Smart Financial Divorce

Today's episode is a little different. It's not just about investing or retirement planning—it's about navigating one of the most emotionally and financially difficult transitions a person can face: divorce. That's why we wanted to create this episode—not to overwhelm you, but to empower you. We're going to break it all down: what to look out for, what's commonly missed, and how to start rebuilding your financial life post-divorce with confidence and clarity. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

This episode is all about the emotional side of investing during market turmoil, especially the conversations (or arguments) happening at kitchen tables right now. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

Conflict, infidelity, and lack of intimacy are among the top causes of divorce. But recent data reveals another financial factor affecting more and more marriages. Tune in as we break it down! Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

In this episode, Brie and Ben dive into the ongoing efforts to restrict divorces in the U.S., with a particular focus on recent developments in Oklahoma. While we've touched on this topic before, there are some key updates to explore, especially as these changes may affect the broader landscape of divorce laws. Join us as we discuss the shifting dynamics around divorce and the impact it's having across the country. Article referenced: https://www.salon.com/2025/02/20/its-not-being-looked-at-as-a-crazy-thing-emboldened-renew-push-to-restrict-divorce/ Prior episode: https://smartfinancialdivorce.libsyn.com/the-history-uncertain-future-of-no-fault-divorce Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3  

Divorce is never easy, but the financial implications of it occurring later in life can be especially challenging. In today's episode, Brie and Ben will discuss a New York Times Article that covers some of the complexities of separating finances after 50. From negotiating assets to making lifestyle changes, Brie shares insights to help you make informed decisions and protect your retirement. New York Times Article:  https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/17/business/divorce-retirement-savings.html?smid=url-share Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3    

A recent study found that 70% of divorces are initiated by women- yes, 70%! But what does this headline really mean? We're going to unpack this today with Brie Reyes. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

One of the biggest challenges after a divorce is regaining your financial footing. The good news is, there are plenty of steps you can take to rebuild your wealth after this big life change. In today's episode, we'll share practical tips and strategies to help you move forward if you're feeling overwhelmed or uncertain about the future. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

There are all sorts of financial scams out there. One you might not have heard of is called "pig butchering." This dangerous scam can lead to serious financial losses—and in many cases, create even greater problems beyond just your finances. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

In today's episode, we're tackling a topic that often gets overlooked in divorce discussions: pet custody. As more and more people consider their pets to be part of the family, deciding who gets to keep them can create complications during the separation process. We'll explore how this issue is being handled in different states and what couples need to consider when making decisions about their furry friends.   Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

In this episode of Smart Financial Divorce, we explore the growing trend of "Gray Divorce," where older couples decide to part ways after decades of marriage. Why are these long-term relationships ending? Join us as we explore a recent Forbes article on this topic and unpack its insights with Brie.   Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

If you've been following the news, you might have seen a recent Texas divorce case that could have significant implications for IVF care in the state. In this episode, we break down the details of this case, explore its potential impact on IVF treatments, and discuss why all of this is so important.   Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

In this episode, Brie Reyes and Ben George delve into the history and potential future of no-fault divorce laws. They discuss the significant impact these laws have had on society, including reductions in suicide rates, domestic violence, and partner homicides. Brie shares personal anecdotes, explores the political landscape, and emphasizes the importance of staying informed about potential legal changes.   Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

In honor of Mother's Day earlier this month, we're going to spend some time talking about stay-at-home moms in today's episode. Stay tuned as we provide essential advice and strategies for stay-at-home moms planning for retirement, especially those without access to traditional retirement plans. We'll share some unique challenges stay-at-home moms face and tips on becoming a key player in your family's financial planning.   Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

In today's episode, Brie addresses the growing trend of the "Trad wife" lifestyle. Exploring the financial dangers associated with this lifestyle, she sheds light on why relying solely on one partner's income and forfeiting financial independence can be dangerous, particularly in the event of divorce or unexpected life changes. At the end of this episode, Brie answers a listener's question about whether it's a bad idea to spend more money in your retirement years. Episode resources https://bravelygo.co/the-trad-wife-lifestyle-is-financially-dangerous/ Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

In several states across the U.S. pregnant women are legally prohibited from finalizing a divorce until after their child is born. This law, which is in place in states as varied as Missouri, Texas, and even California, has far-reaching implications that go beyond just the legal system. Listen in and Brie and Ben discuss the emotional and financial toll these laws can take on women and the dangers of this for those in abusive relationships.   Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

As International Women's Day approaches (March 8), it's the perfect time to reflect on the progress women have achieved in the financial realm over the past century. Despite this, the path to retirement is not without its unique challenges for women, and it's important to recognize the financial hurdles that they continue to face.  In this episode, we'll share some eye-opening statistics and actionable advice to empower women in their financial journey. From the persistent gender pay gap to the impact of caregiving responsibilities and higher debt burdens, this is why retirement planning is different for women.   Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

Welcome to the first official episode of the new year! Brie and Ben reflect on the holiday season, before jumping into this week's topic. Today, we're shedding light on how divorce affects your investments and the journey to rebuilding your financial life afterward. Tune in to discover the three crucial steps to safeguard yourself and your investments during a divorce.   Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

We get it – the end of a marriage is no walk in the park. It's emotional, challenging, and oftentimes, very expensive. Today, we're diving into a common question that might be on your mind: Should you consider taking out a personal loan to cover those hefty divorce legal fees?   Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

In today's episode, we're going to talk about seven common ways that divorce can affect your finances. From the division of assets to the intricacies of credit scores, retirement portfolios, and housing considerations, Brie is here to offer her expert insights. Tune in to learn more about the financial nuances of divorce, ensuring that you can navigate this challenging time with confidence and financial stability.   Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

Money can't buy love, but it can certainly start some spicy debates between you and your better half. In this episode, we're digging into the financial face-offs that make Monopoly fights look like child's play and exploring some money minefields that can test even the most solid relationships. Listen in as we explore how to resolve 3 of the top financial sources of tension between couples.   Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

It's time for part two of our conversation about the financial challenges women face when they are single or become single, sometimes suddenly. It's important to take control of this part of your life and get it on track for your future goals. Brie will discuss some additional financial tips to help you get started on this path.   Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3  

It has become quite common for companies to provide a diverse range of benefits and incentives to their employees, aiming to foster greater loyalty among their workforce. Recently, there's been a growing trend of companies offering divorce benefits as well. In this regard, Brie will be sharing her findings and insights on what she has observed in this area. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

If you're a single woman, most general financial advice applies to you - but with a twist. As the gender pay gap holds steady, you may need to be a little more vigilant to create an independent financial future. Here are some financial tips that single women should consider. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

Depending on the situatioin, divorce can be quite costly for the individuals who are involved. There can even be some hidden costs during this process that might get unoticed. Brie will be discussing these hidden costs and what to do about them. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

Many people still do not understand the ins and outs of cryptocurrency, so this can be a tricky subject when it comes up during divorce. Brie will be discussing what she has witnessed in her practice and some common things to be aware of. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

Prenuptial agreements can be useful when they are used correctly and both parties are well informed of the details in the contract. Brie will be discussing some best practices when utilizing this and why honesty is key throughout this process. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

Today we will be discussing 5 financial tips you should look into once you are done finalizing your divorce. You want to be prepared and make sure that you are all set as you move through this next chapter in life. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

The Republican Party of Louisiana is debating whether they want to recommend the elimination of no-fault divorce. If that happens, it could open the door for other states like Texas to follow. Is this a change that we think would improve the divorce process in our country? We discuss that on this episode. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

If you're going through a divorce, once of the biggest stressors can be figuring out the finances. It can be difficult to know what you need to achieve your financial goals and what is a fair settlement. Brie will talk to us about some tools she uses for her clients going that are going through a divorce and how these tools help them keep on track with their goals. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

With inflation rates rising to levels we haven't seen in decades, economists are discussing the possible effects of this on divorce rates. Today we'll look back at other tumultuous periods in our economy's history and see what impact financial struggles had on divorce. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

A bill was signed this summer by President Joe Biden that allows couples who combined their student loans when they were married to separate the debt. This was a big piece of legislation for what we do and it opens up the possibility for some of these borrowers to have part of their debt forgiven. Find out how this could impact the divorce process moving forward. Here's the article: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2022/10/12/president-biden-student-loans-couples-separate-debts/8173052001/ Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

When going through a divorce, we generally think about how to split major assets like a house, or a sizeable retirement account. But there are other assets that can get left behind in this process. Brie will discuss some of the assets a lot of people tend to forget about and how we can work to a resolution for them. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

Divorces can get ugly. So much so that someone might go out of there way to spite an ex even if it negatively impacts them as well. That scenario is one we want to talk about today. What happens Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) coverage and its annuities if your ex-spouse gets terminated from the federal position prior to retirement? We'll break it down today and explain what happens if that scenario occurs. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

Being a stay-at-home mom while also having to face the divorce process can be extremely difficult, but you can stay ahead of the game and keep prepared by following these seven steps we share today. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

There are two different processes when you're dealing with a divorce. There's the legal process and then there's the emotional process. It's hard to say which is more difficult, but both can put a heavy weight on someone facing a divorce. Today we'll gove through the five stages of the emotional process and help you better understand what you're facing. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

Today we'll look at two high-profile divorces involving Kanye West and Kelly Clarkson, which are being handled in completely different ways, and explain how focusing on your kids can help prevent a divorce from getting ugly. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

Economic abuse can be difficult to spot and is certainly not talked about enough. This occurs when one partner limits access to money and other resources to create financial dependence as a means of control. We will focus today's show on insurance revenge and the havoc it can cause on a person's life. In addition, we will also give suggestions about how to get out of this situation and some first steps you can start taking. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

When we think of divorce, the word "collaboration" does not come up often. Many people associate divorce with arguing, high tensions, and many other negative connotations. However, there are situations where the ex-spouses are on good terms and are able to have a collaborative divorce. We will discuss what this process is, who this could benefit, and why this might be a better solution than going through a court system. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

More and more court cases are popping up around the country about who can make decisions over whether to vaccinate a child. These medical arguments between parents aren't new, but this is a great reminder that you should be having these discussions early on. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

Getting husbands and wives on the same page with their retirement plan can often be a challenge. Let's talk about some of the things that couples often mess up. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

For a couple decades now, we have witnessed more older couples filing for divorce. After going through many tribulations, raising kids, building a life together, many wonder, "why now?" Brie will discuss some of the common reasoning among these divorces and how this can even have an impact on adult children. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

Your fur babies can feel like they are part of the family, but that isn't necessarily how the law will treat them when you go through a divorce. Brie will give you all the information you need to know about the different ways to handle the question of pet ownership in a divorce settlement. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

A couple episodes ago, we talked through how to build your finances after divorce. On today's episode we shift our focus on how to rebuild your credit. Since credit scores are rather imperative in our society, it's important that you get your credit up as much as you can. So you will have more financial opportunities once the divorce is finalized. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

Debt can be a sensitive topic that people try and stay away from. The cause of debt is often deeply rooted in ourselves and looking inward can be extremely uncomfortable. However, there are resources out there that aim to help you pay off debt and keep you out of debt. Brie discusses some of the different debt management plans that are out there and the potential benefits you may be able to reap from a program like this. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

After your divorce, it can be a mess to determine a new budget for yourself. It can be difficult to be completely honest with yourself and create a budget that reflects your actual expenses. This is where a professional like Brie can step in and help guide you through this process. Brie talks on today's show on exactly how to start building a budget and some considerations you should keep in mind. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

A divorce can not only devastate you emotionally, but it can completely wreck your financial stability. However, there are actions you can take to rebuild your finances. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day and taking the right, small steps will eventually lead you to your goal. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

Many people look at their house as the place where they raised their kids and created years of memories, which is why it can be a difficult asset to part with during the divorce process. However, you may also be able to keep it once the divorce is finalized under certain circumstances. Brie will run through a list of situations with the family home she has seen in her career and will offer some possible solutions if you find yourself in this situation. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

It can be difficult coming to an agreement in a divorce settlement. Going through all your combined and separate assets and trying to split them up evenly is certainly no easy task. To make matters more complicated, some assets may look equal on paper, but there are tax implications and fees associated with certain investments. Brie shares a story about a loved one that went through a divorce and why the assets in the settlement were not equal. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3

Money can be such a contentious part of the divorce process as you divide assets. Then there's the worry about how move forward with less income. But it's not all bad news. Today we're going to put a positive spin on a challenging time of your life by telling you about three financial benefits that can come from divorce. Contact: 817-444-8402 Website: https://bit.ly/2HLgkEx Schedule A Call Online: https://bit.ly/31VabN3