The Divorced Girl Smiling Podcast

Coparenting is difficult in any situation. But talking to your ex about the kids gets a whole lot more challenging if you have feelings of anger and hurt. How are you supposed to have a conversation and pretend like you don't want to explode to the person who has hurt you so deeply? My guest in this episode is Colleen Breems, divorce attorney and partner at Beermann. Colleen offers practical tips for those who are hurting and trying to coparent. Learn more here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/5-tips-for-coparenting-with-someone-who-hurt-you/

Taking accountability isn't easy for a lot of people. But if you are someone who is self-aware, there is a healthy way to take accountability versus having toxic guilt. My guest in this episode is Dr. Ginny Wright, Discernment Counselor Master Practitioner, who explains the difference between these two, and offers advice for those wanting to grieve their divorce in a healthy way and move on. Read Ginny's article on this subject: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/toxic-guilt-versus-healthy-accountability-in-divorce/

Hurt, pain, and anger are emotions that can cause a divorcing spouse to disengage and just stop talking to you. Receiving the silent treatment can not only feel hurtful, but it can slow the divorce process, and hinder good co-parenting arrangements. My guests in this episode are Catherine Shanahan, CDFA® and Karen Chellew, Co-founders of the well-known divorce preparation platform, My Divorce Solution. These amazing women (who both went through a divorce) explain reasons the silent treatment can happen and what you can do to cope. Read the article here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/my-ex-wont-talk-to-me-makes-co-parenting-pretty-darn-difficult/

When people are first separated, many tend to say things like, "We are going to do this amicably" and "We are going to figure this out together." In other words, they have the best intentions. But as my guest explains, a lack of education can really derail things. My guest is Kimberly Miller, Co-Founder of her divorce education platform, PartWise, and she tells the story of a couple whose divorce conflict escalated quickly because they didn't know the facts. Learn more here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/the-kitchen-table-divorce-that-failed-from-lack-of-education/

Theresa Viera and her mom are victims and survivors of domestic violence. Theresa, now a successful divorce attorney, tells her devastating story of growing up in a household of domestic violence and how she and her mom escaped and thrived. Read the article here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/a-story-of-domestic-violence-written-by-a-mom-and-survivor/

There are so many changes that go with getting divorced, and that can cause fear and anxiety. My guest in this episode is Women's Empowerment Coach, Shannon McGorry, who explains how change can affect you in a divorce. Shannon and I also offer tips on not only coping with change, but truly learning how to become empowered. Read the article here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/fear-of-change-during-divorce-reclaiming-your-power/

Divorce anger and resentment is understandable and unavoidable. But if not managed in the right way, these things can have a big negative impact on your kids. Conflict truly can hurt them, not just during the divorce but for a lifetime. My guest in this episode is Erica Speraw, Divorce Attorney and Peacemaker, who talks about the impact, and also offers tips on reducing it. 

If you are a women in your fifties, you will LOVE this episode! My guest is Michèle Heffron, Life Love and Divorce Coach, and Michèle interviewed dozens of women in this age bracket to find out what they had to say about life. The information is revealed in this episode, and Michèle and I give our two cents, as we are both women over 55! Read the article here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/women-over-55-speak-what-were-carrying-what-we-fear-and-what-were-finally-ready-to-claim/

So many people getting divorced see the process as a power struggle, and look at it as winning or losing. My guest in this episode is high-conflict divorce coach, Cherie Morris, who tells us why divorce doesn't have to be this way, and how you can be genuinely effective coparents while still getting what you want in the divorce. Learn more here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/dont-blow-it-in-mediation-how-to-step-out-of-the-power-struggle-and-into-a-better-future/

So many divorcing couples have the best intentions of an amicable divorce. But then, something happens and the divorce goes off-track. Suddenly, the "good" divorce becomes very rocky. To talk about this is my guest, Fabianna Laby, a clinical psychologist, who offers the 6 stations of divorce and how they can play a role in why this happens. Read the article: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/why-even-a-good-divorce-can-suddenly-go-off-track/

When I was first separated, I knew nothing about mediation, only what I heard. Some of it was true, and some of it wasn't. My guest in this episode is divorce mediator, Ellen Feldman, who shares some myths and truths about divorce mediation. Learn more: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/truths-and-myths-about-mediation/

The divorce process can feel overwhelming, and the last thing you might be thinking about is your will and estate plan. But my guest, Raquel Lazar-Paley offers some important advice about why you should engage in estate planning during your divorce. And, it's not that complicated. It's just VERY necessary! Learn more here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/divorce-means-a-new-will-and-trust/

Child support conversations with an ex can feel awkward, and there is a lot of emotion around this topic. The person paying might feel resentful about having to pay, or they might have a lot of fear and anxiety about finances in regards to support. My guest in this episode is Ron Platt, co-Founder of the NASDF (National Association for Single and Divorced Families) and Ron and I talk about child support, why issues arise and your options when it comes to easing your mind and feeling secure. 

If you've never been through a divorce, you are in new territory. That's why it's normal and understandable that you might make mistakes. My guest in this episode is divorce attorney, Sandra Fava, who addresses common mistakes she sees people make in divorce. We then talk about how NOT to make them. 

The holidays are supposed to be heartwarming and joyous. But what happens when a family member is suffering from alcohol abuse? The situation can turn the holidays into stress and anxiety. My guest in this episode is Laura Crossett, CADC and outreach manager for Soberlink, and we offer tips on navigating the holidays, whether you have an alcohol issue or your spouse or soon-to-be ex does. Learn more here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/navigating-alcohol-recovery-and-family-stress-during-the-holidays/

If you are going through a divorce, you might be headed to court, and a friend might say, "Good luck! I hope you win!" Or, maybe your lawyer says to you, "We won! The judge ruled in our favor." While it seems like that's what winning means, it really isn't, according to my guest. My guest is divorce coach, Kristen Noel, who talks about how to really win in your divorce. It looks a lot different than you might thing (in a good way!) 

People often say "Kids are resilient," and while that's true, they worry so much when parents argue, and of course, when their parents get divorced. My guest in this episode is New Orleans based divorce attorney, Zara Zeringue, who talks about some of the things kids worry about and how to address their concerns. Read Zara's article on this subject here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/divorce-kids-and-what-theyre-worried-about/

Fear in divorce is normal and understandable. But be careful not to let your fear influence your decisions. My guest in this episode is divorce attorney, Anthony Diaz, and we talk about fear, and how to cope and make the best divorce decisions. Read Anthony's article on this subject: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/how-divorce-fears-can-result-in-bad-decisions/

Thinking about selling your wedding rings? Not sure when to do it or where to go? This episode is your guide! My guest is Anne Gabel, Co-founder of MJ Gabel Diamond and Jewelry Buyers and the person I sold MY wedding rings to back in 2012! 

What's it like to live life as a divorced woman and mom in your fifties? My guest is Joanne Litman and Joanne (I call her Jo) talk about what we've experienced, what drives us, what makes us happy, and what we really don't care about these days. 

We all love our kids, but during divorce, it can be hard not to put them in the middle. Divorce Mediator, Michael Cohen offers 7 things you should consider when it comes to you kids and your divorce. Learn more here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/children-and-divorce-7-considerations/

If you are going through a divorce, everyone and their brother are probably giving you advice. Some advice is good, but a lot of advice is BAD. My guest in this episode is Financial Divorce Coach, Hirsch Serman, CDFA®, and Hirsch and I talk about some BAD divorce advice you might hear. We also offer GOOD advice! 

What is a "silent" divorce? My guest, therapist, Brittany Baker explains, so that you can determine if this is your situation. Brittany offers signs of a silent divorce, and tips to figure out if you should try to save the marriage or get divorced. Learn more here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/are-you-going-through-a-silent-divorce/

Are you being emotionally saavy in your divorce? What does that even mean? My guest, Divorce attorney, Katherine E. Miller explains, and offers tips on how to have the best possible divorce outcome. The advice is based on her new book, "The Emotionally Saavy Divorce," which you can pre-order here! https://www.amazon.com/Emotionally-Savvy-Divorce-Smart-Negotiations/dp/1774586053

In a divorce, the house is so often the biggest source of stress. People don't know if they should stay in it, sell it, buy a new home, or rent. It's complicated! But my guest in this episode, Stacey Ellison, is a divorce mortgage planner and CDLP®, who can help you answer these questions and figure out what's best for you and the kids, based on what you have, what you need, and what you want. Learn more: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/divorce-mortgage-planning-what-it-is-and-why-it-matters-during-divorce/

Want a good divorce outcome? Of course you do! That's why my guest and I share some steps to take in your divorce that will give that to you. My guest is Lewisville, TX based divorce attorney, David Heiman, who offers a "do-to" list that will help you stay organized and calm throughout your divorce, and help you achieve an outcome you feel is fair. Learn more: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/what-are-the-steps-to-divorce-here-are-8/

If you are thinking about divorce or going through one, or even if you are already divorced, you can benefit so much from this episode! My guests are financial advisors, Pete Mullins, CDFA® and Lauren Connelly, and we talk about the importance of having a budget and a financial plan. It's not as complicated as you think! 

If you've never been through a divorce, like anything else that's new to a person, it's easy to make mistakes. Well, we don't want you to make mistakes, so my guest, Divorce Coach, Mardi Winder shares some costly mistakes people make, and then we talk about how to avoid making them. 

If you are newly separated, this is such a wonderful episode for you! My guest is divorce attorney, Marc Garelick, and Marc walks you through the steps of the process, to offer a glimpse at what to expect. This is such helpful information and will help calm your nerves since we all know that gaining information leads to stress reduction! Learn more: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/5-steps-in-the-divorce-process/

If there are cryptocurrency assets involved in a divorce, things can get complicated. Ryan Settle is my guest in this episode. Ryan is the founder of BlockSquared Forensics, which is a cryptocurrency valuation and auditing company. Ryan shares 5 essentials to consider, to ensure your cryptocurrency gets valued correctly. He also talks about how to find cryptocurrency if you're not sure you or your spouse own it. Learn more: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/cryptocurrency-divorce-and-5-essentials-to-consider/

People often feel shame and embarrassment in a second divorce. You should NOT feel that way! This is just part of the conversation in this episode. My guest is divorce attorney, Megan Beck, who offers practical and emotional advice to those going through a second divorce. Learn more: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/divorce-in-a-second-marriage-your-guide/

Divorce is a complicated process that takes a lot of time. So, it's not uncommon for people to feel frustrated by how long the process is taking, and the long periods of time you might not hear from your attorney. All that said, if your gut is telling you your attorney is not a good fit, you might consider changing attorneys. My guest in this episode is divorce attorney, Renee Read, a partner at Remley Law, who offers advice and things to keep in mind if you are considering switching attorneys. Learn more: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/when-is-it-too-late-to-change-attorneys-during-divorce-almost-never/

If you are living with an addict, or going through a divorce from someone who is an addict, or if you have a child, family member or friends who is an addict, this is a great episode for you. If you are feeling frustrated and have tried so many things to get the person to stop and nothing is working, listen to my guest, Amber Hollingsworth! Amber talks about a method she uses that could be effective! Learn more here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/how-to-help-an-addict-invisible-intervention/

If you are a woman paying alimony in your divorce, or if you are going through a divorce or thinking about a divorce and you think you might have to pay alimony, this is a great episode for you! My guest is Leah Hadley, CDFA® and Divorce Mediator, who offers advice, both practical and emotional advice for this situation. Learn more here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/women-paying-alimony-myths-facts-and-advice/

Anger in divorce is normal and understandable. But if you don't manage it properly, or if you hang on to anger too long, it can hurt you in many ways. My guest in this episode is therapist, Juli Walton, LCPC, who explains the dangers of holding onto anger, and offers advice on how to let anger go. Learn more here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/how-to-let-go-of-anger-in-divorce-and-the-impact-if-you-dont/

Grieving the breakup part of your divorce? Of course you are. My guest in this episode is Divorce Coach, Jenine Marie Powell, and together, Jenine and I talk about 9 emotions you might be feeling and how to cope. If you are hurting emotionally, this is a great episode for you! Learn more: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/your-painful-breakup-9-things-you-might-be-feeling/

Do you want wealth and abundance after divorce? Of course you do. It's a loaded question. Divorce can make a person insecure and stressed about finances, budgeting and saving. My guest in this episode is financial advisor, Amanda Campbell, CFP®, CDFA®, who talks about little, baby steps you can take to get to a place of comfort, and yes, wealth and abundance. Learn more: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/baby-steps-to-wealth-and-abundance/

If you are selling your home in a divorce, the last thing you probably want to think about is renovating it. But in this episode, we talk about how a small renovation--that takes very little time and doesn't cost a fortune, can help you in a justified higher asking price and much larger profit. My guest is Amanda Valente, co-founder of Renovation Sells. Amanda and I talk about "selling smart in divorce" and we offer tips for those stressed about the process. Learn more: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/before-selling-a-house-in-divorce-consider-renovating/

Coparenting is never easy, but it gets a lot more difficult and challenging when one of the parents is in a new relationship. My guest in this episode is Trina Nudson, founder of the BeH20 coparenting program. Trina offers practical advice on coping, setting boundaries, and making sure you put the kids first. Trina and I also share some personal stories. Learn more here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/co-parenting-boundaries-while-in-a-new-relationship/

Every divorce is unique, but there are some challenges that comes with high net worth divorce--situations where there are complex assets. My guest in this episode is divorce attorney, Odalo Ohiku, who explains some of the issues that arise in a high net worth divorce. He also offers advice on how to protect yourself in one. Learn more: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/understanding-high-net-worth-divorce/

During divorce, confidence suffers. Even the most emotionally healthy person with tons of self-love can find they have a lack of confidence during a divorce. My guest in this episode is Justin Milrad, CDC. Justin, a divorce coach and divorced dad, explains in more detail why this happens, and offers 7 ways to rebuild your confidence during divorce.

No parent sets out to put the kids in the middle of their divorce, but it happens. There are many reasons it happens and there are things you can do to prevent putting your kids in the middle of your divorce. My guest in this episode is Erik Feig, divorce mediator, co-parenting specialist and disability informed professional. Erik talks about why this happens and what you can do to keep your kids happy and healthy through divorce and after. Learn more: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/youre-both-still-their-parents-co-parenting-tools-that-keep-kids-out-of-the-middle/

Is it possible to be friends with your ex? There is so much to talk about to answer this question! My guest in this episode is divorce coach, Lisa Lisser. Lisa offers insights into this complex question, along with tips to having the kind of relationship you want with your ex. Learn more here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/being-friends-with-an-ex-who-hurt-you-is-it-possible/

It is so normal and understandable to have anger in divorce. But be careful. If you make decisions based on anger, it could have a negative affect both in the outcome of your divorce and in your post-divorce life. My guest in this episode is divorce attorney, Debbie Cohen, who explains, and offers tips on managing your anger during the legal process. Learn more here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/the-role-of-anger-in-divorce-and-how-it-can-affect-your-outcome/

"My husband has no friends or hobbies," is something I hear a lot from women who are considering divorce or going through one. My guest in this episode is Divorce Coach, Karen Covy. Karen and I unpack this issue. We talk about what being married to an anti-social spouse looks like, how it can affect a marriage, and whether or not it's a good enough reason to get divorced. Learn more here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/my-husband-has-no-friends-or-hobbies/ 

Divorce isn't just the end of a marriage. It's also a financial reset, a unique and powerful opportunity to reimagine what money means to you—and how it supports your future. My guest in this episode is Luke Sauter, Personal Financial Specialist and Investment Advisor Representative. Luke explains why your financial identity matters, and offers tips on rebuilding it. Learn more here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/reclaiming-your-financial-identity-during-and-after-divorce/

No one wants to be in an emotionally abusive relationship, or an addictive relationship. So, why is it not so uncommon that people get into these kinds of relationships? One big reason is that people don't even realize they are in or heading into one. My guest in this episode is Relationship and Recovery Therapist, Debra Alper. Debra and I discuss 5 signs that you might be in one or headed there. Learn more: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/5-signs-you-are-in-or-are-heading-into-an-addictive-or-emotionally-abusive-relationship/

It sounds intimidating and overwhelming, but it really isn't! My guest in this episode is divorce attorney, Jessica Zadjura, who has answers to your questions about retirement accounts, pension plans, and other assets in divorce. Learn more here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/retirement-accounts-pension-plans-and-divorce/

Being your best self in divorce has so many benefits. Not only will it give you a better divorce outcome, but it will help you in self-love, and in your post-divorce life. My guest in this episode is divorce attorney, Sharon Oberst-DeFala, who offers tips on how to be your best self, as well as a story that will inspire you! Learn more here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/a-great-example-of-how-to-be-your-best-self-in-divorce/

If you know your divorce needs to happen, but you're not sure what to do to prepare, before telling your spouse officially that you want a divorce, this is a great episode! My guest is divorce attorney, Ardené Fox, who offers advice on how to prepare for the start of your divorce. 

It's so wonderful when parents can put their differences aside and be there in a peaceful, loving way for their kids. Unfortunately, not all divorcing couples are able to do this. So, if you are someone going through a divorce who has a difficult and toxic ex, this is a great episode for you. My guest is divorce attorney, Matt Butts, who offers 3 tips for coparenting with a toxic ex. Learn more here: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/3-tips-for-coparenting-with-a-toxic-ex/