The Robertson and Easterling Podcast

On this episode of the R+E podcast, Craig Robertson and Matt Easterling share real-world stories, negotiation strategies, and insights on resolving disputes in divorce. Recorded live for Professor Chris Dunnell's negotiation class at Mississippi College School of law, this episode dives into the emotional and practical challenges of family law and what it really takes to guide clients through life-changing moments.

In this special episode of the Robertson and Easterling Podcast, Craig Robertson sits down with legendary Mississippi State coach Ron Polk—known to many as the "Godfather of SEC Baseball"—for a heartfelt and insightful conversation that spans over half a century of baseball history, mentorship, and legacy. From his early childhood in Arizona, where his father — a former semi-pro ballplayer—first introduced him to the game, to his rise as one of the most influential coaches in NCAA history, Coach Polk shares stories that have shaped his life and career. Listeners will hear about his humble beginnings, his mother's health struggles which prompted his family's cross-country move, his journey through college and graduate school, and the pivotal moments that led him to Starkville, leading the USA baseball team and beyond. With 1,373 career wins, 8 College World Series appearances, and over 180 players drafted into professional baseball, Coach Polk's impact on the game is undeniable. But this episode goes deeper than stats—it reveals the heart of a man who has dedicated his life to machine-like service, who still writes handwritten letters to former players, and who built a home that doubles as a museum to honor the teams and people he's loved along the way. Whether you're a lifelong Bulldog fan, a lover of baseball, or just someone who appreciates a life of service well lived, this episode offers a rare and personal glimpse into the legacy of a true American sports icon.

In this episode of the Robertson and Easterling Podcast, Craig Robertson sits down with pastor and speaker Mike Breaux to tackle a universal struggle—envy. They explore how envy can silently creep into our lives, poisoning relationships, distorting priorities, and leading us down destructive paths. But there's hope. The antidote to envy is gratitude. Craig and Mike dive into practical ways to shift our mindset, resist comparison, and cultivate a heart of appreciation. Whether in marriage, parenting, the workplace, or even the legal profession, choosing gratitude over jealousy can bring peace, contentment, and stronger relationships. Join the conversation as they unpack the dangers of envy, share personal insights, and offer actionable steps to foster gratitude in daily life. If you've ever struggled with comparison or felt the weight of jealousy, this episode is for you

In this episode, Matt Easterling and Craig Robertson dive into the complexities of post-judgment modifications. The attorneys break down key legal considerations, including custody and visitation changes, financial support adjustments, and alimony modifications. The discussion also covers enforcement through contempt actions and the appeals process. While many believe a divorce judgment is the final word on a relationship, this episode highlights how evolving life circumstances often require legal updates. Whether you're facing unexpected challenges or seeking clarity on post-divorce legal matters, this episode provides valuable insights into navigating these ongoing legal processes.    

Join Craig Robertson and Matt Easterling on the R+E Podcast as they explore the important topic of healthy sexuality in marriage. They're joined by certified sex therapist Lida Carraway, who shares expert insights on building stronger, more fulfilling connections. As divorce attorneys, your hosts have seen how intimacy—or the lack of it—affects relationships. Lida discusses common struggles, practical strategies, and ways to strengthen emotional and physical bonds. Whether you're newly married, a longtime couple, or navigating relationship challenges, this episode offers wisdom and actionable advice. Tune in for an honest conversation about intimacy, connection and improved sexual health in the context of marriage. 

In this episode of the Robertson and Easterling Podcast, Craig Robertson talks with Chris Grothe and Cliff Stewart about Aetheric Life, a breathwork-based program for holistic personal development. They share how they each forged interest in wellness and developed a four-session journey that helps participants release emotional blocks, embrace the present, and discover their purpose. Chris and Cliff also highlight the importance of community and the transformative power of breathwork and somatic techniques in fostering clarity and growth. Tune in to learn how Aetheric Life empowers individuals to heal, thrive, and create the life they truly desire.

In this heartwarming Christmas episode, Craig Robertson and Matt Easterling sit down with their wives, Rachel Robertson and Caylee Easterling, to share candid reflections on the challenges and joys of balancing family life with the demands of being divorce attorneys. Through laughter, personal anecdotes, heartfelt moments, and two surprise guests, the couples discuss the importance of being present—whether at work, with clients during difficult times, or at home, where their roles as spouses and parents take center stage. Although in very different seasons of life, they reflect on the lessons learned about maintaining connection, prioritizing what truly matters, and leaning into the spirit of the holiday season. This special episode offers insight into life behind the scenes as the couples share their perspectives on faith, family, and finding balance in the midst of it all. It's a poignant reminder to be “here when you are here” and “there when you are there,” a mantra that resonates with the season and beyond.

The Robertson and Easterling podcast welcomes two favorite guests, Ben Derrick and Jason Smith, for a special November episode centered on gratitude. In this heartfelt and often spiritual conversation, Matt and Craig sit down with the former pastors to explore the profound impact gratitude has on both personal and professional life. The discussion delves into how a mindset of thankfulness can transform relationships, create greater awareness during life's challenges, and foster a deeper sense of contentment and well-being. Through personal anecdotes and thought-provoking insights, this episode inspires listeners to embrace gratitude as a powerful practice for positive change in daily life, moving to process as opposed to outcome-oriented mindsets.

In this powerful episode recorded the day after her divorce was final, a former client shares her experience of surviving emotional abuse in her marriage to a narcissist. She discusses how covert manipulation and gaslighting eroded her self-worth and left her and her children living in fear. Her journey of awakening began when the pain of staying outweighed the fear of leaving. She realized she was living for just a fraction of the good times she calls “the 15%”, while the rest of her life was spent walking on eggshells. She offers deep introspection and an introduction to the various healing modalities she used to reclaim her life, learning that God loves her more than the institution of marriage.  

In this episode of the Robertson and Easterling Podcast, hosts Matt Easterling and Craig Robertson dive into the crucial topic of temporary hearings in Mississippi divorce cases. A temporary hearing is often one of the first legal steps in a divorce proceeding, helping to foster calm and order amidst the storm of marital breakdown.  Matt and Craig explain what happens during these hearings, the types of decisions that are made—such as child custody, debt service, spousal support, and use of marital property—and how these rulings can set the tone for the rest of the case. They also offer practical tips on how to prepare for a temporary hearing and what to expect when facing the court. Whether you're in the early stages of divorce or simply looking to understand the process better, this episode provides invaluable insight into navigating the complexities of temporary hearings in Mississippi.

This Robertson + Easterling Podcast offering delves into the complexities of adultery and its implications in Mississippi divorce cases. Matt Easterling and Craig Robertson discuss how adultery is legally defined, its emotional and psychological impacts, and how it influences contested divorce proceedings in Mississippi - including child custody, alimony and the division of assets. While adultery may be grounds for divorce, it does not automatically affect other case dynamics and can create complex legal and emotional issues. Tune in to receive practical advice from these veteran family law attorneys on how to navigate infidelity, cheating and adultery inside and outside of the courtroom.

In this episode of the Robertson and Easterling podcast, host Craig Robertson sits down with Patrick and Jennifer, a couple uniquely positioned with custody of a non-biological child without the benefit of adoption. The conversation delves into the emotional intricacies of their legal situation, highlighting the courage and determination required to face such challenges. Patrick and Jennifer share their experiences and insights on the bravery needed to resolve child-related legal matters and the complexities of adjusting to life post-court proceedings. Join us for an inspiring episode that offers valuable guidance and encouragement for doing hard things.

In part two of this Robertson and Easterling podcast series, hosts Craig Robertson and Matt Easterling continue their deep dive into the complexities of navigating a divorce trial. This episode covers crucial aspects of trial preparation, including updating financial statements, gathering key evidence, and understanding the courtroom dynamics. They offer practical advice on how to present yourself, manage stress, and maintain composure throughout the trial. Special guest Ben Derrick shares insights on cognitive coaching and its role in overcoming personal obstacles. Whether you're facing a trial or seeking to avoid one, this episode provides valuable guidance to help you through this challenging process.  

In this episode of the Robertson and Easterling podcast, hosts Craig Robertson and Matt Easterling dive into the complexities of navigating a divorce trial. From the importance of thorough preparation during the discovery process to understanding the dynamics of courtroom proceedings, they provide valuable insights to help you put your best foot forward. They emphasize the critical role of self-care during this challenging time and share practical tips on how to stay organized and mentally prepared. Whether you're facing a trial or seeking to avoid one, this episode offers guidance on making informed decisions and achieving the best possible outcome.

This short recording walks the listener through the R+E Wellness Notebook which we provide to interested clients in our initial consultation. If you found this recording and do not have a copy of our Wellness Notebook, please reach out to us at help@robertson.ms and we will provide you with a digital copy of the materials explained in this recording by founding partner, Craig Robertson.

Join Craig and Matt on a thought-provoking episode of the R+E  podcast as they welcome special guest, Sherry Toler. Sherry is a highly sought-after therapist in Central Mississippi who explores the enigmatic world of narcissism. Delving into the practical realities of the subject, the trio discusses the journey of individuals discarded by narcissistic partners and their quest to rebuild their lives and form healthy relationships. Through engaging anecdotes and expert insights, listeners gain a deeper understanding of narcissistic abuse and the path to healing and empowerment. Tune in for an insightful conversation that promises to enlighten and inspire.  

This is a short talk by Craig Robertson to a group of attorneys and judges at the Mississippi Bar Center in Jackson, Mississippi on April 19, 2024 at the annual Hot Tips Seminar.  Craig spoke on Attorney Health, Wellbeing and Mindfulness

James is the most interesting person at a party. A cannabis industry early adopter, he found himself in a marriage with a person who had not separated from her family in a healthy way, which undermined the safety of the couples emotional connection. Lean in and listen as James discusses his plant-based methods of healing and his journey to take back the courage his unhealthy relationship took from him.    WARNING: This show discusses the use of medical marijuana and hallucinogens for healing.   The content may not be suitable for children and could be triggering for someone with addiction issues or in a relationship with an addict. R+E is a team of legal, not medical professionals. Nothing talked about is intended to be healthcare advice. We are simply communicating the story of a former client whose name has been fictionalized.  A person considering the modalities discussed in this episode should consult with their medical and mental health providers before using any substance.  

In this episode of the R+E podcast, hosts Craig and Matt are joined by their associate, Mandalin Blanton, and seasoned divorce attorney and mediator, Susan Steffey. Together, they aim to dispel misconceptions surrounding mediation in Mississippi family disputes, offering an in-depth exploration of its significant utility in resolving conflicts for individuals and families. Steffey shares valuable insights into the practical, legal, and emotional facets of mediation, providing a holistic perspective on its transformative role in fostering communication and resolution. Whether you're planning for your own mediation or simply intrigued by the workings of mediation in Mississippi, this engaging discussion is not to be missed.

In the latest episode of the Robertson and Easterling podcast, we delve into the world of chiropractic care with special guest Dr. Ryan Miller from Madison Chiropractic & Wellness. Tune in as Craig discusses holistic approaches to wellness, the benefits of chiropractic adjustments, and practical tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Gain insights into Dr. Miller's expertise and discover how chiropractic care can contribute to overall well-being.    

Divorce involves legal, emotional, and financial complexities. In this episode, we discuss the crucial role your choice of attorney plays in shaping your case. We also explore the process of understanding your unique needs and the key factors for finding the right legal advocate for you. Plus, get a sneak peek into the initial client meeting, one of the most important first steps in any legal journey.Divorce involves legal, emotional, and financial complexities. In this episode, we discuss the crucial role your choice of attorney plays in shaping your case. We also explore the process of understanding your unique needs and the key factors for finding the right legal advocate for you. Plus, get a sneak peek into the initial client meeting, one of the most important first steps in any legal journey.

Pinelake's Oxford campus pastor, Jody Schmelzer, is an expert in cultivating Christian men's communities. During his college years at Ole Miss, Jody was introduced to the powerful practice of men regularly gathering to share their life experiences. This simple yet transformative exercise has become the foundation for health, wellness, and spiritual growth for Jody and the numerous men he has guided throughout his 18 years of professional ministry.   Men's community serves as a guiding light on the often challenging path of navigating work, marriage, and parenting. In this show, Jody provides an introductory course to this life-giving, ancient tradition. Join us as we explore the profound impact of building meaningful connections and fostering personal development in the company of other men. It's a journey toward a more fulfilling and spiritually enriched life.    

In honor of National Adoption Month, Craig and a special guest have a conversation with Preston and Jennifer Crowe, who have both biological and adoptive children, and who have fostered dozens of infants throughout their marriage. Preston is a pastor who works vocationally in mental health, and Jennifer is a high-energy fitness instructor, homeschool teacher and mom. Together, they talk about their marriage, foster parenting and fitness, plus they tell their own adoption story, which was only made possible by opening their own home to the temporary placement of children waiting for forever families.

Living Waters Massage Therapy Clinic helps clients understand self-care is necessary to maintain overall wellness in mind, body, and spirit.  After a session with a LWMT therapist, you will have a clearer understanding of your body needs. Craig Robertson sits down with LWMTC founder, DeSheila Hughes, who has been a National and State Licensed Massage Therapist since 2005. Although not her first choice of careers, she talks about how God's Plan is the best plan. About her work, Desheila says, “When I can see the physical, mental, and emotional change in my clients, I am overjoyed.” She is best known for deep tissue massage, trigger-point therapy, acupressure, plus foot and hand reflexology.

In this moving episode, Craig sits down with Alex, who lost his parents to a murder/suicide when he was only 3. Raised by his maternal grandparents, Alex gives his perspective on the tragic end to his parents' divorce, and it's surprising positive impact on his life.  In this show we discuss suicidal and homicidal thoughts and ideation. If that subject is too confronting, perhaps skip this show. If you are struggling, please raise your hand and reach out for help. You can call SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP and if you are experiencing suicidal ideation, know you're not alone. We encourage you to call the Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK.

Are you contemplating divorce? Is someone you love experiencing difficult family dynamics?  If so, there are many questions that need answers - What constitutes grounds, who gets custody of the children, how do we divide our money, and what if I am dependent on my spouse? Veteran family law attorneys Matt Easterling and Craig Robertson break down the ins and outs in this informative show, providing a unique, professional perspective of what to expect if  you or someone you love needs to explore information about divorce.

Every week in our office, we see how addiction steals the joy from marriages. In this show, Craig sits down with guest host Bill Blair and Dr. Branden Henry for a conversation about both process and substance addiction, including its causes, the journey of recovery and the special considerations for the addicts' partners. Branden is a creative mental health provider trained in treating trauma and 12-step recovery work. Being in recovery himself, he has both a personal and engaging perspective on the subject.  Branden is the founder of Red River Counseling, and he and Bill work together in the adventure-based coaching organization called Rocks to Rivers.

In today's show, Matt and Craig sit down with one of our favorite local mental health providers, Dea Dean. Dea is insightful and full of life and energy. The conversation swings from perception of one's own backstory, involving "naming" an experience without blaming families of origin, to a discussion about the parentification of children whose parents, for whatever reason, are unavailable to meet their children's needs. Craig shares a few thoughts about his own life experience, and Dea gives respectful feedback about his journey, as great therapists do, without sitting on a throne of judgment.  

Graduation Season is a great time to consider new beginnings, so Craig and Matt had a conversation with Trey Carroll, the founder and a coach at The NexTest Advantage. Trey changed majors 5 times in college, worked 8 different jobs and lived in 12 countries before suffering a stroke at the age of 28. Searching for direction, he took several personality and career assessments, but the Birkman Method changed his life. In this fast-paced show, we discuss how the the Birkman Method helps people of all ages discover how they are wired and how it is revealed in both personal and professional relationships.

Rocks to Rivers is an adventure based coaching organization founded by pastor, life coach and climbing instructor, Bill Blair.  Craig sits down with Bill and his Rocks to Rivers co-leader Dr. Branden Henry to not only talk about the work of the organization, but also the struggle men have to find adventure, play and camaraderie as adults navigating the modern world.  If you feel stuck and are looking to find deeper meaning in life and your true self, you will not want to miss this conversation.

Avery is an introvert who worked hard and excelled in school. She was the first-chair clarinet who loved to read. Being in relationships did not come naturally for her, so she cherished them greatly when they happened. After she and her fiance ended their long-term engagement, her study partner in graduate school suggested they should be more than friends. Although she had never given the idea any thought, it became all she could think about. When school was over, they decided to make a life together, but when she was three months pregnant with their first child, he gave her a letter that changed everything.

Lea is a doer. Although her family and community gave her a solid foundation, her parents were secretly unhappy, divorcing her senior year of high school. Lea felt deceived but guilty, because they stayed together for the sake of her and her brother, who remains her best friend. A two-sport athlete in college, she charged into a nursing career and marriage with the same energy you will hear in this episode. Unfortunately, her husband's alcohol addiction derailed the life she originally planned, leaving her to pick up the pieces with humility, gratitude and a new perspective for simple pleasures.  

Barry was a college athlete. After three kids and life began to move faster, he began to medicate uncomfortable moments with alcohol. Casual drinking snowballed into full-blown addiction, and Barry lost his marriage and career. Things got worse post-divorce, and he turned his back on key relationships, finding himself alone on Christmas Day with a half-gallon of vodka as his only companion. Listen to find out how a double dose of the Holy Ghost at Mission at the Cross saved Barry's life.

"Should I Stay or Should I Go" is not just a classic song by The Clash, it is the internal dialogue of our clients, especially in the early stages of the divorce process which entails both the physical structure of the home and the more intangible relational dynamic. In this show, Craig and Matt sit down with Adam Black, a real estate collaboration specialist with a focus on divorce mortgage management, to break down the challenges of the post-COVID housing market, featuring low inventory, high prices and both inflation and interest rates on the rise. This fast-paced show will highlight the importance of working with a mortgage professional early in the process and familiarize the listener about the current real estate market.

Bravery is showing the mental or moral strength to face danger, fear or difficulty –it is the state of being brave.  In this episode featuring Eric and Laura's adoption story, you will hear the couple's journey from their chance meeting on a church softball field, to their marriage, fertility challenges and then the highs and lows of an adoption journey which is illustrative of the difficulties associated with domestic infant adoption. Their story brings into sharp focus the duality of bravery required by both the couple for stepping into the unknown as well as the birth mother for making the unnatural decision of having another parent in her place.

In another life-story-driven episode, Roane and Craig introduce you to Rob Lohman, whose drinking career started in his teens, leading him to dark places in life with the climax being a suicide attempt botched by his dog, Jake. You will grip the steering wheel as you hear about his rap sheet, which includes divorce, gambling addiction, bankruptcies and a prison sentence for arson, before finding wholeness through helping others.

In this fast paced show, Therapist and Infidelity Specialist, Linda MacDonald, discusses the importance of forgiveness when facing intimate betrayal and infidelity.  She shares her personal struggle to come to terms with a broken marriage and talks about the necessity for the right type of professional help.  Join Craig and Roane as they dive into the different types of relational responses to adultery as well as the path to healing from heartbreak. 

What does a pastor do when he is not okay? Jason Smith was burned out after covering pain with performance for decades. His coping mechanism was service, describing his relationships with the people he served as codependent.  When the limitations of the global pandemic created isolation, he was unable to receive energy and purpose from others, so his unconscious facade fractured, making him feel trapped.  Thinking like no area of his life was good, he felt hopeless.  Listen to this episode to find out how a dedicated ministry leader and professional helper took steps to get well.

Security Support Services are experts on getting people who cheat busted. They have been working behind the scenes for over 30 years to provide the truth to clients whose spouses are less than honest.  Robert Saums, VP of the company, dishes with Craig and Matt about the complexities of the professional investigation business as well as what it takes to catch cheaters in their extracurricular activities.

Licensed professional counselor, certified sex addiction therapist and radio talk show host, Jim Cress, is our guest on this special Father's Day show.  Jim tells his story and talks about the work he does to foster integrity and wholeness with couples and individuals at "Ground Zero" of their personal stories --collecting the dots to connect the dots.  Craig, Roane and Jim dive deep into the concepts of the eternal father hunger within each of us and how all fathers bankrupt us on some level as we bump into their brokenness.

In an emotional, recovery story from the perspective of two moms, hear how Keisha‘s transition from an 18-year incarceration intersected with Shannon's journey to find health, wholeness and meaning when both were at “crossroads” in their lives. Craig and co-host Eva Hunter narrate this captivating account of the power of being fully known and how recovery is available for everyone brave enough to search for it.

Roane and Craig take a deep dive with Ben Derrick about Jesus, emotional health and the Church.  Topics range from childhood wounding and the associated toxic messages we carry into adulthood, to the reason fantasy and escapism almost work.  Searching for yourself requires relational healing and a bridge between the gap of the ideal to the real, freeing us from the prisons of our own making. This episode contains such rich content about the journey inward, you will want to listen to it over and over.  

Gale Mills combines training in psychology and law enforcement as one of the few female certified polygraph examiners in Mississippi.  Conducting over 12,000 polygraphs, listen as this 30-year veteran professional truth finder educates and entertains in this discussion about sifting through lies and deception to uncover the honest truth.   

Life for Brooke seemed to be a story written for someone else.  A glass-half-full Southern girl, the expectations of her family and community left her feeling voiceless.  Her desire to take the wheel of her own life led to unhealthy coping mechanisms and a bad relationship, so when she finished college and was dating her future husband, who was a “nice guy”, the music of the cake walk of life stopped and she sat next to him.  Lean in to find out what happens when you try to follow a life scripted for someone else.

In a show about resilience, which is a person's ability to come back from a setback like divorce, Craig and Matt sit down with sponsors Kelly Englemann from Enhanced Wellness Living and Eva Hunter from Lifeworks Counseling.  Listen in as our hosts and guests explain trauma and the steps an individual can take in the recovery process, including but not limited to self-awareness work, practical health and wellness, and how connectedness in good relationships helps us heal.

Steve Kinsley meets with Craig to share his journey from tech start-up founder to South African missionary.  Steve's life partner, Teresa, was not just instrumental in opening the door to the mission field for Steve, she also expanded his concept of family.  During their time as missionaries, Steve watched Teresa do what she was made to do, fulfilling their calling – they also changed the destiny of a child with the word “Yes.” Listen as Steve discusses the impact Alfie had on their lives, through the lens of a marriage that was completed.

Certified Financial Planner Kristi Tidwell did not comprehend the long-term financial effects a divorce would have on a family until she lived it herself. Weathering the storm of her own personal journey, she found a new calling and a way to use her knowledge to help others in the same situation sift through the financial complexities. Listen as she discusses her walk through divorce, common financial mistakes and how to walk away from the process with new found confidence and fiscal health.

How does one model the “right” behavior for their children when things are personally unbearable? Roane and Roe Hunter share their family story with Jamie Walley and Craig Robertson. As a father struggling with the intense pressures of providing for his family while also juggling porn/sex addiction, Roane found himself in a deep, dark hole he couldn't escape. This Father/Son duo walk through their journey from depression, anger, attempted suicide and shame to forgiveness and ultimately seeing God's love.

Craig and Eva join Texas natives Jason and Andi to tell the story of their journey from young, naive love to intensely complicated married life. As a couple consisting of codependents with separate ideas and expectations, the pressure placed on each to make the other "complete" was overwhelming. Jason and Andi share the importance of breaking through the fantasy by seeking help from wise, professional counselors, putting in the work to improve the marriage, and the necessity of a supportive community.

What happens when things appear “right” on the outside but the inside is a complete mess?  Troy and Melissa Haas, founders of HopeQuest Ministry Group, share their personal story detailing how their lives completely changed once their hearts became truly healthy.  This couple discusses their journey from addiction and codependency to healing, noting the importance of the few, trustworthy people who walked with them to make things right from the inside out. 

Craig and Roane spend time with Eli Machen, world-renowned author, speaker and certified counselor, to uncover the reasons why people cheat.  Referencing his multi-decade experience as a specialist in the field of sex addiction, Eli discusses the significance of understanding the root cause of one's problem as well as how to recover from that addiction. Travel along on their journey to learn how one can overcome the darkness and despair of self-loathing to get to a place of trust and understanding.