Episode 27: Help! My Co-Parent Is So Combative! I’m Desperate to Not Have A Judge Decide What We Do With Our Kids!

Episode 27: Help! My Co-Parent Is So Combative! I’m Desperate to Not Have A Judge Decide What We Do With Our Kids!Our Guest for Today's Episode:Michael Sallustio Michael Sallustio is a former attorney and entrepreneur. After practicing law for five years, he pursued his passion for health and nutrition and owned and operated several related businesses. After going through his own divorce and custody battle, he was called to pursue the practice of mediation, specializing in child access cases. In addition to volunteering in the District Court ADR program, he is on several Circuit Court rosters throughout the state and runs a private practice as both a Mediator and Parenting Coordinator. He specializes in high-conflict custody matters. Michael also has personal experience with and specialized training in working with families of children with Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE’s) and neurodivergent issues. Visit Micheal's Website: Michael's Website Visit Micheal's Facebook Page:Michael's Facebook page Learn More about our Support Group Membership Program CLICK HERE!We offer 1 month Free if you Sign Up for Our Membership Today! Weekly Support Group & Divorce Educational Resources & Self-Help Workshops.SIGN UP NOW AND GET A FREE MONTH OF WEEKLY SUPPORT GROUPS AND EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES!Our membership includes the full 5-Day Challenge Video Replays and the accompanying 5-Day Challenge Workbook....and many more workshops, mini-courses, articles, special offers, and more!SummaryIn this episode of the Better Than Bitter podcast, host Tania Leichliter speaks with Michael Sallustio, a former attorney turned mediator, about navigating the complexities of divorce and custody battles. They discuss the importance of amicable resolutions, the impact of divorce on children, and strategies for effective mediation. Michael shares his personal experiences and insights on how to prioritize the well-being of children during the divorce process, emphasizing the need for empathy and cooperation between parents. The conversation highlights the significance of preparing for mediation, understanding financial implications, and maintaining a focus on the child's needs throughout the process.TakeawaysDivorce can be navigated amicably with the right approach.Children are deeply affected by their parents' divorce.Mediation is a valuable tool for resolving custody disputes.Empathy and understanding are crucial in mediation.Parents should prioritize their children's well-being over personal grievances.Neutrality is essential for effective mediation.Reality testing helps parents see the bigger picture.Co-parenting requires collaboration and communication.Negative comments about the other parent harm the child.Preparation is key for successful mediation outcomes.TitlesNavigating Divorce with EmpathyThe Power of Mediation in Custody BattlesSound Bites"It's about what's best for your child.""You can't weaponize your children.""Empathy is key in mediation."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mediation and Personal Journey02:53 Navigating Divorce and Custody Battles05:14 The Impact of High Conflict on Children08:16 Addressing Infidelity in Mediation10:43 Building Trust and Cooperation13:27 The Role of Neutrality in Mediation15:42 Encouraging Co-Parenting Success18:55 The Importance of Self-Work in Parenting20:34 Controlling Reactions and Outcomes21:56 Exploring Truth and Perception23:09 The Role of Mediation in Conflict Resolution25:13 Empathy in Co-Parenting26:36 The Importance of Healthy Communication29:49 Preparing for Mediation34:08 Navigating Custody and Financial Concerns37:28 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways40:50 riverside_final_50% off promo tania _ mar 28, 2025 001_better_than bitter (1).mp442:42 Introduction to Amicable Divorce44:11 Resources for Support and GrowthKeywordsdivorce, mediation, custody, co-parenting, amicable divorce, child welfare, divorce coaching, family law, emotional healing, parenting strategiesOn our website you'll find details and additional information on our 5-Step Gameplan multimedia course, our different types of coaching methods, monthly memberships, events and retreats, and a whole lot more. Plus, we've got a ton of free resources, like our monthly newsletter, our private Facebook group, our Instagram channel, and a library of articles and free webinars to help you along the way. When you go to our website, you'll be able to schedule a free 45-minute breakthrough call. Remember, we're here to help you reach an amicable resolution. Find your courage and believe in your brighter future because you know what? It is possible.At Better Than Bitter™, we measure success by what we give and not by what we get. So, let's change the divorce dialogue together. It's time to be better than bitter.Do you want to know if We Can Help You? Book A Free 1:1 Breakthrough Call Now! Click HereIf you want to connect with a Divorce Concierge, contact Vesta Divorce Concierge here!