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
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 (https://tobinstitute.org). 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 (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
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 (https://tobinstitute.org). 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 (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
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 God in your vocation. This podcast is hosted by the Theology of the Body Instiute. Learn more about the Institute here (https://tobinstitute.org). Shownotes The Spider Who Saved Christmas by Raymond Arroyo (https://www.ignatius.com/The-Spider-Who-Saved-Christmas-P3718.aspx?gclid=Cj0KCQiAweaNBhDEARIsAJ5hwbce2S2Sy1MLWCFOMEmgY6N-kdZJ62bPETdiaVxtZn8eQuRwHgX5abUaAtrLEALw_wcB) Christopher West, ThD is a devoted husband and father of five. As President of the Theology of the Body Institute, he leads an international apostolate spreading St. John Paul II’s life-transforming teaching through graduate level courses, on-site events and programs, clergy enrichment training, and an online global community dedicated to ongoing formation. Beyond serving as Professor of Theological Anthropology in the Institute’s jointly sponsored M.A. program with Pontifex University, Dr. West has served on the faculties of St. John Vianney Theological Seminary in Denver; the Institute for Priestly Formation in Omaha; the St. Therese Institute of Faith and Mission in Canada; and as a visiting professor of the John Paul II Institute in Australia. West is the author of more than a dozen best-selling books and numerous video and audio programs. He cohosts the popular podcast Ask Christopher West with his wife Wendy, and his work has been featured in The New York Times, on ABC News, Fox News, MSNBC, and in countless Catholic and evangelical media outlets. A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
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 hosted by the Theology of the Body Instiute. Learn more about the Institute here (https://tobinstitute.org). Shownotes Stacey's instagram! (https://www.instagram.com/staceysumereau/) Stacey's website (https://www.staceysumereau.com/) Stacey on Sisterhood: Becoming Nuns (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4BUJmqrMm1I) Stacey Sumereau’s unique journey spans performing in Broadway National Tours of The Wizard of Oz and Beauty and the Beast, to discerning religious life on Reality TV in The Sisterhood, Becoming Nuns (Lifetime 2014), to marriage and motherhood. Stacey founded and hosted the Be Not Afraid Conference and the God’s Adventure Awaits Summit, serving over 20,000 people in 2020. Stacey hosts the popular Called and Caffeinated Podcast and YouTube show and is a contributor on the Ascension Presents YouTube channel. In 2020 she wrote and taught the True North Discernment Course to people in 13 countries around the world. Stacey has written for Vocations and Prayer Magazine and iMom.com. She and her husband John are raising their three children aged 4 and under in the Washington, D.C. area. She has presented at the National Catholic Youth Conference, the LA Religious Education Congress, and dioceses across the country encouraging young people to know their worth and to embrace God’s adventure. A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
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 generational patterns. Kiki deeply desires to change the generational direction of a woman’s legacy through her self-image, sexuality and dating experience— especially Latinas!! First though, she needed to do that herself by designing a season of healing in the desert after more specifically discovering last fall that the type of abuse she endured was rape. She gives you practical tips for how to begin this journey yourself. The more a woman knows who she is, the more she can help man, her earthly counterpart, understand who he is and in this way redeem eachother's glory. 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 (https://tobinstitute.org). Shownotes Connect with Kiki on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/kikiiithebrave/) Here are the things that Kiki mentioned in the show!! The Woman's School (https://januarydonovan.com/) Neal Lozano - Unbound (https://www.heartofthefather.com/about/unbound/) The Culture Project (https://thecultureproject.org/) Metanoia Catholic Coaching (https://metanoiacatholic.com/) Grief to Grace (http://grief-to-grace-lsi.squarespace.com/) EMDR Therapy (https://www.emdr.com/what-is-emdr/) Find a Catholic Therapist! (https://catholictherapists.com/) Made in His Image (https://madeinhisimage.org/) Kiki Rocha is a vivacious and resilient Mexican-American bilingual Catholic Coach and Speaker. Kiki, by grace, is also an incestual rape survivor and daughter of a single mother. Her painful experiences have given her a conviction in her work as a Dating and Sexual Integrity Coach for women. She is trained as a strategist with Woman School and by Metanoia Catholic Coaching Academy. Deeply passionate about changing generational patterns in women’s lives, she helps them encounter, possess and master themselves by equipping them with wholeness and mindset the spaces of self-worth, sexuality and dating. A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
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, including even a breakup. In their journey, we see that trust in God, our posture of openness toward suffering, and a willingness to recommit ourselves to one another with patience, understanding, and love is instrumental to the success of anyone's love story. Come listen as Maggie, lover of music, books, comedy, and seeing God in all things, shares this story with us! 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 (https://tobinstitute.org). Shownotes Find Maggie on Instagram here (https://www.instagram.com/everythingisgrace_photography/). Explore Maggie's photography business here (https://www.everythingisgracephotography.com/). Elizabeth's YouTube videos about discerning marriage are here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8lv79pcIIls). Maggie Eckburg is a Catholic wife, mom, teacher, photographer. She was born and raised in the Chicago area and currently teaches Theology of the Body to High Schoolers on the west side of Chicago using a curriculum she has spent over a decade creating. She also recently opened her own business, Everything is Grace Photography, for a space to integrate her love of faith, family, and beautiful imagery that takes you to the heart of Jesus. A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
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 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 (https://tobinstitute.org). Shownotes Jeanette's Humility episode here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/5) Jeanette's episode on Ephesians 5 here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/18) Born to a military family, Jeanette Clark lived most of her life in the Washington, DC area. She received her Master's in Theology from the Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family in 1997 and that same year moved to Denver, Colorado (which she actually considers her home town) where she was hired by the brand new Archbishop, Charles Chaput. She directed the Office of Christian Initiation for the Archdiocese for four years, giving frequent talks and retreats to the community. Jeanette married Jason Clark in 2001 at a little mountain Church in Evergreen, Colorado where their family adventure began. In June they celebrated 19 years as husband and wife. They have 5 children ages 8-17, 4 of whom are boys and they currently live in rural southern Pennsylvania surrounded by Amish neighbors. She is delving deeper and deeper into what it means to be a human being - a woman - who has encountered Christ and what that means on every level of existence. Deep ponderings at the kitchen sink. A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
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 wonderful gift for people whom you love who are getting married soon! 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 (https://tobinstitute.org). Shownotes Get Stephanie's book Invited: The Ultimate Catholic Wedding Planner here (https://www.amazon.com/Invited-Ultimate-Catholic-Wedding-Planner/dp/0819837474) Check out the TOB Institute's YouTube Channel (and my new YouTube videos about dating and discerning marriage!) here (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCleUptk8l6KEuJpVOWCYJ-w) Stephanie is the author of the book Invited: The Ultimate Catholic Wedding Planner, a #1 Amazon bestseller in Weddings, and a blogger since 2012. A former full-time speaker, she seeks to engage the culture with the truth of authentic, sacrificial love by meeting people where they are and meeting them in matters of the heart. She has been featured on EWTN’s At Home with Jim and Joy and in Family Foundations Magazine, Brides.com, Blessed Is She, and The YoungCatholicWoman. Stephanie married her husband in 2011 on a 105 degree day, and they live in Maryland with their four children. Learn more about Stephanie's Ministry Spoken Bride here (https://www.spokenbride.com/). Find Spoken Bride on Instagram: @spokenbride A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
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 glory to God in your vocation. This podcast is hosted by the Theology of the Body Instiute. Learn more about the Institute here (https://tobinstitute.org). Having worked in mission, evangelization, and education since the early 1990s, Bill joined faculty of the TOB Institute in 2010 and became a full-time member of the team as content specialist in 2013. With a background in visual arts, philosophy, and systematic theology, he has given talks and retreats to bishops, priests, deacons, religious, and the lay faithful throughout the country and internationally. Bill is the co-author with Chris Stefanick of the popular program RISE: 30 Day Challenge for Men and is a proud husband and father of four. A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
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 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 (https://tobinstitute.org). Shownotes Damon and Melanie’s ministry Joyful Ever After (www.joyfuleverafter.org) Married 28 years, Damon and Melanie Owens are founders of Joyful Ever After (www.joyfuleverafter.org) and hosts of The Catholic Marriage Summit 2020 (www.CatholicMarriageSummit.com). Since 1993, Melanie, full-time homeschooling mother of eight, and Damon, first executive director of the Theology of the Body Institute, have trained over 20,000 couples in marriage, NFP, and Theology of the Body. Melanie earned her BA in Sociology at the University of California at Santa Barbara, and her MSW at the University of California at Berkeley. Presenters at the 2015 World Meeting of Families and the 2017 USCCB Convocation of Catholic Leaders, Damon and Melanie keep a full international speaking schedule at conferences, seminars, universities, high schools, seminaries, and parishes on the good news of marriage, sexuality, Theology of the Body, Theology of the Family, adoption, and NFP. Damon has published numerous articles, appears regularly on many radio and television programs (EWTN, Catholic Answers, Ave Maria, Relevant Radio, Immaculate Heart Radio, ABC World News Tonight, CBS News, NPR), and has hosted and produced three 13-part television series for EWTN. He is also an accomplished gospel singer honored with a solo during the 1995 NJ Papal Mass at Giants Stadium presided by Pope St. John Paul II. In 2018, Pope Francis honored Damon with the papal Benemerenti Medal in recognition for his service to the Church in support of marriage and family. Damon and Melanie currently live outside Philadelphia with their eight children. catholicmarriagesummit.com Instagram: Https://www.instagram.com/damon.c.owens Https://www.instagram.com/melanie.m.owens FB: damoncowens and damonowensofficial A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
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 the Theology of the Body Instiute. Learn more about the Institute here (https://tobinstitute.org). Shownotes Ep 19: Breakups Part 1 with Liv Harrison (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/19) 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. 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 (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
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 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 (https://tobinstitute.org). Shownotes Dr. Greg’s book: The Mindful Catholic (https://www.dynamiccatholic.com/the-mindful-catholic/MCAT-017-HC-ENG.html) Ep 7: Mindfulness and Therapy with Dr. Greg Bottaro (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/7) Dr. Bottaro is a clinical psychologist and founder of the CatholicPsych Institute. He received his Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Institute for the Psychological Sciences, a graduate school in Arlington, VA that integrates Catholic philosophy and theology with sound, empirically validated psychology. Before his degree, Dr. Bottaro discerned a religious vocation with the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal (CFRs). He lived four years in the Bronx, serving the poor in the tradition of St. Francis of Assisi. He learned how to discern God's voice and live a life in service to others. Six years after leaving NYC as a friar he returned as a psychologist. The CatholicPsych Institute began there in 2012 and has since grown to 5 offices with 12 therapists serving clients around the globe. Website: https://www.catholicpsych.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catholicpsych/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CatholicPsychInstitute A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
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 build the foundation for a successful relationship with someone that you’ve met online. 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 (https://tobinstitute.org). Shownotes Catholic Match Website where anyone can create a free CatholicMatch profile (https://www.catholicmatch.com/) Podcast Episode about Breakups! (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/19) Kateri Bean is a newly married cradle Catholic living in the beautiful state of New Hampshire. As the Content Manager of CatholicMatch, she has a special interest in supporting single Catholics as they navigate their journey to the Sacrament of Marriage. Instagram (the best place to learn more about them!): @catholicmatch A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
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 wait! 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 (https://tobinstitute.org). Shownotes Dear Single Reader: God is Not Going to Force You Into The Convent or Seminary (https://www.theevangelista.com/single-life/2017/4/3/dear-single-reader-god-is-not-going-to-force-you-into-the-convent-or-seminary?rq=God%20is%20not%20going%20to%20force%20you%20into%20the%20convent) Ep 14: Thriving While Single with Christina Jaloway (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/14) Christina Dehan Jaloway is a wife, mother of two, and considers herself Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s biggest fan. Before getting married in 2016, she taught high school theology (her dream job) for nine years, and was a blogger and speaker at Catholic events. She lives with her husband Kristian and two boys in beautiful Austin, TX. https://www.theevangelista.com/ Instagram: @christinajalowa A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
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 bring some clarity and springboards good discussions about femininity in this broken world. 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 (https://tobinstitute.org). Shownotes St. John Paul II’s Letter to Women (http://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/letters/1995/documents/hf_jp-ii_let_29061995_women.html) The Genius Collective on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/the.genius.collective/) 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 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. 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 (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
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 is hosted by the Theology of the Body Instiute. Learn more about the Institute here (https://tobinstitute.org). Shownotes Ep 4: Phases of Discernment (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/4) Ep 19: Breakups (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/19) Join our mailing list (https://www.discerningmarriage.com/) to be the first to hear about updates to the ministry and Next Step registration opening in 2021! A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
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?!” without validating the real pain that the person going through the breakup might be feeling. Breakups often affect the trajectory of a person’s future discernment, so I am incredibly passionate about people being intentional about how they navigate the end of a relationship. Liv Harrison joins me to discuss this critical topic. Note: this is a great episode if you are going through a breakup, have been through a significant breakup in your past, or you know and love someone who is or may at some point go through a breakup. Pretty much, if you or someone in your life is in a commitment and may break up one day, this is a must listen! 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 (https://tobinstitute.org). Shownotes Ep 4: Stages of Dating with Liv Harrison (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/4) TOB Institute Immersion Course Schedule (https://tobinstitute.org/programs/tobi-schedule/) 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. 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 (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
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 are called to 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. This podcast is hosted by the Theology of the Body Instiute. Learn more about the Institute here (https://tobinstitute.org). Shownotes Ep 5: Humility with Jeanette Clark (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/5) Ephesians 5: 21-33 - Be subordinate to one another out of reverence for Christ. Wives should be subordinate to their husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is head of his wife just as Christ is head of the church, he himself the savior of the body. As the church is subordinate to Christ, so wives should be subordinate to their husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ loved the church and handed himself over for her to sanctify her, cleansing her by the bath of water with the word, that he might present to himself the church in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. So [also] husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no one hates his own flesh but rather nourishes and cherishes it, even as Christ does the church, because we are members of his body. “For this reason a man shall leave [his] father and [his] mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” This is a great mystery, but I speak in reference to Christ and the church. In any case, each one of you should love his wife as himself, and the wife should respect her husband. Theology of the Body for Beginners by Christopher West (https://shop.corproject.com/collections/other-featured-products/products/theology-of-the-body-for-beginners) Good News About Sex and Marriage by Christopher West (https://shop.corproject.com/collections/other-featured-products/products/good-news-about-sex-and-marriage) Born to a military family, Jeanette Clark lived most of her life in the Washington, DC area. She received her Master's in Theology from the Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family in 1997 and that same year moved to Denver, Colorado (which she actually considers her home town) where she was hired by the brand new Archbishop, Charles Chaput. She directed the Office of Christian Initiation for the Archdiocese for four years, giving frequent talks and retreats to the community. Jeanette married Jason Clark in 2001 at a little mountain Church in Evergreen, Colorado where their family adventure began. In June they celebrated 19 years as husband and wife. They have 5 children ages 8-17, 4 of whom are boys and they currently live in rural southern Pennsylvania surrounded by Amish neighbors. She is delving deeper and deeper into what it means to be a human being - a woman - who has encountered Christ and what that means on every level of existence. Deep ponderings at the kitchen sink. A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
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 Boyd, who has completed level 2 training (out of 3!) in the Gottman Method, to share with us an introduction to the Gottman’s revolutionary theory. 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 (https://tobinstitute.org). Shownotes The Sound Relationship House (https://www.gottman.com/blog/the-sound-relationship-house-build-love-maps/) Regina’s Counseling Practice (https://www.reginaboyd.com/) Regina is the Founder of Boyd Counseling Services, a Catholic licensed mental health practice that provides in-person and virtual therapy for couples, families, and teens. She works with clients who are experiencing life changes, desire healthy emotional connection, and seek to develop problem solving strategies within their relationships. Regina is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Mental Health Counselor. She is a wife and mother of a delightful toddler. In her spare time Regina enjoys walks with her family, baking, going live for her Facebook and Instagram followers, and listening to Mumford and Sons. Instagram: @boydcounselingservices A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
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, retreats and lectures. His writings are published in several national and international outlets including Bishop Robert Barron’s Word on Fire ministries blog and Evangelization & Culture journal. He has also been featured in National Catholic Register _and EWTN. He is a co-host with Brandon Vogt for _The Burrowshire Podcast, a show focused on Catholic culture and millennial evangelization. In 2018, St. Mary Catholic Church & School in Rockledge, Fla., welcomed Fr. Blake as parochial vicar. 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 (https://tobinstitute.org). Shownotes The Burrowshire Podcast (https://burrowshirepodcast.com/) Instagram: @frblakebritton Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frbritton A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
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 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 (https://tobinstitute.org). Shownotes Regina’s Counseling Practice (https://www.reginaboyd.com/) Regina is the Founder of Boyd Counseling Services, a Catholic licensed mental health practice that provides in-person and virtual therapy for couples, families, and teens. She works with clients who are experiencing life changes, desire healthy emotional connection, and seek to develop problem solving strategies within their relationships. Regina is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Mental Health Counselor. She is a wife and mother of a delightful toddler. In her spare time Regina enjoys walks with her family, baking, going live for her Facebook and Instagram followers, and listening to Mumford and Sons. Instagram: @boydcounselingservices A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
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 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 (https://tobinstitute.org). Shownotes Mindfulness and Therapy Episode with Dr Greg Bottaro (https://www.discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/7) Christina Dehan Jaloway is a thirty-something Catholic Texan with a passion for the True, Good, and Beautiful. She got married in 2016 at the age of 33 to the love of her life, and they have two little boys. She taught high school for 9 years and wrote a blog called The Evangelista. In addition to loving bright colors, being outside in the sunshine, wearing skirts and dresses, kombucha, 85% dark chocolate from Trader Joe's, hiking, and Italy, she’s also a HUGE nerd. She loves, loves, loves to read and learn new things. She also loves to talk about the books she’s read and things she’s learned. And she considers herself Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI's biggest fan! https://www.theevangelista.com/ Instagram: @christinajalowa A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
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 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 (https://www.tobinstitute.org). Shownotes Learn more about the TOB Congress Here (https://www.tobcongress.com/) Elizabeth is speaking at the FREE Catholic Engaged Summit on October 28-30! Find out more here (https://www.catholicengagedsummit.com?affiliate_id=2740929) 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. 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 (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
Revered spiritual director Fr. Timothy Gallagher, OMV, joins us to discuss the ways that St. Ignatius’ 14 Rules for Discernment of Spirits can enrich the lives of lay people, particularly those called to marriage. His new book, Discernment of Spirits in Marriage (Sophia Institute), sets the foundation for this rich discussion on the benefits of studying and digesting these rules. 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 (https://tobinstitute.org). Shownotes Fr. Gallagher’s NEW BOOK Discernment of Spirits in Marriage (https://www.sophiainstitute.com/products/item/discernment-of-spirits-in-marriage) Fr. Gallagher’s book about Venerable Bruno Lanteri: Overcoming Spiritual Discouragement (https://www.sophiainstitute.com/products/item/overcoming-spiritual-discouragement) Intro to Ignatian Discernment episode with Fr. David Lugo, SJ (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/9) Learn more about the TOB Congress Here (https://www.tobcongress.com/) Elizabeth is speaking at the FREE Catholic Engaged Summit on October 28-30! Find out more here (www.catholicengagedsummit.com?affiliate_id=2740929) Father Timothy M. Gallagher, OMV, was ordained in 1979 as a member of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary, a religious community dedicated to giving retreats and spiritual formation according to the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius. Having obtained his doctorate in 1983 from the Gregorian University, he has taught (Saint John’s Seminary, Brighton, Massachusetts; Our Lady of Grace Seminary Residence, Boston), assisted in formation work, and served two terms as provincial in his community. He is a frequent speaker on EWTN, and his digitally recorded talks are used around the world. He has written many books on Ignatian discernment and prayer and on Venerable Bruno Lanteri and the Liturgy of the Hours. He currently holds the Saint Ignatius Chair for Spiritual Formation at Saint John Vianney Theological Seminary in Denver. Connect with Fr. Gallagher on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/frtimothygallagher/), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/frtimothygallagher/?hl=en), and his website (https://www.frtimothygallagher.org/) A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
Raphy and Sara Feolino discerned marriage while Raphy was in the military and after one of them had a broken engagement. AND Sara’s mom introduced them after meeting Raphy at Church while Sara was out of town! This is a fantastic story of God working through surprising circumstances in order to call this couple to marriage. If you are in a committed relationship with someone long distance, are healing from a breakup, or are a mom who wants to find a good spouse for your child (😉), this episode is a must listen! 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 (https://tobinstitute.org). Shownotes Elizabeth is speaking at the FREE Catholic Engaged Summit, hosted by Raphy and Sara Feolino from Journey to Marriage, on October 28-30! Find out more here (www.catholicengagedsummit.com?affiliate_id=2740929) Learn more about the TOB Congress Here (https://www.tobcongress.com/) Raphy & Sara Feolino are Catholic Speakers & Co-Founders of Journey to Marriage, an organization that empowers couples to create holy and healthy relationships before entering marriage. They believe that if it takes a priest nearly a decade to prepare for their vocation, that an online course or weekend retreat isn’t nearly enough for couples to prepare for a lifelong marriage. They are certified Relationship Coaches through the Empowered Couples University, a program accredited by the International Coaching Federation (ICF) & certified Wedding Planners from the internationally recognized Lovegevity’s Wedding Planning Institute (LWPI). They are hosts of the podcast, Journey to Marriage - For Catholic Brides & Grooms, which generates thousands of monthly downloads internationally, sharing practical spiritual, relationship, & wedding advice for all Catholic couples. Raphy & Sara are the hosts of the up and coming, Catholic Engaged Summit, a free virtual event featuring over 30+ speakers sharing their marriage insights & expertise to all Catholic couples around the world, preparing for the sacrament of matrimony. They live in Las Vegas, Nevada and are huge foodies, enjoy singing, dancing, and loving on their newborn daughter. Instagram: @journeytomarriage Facebook: @journeytomarriage Podcast: Journey to Marriage - For Catholic Brides & Grooms (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/journey-to-marriage-for-catholic-brides-grooms/id1526086792) A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
Mary Lenaburg, our guest in the very popular freedom from pornography episode (see link in Show Notes), is back with her discernment story! The Lord moved in big and mysterious ways as she discerned marriage and dated her future husband. Mary also offers fantastic advice at the end of the episode for couples wanting to bring glory to God in their 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. Show Notes Mary’s book: Be Brave In The Scared (https://www.avemariapress.com/products/be-brave-in-the-scared) Ep 6: Marriage and the Wounds of Porn with Mary Lenaburg (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/6) Learn more about the TOB Congress Here (https://www.tobcongress.com/) Elizabeth is speaking at the FREE Catholic Engaged Summit on October 28-30! Find out more here (https://www.catholicengagedsummit.com?affiliate_id=2740929) Mary Lenaburg is a full-time Catholic speaker and author of Be Brave in the Scared, which earned a 2020 Excellence in Publishing Award from the Association of Catholic Publishers. She has given keynotes at conferences internationally, including The Edel Gathering, the Genius Women’s Conference, the Fiat Conference in Pasadena, CA, Military Council for Catholic Women European Retreat, and at the Women of the Word Conference in Toronto, Canada. A writer with Take Up & Read, her work has appeared in five meditation books. She also has contributed to two other books. She has appeared on Catholic radio, TV, and podcasts, including The Jennifer Fulwiler Show, EWTN’s Pro-Life Weekly, The Hallie Lord Show, The Gist, Busted Halo, and Fountains of Carrots. Lenaburg serves her home parish in many roles, including catechist, sacristan, and extraordinary minister of Holy Communion. She and her husband, Jerry, live in Fairfax, Virginia, with their son, Jonathan. Their daughter, Courtney, passed away in 2014. Facebook: marylenaburgwriter Instagram: @marylenaburg Pinterest: @Mary Lenaburg Twitter: @marylenaburg A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). This podcast is hosted by Theology of the Body Institute. Learn more about the Institute here (https://tobinstitute.org). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
St. Ignatius, founder of the Jesuit order, is recognized as a spiritual giant who has tremendously beneficial things to say for people who are discerning. In this episode, Fr. David Lugo, a Jesuit priest, gives us an introduction to Ignatian Discernment and discusses how St Ignatius’ work with discernment of spirits can be useful to people who are 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. Shownotes Lumen Gentium Chapter 5 on the Universal Call to Holines (https://w2.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_const_19641121_lumen-gentium_en.html) Humility Episode with Jeanette Clark (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/5) TOB Congress Oct 30-Nov 1, 2020 (https://www.tobcongress.com) Fr. David Lugo, SJ, was born in the Dominican Republic and immigrated to the United States at a young age with his parents and two older brothers. Following his parent’s advice, he went to Texas A&M University to complete a bachelor’s degree in physics before considering seminary formation. It was at A&M that David met the Jesuits. He began to discern religious life in the Society and requested admission to the novitiate upon completing his undergraduate work. After vows he studied philosophy at Saint Louis University and was then missioned to teach theology and mathematics in Dallas. He remembers those three years with great fondness and looks forward to returning to the classroom in the future. After completing his MDiv at the Jesuit School of Theology in Toronto, David requested to study Spiritual Theology and Ignatian Spirituality at the Pontifical University of Comillas in Madrid, Spain. Fr. David was ordained to the priesthood this past summer, and he returned to Madrid to finish his Licentiate in Spiritual Theology and serve as a priest at a Jesuit parish in Madrid. A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Learn more about Theology of the Body Institute here (https://tobinstitute.org). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
Y'all, THIS DISCERNMENT STORY IS EPIC! This couple walked through some ordinary things like navigating a long distance dating relationship, getting married at 30, one person having serious dating relationships earlier in life and the other being mostly single until they met. But, they have an EXTRAORDINARY love story! Will, an American, and Rebekah, and English woman, tell their story of discerning the vocation of marriage and how they knew that they were called to marry each other. God showed up big time, and it’s such a delight to listen to the details of how this story unfolded! Also Will owns the record label that produced our theme song for this podcast - and he actually wrote the song, too! 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. Shownotes Register for the TOB Congress! (https://www.Tobcongress.com) October 30-Nov 1, 2020 Echo - Dumb Ox Ministries (https://www.dumboxministries.com/echo.html) Gaudium Et Spes 24: "Man, who is the only creature on earth which God willed for itself, cannot fully find himself except through a sincere gift of himself." Will and Rebekah married in January of 2020 after dating overseas for 2 years. They met while Will was leading worship with Dumb Ox Ministries for an ECHO retreat that Rebekah was coordinating in the U.K. Will owns NOVUM RECORDS - a grassroots Catholic record label, and loves all things synthesizers. Rebekah is adjusting to life in the USA after many years working for the Diocese of Westminster, and she is learning to make embroidery art and cheesecake. They currently live in Dallas, TX. A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Learn more about Theology of the Body Institute here (https://tobinstitute.org). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
When you’re discerning marriage, two of the best things you can spend your time doing are healing from your past brokenness and learning to be fully focused on the present moment in order to encounter God and His grace in reality. In this episode, Dr. Greg Bottaro walks us through how to do both! He defines both mindfulness and therapy and gives some wonderful tips on how both can be utilized when discerning the vocation of 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. Register for the TOB Congress! (https://www.Tobcongress.com) October 30-Nov 1, 2020 Shownotes Resources to help you on your journey: Humility Episode with Jeanette Clark (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/5) Abandonment to Divine Providence by Jean-Pierre De Coussade (https://www.ignatius.com/Abandonment-to-Divine-Providence-P93.aspx) To find a therapist through Dr. Greg’s practice (https://www.catholicpsych.com/about-us) To find a good, faithful Catholic Therapist somewhere else in the USA (https://www.catholictherapists.com/) Story of a Soul by St. Therese (https://www.amazon.com/Story-Soul-Autobiography-Translation-Manuscripts/dp/0935216588) Dr. Greg Bottaro is a Catholic Psychologist who directs the CatholicPsych Institute and developed Catholic Mindfulness. Before getting his doctorate, he spent four years living as a Franciscan Friar. Under the mentorship of Fr. Benedict Groeschel, this experience helped him form a spirituality based on Abandonment to Divine Providence which he now applies to psychological principles in his practice. The Mindful Catholic (https://dynamiccatholic.com/the-mindful-catholic-hardcover) A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Learn more about Theology of the Body Institute here (https://tobinstitute.org). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
Pornography is one of the greatest predators of marriage, perhaps the greatest universal threat in our modern time. Very few people, if any, are truly immune to it’s evil clutches. It’s crucial that you have a discussion with your significant other about the role that pornography has played in your life and theirs and the way that you want it handled in your future marriage. We are right here to accompany you as you have those tough conversations, beginning with our talk with Mary Lenaburg. She and her husband have a phenomenal story of healing and redemption from the ravages of pornography in their marriage and she’s bravely shared it with you in this episode! Join us as we hear their story of heartbreak and triumph and discuss some tools that you can use to have these tough conversations and, if necessary, break free from porn in your own 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. Shownotes Resources to help you on your journey: Integrity Restored (https://integrityrestored.com) Strive 21 (https://www.strive21.com) Bloom for Women (https://bloomforwomen.com) Fight the New Drug (https://fightthenewdrug.org) Access the TOB Congress (http://tobcongress.com) October 30-Nov 1, 2020 Mary Lenaburg is a full-time Catholic speaker and author of Be Brave in the Scared, which earned a 2020 Excellence in Publishing Award from the Association of Catholic Publishers. She has given keynotes at conferences internationally, including The Edel Gathering, the Genius Women’s Conference, the Fiat Conference in Pasadena, CA, Military Council for Catholic Women European Retreat, and at the Women of the Word Conference in Toronto, Canada. A writer with Take Up & Read, her work has appeared in five meditation books. She also has contributed to two other books. She has appeared on Catholic radio, TV, and podcasts, including The Jennifer Fulwiler Show, EWTN’s Pro-Life Weekly, The Hallie Lord Show, The Gist, Busted Halo, and Fountains of Carrots. Lenaburg serves her home parish in many roles, including catechist, sacristan, and extraordinary minister of Holy Communion. She and her husband, Jerry, live in Fairfax, Virginia, with their son, Jonathan. Their daughter, Courtney, passed away in 2014. Facebook: marylenaburgwriter Instagram: @marylenaburg Pinterest: @Mary Lenaburg Twitter: @marylenaburg YouTube (shorturl.at/rzI28) Patreon (shorturl.at/pvS08) Be Brave in the Sacred (https://www.avemariapress.com/products/be-brave-in-the-scared) A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Learn more about Theology of the Body Institute here (https://tobinstitute.org). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
One of the most powerful things you can do to discern marriage well is hone in on the virtues used most in marriage and work to grow in them. While all virtues are really necessary for the Christian life, one of the things we want to do is highlight a few of the biggies for marriage and give you tips for perfecting those virtues in your life. We start that journey today with the virtue of humility! We are joined by Jeanette Clark, a graduate of the Pontifical St. John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and the Family and wife of Jason Clark, executive director of Theology of the Body Institute, to dive deeply into this virtue and why it matters so much for your life and your 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. Show Notes Total Consecration to Jesus Through Mary Prayers (https://www.catholiccompany.com/content/how-to-make-your-st-louis-de-montforts-total-consecration-to-jesus-through-mary/) St. Louis de Montfort and 33 Days to Morning Glory (https://www.thedivinemercy.org/articles/33-days-morning-glory-introduction) 1 Corinthians 13: If I speak in human and angelic tongues but do not have love, I am a resounding gong or a clashing cymbal. And if I have the gift of prophecy and comprehend all mysteries and all knowledge; if I have all faith so as to move mountains but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give away everything I own, and if I hand my body over so that I may boast but do not have love, I gain nothing. Love is patient, love is kind. It is not jealous, [love] is not pompous, it is not inflated, it is not rude, it does not seek its own interests, it is not quick-tempered, it does not brood over injury, it does not rejoice over wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. If there are prophecies, they will be brought to nothing; if tongues, they will cease; if knowledge, it will be brought to nothing. For we know partially and we prophesy partially, but when the perfect comes, the partial will pass away. When I was a child, I used to talk as a child, think as a child, reason as a child; when I became a man, I put aside childish things. At present we see indistinctly, as in a mirror, but then face to face. At present I know partially; then I shall know fully, as I am fully known. So faith, hope, love remain, these three; but the greatest of these is love. Born to a military family, Jeanette Clark lived most of her life in the Washington, DC area. She received her Master's in Theology from the Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family in 1997 and that same year moved to Denver, Colorado (which she actually considers her home town) where she was hired by the brand new Archbishop, Charles Chaput. She directed the Office of Christian Initiation for the Archdiocese for four years, giving frequent talks and retreats to the community. Jeanette married Jason Clark in 2001 at a little mountain Church in Evergreen, Colorado where their family adventure began. In June they will celebrate 19 years as husband and wife. They have 5 children ages 8-17, 4 of whom are boys and they currently live in rural southern Pennsylvania surrounded by Amish neighbors. She is delving deeper and deeper into what it means to be a human being - a woman - who has encountered Christ and what that means on every level of existence. Deep ponderings at the kitchen sink. A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Learn more about Theology of the Body Institute here (https://tobinstitute.org). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
Not everyone who is discerning marriage is coming from the same place, and the different seasons of life require a different approach to discernment. In this episode, Elizabeth is joined by co-host Liv Harrison to discuss the distinct stages of discerning marriage and what a person in each stage could do to begin discerning marriage intentionally and productively. 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. 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. 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. Contact Liv: @thelivharrison https://www.thelivharrison.com liv@thelivharrison.com A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Get to know Elizabeth by listening to her intro episode here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/1)! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Learn more about Theology of the Body Institute here (https://tobinstitute.org). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
So many of us have a longing and ache for a spouse—feeling called to marriage and yearning for relationship and love but not being in that place of total communion yet. That ache and longing is, at its foundation, a desire for Beauty. Our deep ache for Truth and Beauty points us back towards the heavens. In Episode 3, host Elizabeth Busby continues her conversation with TOB Institute's Christopher West with a focus this time on what Beauty is, why it’s important, and how to handle the profound ache in the depths of our hearts. Show Notes "In my heart I treasure your promise, that I may not sin against you." - Psalm 119:11 Order Fill These Hearts: God, Sex & the Universal Longing (https://shop.corproject.com/collections/other-featured-products/products/copy-of-fill-these-hearts-paperback) by Christopher West. Select two copies of the book, then enter the discount code SHAREHEARTS during checkout and you will get one of the copies for free. Please see instructions on book page if there are any questions. Christopher West, ThD is a devoted husband and father of five. As President of the Theology of the Body Institute, he leads an international apostolate spreading St. John Paul II’s life-transforming teaching through graduate level courses, on-site events and programs, clergy enrichment training, and an online global community dedicated to ongoing formation. Beyond serving as Professor of Theological Anthropology in the Institute’s jointly sponsored M.A. program with Pontifex University, Dr. West has served on the faculties of St. John Vianney Theological Seminary in Denver; the Institute for Priestly Formation in Omaha; the St. Therese Institute of Faith and Mission in Canada; and as a visiting professor of the John Paul II Institute in Australia. West is the author of more than a dozen best-selling books and numerous video and audio programs. He cohosts the popular podcast Ask Christopher West (https://askchristopherwest.com) with his wife Wendy, and his work has been featured in The New York Times, on ABC News, Fox News, MSNBC, and in countless Catholic and evangelical media outlets. A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Get to know Elizabeth by listening to her intro episode here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/1)! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Learn more about Theology of the Body Institute here (https://tobinstitute.org). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask).
There is something so powerful about a story, and a story about how someone made one of the biggest decisions of their life is no different. On today’s very first episode of the Discerning Marriage podcast, Elizabeth Busby interviews Theology of the Body Institute's Christopher West about his discernment story. You’ll hear how Christopher knew he was called to marriage and how he realized that his beloved wife of two decades, Wendy, would be a good spouse for him! 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. Show Notes Chastity: The ability to raise all of your emotional and sensual reactions and desires to the level of the dignity of the person Christopher West, ThD is a devoted husband and father of five. As President of the Theology of the Body Institute, he leads an international apostolate spreading St. John Paul II’s life-transforming teaching through graduate level courses, on-site events and programs, clergy enrichment training, and an online global community dedicated to ongoing formation. Beyond serving as Professor of Theological Anthropology in the Institute’s jointly sponsored M.A. program with Pontifex University, Dr. West has served on the faculties of St. John Vianney Theological Seminary in Denver; the Institute for Priestly Formation in Omaha; the St. Therese Institute of Faith and Mission in Canada; and as a visiting professor of the John Paul II Institute in Australia. West is the author of more than a dozen best-selling books and numerous video and audio programs. He cohosts the popular podcast Ask Christopher West (https://askchristopherwest.com) with his wife Wendy, and his work has been featured in The New York Times, on ABC News, Fox News, MSNBC, and in countless Catholic and evangelical media outlets. A huge thank you to Catholic record label NOVUM Records (https://www.novumrecords.com) and artist John Finch for our theme song "Send Down Your Spirit"! Learn more about Discerning Marriage Ministries here (https://www.discerningmarriage.com). Learn more about Theology of the Body Institute here (https://tobinstitute.org). Send a question to host Elizabeth Busby here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/ask). Listen to Elizabeth's intro episode here (https://discerningmarriage.fireside.fm/1)!