanie Owens

April 07, 2021 10:00 - 29 minutes - 41.1 MB

Getting married and staying married takes an incredible amount of courage, particularly in this day and age that is so hostile to such a union. Elizabeth is joined by renowned TOB experts Damon and Melanie Owens to talk about what it takes to live a courageous marriage and what you can do now, as you’re discerning marriage, to set yourself up for success. 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 ...

Episode 25: Breakups Part 2 w/ Liv Harrison

March 17, 2021 10:00 - 29 minutes - 40.8 MB

Liv Harrison and I continue our conversation from Episode 19 (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/19) right where we left off. We discuss an approach to breakups that can be helpful to process and heal from the loss of the relationship. 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 t...

Episode 24: Dr. Greg Bottaro’s Discernment Story

March 03, 2021 11:00 - 27 minutes - 37.9 MB

Dr. Greg Bottaro shares his incredible story of discerning out of formation for the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal and into a marriage with his bride! And the turning point of his discernment that happened while watching The Truman Show. Yes, for real! This story is awesome! I can’t wait for you to hear it!! 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 hel...

Episode 23: Online Dating with Kateri Bean from Catholic Match

February 17, 2021 17:00 - 17 minutes - 23.8 MB

One of the topics that I often get emails and IG messages about is online dating. This method of meeting people is increasingly utilized as a way to connect with people outside of your immediate community, and thousands of people have met their spouse online (including one of our closest couple friends!!). I wanted to have a podcast episode to be able to direct interested people to, so I’ve invited Content Manager of Catholic Match Kateri Bean to discuss some helpful tips and tricks of how to...

Episode 22: Married at 33 with Christina Jaloway

February 03, 2021 11:00 - 20 minutes - 27.6 MB

Sometimes people will have a supernatural prayer experience where God gives them the assurance of who their spouse is going to be: “I just knew it was her!” Often, though, God works through a person’s reason and free will and allows them to choose whom they want to marry. This episode’s discernment story is an example of the latter. Christina Jaloway spent her 20s longing for her spouse and didn’t get married until she was 33, but man oh man did the Lord do big beautiful things during her wai...

Episode 21: The Feminine Genius w/ Liv Harrison

January 20, 2021 11:00 - 28 minutes - 39.2 MB

For starters, this episode is for both men and women! 🙂 Back in the 1990s, St John Paul II wrote a Letter To Women, breaking open the beauty of femininity and completely busting the myth that women are less than men. On this episode, I’m joined by Liv Harrison to discuss a critical topic that St JPII discussed in that letter: the feminine genius. Both men and women need to understand the dignity and worth of the feminine heart in order to discern marriage well, and we hope this episode helps ...

Episode 20: Listener Q&A

December 16, 2020 11:00 - 27 minutes - 37.7 MB

Join me for this season 1 finale episode where I answer listener questions about the timing of transitioning to engagement, breakups, what to do when there is pornography in your relationship, and questions to ask each other in the pre-engagement phase! 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 i...

Episode 19: Breakups (with Liv Harrison)

December 09, 2020 16:00 - 23 minutes - 32.7 MB

It’s the most wonderful time of the year...but it can also be the most painful time of the year for some people. This is true for people who have recently ended a relationship, because one of the most underrated sufferings in our current culture is that of breakups. It can be so tempting to just tell someone whom you see going through a breakup to just “move on” / “there are other fish in the sea” / “she was bad for you anyway” / “what a dumpster fire that relationship was, amiright?!” withou...

Episode 18: Ephesians 5 with Jeanette Clark

December 02, 2020 11:00 - 34 minutes - 47.2 MB

As our hearts turn toward Bethlehem and we prepare for the coming of Christ, I want to continue our conversation on what marriage is and what to do to prepare your heart to enter into the sacrament. I’m joined once again by Jeanette Clark to break open St. Paul’s beautiful and sometimes confusing passage in Ephesians chapter 5 about the relationship between husbands and wives. Jeanette’s gentleness and wisdom make for a wonderful discussion on a critical scriptural text for those of us who ar...

Episode 17: The Gottman’s Sound Relationship House with Regina Boyd

November 25, 2020 11:00 - 28 minutes - 39.1 MB

Hands down the most helpful clinical resources I have found to help married couples come out of the Gottman Institute. Drs John and Julie Gottman have a research based theory on why marriages succeed or fail, and it is called the Sound Relationship House. Learning these seven “floors” and two foundational “pillars” is invaluable for people discerning marriage as they seek to build a solid foundation for a healthy and happy marriage. I am joined by Florida Marriage and Family Therapist Regina ...

Episode 16: Identity and Discernment with Fr. Blake Britton

November 18, 2020 11:00 - 28 minutes - 38.6 MB

Fr. Blake Britton was born and raised in the Diocese of Orlando, Fla., the oldest of four children. After studying opera at an arts school and the Orlando Opera Company, he applied for the seminary at the age of 18 and earned both a bachelor’s degree in Philosophy as well as a master’s degree in Divinity. He is fluent in English and Spanish and well-studied in classical Latin and biblical Greek. He is a published author and frequent guest speaker for conferences, radio programs, podcasts, ret...

Episode 15: From Breakup to Breakthrough: Regina Boyd’s Discernment Story

November 11, 2020 11:00 - 28 minutes - 38.5 MB

Regina Boyd, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Florida, shares her discernment story, complete with tales from religious community come-and-see weekends to a surprise breakup and the healing that she sought after. We also discuss her take on navigating an interracial relationship with family and friends. This really is a fantastic discernment story, and I’m so excited for you to hear it!! On The Discerning Marriage Podcast, we accompany you on th...

Episode 14: Thriving While Single with Christina Jaloway

November 04, 2020 11:00 - 48 minutes - 55.9 MB

The ache of being single can often leave a person tempted to think that being single is a time of being in a “holding pattern” while you wait for marriage. NO! This is such a lie! I am passionate about helping single people to see the beauty of this season of their lives, and to that end, I’ve invited Christina Jaloway, also known as The Evangelista, to dialogue with me about how to thrive while you’re single! On The Discerning Marriage Podcast, we accompany you on the journey to discover if ...

Episode 13: The Marriage Vows with Liv Harrison

October 28, 2020 10:00 - 36 minutes - 49.6 MB

When discerning your vocation, it’s key to know what you’re actually discerning. In this episode, Elizabeth is joined by co-host Liv Harrison to begin the discussion of what goes into living the vocation of marriage. They walk you through the vows that the couple takes on their wedding day and break down the nitty gritty of what each one entails and what that means for your discernment. On The Discerning Marriage Podcast, we accompany you on the journey to discover if marriage is God’s will f...