Managing Your Fertility

What do you think about the idea of women saying "yes" to what God calls them to and not fitting into a particular box or stereotypical role?
In this episode, I take a deep dive with my guest, Elise Gallagher, into what it means to be a Catholic woman who lives out her YES to God's calling in her life, while navigating the challenges of the often questionable "having it all" lifestyle. We don't stay surface-level in this podcast and we don't pretend to have all the answers.
What we do know is this: God calls each one of us to something unique because we are made unique and unrepeatable.
What does it look like to live this out with restrictive workplace environments, the "shoulds" for how to be the best woman, navigating marriage & family life, pondering if you should lean into your work or take a step back?
I'm excited for you to listen to this one and go deeper in your own life to see where God is calling YOU to give your resounding "YES!" to Him and not be afraid to examine your life and where you're needed to take some holy action.
Interviewee bio:
Elise Crawford Gallagher is a wife and mom to two little girls. As of March 2023, she is the Vice President of Operations at her family business, JC Law, a regional law firm based in Baltimore, MD. Before JC Law, Elise was the Founder & CEO of Ringlet, a marketing agency focused on serving women-owned businesses. Elise built RINGLET from a one-woman show to a thriving multi-dimensional company with eight employees. Ringlet produced national, multi-level campaigns for startups around the country. Elise’s mission is to empower Catholic women to boldly step into their feminine genius to live the vocations God has called them to.
Shownotes:
Elise Gallagher: https://www.elisecgallagher.com/

Roll Your Way Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/roll-your-way/id1622634739
CWIB: https://catholicwomeninbusiness.com/
Catholic Moms Made for Business: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/catholic-moms-made-for-business/id1588484474?i=1000614062360
Jen Fulwiler Podcast: https://www.jenniferfulwiler.com/podcast/episode/3131f8ee/158-village-balance
Surveys on workplace and how many hours people work
https://www.cnn.com/2022/08/01/business/4-day-work-week-uk-trial/index.html
https://www.wsj.com/articles/after-testing-four-day-week-companies-say-they-dont-want-to-stop-a06089cc
https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2023/02/21/four-day-work-week-results-uk/
FemCatholic: women work inside and outside the home: https://www.femcatholic.com/post/we-need-better-support-for-women-working-outside-the-home
Leah Jacobson’s Wholistic Feminism and how women are not as happy as they initially were: https://www.amazon.com/Wholistic-Feminism-Healing-Identity-Movement/dp/1735223700
SHOP MY AMAZON STOREFRONT: https://amzn.to/3MRxbTC
SHOP MY BEAUTY & SKINCARE PRODUCTS: https://www.beautycounter.com/bridgetbusacker
DISCOUNT CODES:
20% OFF PROOV TEST STRIPS: https://proovtest.com/?wly=57893
20% OFF YOUR FIRST OLIVE & JUNE MANI KIT: http://fbuy.me/v/bridgetbusackerbc
10% OFF YOUR TEMPDROP: http://www.tempdrop.com/discount/managingyourfertility
3 MONTHS FREE & 20% OFF YOUR HALLOW SUBSCRIPTION: hallow.com/managingyourfertility
DISCLOSURE: This description may include affiliate links for products or services mentioned in the podcast. If you purchase products or services at these links I receive a small commission for the referral. I appreciate your support of my business!

Additional questions about this episode? Reach out! I love hearing from you!
SHOP MY AMAZON STOREFRONT: https://amzn.to/3MRxbTC
SHOP MY BEAUTY & SKINCARE PRODUCTS: https://www.beautycounter.com/bridgetbusacker
DISCOUNT CODES:
20% OFF PROOV TEST STRIPS: https://proovtest.com/?wly=57893
20% OFF YOUR FIRST OLIVE & JUNE MANI KIT: http://fbuy.me/v/bridgetbusackerbc
10% OFF YOUR TEMPDROP: http://www.tempdrop.com/discount/managingyourfertility
3 MONTHS FREE & 20% OFF YOUR HALLOW SUBSCRIPTION: hallow.com/managingyourfertility
DISCLOSURE: This description may include affiliate links for products or services mentioned in the podcast. If you purchase products or services at these links I receive a small commission for the referral. I appreciate your support of my business!

Interviewee bio:
Sarah Bartel helps married Catholics grow closer to God and closer to their beloved at CanaFeast.com. A moral theologian and mom of five, she and her husband of twenty years created the Cana Feast virtual marriage ministry to help bring the benefits of marriage retreats to more couples. She co-edited A Catechism of Marriage and Family Life for CUA Press. She hikes, reads Jane Austen, and has adventures with her family in the Seattle area. You can find her on Instagram and Facebook @canafeast.
Shownotes:
Cana Feast: https://www.canafeast.com/
Follow Cana Feast on IG: www.instagram.com/canafeast
Follow Cana Feast on FB: www.facebook.com/canafeast
My Delight Registration: https://bridgetbusacker.krtra.com/t/ybBnKEiMgtlF
*Registration is open September 11 - 14, 2023; you can gain EARLY ACCESS with my affiliate link*
Additional questions about this episode? Reach out! I love hearing from you!
SHOP MY AMAZON STOREFRONT: https://amzn.to/3MRxbTC
SHOP MY BEAUTY & SKINCARE PRODUCTS: https://www.beautycounter.com/bridgetbusacker
DISCOUNT CODES:
20% OFF PROOV TEST STRIPS: https://proovtest.com/?wly=57893
20% OFF YOUR FIRST OLIVE & JUNE MANI KIT: http://fbuy.me/v/bridgetbusackerbc
10% OFF YOUR TEMPDROP: http://www.tempdrop.com/discount/managingyourfertility
3 MONTHS FREE & 20% OFF YOUR HALLOW SUBSCRIPTION: hallow.com/managingyourfertility
DISCLOSURE: This description may include affiliate links for products or services mentioned in the podcast. If you purchase products or services at these links I receive a small commission for the referral. I appreciate your support of my business!

Shownotes:
Episode 54: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/managingyourfertility/episodes/54---What-does-it-look-like-to-lean-into-YOUR-NFP-story-e27c2qm
NFP Parish Planning Packet ($17): https://pearlandthistle.podia.com/nfp-parish-planning-packet
NFP Ambassador Training ($147): https://pearlandthistle.podia.com/nfpambassadors

SHOP MY AMAZON STOREFRONT: https://amzn.to/3MRxbTC
SHOP MY BEAUTY & SKINCARE PRODUCTS: https://www.beautycounter.com/bridgetbusacker

DISCOUNT CODES:
20% OFF PROOV TEST STRIPS: https://proovtest.com/?wly=57893
20% OFF YOUR FIRST OLIVE & JUNE MANI KIT: http://fbuy.me/v/bridgetbusackerbc
10% OFF YOUR TEMPDROP: http://www.tempdrop.com/discount/managingyourfertility
3 MONTHS FREE & 20% OFF YOUR HALLOW SUBSCRIPTION: hallow.com/managingyourfertility

DISCLOSURE: This description may include affiliate links for products or services mentioned in the podcast. If you purchase products or services at these links I receive a small commission for the referral. I appreciate your support of my business!

Ever heard the phrase "holier than thou"?
In today's episode, I have the joy of sitting down with my dear friend Sr. Emily Syverson, Pro Ecclesia Sancta, to talk about holiness and what the heck it means to be holy! And, how holiness doesn't need to be this drab, scrupulous experience, but can actually be a life of great joy, contentment, and direction!
Don't miss this episode as we discuss this hard hitter of a topi - including tips for discernment!
And, if you're loving the podcast, could you please leave a review?! I would love to hear from you and it helps me to share this podcast with so many more! I am SO grateful to you! 🫶
Interviewee bio:
Sr. Emily is a temporarily professed sister with the religious order, Pro Ecclesia Sancta, and currently serving in South Dakota. Previously joining PES, she was a pediatric nurse at a children’s hospital.
Shownotes:
Pro Ecclesia Sancta: https://www.sacredheartofjesusconvent.org/pro-ecclesia-sancta
SHOP MY AMAZON STOREFRONT: https://amzn.to/3MRxbTC
SHOP MY BEAUTY & SKINCARE PRODUCTS: https://www.beautycounter.com/bridgetbusacker
DISCOUNT CODES:
20% OFF PROOV TEST STRIPS: https://proovtest.com/?wly=57893
20% OFF YOUR FIRST OLIVE & JUNE MANI KIT: http://fbuy.me/v/bridgetbusackerbc
10% OFF YOUR TEMPDROP: http://www.tempdrop.com/discount/managingyourfertility
3 MONTHS FREE & 20% OFF YOUR HALLOW SUBSCRIPTION: hallow.com/managingyourfertility
DISCLOSURE: This description may include affiliate links for products or services mentioned in the podcast. If you purchase products or services at these links I receive a small commission for the referral. I appreciate your support of my business!

• FSI website: https://fertilityscienceinstitute.org/
• https://www.youtube.com/@fertilityscienceinstitute8123
  
• 
  https://www.instagram.com/fertilityscienceinstitute/
  
• 
  https://instagram.com/coupletocoupleleague

https://www.youtube.com/user/CoupleToCoupleLeague/

Interviewee bio:
Katie Zulanas is the Executive Director of the Couple to Couple League (CCL), an organization celebrating 50 years of promoting and teaching Natural Family Planning. With a background in software engineering and marketing, Katie has focused on providing platforms to allow teachers to support women and men through a lifetime of fertility. With millions of women downloading fertility apps, there is an unprecedented need for solid scientifically-based education regarding fertility which supports the dignity of the human person and safeguards the creation of new life. Katie is most energized by lending her skills to help CCL volunteers as they continue on with their mission to share the gift of Humanae Vitae. Katie spent 23 years promoting CCL with her husband Tom before joining the organization as Executive Director.
MY COURSES:
START YOUR CHART™ COURSE - $37 for lifetime access: https://go.managingyourfertility.com/buystartyourchart
SHOP MY AMAZON STOREFRONT: https://amzn.to/3MRxbTC
SHOP MY BEAUTY & SKINCARE PRODUCTS: https://www.beautycounter.com/bridgetbusacker
DISCOUNT CODES:
20% OFF PROOV TEST STRIPS: https://proovtest.com/?wly=57893
20% OFF YOUR FIRST OLIVE & JUNE MANI KIT: http://fbuy.me/v/bridgetbusackerbc
10% OFF YOUR TEMPDROP: http://www.tempdrop.com/discount/managingyourfertility
3 MONTHS FREE & 20% OFF YOUR HALLOW SUBSCRIPTION: hallow.com/managingyourfertility
DISCLOSURE: This description may include affiliate links for products or services mentioned in the podcast. If you purchase products or services at these links I receive a small commission for the referral. I appreciate your support of my business!

• Dr. Elisa Yao's website: https://www.elisayaomd.com
  Please note: for people who live in California and are interested in working with Dr. Yao as a patient, she recommends they start by scheduling a Fertility Insight Session through her website.
• Take Dr. Yao's course that teaches couples how to easily improve egg & sperm quality using science-backed approaches.
  Get 50% off the course for MYF listeners!! https://fertilitybreakthru.teachable.com/p/331?coupon_code=MYF&product_id=4263939
  

MY COURSES:
START YOUR CHART™ COURSE - $37 for lifetime access: https://go.managingyourfertility.com/buystartyourchart
SHOP MY AMAZON STOREFRONT: https://amzn.to/3MRxbTC
SHOP MY BEAUTY & SKINCARE PRODUCTS: https://www.beautycounter.com/bridgetbusacker
DISCOUNT CODES:
20% OFF PROOV TEST STRIPS: https://proovtest.com/?wly=57893
20% OFF YOUR FIRST OLIVE & JUNE MANI KIT: http://fbuy.me/v/bridgetbusackerbc
10% OFF YOUR TEMPDROP: http://www.tempdrop.com/discount/managingyourfertility
3 MONTHS FREE & 20% OFF YOUR HALLOW SUBSCRIPTION: hallow.com/managingyourfertility
DISCLOSURE: This description may include affiliate links for products or services mentioned in the podcast. If you purchase products or services at these links I receive a small commission for the referral. I appreciate your support of my business!

• WHO Report on Infertility: What's Missing Blog Post: https://www.managingyourfertility.com/who-report-on-infertility-whats-missing/
• 1 in 6 people globally affected by infertility: WHO: https://www.who.int/news/item/04-04-2023-1-in-6-people-globally-affected-by-infertility#:~:text=Large%20numbers%20of%20people%20are,care%20for%20those%20in%20need
• Financial costs of assisted reproductive technology for patients in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review: https://academic.oup.com/hropen/article/2023/2/hoad007/7066921?login=false
• Email me your thoughts/questions on the topic of infertility treatment: bridget@managingyourfertility.com
  MY COURSES:
  START YOUR CHART™ COURSE - $37 for lifetime access: https://go.managingyourfertility.com/buystartyourchart
  SHOP MY AMAZON STOREFRONT: https://amzn.to/3MRxbTC
  SHOP MY BEAUTY & SKINCARE PRODUCTS: https://www.beautycounter.com/bridgetbusacker
  DISCOUNT CODES:
  20% OFF PROOV TEST STRIPS: https://proovtest.com/?wly=57893
  20% OFF YOUR FIRST OLIVE & JUNE MANI KIT: http://fbuy.me/v/bridgetbusackerbc
  10% OFF YOUR TEMPDROP: http://www.tempdrop.com/discount/managingyourfertility
  3 MONTHS FREE & 20% OFF YOUR HALLOW SUBSCRIPTION: hallow.com/managingyourfertility
  DISCLOSURE: This description may include affiliate links for products or services mentioned in the podcast. If you purchase products or services at these links I receive a small commission for the referral. I appreciate your support of my business!

Mulieris Dignitatem: https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_letters/1988/documents/hf_jp-ii_apl_19880815_mulieris-dignitatem.html
Love & Responsibility: https://amzn.to/3z9SYjd
Humanae Vitae: https://www.vatican.va/content/paul-vi/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_p-vi_enc_25071968_humanae-vitae.html
Holy Sex: https://amzn.to/40FacAJ
Awaken Love: https://amzn.to/3LUPyZp
Marital Debt (Christopher & Wendy West): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=57TBg0-C4rM
The Good Girls Guide to Great Sex: https://amzn.to/40Ga5EY
MY COURSES:
START YOUR CHART™ COURSE - $37 for lifetime access: https://go.managingyourfertility.com/buystartyourchart
SHOP MY AMAZON STOREFRONT: https://amzn.to/3MRxbTC
SHOP MY BEAUTY & SKINCARE PRODUCTS: https://www.beautycounter.com/bridgetbusacker
DISCOUNT CODES:
20% OFF PROOV TEST STRIPS: https://proovtest.com/?wly=57893
20% OFF YOUR FIRST OLIVE & JUNE MANI KIT: http://fbuy.me/v/bridgetbusackerbc
10% OFF YOUR TEMPDROP: http://www.tempdrop.com/discount/managingyourfertility
3 MONTHS FREE & 20% OFF YOUR HALLOW SUBSCRIPTION: hallow.com/managingyourfertility
DISCLOSURE: This description may include affiliate links for products or services mentioned in the podcast. If you purchase products or services at these links I receive a small commission for the referral. I appreciate your support of my business!

In this episode, I explore mindset and how our thought patterns impact the way we live, think, and experience freedom or enslavement in our daily lives.
I also talk about some of the core issues of men and women as it relates to Genesis 3:16, specifically addressing disordered desire (women) and domination (men), and how this dis-integration from original sin impacts our mindset in how we view equality and the differences of men & women.
And, finally, having this foundational episode, I start to explore how this can impact the way we view sex and how identifying our thoughts and where they may come from can help us experience greater freedom and the kind of life we hope for (and are made for!) versus what we're currently experiencing.
Shownotes:
Metanoia Catholic: https://metanoiacatholic.com/
Breaking Down the Model Part 1 - Circumstances & Thoughts: https://metanoiacatholic.com/circumstances-and-thoughts/
The Thought Recon - Taking Thoughts Captive!: https://metanoiacatholic.com/the-thought-recon-taking-thoughts-captive/
Does Mindset Matter in Sex?: https://www.managingyourfertility.com/does-mindset-matter-in-sex/
Men & Women He Created Them, General Audience 33, section 6: “It seems that the second creation account has assigned ot the man “from the beginning” the function of the one who above all receives the gift (see Gen 2:23). The woman has “from the beginning” been entrusted to his eyes, to his consciousness, to his sensibility, to his “heart”; he, by contrast, must in some way ensure the very process of the exchange of the gift, the reciprocal interpenetration of giving and receiving the gift, which, precisely through its reciprocity, creates an authentic communion of persons.”
MY COURSES:
START YOUR CHART™ COURSE - $37 for lifetime access: https://go.managingyourfertility.com/buystartyourchart
SHOP MY AMAZON STOREFRONT: https://amzn.to/3MRxbTC
SHOP MY BEAUTY & SKINCARE PRODUCTS: https://www.beautycounter.com/bridgetbusacker
DISCOUNT CODES:
20% OFF PROOV TEST STRIPS: https://proovtest.com/?wly=57893
20% OFF YOUR FIRST OLIVE & JUNE MANI KIT: http://fbuy.me/v/bridgetbusackerbc
10% OFF YOUR TEMPDROP: http://www.tempdrop.com/discount/managingyourfertility
3 MONTHS FREE & 20% OFF YOUR HALLOW SUBSCRIPTION: hallow.com/managingyourfertility
DISCLOSURE: This description may include affiliate links for products or services mentioned in the podcast. If you purchase products or services at these links I receive a small commission for the referral. I appreciate your support of my business!

• Dallas Pelvic Health: https://www.dallaspelvichealthllctx.com/
• Dr. Chelsea Harkins on social media: https://www.instagram.com/dallaspelvichealth/?hl=en
• How to Get a Baby Out Labor Course: What to do and When in Labor: https://dallaspelvichealthllc.teachable.com/p/laborcourse
  

MY COURSES:  
START YOUR CHART™ COURSE - $37 for lifetime access: https://go.managingyourfertility.com/buystartyourchart

SHOP MY AMAZON STOREFRONT: https://amzn.to/3MRxbTC
SHOP MY BEAUTY & SKINCARE PRODUCTS: https://www.beautycounter.com/bridgetbusacker

DISCOUNT CODES:
20% OFF PROOV TEST STRIPS: https://proovtest.com/?wly=57893
20% OFF YOUR FIRST OLIVE & JUNE MANI KIT: http://fbuy.me/v/bridgetbusackerbc
10% OFF YOUR TEMPDROP: http://www.tempdrop.com/discount/managingyourfertility
3 MONTHS FREE & 20% OFF YOUR HALLOW SUBSCRIPTION:  hallow.com/managingyourfertility

DISCLOSURE: This description may include affiliate links for products or services mentioned in the podcast. If you purchase products or services at these links I receive a small commission for the referral. I appreciate your support of my business!

MANAGING YOUR FERTILITY LINKS & LOVES
WEBSITE: https://www.managingyourfertility.com
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/managingyourfertility
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/managingyourfertility
PINTEREST: https://www.pinterest.com/managingyourfertility

MY COURSES:  
START YOUR CHART™ COURSE - $37 for lifetime access: https://go.managingyourfertility.com/buystartyourchart

SHOP MY AMAZON STOREFRONT: https://amzn.to/3MRxbTC
SHOP MY BEAUTY & SKINCARE PRODUCTS: https://www.beautycounter.com/bridgetbusacker

DISCOUNT CODES:
20% OFF PROOV TEST STRIPS: https://proovtest.com/?wly=57893
20% OFF YOUR FIRST OLIVE & JUNE MANI KIT: http://fbuy.me/v/bridgetbusackerbc
10% OFF YOUR TEMPDROP: http://www.tempdrop.com/discount/managingyourfertility
3 MONTHS FREE & 20% OFF YOUR HALLOW SUBSCRIPTION:  hallow.com/managingyourfertility

DISCLOSURE: This description may include affiliate links for products or services mentioned in the podcast. If you purchase products or services at these links I receive a small commission for the referral. I appreciate your support of my business!

What happens when NFP doesn't go the way you thought it would?
How do you respond when you get a positive pregnancy test and you're feeling ALL the feels?
Is it okay to love and hate NFP at the same time?

My dear friend, Amanda, is joining me today to get REAL about NFP, share her story, and start conversations about the realities, struggles, and goodness of NFP. She believes that both the hard & the good can co-exist when it comes to using NFP in your daily life (and, I agree with her!). Amanda's vulnerability and willingness to share her own story in the hopes of helping and supporting other women is so inspiring to me and I'm so honored she joined me on the podcast to do just that. Don't miss this incredible episode!

Interviewee bio:
Amanda Grimes is a Catholic convert who is a wife & SAHM. She and her husband have been married for 7 years and they have 3 kids and one on the way.

MANAGING YOUR FERTILITY LINKS & LOVES
WEBSITE: https://www.managingyourfertility.com
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/managingyourfertility
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/managingyourfertility
PINTEREST: https://www.pinterest.com/managingyourfertility

MY COURSES:  
START YOUR CHART™ COURSE - $37 for lifetime access: https://go.managingyourfertility.com/buystartyourchart

SHOP MY AMAZON STOREFRONT: https://amzn.to/3MRxbTC
SHOP MY BEAUTY & SKINCARE PRODUCTS: https://www.beautycounter.com/bridgetbusacker

DISCOUNT CODES:
20% OFF PROOV TEST STRIPS: https://proovtest.com/?wly=57893
20% OFF YOUR FIRST OLIVE & JUNE MANI KIT: http://fbuy.me/v/bridgetbusackerbc
10% OFF YOUR TEMPDROP: http://www.tempdrop.com/discount/managingyourfertility
3 MONTHS FREE & 20% OFF YOUR HALLOW SUBSCRIPTION:  hallow.com/managingyourfertility

DISCLOSURE: This description may include affiliate links for products or services mentioned in the podcast. If you purchase products or services at these links I receive a small commission for the referral. I appreciate your support of my business!

• Into the Deep: https://idretreats.org/
• 2023 ID Retreats: https://idretreats.org/2023-idretreats/
• Resources: https://idretreats.org/resource-list/
• Ask Christopher West Podcast: https://askchristopherwest.com/
• Camping, Contemplation, & Cancer (Jen Messing): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vyntHrmA_oA&ab_channel=TheologyoftheBodyInstitute
• Theology of the Body Institute: https://tobinstitute.org/
• The Chastity Project: https://chastity.com/
• JPII Healing Center: https://jpiihealingcenter.org/
• JoyTOB: https://joytob.org/
• The Ecstasy of St. Teresa of Avila: https://aleteia.org/2020/06/30/this-famous-sculpture-depicts-the-ecstasy-of-saint-teresa-of-avila/

I know, I say it a lot: you need an instructor. In this episode, I go into three reasons why you need an instructor and I get into some of the nitty gritty aspects of charting. Whether you're single, engaged, or married: this is the episode for you! And, this isn't specific to people with cycle issues. This episode is for every lady who wants to chart their cycle successfully!

MANAGING YOUR FERTILITY LINKS & LOVES
WEBSITE: https://www.managingyourfertility.com
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/managingyourfertility
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/managingyourfertility
PINTEREST: https://www.pinterest.com/managingyourfertility

MY COURSES:  
START YOUR CHART™ COURSE - $37 for lifetime access: https://go.managingyourfertility.com/buystartyourchart

SHOP MY AMAZON STOREFRONT: https://amzn.to/3MRxbTC
SHOP MY BEAUTY & SKINCARE PRODUCTS: https://www.beautycounter.com/bridgetbusacker

DISCOUNT CODES:
20% OFF PROOV TEST STRIPS: https://proovtest.com/?wly=57893
20% OFF YOUR FIRST OLIVE & JUNE MANI KIT: http://fbuy.me/v/bridgetbusackerbc
10% OFF YOUR TEMPDROP: http://www.tempdrop.com/discount/managingyourfertility
3 MONTHS FREE & 20% OFF YOUR HALLOW SUBSCRIPTION:  hallow.com/managingyourfertility

DISCLOSURE: This description may include affiliate links for products or services mentioned in the podcast. If you purchase products or services at these links I receive a small commission for the referral. I appreciate your support of my business!

In this week's episode, Bridget sits down with Danielle Thompson, founder of Favor Fertility Ministry, to talk more about her story of infertility and the journey to foster care. She shares very openly and vulnerably about her journey of infertility and how foster care is impacting her family life. She also answers practical questions for someone interested in learning more about the foster care system and process, so if you are someone that has been wondering if this is an option for you, definitely tune in!

It was such a joy to have Dani on the podcast and have her pour her passion for her family life, ministry, and love of Jesus with me! And, I have the great pleasure of sharing this conversation with all of you! I hope it blesses you as it blessed me!

Shownotes:
Favor Fertility Ministry: @favorfertilityministry  
Follow Dani on Instagram: @dani_jenee

Interviewee bio:
Danielle Thompson is a devoted wife, a growing foster mommy and the founder of her fertility ministry, Favor! Believing for the miraculous in her womb has built a radical faith and love of the Father in her heart. Becoming a foster mother to two precious children has brought much refinement, a longing fulfilled and a deeper giving of herself! After all, Dani's two babies have gifted her a new name, one that she have prayed so long for, "Mommy"!

MANAGING YOUR FERTILITY LINKS & LOVES
WEBSITE: https://www.managingyourfertility.com
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/managingyourfertility
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/managingyourfertility
PINTEREST: https://www.pinterest.com/managingyourfertility

MY COURSES:  
START YOUR CHART™ COURSE - $37 for lifetime access: https://go.managingyourfertility.com/buystartyourchart

SHOP MY AMAZON STOREFRONT: https://amzn.to/3MRxbTC
SHOP MY BEAUTY & SKINCARE PRODUCTS: https://www.beautycounter.com/bridgetbusacker

DISCOUNT CODES:
20% OFF PROOV TEST STRIPS: https://proovtest.com/?wly=57893
20% OFF YOUR FIRST OLIVE & JUNE MANI KIT: http://fbuy.me/v/bridgetbusackerbc
10% OFF YOUR TEMPDROP: http://www.tempdrop.com/discount/managingyourfertility
3 MONTHS FREE & 20% OFF YOUR HALLOW SUBSCRIPTION:  hallow.com/managingyourfertility

DISCLOSURE: This description may include affiliate links for products or services mentioned in the podcast. If you purchase products or services at these links I receive a small commission for the referral. I appreciate your support of my business!

Have you ever wondered about the history of feminism?
Did you ever feel like you didn't really fit into the movement based on your beliefs & values, but you sure as heck believe in the dignity of women?
Do you dream about a feminism that embraces women AND their fertility AND their dreams?

This episode is for you!!! Bridget sits down with her dear friend, Leah Jacobson, to talk about wholistic feminism, the history of feminism, if Catholics can call themselves feminists, the challenges and opportunities within the feminist movement & so much more! Leah's wisdom is unparalleled! She truly embodies new feminism and her fight for women's rights in their personhood, dignity, and fertility is incredible!

Shownotes:
The Guiding Star Project: https://guidingstarproject.com/
Leah’s website: https://www.leahajacobson.com/
Wholistic Feminism: https://amzn.to/3VKlfam

Interviewee bio:
Leah Jacobson founded The Guiding Star Project in 2011 after feeling called to help women and families by providing resources that honor Natural Law and promote wholistic feminism. She seeks to create Guiding Star Centers to serve as beacons of hope, joy, and truth — safe havens that uphold human dignity in all stages of life. Leah lives in Minnesota with her family and works as a board-certified lactation consultant. As a mother to seven children, she has a special interest in supporting young women as they transition into their roles as new mothers. --- MANAGING YOUR FERTILITY 

---

LINKS & LOVES
WEBSITE: https://www.managingyourfertility.com
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/managingyourfertility
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/managingyourfertility
PINTEREST: https://www.pinterest.com/managingyourfertility

MY COURSES:  
START YOUR CHART™ COURSE - $37 for lifetime access: https://go.managingyourfertility.com/buystartyourchart  

SHOP MY AMAZON STOREFRONT: https://amzn.to/3MRxbTC 

SHOP MY BEAUTY & SKINCARE PRODUCTS: https://www.beautycounter.com/bridgetbusacker  

DISCOUNT CODES:  

20% OFF PROOV TEST STRIPS: https://proovtest.com/?wly=57893 

20% OFF YOUR FIRST OLIVE & JUNE MANI KIT: http://fbuy.me/v/bridgetbusackerbc 

10% OFF YOUR TEMPDROP: http://www.tempdrop.com/discount/managingyourfertility 

3 MONTHS FREE & 20% OFF YOUR HALLOW SUBSCRIPTION:  hallow.com/managingyourfertility 

10% OFF MENTIONABLES: https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=2085722&u=3409336&m=127884&urllink=&afftrack=  

DISCLOSURE: This video description may include affiliate links for products or services mentioned in the video. If you purchase products or services at these links I receive a small commission for the referral. I appreciate your support of my business!

Do you ever wonder if you're doing marriage "right"?
Are you nervous that you might not have what it takes to create a healthy, thriving marriage?
Curious about how you lean into God's grace in marriage and what that actually means?

We're not saying we have all the answers, but we're definitely willing to dive into this conversation with our own experiences, what we've learned in our own marriages and from others, and how we want to cultivate healthy, holy marriages!

In this episode, David joins Bridget for a double date episode (although crying babies require him to leave for a bit IYKYK) with Renzo & Monica Ortega. The Ortegas share their hearts and their own experiences in marriage about what's worked, what hasn't, how their growing together, what it means to be on the same team, how to lean into your own story and SO MUCH MORE! It's such an awesome episode, you don't want to miss it! Your marital status doesn't matter for this one; you're sure to gain insight no matter where you are in your journey!

Shownotes:
Two Become Family: https://twobecomefamily.com/
Two Become Family Podcast: https://twobecomefamily.com/podcast

Interviewees bios:
Renzo and Monica Ortega are high school sweethearts married almost 10 years and parents to five kiddos. They co-founded an engagement and marriage online ministry called Two Become Family.  Monica & Renzo’s hope is to restore confidence in family life with the help, writings, and intercession of St. John Paul the Great.  Renzo is a director of social work for a local nursing home and Monica is a stay at home mom and homeschools the older three kids. Their favorite date night is take out in bed watching crime shows or The Office.

• Consent is not enough. We need a new sexual ethic.: https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2022/03/17/sex-ethics-rethinking-consent-culture/
• Pew Research - Marital status: https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/religious-landscape-study/marital-status/
• Too Risky to Wed in Your 20s? Not if You Avoid Cohabiting First: https://www.wsj.com/articles/too-risky-to-wed-in-your-20s-not-if-you-avoid-cohabiting-first-11644037261#:~:text=But%20a%20growing%20body%20of,more%20likely%20to%20get%20divorced
• Is Cohabitation Still Linked to Greater Odds of Divorce?: https://ifstudies.org/blog/is-cohabitation-still-linked-to-greater-odds-of-divorce
  Pew Research Center - Marriage and Cohabitation in the U.S.: https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2019/11/06/marriage-and-cohabitation-in-the-u-s/ 
• CATECHISM OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH: https://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/_INDEX.HTM 

Interviewee bio:
Emily Frase (rhymes w/ crazy) is a south Louisiana native living in northern Virginia with her husband and three cherubs. After receiving her bachelor's degree in architecture, she went on to work in the nonprofit world in D.C. for five years. To her delight, her background in creative problem solving and working with politicians prepared her perfectly for her current full-time job managing toddler tantrums. She founded the Total W(h)ine Blog in 2018, where she shares her passion for living all aspects of the Catholic Faith in a joyful and honest way, especially marriage, motherhood, NFP, and fertility awareness. She is the co-founder and president of the nonprofit organization, FAbM Base.

• Good Catholic Sex: https://www.goodcatholicsex.com/
• Finding Your Blue Flame: https://www.amazon.com/Your-Blue-Flame-Guilt-Makes/dp/031034977X
• Holy Sex!: A Catholic Guide to Toe-Curling, Mind-Blowing, Infallible Loving: https://www.amazon.com/Holy-Sex-Toe-Curling-Mind-Blowing-Infallible/dp/0824524713/ref=sr_1_1?crid=UZUH25E0UWP9&keywords=holy+sex&qid=1662496630&s=books&sprefix=hol%2Cstripbooks%2C334&sr=1-1
• Love & Responsibility: https://www.amazon.com/Love-Responsibility-Karol-Wojtyla/dp/0898704456
• Good News About Sex & Marriage (Revised Edition): Answers to Your Honest Questions about Catholic Teaching: https://www.amazon.com/Good-News-About-Marriage-Revised/dp/0867166193

Interviewee Bio:
Brandy Norton is a wife, a mom, and dangerously confident. She lives in Louisville, KY with her husband of 6 years and their two toddlers. She has a Master's in Theology and professional experience in corporate, church ministry, and non-profit roles. She launched www.goodcatholicsex.com in 2021 and started pursuing a life as a stand up comic.

I'm hopping on the podcast to share more about Start Your Chart™, how it started, and what you can expect out of this course!

The course is LIVE, so don't hesitate to sign-up!

Start Your Chart™ is all about helping you start charting! I provide you with practical tools and resources, so that you can start charing your cycle. Ultimately, this is about you growing in confidence and clarity with your health!

In this course, I will walk you through a cycle overview, the methods available, effectiveness rates, costs, and help you decide on and pick a method, instructor-client relationship dynamics, so you can work with your DREAM instructor, conversation starters with your doctor about fertility awareness, and bonus materials for you!

I hope you'll join me! This course is intended to get you to start charting in ONE hour.

For the cost of a nice dinner out with a friend or your spouse, you can gain fertility freedom! Are you ready?? Let's get you signed up!

What is Theology of the Body (TOB)?
How do we live TOB out in marriages?
Can TOB help us grow in joy in our marriages?  

The season finale is here and WHAT a finale it is! I had the pleasure of sitting down with Damon Owens to talk to him about Theology of the Body, specifically in the context of our own personhood and how it relates to marriage & NFP. Don't miss this amazing episode!

Shownotes:
JoyTOB: https://joytob.org/
Joyful Ever After: Epic Intimacy Challenge: https://www.joyfuleverafter.org/epic-intimacy-challenge
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/damon.c.owens/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/damonowens
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DamonOwens
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/damonowensofficial

Interviewee bio:
Damon Owens, international speaker and evangelist, is executive director of Joyful Ever After (joyfuleverafter.org). The first executive director of the Theology of the Body Institute and chairman of the 2016 International Theology of the Body Congress, Damon founded Joyful Ever After as a non-profit ministry dedicated to encouraging and educating couples to understand and live marriage and family life together with joy through St. John Paul II’s Theology of the Body. Host of the 2020 Catholic Marriage Summit, presenter at the 2019 Catholic Family Life Symposium, 2017 USCCB Convocation of Catholic Leaders, and 2015 World Meeting of Families, Damon keeps 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. In 2018, Pope Francis honored Damon with his Benemerenti Papal Medal in recognition for his work in support of marriage and family. Damon lives outside Philadelphia with his wife Melanie and their eight children.

• Marquette Method: https://www.marquette.edu/nursing/natural-family-planning-model.php
• Whole Mission: https://www.mmnfp.com/
• Whole Mission Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wholemission
• Whole Mission Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whole.mission/
• Whole Mission YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQBbGePhY_xFiCuFGg19sVg
  

Interviewee bio:
Lauren is a registered nurse and Marquette Method natural family planning instructor. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Madonna University in 2009, practiced as a pediatric nurse until 2015, and has been teaching couples the highs, lows, and peaks of the Marquette Method since 2017. Lauren and her husband, Giovanni, co-founded Whole Mission, an online natural family planning education service. Lauren continues to provide fertility education to couples and women around the world, all while she follows her true calling of raising five fantastically-unique children to (hopefully) become saints.

• Marquette Method: https://www.marquette.edu/nursing/natural-family-planning-model.php
• Comprehensive list of Marquette Instructors: marquettemethod.com
• Femme Fertility: https://www.femmefertilitynfp.com/
  • Use code MYF10 to receive 10% off any course offering at Femme Fertility (until August 31, 2022).
• Femme Fertility Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/femme_fertility/
• Femme Fertility Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/femmefertility
• *Please note: Dr. Fehring has retired since the recording of this podcast episode and Dr. Schneider now runs the research team. 

Interviewee bio:
Kristina Poce is the Founder of Femme Fertility. She is a registered nurse, mom, and wife. She feels strongly that body literacy is every woman’s right. Kristina wants women, men, and couples to make informed decisions about their health, to know how destructive hormonal contraceptives can be, and feel empowered by the use of a healthy and effective alternative that gives women bodily autonomy and insight into their overall health. She loves chocolate chip cookies, red wine, memoirs, and all things wholesome goodness.

• FEMM Health: https://femmhealth.org/
• Lumina Health Services: https://www.luminahealthservices.com/
• Lumina Health Services Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luminahealthservices/
• Lumina Health Services Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/luminahealthservices/?eid=ARDxFI6lAisLCKYlOxB8eJsw71Y4GaGvlHGvHhS8PR05Orf2TFn7aU8ode1hGxIIt675KoQn839NXy-t
  
  

Interviewee bio:
Mairead Suthoff is a certified athletic trainer and a certified FEMM instructor. She thrives in inspiring women to chart their cycles. Her business, Lumina Health Services, teaches women how to chart for health, body literacy, cycle syncing, and family planning. Her background in sports medicine makes her particularly passionate about helping active women achieve cycle health and sync their workouts to the phases of their cycle.

• Website: www.FACTSaboutFertility.org
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/factsaboutfertility/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fertilityfacts/?hl=en
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/FACTS_Fertility?lang=en
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fertility-appreciation-collaborative-to-teach-the-science-facts/
• Physician Clinician Directory: https://www.factsaboutfertility.org/physician-clinician-educator-directory/
• FACTS Webinars: https://www.factsaboutfertility.org/learn-more/webinars/
• FACTS Conferences: https://www.factsaboutfertility.org/2022-conference/
• What is Charting?: https://www.factsaboutfertility.org/what-is-charting/
• Donate $25 or more to receive a "Share the FACTS" folder to provide to your doctor: https://fmec.networkforgood.com/projects/102059-facts-2020-giving-page (indicate you are donating for a "share the FACTS" folder) 

Interviewee Bio: 

Dr. Marguerite Duane, a board certified family physician and co-founder and Executive Director of FACTS. This organization is dedicated to educating healthcare professionals and students about scientifically valid natural or fertility awareness based methods (FABMs). She is trained as a Creighton, FEMM and NeoFertility Medical consultant, as well as a TeenSTAR educator. Dr. Duane recently completed a research fellowship in women’s health at the University of Utah and also serves as an Adjunct Associate Professor at Georgetown University, and sees via house calls through her direct primary care practice. Dr. Duane balances her career as a teacher and Family Physician, with her role as a mother and wife. She is married to a fellow family physician, Dr. Kenneth Lin, and they are the parents of 4 young children. 

Welcome to the next episode of the Method Conversation series! You'll hear from trained instructors who represent a variety of organizations that provide scientifically-proven, methodologically-sound, and Catholic Church-approved fertility awareness based method (FABM) instruction that are well-respected in the fertility awareness and medical community. Remember, don't work with an instructor who creates their own rules & methods! Work with trained experts.

In this episode, Bridget sits down with Hanna & Paul Caruso, Serena Canada Instructors. Hanna & Paul share the history of Serena, how it works, effectiveness rates what it looks like to work with an instructor, how to find an instructor, and important aspects to consider before picking a method and instructor. Don't miss this series and this helpful conversation!

Shownotes:
Serena Canada: https://serena.ca/
Contact: https://serena.ca/contact/

Interviewees' Bios:
Hanna and Paul have been teaching the Symptothermal method as volunteers with Serena since 2018. They met in physics class at university and were married in 2015. They have used the Symptothermal method to achieve and avoid pregnancy, and while navigating a PCOS diagnosis and fertility challenges. They have found natural family planning empowering and helpful every step of the way. They now have a beautiful 1-year-old son. They enjoy working and volunteering with Serena in various capacities on the national, provincial, and local team level.

• SymptoPro Fertility Education: https://symptopro.org/
• Charting Toward Intimacy: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/charting-toward-intimacy-expanding-the-natural-family/id1523878491
• Ellen's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/?hl=en
• Ellen's Coaching: https://linktr.ee/chartingtowardintimacy

Interviewee Bio:
Ellen is an NFP advocate located in the Bay Area of California. She hosts a podcast called Charting Toward Intimacy that expands the Natural Family Planning conversation from a Catholic Perspective. Ellen also speaks on Natural Family Planning and Fertility Awareness at diocesan and parish events as well as marriage preparation conferences. Additionally, Ellen and her husband Kurt teach Natural Family Planning through SymptoPro.

• Couple to Couple League: https://ccli.org/

Interviewee Bio:
Mariana Lopez and her husband are a certified Natural Family Teaching Couple with the Couple to Couple League. They live in the Bay area, with their four young children, and love to share how NFP, though not without challenges, has touched their marriage and brought them closer to God.

• ChartNeo: https://www.chartneo.com/
• Melissa Buchan's Website: https://www.melissabuchan.com/ 
• Melissa's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/virtusfertilitycare/ 
• Melissa's Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/virtusfertilitycare/ 

Interviewee Bio:
Melissa Buchan believes that a well-charted menstrual cycle is a powerful daily empowerment practice. Fifteen years in the Fertility Awareness arena, her passion for coaching and advocating for women and couples paved the path to her new program Chart Your Cycle, and online coaching platform empowering women around the world to know their bodies, confidently practice natural birth control, navigate infertility, and advocate for their own restorative reproductive healthcare. The first Neo Fertility Advisor in the United States and a Duke trained and Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach, Melissa uses a coaching framework to help women create a well-charted cycle that serves as a diagnostic tool to investigate the root cause of reproductive and hormonal imbalance issues. She helps her clients build a web of support with clinicians who take a restorative approach to women's healthcare and she partners with her clients to create a customized plan of action for meaningful lifestyle shifts that optimize health and wellbeing.

Melissa Tablada is now offering a bundled package of one year worth of Creighton Fertility Care Support PLUS six coaching sessions based on your season of life. For couples this will entail martial coaching & for single women the sessions will focus on life coaching. This new service provides the opportunity for clients to receive support in a more complete way, addressing the whole person rather than just one part. You'll have the chance to customize your sessions based on your personal and unique goals. Please email melissagracetablada@gmail.com for more information & to sign up!

Interviewee Bio: 

Melissa Tablada is a Catholic wife & mama living in Miami, Florida. She works as a Creighton Fertility Care Practitioner teaching women and couples to chart their cycles to achieve or avoid pregnancy, or manage their reproductive health. She is also a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a Life and Relationship Coach. Melissa is passionate about supporting women in becoming healthy and whole in mind, body and soul!

What mindset work do we need to do in order to give & receive love in marriage?

Joyful marriages don't just happen. Today, Bridget is talking with Alex DeRose all about why joyful marriages matter and what it looks like to practically live it out. This episode is about authentic joy, sacrifical love, and how leaning into virtue, grace, and seeing the best in your spouse can have serious impact on your marriage and your sex life. Bridget and Alex get into the challenges of intimacy and how what takes place outside of the bedroom directly impacts connection and having great sex with your spouse. You don't want to miss it! This is part 1 of a two-part series centering around joyful marriages & motherhood.
Shownotes:
Joy Mama Blog: https://www.joymamablog.com/
The Best Marriage Advice: https://www.joymamablog.com/new-blog/2021/11/21/the-best-marriage-advice
Laugh & Date Night Challenge: https://www.joymamablog.com/new-blog/2021/1/17/laugh-amp-date-night-challenge
Husband Gratitude Challenge: https://www.joymamablog.com/new-blog/2021/1/17/husband-gratitude-challenge
Choosing Joy in Marriage: https://www.joymamablog.com/new-blog/2020/6/2/choosing-joy-in-marriage
Marriage Advice I Need to Take: https://www.joymamablog.com/new-blog/2018/10/15/best-marriage-advice

Interviewee bio:
Alex DeRose is a Creighton & nurse practitioner recently turned SAHM who is passionate about empowering women with knowledge for fertility awareness, joyful encouragement and the dignity of motherhood. You can find her at joymamablog.com and @alexandriaderose on social media.

• Fabmbase.org: https://fabmbase.org/resources/external-resources/#hfaq-post-711
• White Lotus Blooming: https://marygbruno.wordpress.com/ 
• “The Upside of Infertility” by Dr. Susan Caldwell: https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.drsusancaldwell.com/post/the-upside-of-infertility&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1644962408670374&usg=AOvVaw35TrozFcdzjNb9QPKfSh0m
• Facts About Fertility: https://www.factsaboutfertility.org/ 

Interviewee bio:
Mary grew up right outside of New Orleans and married a Southern Louisiana boy in 2013. After 12 years of severely painful periods, she was finally diagnosed with endometriosis, followed by an adenomyosis diagnosis 7 years later. Now infertile, she and her husband have a beautiful adopted daughter who is now 5 years old, and they are waiting to adopt again. Mary's late diagnoses inspired her to improve fertility awareness and women's health education and access through speaking, writing, and social media. She is a Creighton Practitioner, founder of Taking Back the Terms, and co-founder & Executive Director of the new non-profit organization, FAbM Base.

• USCCB Standards for Instructors: https://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/marriage-and-family/natural-family-planning/diocesan-ministry/standards-full-text
• Marquette Method Instructor Organization: https://marquettemethodprofessionals.com/ 
• Importance of Responsible Parenthood & Couples Ability to Discern: https://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/marriage-and-family/natural-family-planning/catholic-teaching/upload/Responsible-Parenthood.pdf
• Resource for Couples with Medically Complex Situations: https://www.ncbcenter.org/
• Institute for Natural Family Planning Model: https://www.marquette.edu/nursing/natural-family-planning-model.php

Whole Mission: https://www.mmnfp.com/


Interviewee bio: 

Lauren is a registered nurse and Marquette Method Natural Family Planning instructor. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Madonna University in 2009, practiced as a pediatric nurse until 2015, and has been teaching couples the highs, lows, and peaks of the Marquette Method since 2017. Lauren and her husband, Giovanni, co-founded Whole Mission, an online Natural Family Planning education service. Lauren continues to provide fertility education to couples and women around the world, all while she follows her true calling of raising five fantastically-unique children to (hopefully) become saints.

• Love Worth Chasing: www.loveworthchasing.com
  Should a Wife Be Submissive to Her Husband?: https://loveworthchasing.com/2021/08/14/should-a-wife-be-submissive-to-her-husband/
• Identity of Motherhood and Fatherhood:
  https://www.meandmyhouse.net/post/made-in-god-s-image-the-identity-of-a-stay-at-home-dad
• The Supreme Vocation of Women (According to St. John Paul II):
  https://www.sophiainstitute.com/products/item/the-supreme-vocation-of-women
• Three to Get Married by Ven. Fulton J. Sheen:
  https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/library/three-to-get-married-11222
• BONUS article - Awesome tips for a healthy sex life:
  https://loveworthchasing.com/2021/05/05/ten-awesome-tips-for-a-healthy-sex-life/
  
  
  Interviewee bio:
  
  Tim is a husband, father of three, and an aspiring superhero. He loves cheesecake, although it doesn't always love him back. In 2017, after six year as a parish youth minister, Tim became a stay at home dad and developed the ministry Love Worth Chasing with his beautiful bride. Tim believes that most of the world's problems are caused by a failure to recognize the dignity of the self and the dignity of the other, and by not enough people wearing comfy pants. Follow Tim @loveworthchasing on Facebook and Instagram.

• For 20% off your first purchase, use code MYF20 or click this affiliate link: https://proovtest.com/?wly=57893. Managing Your Fertility is proud to be an affiliate with this amazing company!
  
• USA Today interview: https://www.today.com/video/how-the-pandemic-is-impacting-family-planning-and-ivf-102026821986

Interviewee bio:
Amy Beckley holds a PhD in Pharmacology with a focus in hormone signaling. Her personal battle with infertility led her to invent Proov, the first FDA cleared test to confirm ovulation and ovulation quality at home.@infertile_scientist; @proovtest

How do you love your spouse during times of abstinence?
What does chastity look like in marriage?
How can husbands stay supportive when practicing NFP?

Bridget talks to her friend, John Capistrant, about the joys and struggles of using Natural Family Planning (NFP) in marriage and how to love your spouse when NFP feels hard and challenging. They talk about what it looks like for husbands to love their wives, especially when NFP is an integral part of marriage, and how to be a supportive spouse when NFP requires abstinence.

Additional resources discussed:
Is NFP Just "Catholic Birth Control"?: https://www.spokenbride.com/blog/2020/10/26/is-nfp-just-catholic-birth-control https://totalwhine.com/2020/09/26/why-i-dont-refer-to-fertility-awareness-as-contraception/
Catechism of the Catholic Church #2337
Holy Sex!: A Catholic Guide to Toe-Curling, Mind-Blowing, Infallible Loving: https://www.amazon.com/Holy-Sex-Toe-Curling-Mind-Blowing-Infallible/dp/0824524713
Good News About Sex & Marriage (Revised Edition): Answers to Your Honest Questions about Catholic Teaching: https://www.amazon.com/Good-News-About-Marriage-Revised/dp/0867166193

Interviewee bio:
John is a Catholic husband and father. He and his wife, Katelyn, celebrated their 5th wedding anniversary in July. John teaches middle school language arts and religion at Community of Saints Catholic School in West St. Paul, MN. John enjoys sports, doing escape rooms, watching classic films, making people laugh (especially his 1 year old son, Anthony), and playing strategic board games.

In this episode, Bridget sits down with Dr. Sarah Bartel, a moral theologian and mom of five, she and her husband of twenty years created the Cana Feast virtual marriage ministry to help bring the benefits of marriage retreats to more couples. She is passionate about helping women understand their bodies, specifically body literacy around reproductive health, and helping couples create healthy, holy marriages. Bridget and Sarah discuss what it looks like to cultivate a healthy marriage, why NFP is so helpful to women and couples, and why sex isn't the "dessert" of marriage, but an integral point of connection and intimacy together.

Additional resources discussed: 

• Familiaris Consortio: https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_exhortations/documents/hf_jp-ii_exh_19811122_familiaris-consortio.html
• Holy Sex: A Catholic Guide to Toe-Curling, Mind-blowing, Infallible Love: https://www.amazon.com/Holy-Sex-Toe-Curling-Mind-Blowing-Infallible/dp/0824524713
• Cana Feast Blog - Joy Filled Catholic Marriages: https://blog.canafeast.com/
• FREE Communication Virtual Retreat: https://www.canafeast.com/communicationtips
• Couple's Prayer Guide: https://www.canafeast.com/pray

Interviewee bio: 

Sarah Bartel helps married Catholics grow closer to God and closer to their beloved at CanaFeast.com. A moral theologian and mom of five, she and her husband of twenty years created the Cana Feast virtual marriage ministry to help bring the benefits of marriage retreats to more couples. She co-edited A Catechism of Marriage and Family Life for CUA Press. She hikes, reads Jane Austen, and has adventures with her family in the Seattle area. You can find her on Instagram and Facebook @canafeast and @drsarahbartel.

• Pearl & Thistle: https://www.pearlandthistle.com/
• Cycle Prep: https://www.pearlandthistle.com/cycle-prep.html

Interviewee bio: 

Christina is first and foremost a wife, and mother of four children ages 11 to 2. She is also a fertility and cycle educator, trained in the Boston Cross Check method of Natural Family Planning since 2013. Through her business, Pearl and Thistle, she equips Catholic families and parishes with resources to learn, appreciate, and support one another in reading the language of the body. Christina holds an undergraduate degree in Philosophy and Theology from the University of Notre Dame, and a master's degree in theology from Harvard Divinity School. She is also a life-professed member of the Lay Fraternities of St. Dominic.