How Not To Suck At Divorce

Divorce Crash CourseThinking about divorce or already in the middle of one? Don't make expensive mistakes before you understand your rights.Our Divorce Crash Course gives you practical guidance on attorneys, finances, custody, parenting agreements, and the biggest mistakes people make during divorce.Typically priced at $150, available now for just $50 thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink.👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course🎙️ Episode DescriptionWhat can Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Johnny Depp, Amber Heard, Kevin Costner, Kim Kardashian, Britney Spears, Jeff Bezos, and Alec Baldwin teach us about divorce?A lot more than you might think.In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport and top family law attorney Morgan L. Stogsdill break down some of Hollywood's most famous divorces—not for the celebrity gossip, but for the real-life legal and emotional lessons that apply to everyday people.From prenups and child support to co-parenting, high-conflict custody battles, social media mistakes, and negotiating outside of court, these celebrity cases reveal common divorce pitfalls that can cost people time, money, and peace of mind.Whether you're considering divorce, currently navigating one, or helping someone through the process, this episode is packed with practical advice you can actually use.⭐ In This EpisodeWhy Kevin Costner's divorce proves prenups aren't magicWhat Johnny Depp and Amber Heard teach about text messages and digital evidenceThe expensive lesson behind Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's years-long legal battleKim Kardashian and Kanye West's co-parenting challengesAlec Baldwin's custody mistakes and what every parent should learnBritney Spears, Kevin Federline, and when child support can actually be modifiedJeff Bezos' divorce strategy and why settling outside of court often saves everyoneHow to identify your true "must-haves" during divorce negotiationsWhy protecting your integrity is often your greatest victory🔑 Key Takeaways✔️ Not every battle is worth fighting.✔️ Every text, email, voicemail, and social media post could become evidence.✔️ Prenups reduce uncertainty—but they don't eliminate conflict.✔️ Child support modifications require a significant change in circumstances.✔️ The best divorce outcomes often happen through thoughtful negotiation—not courtroom battles.✔️ Focus on your true priorities instead of trying to "win" every issue.🎧 More Divorce Resources🌐 Website:https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com🎙️ Listen to more episodes:https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/podcastOur Family Wizard: You guys, please check them out. They are the most court respected coparenting app. And we are the only podcast that can offer you 20% off your first year of the essential's package.www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck About How Not to Suck at DivorceHosted by Andrea Rappaport and Morgan L. Stogsdill, Head of the Family Law Group at Beermann LLP, How Not to Suck at Divorce provides practical legal, financial, and emotional guidance for people navigating divorce.Our mission is simple: help you make smarter decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and build a better life on the other side of divorce.Because divorce is a marathon—not a sprint.You've got this.And we've got you.📚 Resources MentionedPrenuptial AgreementsChild Support ModificationsCustody & Parenting TimeMediation vs. LitigationHigh-Net-Worth DivorceDigital Evidence in Divorce Cases📱 Connect With UsInstagram: @HowNotToSuckAtDivorceFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1EQe3x7zCR/Website: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.comHashtags#Divorce #CelebrityDivorce #FamilyLaw #Prenup #ChildCustody #ChildSupport #CoParenting #DivorceAdvice #DivorcePodcast #HowNotToSuckAtDivorceSEO Keywordscelebrity divorce lessons, Brad Pitt divorce, Angelina Jolie custody battle, Kevin Costner prenup, Johnny Depp Amber Heard divorce, Kim Kardashian Kanye West custody, Britney Spears child support, Jeff Bezos divorce, Alec Baldwin custody, divorce advice, family law, divorce mistakes, divorce attorney, co-parenting, high-conflict divorce.Mentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Divorce Isn't Fair: How to Stop the Negative Spiral and Move Forward🎧 Divorce Crash Course – Just $50 (Limited Time)Before you spend thousands on avoidable divorce mistakes, invest in yourself.Our Divorce Crash Course walks you through the biggest legal, financial, and emotional mistakes people make before, during, and after divorce. Typically priced at $150, it's available now for just $50, thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and SoberLink.Learn more here!Episode SummaryOne of the hardest truths about divorce is also one of the most important:It's not fair.Whether it's a custody decision, financial settlement, or something you genuinely believed you deserved, getting stuck on what isn't fair can keep you emotionally trapped long after your divorce moves forward.In this mini episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport and family law attorney Morgan L. Stogsdill explain why obsessing over fairness often leads to costly legal decisions, emotional exhaustion, and unnecessary conflict. They also share a practical mindset shift that can help you regain momentum and make smarter choices throughout your divorce.If you're struggling to let go of something that feels unfair, this episode offers both legal perspective and emotional guidance to help you move forward.In This EpisodeWhy divorce often feels deeply unfair—and why that's normalHow focusing on fairness can keep you emotionally stuckThe hidden financial cost of fighting every issueWhy friends and family can unintentionally make the situation worseHow to know whether an issue is worth continuing to fightThe powerful question every client should ask their divorce attorneyHow acceptance can help you heal without approving of what happenedWhy letting go isn't giving up—it's moving forwardKey TakeawayYou don't have to like what happened.You don't even have to think it's fair.But staying trapped in resentment won't change the outcome—it only keeps you from building what's next. Sometimes the healthiest decision is accepting what you cannot change so you can focus your energy on creating a better future.Resources MentionedDivorce Crash CourseOur Family WizardSoberLinkJoin our free private Facebook communityUpcoming Divorce Meditation SeriesSubscribe & ReviewIf How Not to Suck at Divorce has helped you navigate divorce with more confidence, we'd be incredibly grateful if you'd subscribe, leave a rating, and write a review. Your support helps more people find trustworthy divorce guidance when they need it most.www.ratethispodcast.com/notsuckConnect With UsWebsite: www.hownottosuckatdivorce.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1HNN44whZq/InstagramYouTube Check out Our Family Wizard- the most court respected coparenting app. We are the only podcast that can offer you 20% of your first year!www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck20Keywordsdivorce advice, divorce podcast, divorce lawyer, divorce settlement, divorce mindset, divorce emotional healing, divorce mediation, child custody, divorce strategy, unfair divorce settlement, accepting divorce, co-parenting, family law, healing after divorce, divorce supportMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Divorce Cyberstalking: What to Do If You Think Your Ex Is Watching You OnlineDivorce Crash Course: Don’t make expensive divorce mistakes.Our Divorce Crash Course walks you through the biggest legal, financial, emotional, and co-parenting mistakes people make during divorce — and how to avoid them.Typically priced at $150, available now for just $50, thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink.Start the course here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseCyberstalking during divorce can make you feel unsafe, paranoid, unsteady, and completely overwhelmed.But here’s the thing: sometimes what feels “crazy” is actually a real digital safety issue.In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport and Morgan L. Stogsdill are joined by Steven Bradley, a former FBI task force leader, cybersecurity expert, domestic violence specialist, and cyberstalking educator, to talk about what to do if you think your ex is watching, tracking, monitoring, or digitally harassing you during divorce.And yes — this episode is scary.But more importantly, it is actionable.Steven explains that cyberstalking is often easier than people realize because many exes already know your passwords, security question answers, shared devices, family routines, Wi-Fi setup, smart home devices, and personal information. Cyberstalking is not always some dramatic hacker-in-a-hoodie situation. Sometimes it is access to your Amazon Alexa, Ring doorbell, Nest thermostat, pet camera, cloud account, location sharing, shared passwords, or old devices.In other words: your ex may not need to “hack” you if they already have access.Terrifying? Yes. Useful to know? Also yes.In this episode, we cover:How cyberstalking can show up during divorceWhy many people dismiss early warning signs as “coincidences”How smart home devices can be used to monitor or harass someoneWhy shared passwords and security questions are a major riskWhat to do if you think your ex has access to your phone, email, cloud, or devicesWhy you should not delete suspicious messages or evidenceHow to create a timeline of cyberstalking concernsWhen to tell your divorce attorneyWhy co-parenting apps can help protect communicationHow VPNs, multi-factor authentication, and anti-malware tools can helpWhy public Wi-Fi can be riskyWhat parents should know about children’s apps, gaming, and DiscordWhy taking action can lower paranoia and help you feel saferFirst signs of cyberstalking during divorceCyberstalking can start small.You may notice:strange text messagesanonymous calls or emailsyour ex showing up where you aresmart home devices acting strangelylights, thermostats, or cameras changing unexpectedlyunfamiliar apps on your phonelogin alertsodd account activitysomeone seeming to know things they should not knowSteven explains that many offenders start with small behaviors and escalate when they feel they can get away with it. That is why it is important not to dismiss everything as coincidence, especially during a high-conflict divorce or custody battle.What to do if you think you are being cyberstalkedSteven’s first action step is simple:Do not delete anything.Preserve texts, emails, screenshots, suspicious messages, device alerts, app changes, login warnings, and anything that feels off. Create a timeline. Write down what happened, when it happened, where you were, and what evidence you have.Digital evidence can be time-sensitive, and some data may disappear or overwrite itself. The sooner you document, the better.Tell your divorce attorney earlyIf you believe you may be dealing with cyberstalking, do not wait until it becomes unbearable.Tell your attorney.Morgan explains that divorce lawyers may need outside experts to help connect the dots, preserve evidence, and explain what is happening in a way the court can understand. Cyberstalking can be technical, and many attorneys and judges are not cybersecurity experts.This is not about panicking.It is about protecting yourself, documenting what is happening, and getting the right people involved early.Secure your digital lifeSteven recommends assuming your passwords may be compromised and taking steps to secure your digital life.That may include:changing passwordschanging security questionsturning on multi-factor authenticationreviewing location sharingchecking Life360, Find My, Snap Maps, and similar appsauditing old accountsclosing accounts you no longer useusing anti-malware tools on phones and computersavoiding public Wi-Fi when possibleusing a reputable VPNchecking shared smart home devicesreviewing cloud accessremoving your ex from shared accounts and devicesAnd yes, this includes the things people forget about: Alexa, pet cameras, thermostats, doorbells, old apps, children’s devices, shared family accounts, and even old platforms you forgot existed.Friendster, we are looking at you.Why co-parenting apps matterIf communication with your ex feels unsafe, chaotic, manipulative, or digitally risky, this may be a time to talk to your attorney about using a court-monitored co-parenting app.In this episode, Steven and Morgan discuss how a co-parenting app like Our Family Wizard can help keep communication contained, documented, and harder to manipulate.If you are concerned about cyberstalking or digital harassment, talk to your attorney about whether requesting a co-parenting app makes sense in your case.Our Family Wizard:www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck20How Not to Suck at Divorce listeners can save 20% off the Essentials package for the first year through our relationship with Our Family Wizard.The biggest takeawayTechnology is not the problem.Stalking, control, and harassment have existed forever. Technology just makes it easier.The goal is not to become paranoid. The goal is to become aware, document what is happening, and take action early.As Andrea says in this episode, doing nothing is often the part that makes you feel crazier. Taking action — documenting, telling your attorney, changing passwords, securing accounts, using a co-parenting app, and asking for help — can help you feel safer and more grounded.If something feels off, do not ignore it.Document it. Tell your attorney. Secure your devices. Get help early.You’ve got this. And we’ve got you.Connect with Steven BradleySteven Bradley is a former FBI task force leader, cybersecurity expert, domestic violence specialist, and cyberstalking [email protected] The How Not to Suck at Divorce CommunityNeed more support during divorce?Join our free private Facebook community for real conversations, support, and guidance from people who understand what you are going through.How Not to Suck at Divorce Community Listen to How Not to Suck at DivorceWebsite: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/Podcast: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/podcastDivorce Crash Course: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseSEO Keywordsdivorce cyberstalking, cyberstalking during divorce, cyberstalking ex, online stalking during divorce, digital safety during divorce, divorce cybersecurity, ex tracking me during divorce, smart home devices divorce, co-parenting app, Our Family Wizard, divorce safety, high conflict divorce, divorce attorney advice, digital harassment divorce, cyber abuse divorce, online harassment divorce, divorce podcast, How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport, Morgan Stogsdill, Steven BradleyMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts...

Divorce: How to Stay Grounded When Everything Feels UnsteadyDivorce Crash Course:Don’t make expensive divorce mistakes.Our Divorce Crash Course walks you through the biggest legal, financial, emotional, and co-parenting mistakes people make during divorce — and how to avoid them.Typically priced at $150, available now for just $50, thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink.Start the course here:https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseDivorce can make everything feel unstable.Your home, your routines, your finances, your parenting schedule, your future — all of it can feel like it’s shifting under your feet. So how do you stay grounded when the divorce process feels anything but steady?In this mini episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport shares a simple but powerful grounding reminder from her own backyard: be like the tree.Yes, really.After staring up at the big, mature trees in her yard, Andrea reflects on how trees survive season after season. They lose leaves. They lose branches. They weather storms. But because their roots run deep, they remain standing.And honestly? That is a pretty perfect divorce metaphor.This episode is a calming reminder for anyone going through divorce, considering divorce, or recovering from divorce anxiety. You may feel overwhelmed, reactive, scared, or completely unsteady right now — but that does not mean you are going to be taken down by this process.You may lose some leaves.You may lose a branch.You may look and feel different on the other side.But you will still be here.You will still be strong.You will still be you.Andrea also talks about how spending time outside, planting flowers, caring for something living, and reconnecting with nature can be a surprisingly grounding way to manage divorce stress and anxiety.No, you do not need to become a full horticulture goddess. You do not even need to know if “horticultury” is a word.But you may need a plant.Or a pot.Or a tree to stare at for a minute while you remind yourself that you are more rooted than this moment feels.In this episode, Andrea talks about:How to stay grounded during divorceWhy divorce can make you feel emotionally reactiveHow nature can help regulate stress and anxietyWhy trees are the perfect metaphor for surviving divorceHow to calm your nervous system when life feels unstableWhy divorce is a marathon, not a sprintHow small grounding practices can help you through hard daysWhy you will still be standing after this storm passesThis episode is for you if:You are feeling overwhelmed by divorceYou are struggling with divorce anxietyYou feel emotionally reactive or unsteadyYou need a quick grounding reminderYou are trying to get through a hard divorce dayYou need reassurance that you will survive this processYou want a calming mini episode that does not feel overly woo-wooDivorce is unsettling. It is emotional. It can feel completely unhinged.But you do not have to become unhinged with it.When in doubt, be like the tree.Stay rooted in who you are. Stay grounded in what you know. And remember: you are going to get through this.You’ve got this.And we’ve got you.Listen to How Not to Suck at DivorceWebsite:https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/Podcast:https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/podcastDivorce Crash Course:https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseSEO Keywordsdivorce anxiety, divorce stress, how to stay grounded during divorce, grounding during divorce, divorce meditation, divorce mini episode, coping with divorce, emotional regulation during divorce, divorce support, divorce podcast, divorce advice, how to get through divorce, divorce healing, divorce overwhelm, divorce nervous system, stress during divorce, nature and anxiety, How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport, Morgan StogsdillMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Divorce issue:When you don't agree with your attorney and Why Going Rogue Can Cost You Thousands🎧 Before You Listen...Don't make expensive divorce mistakes.Our FREE guide, The 5 Divorce Mistakes That Cost People Thousands, will help you avoid some of the biggest legal, financial, and emotional mistakes people make before, during, and after divorce.👉 Download it FREE here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.comIf you're ready for a deeper roadmap, our Divorce Crash Course walks you through the entire divorce process—from choosing the right attorney to protecting your finances and avoiding costly mistakes.Typically priced at $150, available now for just $50, thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink.👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseEpisode DescriptionEvery person going through divorce eventually reaches the same breaking point.You become convinced your attorney is wrong.The judge doesn't get it.The legal system is broken.And your brain starts whispering..."Forget it. I'll just handle this myself."Unfortunately, that's often the exact moment people make the most expensive mistake of their entire divorce.In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport and family law attorney Morgan Stogsdill are joined by Atlanta family law attorney Daniel Bloom to discuss why otherwise smart people make impulsive decisions during divorce, what "going rogue" really looks like, and how one emotional decision can cost you tens of thousands of dollars.From firing off an angry email to texting your ex after one too many drinks, this episode explains why patience, strategy, and emotional regulation can ultimately save your case—and your wallet.In This Episode You'll Learn:✔ Why divorce makes even intelligent people act impulsively✔ What "going rogue" actually means in a divorce case✔ The hidden financial cost of ignoring your attorney's advice✔ Why waiting during divorce feels unbearable—and what's really happening behind the scenes✔ What your attorney is doing while you think "nothing is happening"✔ When it makes sense to seek a second legal opinion✔ Why therapy can be one of the smartest investments during divorce✔ Three simple steps to stop yourself before making an emotional decision you'll regret✔ Why divorce is a marathon—not a sprintOne Email Can Change EverythingDaniel shares real-life examples of clients who ignored legal advice, sent one emotional email, and watched their entire case unravel.Sometimes the cost isn't just financial.It's your credibility.Your settlement.Your co-parenting relationship.Or even your relationship with your children.Feeling Like Your Attorney Isn't Listening?Many people mistake silence for inaction.In reality, experienced divorce attorneys are often developing strategy, gathering information, and protecting your long-term interests—even when it feels like nothing is happening.Learn why the waiting process is often one of the hardest—and most important—parts of divorce.Thinking About Going Rogue?Before you send the email...Before you post on social media...Before you text your ex...Ask yourself one question:"How will this affect my case six months from now?"That one pause could save you thousands of dollars.Resources Mentioned📘 FREE Divorce GuideThe 5 Divorce Mistakes That Cost People Thousands👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com💛 Divorce Crash CourseAvoid expensive legal mistakes before they happen.👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course👥 Join Our Free Private CommunityConnect with thousands of people navigating divorce who truly understand what you're going through.👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.comReach out to Daniel Bloom (Atlanta Family Law Attorney and Guardian ad Lietum)https://bloomlineslaw.com/our-team/daniel-bloom/Subscribe & ConnectIf this episode helped you:⭐ Follow How Not to Suck at Divorce @hownottosuckatdivorce⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotifywww.ratethispodcast.com/notsuck⭐ Share this episode with someone who needs to hear itEvery review helps us reach more people before they make expensive divorce mistakes.SEO Keywordsdivorce advice, divorce mistakes, divorce attorney, family law attorney, divorce podcast, custody case, Guardian ad Litem, divorce strategy, co-parenting, divorce lawyer advice, divorce communication, texting your ex during divorce, divorce settlement, high-conflict divorce, divorce emotions, divorce legal advice, Daniel Bloom, How Not to Suck at DivorceMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Divorce: How to Talk to a Guardian ad Litem Without Hurting Your Custody Case🎧 Before You Listen...Don't make expensive divorce mistakes.If you're navigating divorce, custody, or co-parenting, our Divorce Crash Course can help you avoid the mistakes that cost people thousands of dollars—and months of unnecessary stress.Typically priced at $150, it's available now for just $50 thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink.👉 Enroll here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseClick here to get our free guide on avoiding the biggest divorce mistakes!Episode DescriptionIf a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) has been appointed in your divorce or custody case, every conversation matters more than you probably realize.Many parents unintentionally damage their credibility by focusing on the wrong things, oversharing, attacking the other parent, or getting caught up in petty conflicts. In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport and family law attorney Morgan Stogsdill sit down with Atlanta family law attorney Daniel Bloom to discuss exactly what Guardians ad Litem look for—and the mistakes that can quietly hurt your custody case.You'll learn why your words matter, how to communicate effectively with a Guardian ad Litem, and why keeping your child's best interests front and center is always the winning strategy.Whether you're currently working with a GAL or simply want to better understand the custody process, this episode offers practical advice that could save you stress, money, and heartache.In This Episode You'll Learn:What a Guardian ad Litem actually doesThe biggest mistakes parents make during custody evaluationsWhy constantly criticizing your co-parent can backfireWhy saying "my child" instead of "our child" matters more than you thinkHow pettiness can damage your credibilityThe right way to communicate concerns to your Guardian ad LitemWhen email is better than textingWhy OurFamilyWizard can improve communication during divorceWhy quality parenting matters more than counting parenting daysHow humility often earns more credibility than trying to look like the "perfect" parentKey TakeawaysPut your child—not your ex—at the center of every conversation.A Guardian ad Litem wants to understand your child's needs, strengths, and challenges—not hear a list of complaints about your co-parent.Don't let small battles cost you the bigger war.Arguments over jackets, forgotten shoes, or missing hockey sticks may feel important in the moment, but repeatedly escalating minor issues can make you appear unreasonable.Be honest. Not perfect.No parent gets everything right. Guardians ad Litem appreciate parents who acknowledge mistakes, ask thoughtful questions, and demonstrate a willingness to learn.Communication matters.Text messages sent in anger often become evidence later. Daniel explains why thoughtful emails and structured communication tools can make a significant difference.Focus on influence—not percentages.Great parenting isn't measured only by the number of overnight visits. What matters most is the quality of your relationship with your children.Resources MentionedDivorce Crash CourseAvoid the biggest mistakes people make before, during, and after divorce.👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseGet in touch with Daniel Bloom https://bloomlineslaw.com/our-team/daniel-bloom/OurFamilyWizardThe co-parenting communication tool trusted by attorneys, judges, and mental health professionals.Use our exclusive discount and save 20% on your first year.www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck20Free Divorce GuideDownload our FREE guide:The 5 Divorce Mistakes That Cost People Thousands👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.comSubscribe & ConnectIf this episode helped you, please:⭐ Leave a review🎧 Follow How Not to Suck at Divorce👥 Join our free private Facebook Community📱 Follow us on social media for daily divorce tips, expert interviews, and practical advice.SEO KeywordsGuardian ad Litem, GAL, Guardian ad Litem divorce, custody evaluator, child custody, custody battle, divorce advice, divorce podcast, co-parenting, OurFamilyWizard, family court, custody evaluation, parenting plan, divorce attorney, family law, divorce support, custody tips, child custody attorney, high-conflict divorce, divorce help.Divorce: How to Talk to a Guardian ad Litem Without Hurting Your Custody Case🎧 Before You Listen...Don't make expensive divorce mistakes.If you're navigating divorce, custody, or co-parenting, our Divorce Crash Course can help you avoid the mistakes that cost people thousands of dollars—and months of unnecessary stress.Typically priced at $150, it's available now for just $50 thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink.👉 Enroll here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseEpisode DescriptionIf a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) has been appointed in your divorce or custody case, every conversation matters more than you probably realize.Many parents unintentionally damage their credibility by focusing on the wrong things, oversharing, attacking the other parent, or getting caught up in petty conflicts. In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport and family law attorney Morgan Stogsdill sit down with Atlanta family law attorney Daniel Bloom to discuss exactly what Guardians ad Litem look for—and the mistakes that can quietly hurt your custody case.You'll learn why your words matter, how to communicate effectively with a Guardian ad Litem, and why keeping your child's best interests front and center is always the winning strategy.Whether you're currently working with a GAL or simply want to better understand the custody process, this episode offers practical advice that could save you stress, money, and heartache.In This Episode You'll Learn:What a Guardian ad Litem actually doesThe biggest mistakes parents make during custody evaluationsWhy constantly criticizing your co-parent can backfireWhy saying "my child" instead of "our child" matters more than you thinkHow pettiness can damage your credibilityThe right way to communicate concerns to your Guardian ad LitemWhen email is better than textingWhy OurFamilyWizard can improve communication during divorceWhy quality parenting matters more than counting parenting daysHow humility often earns more credibility than trying to look like the "perfect" parentKey TakeawaysPut your child—not your ex—at the center of every conversation.A Guardian ad Litem wants to understand your child's needs, strengths, and challenges—not hear a list of complaints about your co-parent.Don't let small battles cost you the bigger war.Arguments over jackets, forgotten shoes, or missing hockey sticks may feel important in the moment, but repeatedly escalating minor issues can make you appear unreasonable.Be honest. Not perfect.No parent gets everything right. Guardians ad Litem appreciate parents who acknowledge mistakes, ask thoughtful questions, and demonstrate a willingness to learn.Communication matters.Text messages sent in anger often become evidence later. Daniel explains why thoughtful emails and structured communication tools can make a significant difference.Focus on influence—not percentages.Great parenting isn't measured only by the number of overnight visits. What matters most is the quality of your relationship with your children.Resources MentionedDivorce Crash CourseAvoid the biggest mistakes people make before, during, and after divorce.👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOurFamilyWizardThe co-parenting communication tool trusted by attorneys, judges, and mental health professionals.Use our exclusive discount and save 20% on your first year.(Direct link in the show notes.)Free Divorce GuideDownload our FREE guide:The 5 Divorce Mistakes That...

Divorce and Children: The Parenting Mistakes That Can Increase Your Child's Anxiety | Featuring Retired Judge Michele Lowrance🎧 Divorce Crash Course – Save Thousands Before You Make a Costly MistakeBefore you spend thousands on attorney's fees or make decisions you'll regret, check out our Divorce Crash Course.Learn how to:Avoid the biggest divorce mistakesSave money on attorney's feesUnderstand the divorce processProtect your childrenMake smarter legal and financial decisionsTypically priced at $150, available now for just $50, thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink.👉 Get instant access: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseEpisode DescriptionCan one decision during your divorce impact your child's anxiety for years?According to retired Cook County Judge, mediator, and family law pioneer Michele Lowrance, the answer is yes.In this powerful episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport and Morgan Stogsdill sit down with Judge Lowrance to discuss the divorce behaviors that can unintentionally hurt children, why high-conflict litigation can have lasting emotional consequences, and how parents can begin making more child-centered decisions—even when divorce feels impossible.Andrea also shares something deeply personal: the parenting mistakes she made during her own divorce, what she wishes she had done differently, and why perfection isn't the goal—awareness is.Whether you're in the middle of a custody dispute, considering mediation, or simply trying to protect your children through divorce, this episode offers practical perspective and hope.In This Episode You'll Learn:The biggest divorce behaviors that increase children's anxietyWhy fighting over parenting time isn't always about the scheduleWhat "Heroic Parenting" actually meansHow parental conflict affects children long after the divorce is finalizedWhy mediation can protect your children in ways court often cannotThe difference between putting your children first and protecting your own egoWhy learning to let go benefits both you and your childrenHow one parent can begin changing the family dynamic—even if the other parent won'tAbout Michele LowranceMichele Lowrance is a retired Cook County Domestic Relations Judge, mediator, author of The Good Karma Divorce, and one of the nation's leading voices on family-centered divorce and mediation. After decades practicing family law and serving on the bench, she continues helping families navigate divorce with less conflict and more compassion.Resources MentionedThe Good Karma Divorce by Michele LowranceDivorce Crash CourseOur Family Wizard- Click here to save 20%!Connect With Us🌐 Website: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com📱 Follow us on social media for daily divorce support, legal tips, and encouragement. @hownottosuckatdivorce 💬 Join our free private divorce community for support from thousands of people navigating divorce. join here!⭐ If this episode helped you, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your review helps other people find support during one of the hardest seasons of their lives. Rate us here!Keywordsdivorce podcast, divorce and children, child custody, co-parenting, divorce mediation, parenting after divorce, protecting children during divorce, high conflict divorce, family law, child anxiety after divorce, divorce advice, custody disputes, Michele Lowrance, divorce help, divorce support, parenting through divorceMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

The Divorce "to do" list will kill you. 🎧 Divorce Crash Course: Avoid Costly Mistakes Before They HappenLink to the Divorce Meditations waitlist: click me!Thinking about divorce? Already in the middle of one? Our Divorce Crash Course gives you the information we wish everyone had before they started the process.Learn how to:Avoid expensive legal mistakesProtect yourself financiallyCreate better custody agreementsNavigate the divorce process with more confidenceMake informed decisions instead of emotional onesTypically priced at $150, available now for $50, thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and SoberLink.Get instant access here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseWhen you're going through a divorce, people love to tell you to "take it one day at a time."Helpful? Maybe.Annoying? Absolutely.Because when you're hurting, you don't want to take it one day at a time. You want answers. You want certainty. You want to know how this ends, whether your kids will be okay, whether you're making the right decisions, and when you'll finally feel like yourself again.In this mini episode, Andrea talks about why the urge to solve everything immediately is completely normal—and why trying to predict every possible outcome may actually be making your anxiety worse.She also shares a simple exercise you can use today to help quiet the mental chaos and focus on what actually matters right now.In This Episode, You'll Learn:Why uncertainty feels so unbearable during divorceThe difference between being informed and obsessing over every possible outcomeWhy you don't need your entire future figured out todayHow trying to predict every legal scenario can fuel anxietyThe three things you can stop trying to solve right nowA simple exercise to help you regain a sense of controlWhy surviving today is sometimes enoughAndrea's Three-Thing ExerciseWhen everything feels overwhelming, write down:✔ One thing for your divorce✔ One thing for your life✔ One thing for yourselfThat's it.Not twenty things.Not fifty things.Just three manageable actions that help you move forward without carrying the weight of every possible future all at once.Divorce Meditation Series – Join the Priority Access ListWe're putting the finishing touches on a guided meditation series created specifically for people navigating divorce, anxiety, uncertainty, custody stress, and emotional overwhelm.These short, practical meditations are designed to help calm your nervous system, quiet racing thoughts, and get through the hardest moments of divorce.Join the Priority Access List and be the first to know when they're released.Link to the Divorce Meditations waitlist: click me!Connect With UsWebsite: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.comFacebook Group: How Not to Suck at DivorceInstagram: www.instagram.com/hownottosuckatdivorceIf This Episode Helped You...Please take a moment to rate and review the podcast. Your support helps more people find the information, resources, and encouragement they need during one of the most difficult seasons of their lives.www.ratethispodcast.com/notsuckRemember: Divorce is a marathon, not a sprint. You don't have to solve your entire future today.Link to the Divorce Meditations waitlist: click me!divorce anxiety, divorce stress, divorce overwhelm, coping with divorce, divorce emotional support, divorce uncertainty, divorce mindset, surviving divorce, divorce tips, divorce podcast, custody stress, divorce help, divorce recovery.Mentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Stay-at-Home Parent and Divorce: How to Leave an Unhappy Marriage When You Don't Have Your Own IncomeThinking about divorce is hard.Thinking about divorce when you're a stay-at-home parent can feel impossible.How do you afford an attorney? What happens if your spouse controls the finances? Will you have to go back to work immediately? What if you've been out of the workforce for years?First, get your hands on the $50 Divorce Crash Course to save money on your divorce process. In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport and top family law attorney Morgan Stogsdill tackle one of the most common concerns we hear in our community: how stay-at-home parents can prepare for divorce without letting fear take over.Whether you're a stay-at-home mom, stay-at-home dad, or the primary parent managing the household, this episode will help you understand your options, your value, and the practical steps you can take right now to prepare for your next chapter.In This EpisodeWhy stay-at-home parents often feel trapped in unhappy marriagesThe biggest misconceptions about divorce and stay-at-home parentingHow to afford a divorce attorney when you don't have your own incomeWhy gathering financial documents is one of the most important first stepsWhat attorneys look at when evaluating maintenance and alimonyHow education, training, and work history impact divorce outcomesWhether you should go back to work before filing for divorceWhat to do if your spouse controls the financesHow fear causes stay-at-home parents to underestimate their valueWhy information is the key to making better divorce decisionsWays to start generating income before and during divorceHow OurFamilyWizard can help co-parents stay organizedKey Takeaways✔️ Being a stay-at-home parent does not make you less valuable in a divorce.✔️ The work you do inside the home has real value, even if it doesn't come with a paycheck.✔️ Every divorce case is different, which is why getting legal advice early is critical.✔️ Gathering financial documents now can save you time, money, and stress later.✔️ Fear often makes stay-at-home parents feel powerless—but information creates confidence.✔️ There are often more options available than you realize.✔️ Divorce is a marathon, not a sprint.✔️ You do not have to have everything figured out before taking the next step.If You're Thinking About DivorceOne of the biggest mistakes people make is assuming they need to have a complete plan before speaking with an attorney.You don't.You simply need enough information to understand your options.The sooner you start learning about the divorce process, your finances, and your legal rights, the sooner you'll be able to make decisions from a place of confidence instead of fear.Our Family WizardCheck them out- they are a resource that is here to help you make coparenting easier. You can save 20% on your essentials package here: www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck20Divorce Crash CourseIf you're considering divorce—or you're already in the middle of one—the Divorce Crash Course was created for you.Learn how divorce works, what mistakes to avoid, how to save money on attorney fees, how to protect your finances, and how to make smarter decisions throughout the process.Typically priced at $150, available now for just $50 thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and SoberLink.👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseConnect With UsWebsite:https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.comJoin Our Private Facebook Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/hownottosuckatdivorceInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/hownottosuckatdivorceSubscribe for new episodes every week covering divorce, co-parenting, child custody, mediation, family law, emotional healing, high-conflict relationships, and practical strategies to help you get through divorce with less stress, less fear, and more confidence.#DivorcePodcast #StayAtHomeMomDivorce #StayAtHomeDadDivorce #DivorceAdvice #ChildCustody #Alimony #Maintenance #DivorceSupport #CoParenting #HowNotToSuckAtDivorceMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Fear Is the Quiet Devil in Divorce (Here's How to Stop Letting It Run the Show)Divorce is scary.Not because every fear is true, but because fear has a way of convincing us that the worst-case scenario is right around the corner.In this mini episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport explores why fear becomes one of the most powerful forces during the divorce process—and how you can stop it from controlling your decisions.Get The $50 Divorce Crash Course. Drawing on insights about nervous system regulation, anxiety, and personal experience, Andrea explains why confidence doesn't come from feeling fearless. It comes from collecting evidence that you can do hard things and survive them.If you're feeling overwhelmed by attorney consultations, difficult conversations, legal decisions, or uncertainty about the future, this episode will help you understand how fear works—and how to move forward anyway.In This EpisodeWhy fear becomes so powerful during divorceHow your nervous system learns through evidence, not reassuranceThe connection between confidence and small winsWhy tackling smaller fears helps prepare you for bigger challengesHow knowledge and information reduce anxietyThe role of curiosity in overcoming fearWhy waiting is one of the hardest parts of divorceHow catastrophic thinking keeps you stuckThe surprising benefits of positive daydreamingHow to calm your brain before making important decisionsKey Takeaways✔️ Fear loses power when you gather evidence that you can handle difficult situations.✔️ Confidence is built through action, not certainty.✔️ Small challenges train your nervous system to tolerate bigger ones.✔️ Knowledge reduces fear because uncertainty fuels anxiety.✔️ Divorce decisions are easier when your nervous system is regulated.✔️ Catastrophizing is a habit—not a prediction.✔️ You are allowed to imagine positive outcomes too.✔️ Calm first. Then apply the tools.A Practical ExerciseThink about one thing you're afraid of during your divorce.Now don't tackle that thing first.Instead, ask yourself:What's one smaller thing I can do today that feels slightly uncomfortable but manageable?Maybe it's:Scheduling an attorney consultationPosting in a support groupAsking a question you've been avoidingCompleting paperwork you've been putting offSetting a small boundaryEvery action becomes evidence.And evidence creates confidence.Divorce Doesn't Require FearlessnessYou do not have to become fearless to get through divorce.You only need enough evidence to remind yourself:"I've survived 100% of the difficult things I've faced so far."You can survive this too.Divorce Crash CourseLooking for practical guidance, legal insights, and emotional support during divorce?Our Divorce Crash Course walks you through the biggest mistakes people make during divorce, how to save money on attorney fees, what to expect during the process, and how to make smarter decisions when emotions are running high.Typically priced at $150, available now for $50 thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and SoberLink.👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseConnect With UsWebsite:https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.comFacebook Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/hownottosuckatdivorceInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/hownottosuckatdivorceSubscribe for new episodes every week covering divorce, co-parenting, family law, emotional healing, high-conflict relationships, mediation, custody, and practical strategies to help you survive—and thrive—through divorce.#DivorceSupport #DivorcePodcast #DivorceRecovery #FearAndAnxiety #NervousSystemRegulation #DivorceHelp #CoParenting #EmotionalHealing #HowNotToSuckAtDivorce #DivorceAdviceMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Biggest Mediation Mistakes to Avoid:After decades on the bench, retired Judge Michele Lowrance has seen firsthand what truly destroys families during divorce—and it isn't always what you think.Don't miss out on the $50 Divorce Crash CourseIn this powerful episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport and Morgan L. Stogsdill sit down with the Honorable Michele Lowrance, retired domestic relations judge, nationally recognized mediator, author of The Good Karma Divorce, and one of the leading voices in family law and divorce mediation. Together, they explore why mediation is often a better path than litigation, what happens to families when conflict escalates into court battles, and how parents can protect their children while navigating one of life's most painful transitions.Judge Lowrance shares the science behind emotional decision-making, the impact of divorce conflict on children, why the right mediator can make or break your case, and how even high-conflict couples can find a path toward resolution.If you're preparing for mediation, considering litigation, or simply trying to make better decisions during your divorce, this episode is a must-listen.In This Episode, We Discuss:Why mediation is often a better alternative to courtroom litigationWhat happens to children when parents remain locked in conflictThe emotional and neurological impact of divorceHow fear, anger, and grief affect decision-makingWhy good people struggle during mediationThe critical role of the mediatorHow to choose the right mediator for your divorceWhat to expect from the first mediation sessionWhy high-conflict divorces can still benefit from mediationHow to move from emotional reactions to thoughtful decisionsThe concept behind The Good Karma DivorceKey Takeaways✔️ Divorce decisions made from anger often create long-term damage✔️ Mediation allows families to move toward acceptance rather than remaining stuck in conflict✔️ The right mediator should challenge, guide, and creatively problem-solve—not simply carry offers back and forth✔️ Children are deeply affected by ongoing parental conflict✔️ Emotional regulation is one of the most important skills during divorce✔️ The first mediation offers are often difficult—but that doesn't mean mediation isn't working✔️ You won't always feel the same way about your ex that you do today✔️ Keeping your focus on the future can help you make better decisions nowThree Action Steps from Michele Lowrance1. Don't Impose Your AgendaBefore discussing a difficult topic with your co-parent, ask whether it's a good time for the conversation. Respect timing and create rules of engagement that reduce conflict.2. Remember You Won't Always Feel This WayThe emotions you're experiencing right now are real—but they won't last forever. Make decisions based on your future, not just your current pain.3. Keep Your Eye on the TargetFocus on healing, protecting your children, and moving forward. Don't try to navigate divorce alone—get the support you need.About Michele LowranceMichele Lowrance is a retired Cook County Domestic Relations Judge, nationally recognized divorce mediator, author, and family law thought leader. She practiced family law for more than two decades before serving nearly twenty years on the bench and has dedicated her career to helping families resolve conflict with less trauma and more humanity.Her book, The Good Karma Divorce, explores how individuals can emerge from divorce with dignity, healing, and purpose.Divorce Crash CourseThinking about divorce? Currently going through one?Our Divorce Crash Course walks you through the biggest mistakes people make during divorce, how to save money on attorney fees, what to expect during the process, and how to protect yourself legally and financially.Typically priced at $150, available now for $50, thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink.👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseResources📘 The Good Karma Divorce by Michele Lowrance👉 Our Family Wizard:https://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck👉 Soberlink:https://www.soberlink.comConnect With UsWebsite:https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.comFacebook Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/hownottosuckatdivorceInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/hownottosuckatdivorceKeywords: divorce mediation, Michele Lowrance, family law mediation, high conflict divorce, divorce and children, child-centered divorce, mediation vs litigation, divorce attorney advice, co-parenting, divorce support, family court, divorce podcast, divorce recovery, mediation tips, divorce strategy#DivorceMediation #MicheleLowrance #FamilyLaw #CoParenting #DivorcePodcast #DivorceSupport #HowNotToSuckAtDivorce #ChildCenteredDivorce #DivorceAdvice #FamilyCourtMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Divorce Mediation: Why Preparation Matters More than you Think Most people approach divorce mediation with one thought:"I have to do this."But what if that's the wrong mindset?Make you check out the $50 Divorce Crash Course. In this mini episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport explains why mediation can actually be one of the most valuable opportunities you'll have during your divorce—and how proper preparation can save you time, money, stress, and frustration.Too many people walk into mediation without a clear strategy, without understanding what they want, and without discussing realistic outcomes with their attorney. The result? Missed opportunities, wasted time, and unnecessary conflict.Andrea breaks down exactly how to prepare for mediation, what questions to ask your attorney, and why mediation should be viewed as an opportunity to move closer to your goals—not just another frustrating step in the divorce process.This episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.In This Episode, We Discuss:Why mediation is often misunderstood during divorceThe biggest mistake people make before mediationWhy preparation is critical to successful mediationHow to identify what you actually want from the processCreating a mediation strategy with your attorneyUnderstanding realistic outcomes before you walk into the roomHow to anticipate what your spouse may ask forWhy mediation can provide valuable information—even if no agreement is reachedThe importance of choosing the right mediatorHow mindset impacts divorce outcomesKey Takeaways✔️ Mediation gives you more control than having a judge decide for you✔️ Showing up unprepared can cost you valuable opportunities✔️ You should clearly define your goals before mediation begins✔️ Work with your attorney to develop a negotiation strategy✔️ Ask your attorney for best-case, worst-case, and most likely outcomes✔️ Even unsuccessful mediation can provide valuable information✔️ Mindset matters—view mediation as an opportunity, not a punishment✔️ The more prepared you are, the better positioned you'll be to advocate for yourself and your childrenQuestions to Ask Your Attorney Before MediationIs what I want realistic?What steps will help us get there?What do you think the other side is likely to ask for?What is the best-case scenario?What is the worst-case scenario?What is the most likely outcome?What concessions or "sweeteners" might help move negotiations forward?What should I expect during the mediation process?About the HostsAndrea Rappaport is a comedian, marketer, divorce survivor, and co-host of How Not to Suck at Divorce. Through humor, honesty, and practical advice, Andrea helps people navigate divorce with more confidence and less fear.Morgan L. Stogsdill is Head of Family Law at Beermann LLP and brings legal insight and real-world family law experience to every episode.Divorce Crash CourseThinking about divorce? Currently going through one?Our Divorce Crash Course walks you through the biggest mistakes people make during divorce, how to save money on attorney fees, what to expect during the process, and how to protect yourself legally and financially.Typically priced at $150, available now for $50, thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink.👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseResources👉 Our Family Wizard:https://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck20👉 Soberlink:https://www.soberlink.com/dccConnect With UsWebsite:https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.comFacebook Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/hownottosuckatdivorceInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/hownottosuckatdivorceKeywords: divorce mediation, divorce mediation tips, how to prepare for mediation, divorce attorney advice, divorce settlement, mediation preparation, family law mediation, custody mediation, divorce strategy, divorce negotiation, divorce podcast, family law, mediation process, divorce support#DivorceMediation #FamilyLaw #DivorceTips #CustodyMediation #DivorceStrategy #DivorcePodcast #HowNotToSuckAtDivorce #DivorceSupport #MediationPreparation #DivorceHelpInstagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Divorce Anxiety Relief: A 5-Minute Guided Reset for When Everything Feels Like Too MuchIf you're listening to this episode, chances are something happened.Maybe you received a text from your ex.Maybe your attorney sent an email.Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed by co-parenting, custody issues, financial stress, or simply the emotional weight of divorce.Or maybe nothing happened at all.Maybe you're just exhausted.In this special guided meditation episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport walks you through a simple but powerful exercise designed to help calm your nervous system, regulate overwhelming emotions, and get your brain back online when divorce anxiety starts to take over.When we're triggered during divorce, our brains often convince us that every problem needs to be solved immediately. This guided reset helps you slow down, reconnect with the present moment, and remember one important truth:Your feelings are real. But they are not emergencies.Whether you're experiencing divorce anxiety, panic, sadness, anger, overwhelm, or emotional exhaustion, this episode is designed to help you pause, breathe, and regain perspective.Save this episode and come back to it anytime you need a reset.In This Episode You Will Learn✅ How to calm your nervous system during divorce stress✅ Why emotional overwhelm can make it difficult to think clearly✅ A simple grounding exercise to reduce anxiety✅ How to stop spiraling thoughts during divorce✅ Why your feelings are real—but not emergencies✅ How to regulate your emotions before responding to a triggering text or email✅ Practical techniques for staying present during difficult moments✅ How to focus on the next hour instead of the next yearTimestamps(00:00) Welcome and emotional reset(01:00) Why your feelings are not emergencies(02:15) Understanding divorce anxiety and spiraling thoughts(03:30) Grounding exercise: 5 things you can see(04:15) Grounding exercise: touch and sound awareness(05:15) Why your divorce is not your identity(06:20) Focusing on the next hour instead of the next year(07:10) Guided affirmations for divorce recovery(08:20) Final breathing exercise and encouragementKey Takeaways🔹 Divorce anxiety can make ordinary problems feel like emergencies🔹 Emotional regulation helps you make better decisions during divorce🔹 Grounding exercises can quickly calm an activated nervous system🔹 Your divorce is something you're experiencing—not who you are🔹 Healing happens one regulated moment at a time🔹 You do not have to solve your entire divorce todayAbout the HostsAndrea Rappaport is a comedian, marketer, divorce survivor, and co-host of How Not to Suck at Divorce. Through humor, honesty, and practical tools, Andrea helps people navigate divorce with more clarity, confidence, and hope.Morgan Stogsdill is the Head of Family Law at one of the largest family law firms in the country and brings practical legal insight to every episode.Divorce Crash CourseTypically priced at 150, available now for $50, thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink.👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseResources🎧 Need this reset in video format? Watch here:https://youtu.be/S5cjebeOvBY👉 Our Family Wizardhttps://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck👉 Soberlinkhttps://www.soberlink.comKeywords: divorce anxiety relief, divorce meditation, guided meditation for divorce, divorce stress, divorce overwhelm, divorce panic, emotional regulation, divorce healing, divorce recovery, co-parenting stress, nervous system regulation, anxiety relief, divorce support, life after divorce, divorce podcast#DivorceAnxiety #DivorceMeditation #DivorceRecovery #EmotionalHealing #HowNotToSuckAtDivorce #DivorceSupport #GuidedMeditation #AnxietyRelief #LifeAfterDivorce #CoParenting

***Link to the Guided Meditation for Divorce Anxiety**How Not to Suck at Divorce YouTube Divorce: How to Handle the Rejection When You Didn't Want the DivorceDivorce is painful no matter what. But when you're not the one who wanted it? It can feel like so much more than a life change. It can feel like rejection.In this heartfelt mini episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport and Morgan Stogsdill tackle one of the most painful—and least discussed—parts of divorce: being the spouse who didn't want the marriage to end.But first- Don't miss out on our Divorce Crash Course. It's $50 for a limited time. Get it now to save thousands on your divorce.Why does being left hurt so much? Why do so many people immediately assume they're not enough? And how can that emotional pain quietly derail your divorce case, cost you money, and keep you stuck chasing answers you'll never get?This episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.Andrea and Morgan break down what happens to your brain when you're blindsided by divorce, why rejection often feels personal even when it isn't, and how to keep heartbreak from driving legal decisions.Plus, Andrea shares a simple but powerful tool that helped her survive some of her darkest divorce days: the "scheduled meltdown."In This Episode You Will Learn✅ Why divorce rejection feels so personal✅ What happens to your brain when you're blindsided✅ Why people often treat divorce like evidence against themselves✅ How emotional pain can lead to expensive legal mistakes✅ The difference between grieving a person and grieving a future✅ Why family court cannot provide emotional closure✅ How heartbreak can derail settlement negotiations and mediation✅ The legal risks of making decisions from a place of hurt✅ Andrea's "scheduled meltdown" technique for emotional regulation✅ How to get your brain back online when emotions take overTimestamps(00:00) Why divorce feels like rejection when you didn't want it(03:16) The emotional conclusions people make after being left(04:20) How rejection can derail your divorce strategy(05:21) You're not really fighting about the house(06:33) Grieving the future you thought you would have(07:07) Why legal deadlines don't stop for heartbreak(08:17) The expensive trap of chasing closure(10:12) Morgan's cautionary tale about "Chad" and emotional decision-making(12:02) The opposite problem: fighting every battle out of anger(13:30) Separating emotion from legal strategy(14:00) Andrea's "scheduled meltdown" exercise(16:33) How to release emotions without sabotaging your case(18:18) Why this divorce is only one episode in your storyKey Takeaways🔹 Being left by your spouse does not mean you're unworthy of love🔹 Divorce often triggers emotional conclusions that are not based in reality🔹 Chasing closure through the legal system rarely works🔹 The court can divide assets and parenting time, but it cannot heal rejection🔹 Emotional decisions can dramatically increase the cost of divorce🔹 Healing starts when you stop letting one person's decision define your value🔹 You can feel your feelings without letting them drive the busAbout the HostsAndrea Rappaport is a comedian, marketer, and divorce survivor dedicated to helping people avoid costly divorce mistakes while finding hope on the other side.Morgan Stogsdill is the Head of Family Law at one of the largest family law firms in the country and helps listeners navigate divorce with clarity, confidence, and practical legal guidance.Divorce Crash CourseTypically priced at 150, available now for $50, thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink.👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseJoin Our Free Community👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.comResources👉 Our Family Wizardhttps://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck👉 Soberlinkhttps://www.soberlink.comKeywords: divorce rejection, blindsided divorce, spouse wanted divorce, coping with divorce, emotional divorce recovery, divorce grief, divorce healing, divorce support, family court, divorce mediation, divorce podcast, high conflict divorce, emotional regulation, divorce anxiety, divorce heartbreak, life after divorce#Divorce #DivorceRecovery #DivorceSupport #HowNotToSuckAtDivorce #BlindsidedDivorce #DivorceHealing #LifeAfterDivorce #CoParenting #FamilyLaw #EmotionalHealingMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

People are already using AI during divorce whether attorneys like it or not.They’re asking ChatGPT to:analyze texts from their exexplain legal documentshelp write co-parenting responsesbuild parenting schedulesorganize timelinesprepare for mediationand sometimes… emotionally spiral at 2amThis episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.So where’s the line between using AI strategically and using it in a way that could quietly damage your case?Leave us a review!👉 Before you make expensive divorce mistakes, grab the Divorce Crash Course — typically priced at 150, available now for $50, thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink.In this incredibly timely episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport and Morgan Stogsdill are joined by Texas family law attorney Reagan Riddle to discuss how artificial intelligence is changing divorce, co-parenting, communication, and even courtroom strategy.From using AI to reduce attorney fees and improve organization to the dangers of emotional validation, legal misinformation, and AI-fueled conflict, this episode explores the smartest — and most dangerous — ways people are using ChatGPT during divorce.If you’ve wondered whether AI can help you survive divorce more strategically… this episode is for you.In This Episode You Will Learn✅ The smartest ways to use AI during divorce✅ Why ChatGPT should never replace an attorney✅ How AI can help organize timelines and legal documents✅ Using AI to improve co-parenting communication✅ Why emotionally reactive people can misuse AI✅ The dangers of AI-generated legal confidence✅ Whether judges can tell when communication sounds AI-generated✅ How AI can potentially lower divorce costs✅ Why AI should help you think clearer — not spiral harder✅ The ethical and emotional risks of relying too heavily on AI during divorceTimestamps(00:00) Why people are already using AI during divorce(01:48) Meet Reagan Riddle and the changing world of family law(03:02) The smartest ways clients are using ChatGPT(05:14) Can AI help explain legal documents?(07:21) Using AI to organize evidence, timelines, and communication(09:40) The dangers of AI-generated legal certainty(12:06) Why AI can accidentally fuel emotional spiraling(14:32) Can ChatGPT help improve co-parenting communication?(16:28) The pros and cons of AI-generated responses(18:54) Whether judges can recognize AI-generated messaging(21:12) The emotional danger of over-relying on AI validation(24:17) Using AI strategically to reduce attorney fees(27:41) The most unhinged things people are probably asking ChatGPT during divorce(30:06) Why AI should help you become more organized — not more obsessive(33:11) Final advice for using AI responsibly during divorceKey Takeaways🔹 AI can be a powerful organizational and communication tool during divorce🔹 ChatGPT is useful for clarity and preparation — but not legal advice🔹 Emotional validation from AI can sometimes increase conflict and obsession🔹 Using AI strategically may help reduce attorney fees and improve communication🔹 Divorce decisions still require human judgment, emotional regulation, and professional guidance🔹 The goal of AI during divorce should be helping you think clearer — not react harderAbout the HostsMorgan Stogsdill is the Head of Family Law at one of the largest family law firms in the country, bringing practical legal insight and strategy to every episode.Andrea Rappaport is a comedian, marketer, and divorce survivor who shares honest, relatable conversations to help people navigate divorce with more clarity and confidence.About the GuestReagan Riddle is an Equity Partner at Armstrong Divorce and Family Law in Texas and is Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Reagan focuses exclusively on family law and is known for her strategic, detail-oriented approach to helping clients navigate complex and emotionally difficult divorce matters.Resources👉 Divorce Crash Coursehttps://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course👉 OurFamilyWizardhttps://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck👉 Soberlinkhttps://www.soberlink.com👉 Learn More About Reagan RiddleArmstrong Divorce & Family Law - Reagan RiddleAI and divorce, ChatGPT divorce advice, using AI during divorce, co-parenting communication, AI and family law, divorce strategy, high conflict divorce, divorce technology, ChatGPT and co-parenting, divorce attorney advice, family court tips, emotional regulation during divorce, AI communication tools, divorce podcast#DivorceAdvice #ChatGPT #AIandDivorce #FamilyLaw #CoParenting #DivorceSupport #HowNotToSuckAtDivorce #DivorcePodcast #EmotionalRegulationMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Manipulation during divorce can make you feel like you’re constantly reacting, constantly defending yourself, and constantly emotionally exhausted. One minute you’re calm… and the next, you’re spiraling because your ex sent another manipulative text, guilt-inducing email, or chaotic late-night message.So how do you stop the cycle?👉 Before you take your next step, grab the $50 Divorce Crash Course to avoid costly divorce mistakes and make smarter decisions from the start. Typically priced at 150, available now for $50, thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink.This episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.In this incredibly practical and eye-opening episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea and Morgan are joined by critically acclaimed New York divorce attorney Lois Liberman to break down exactly how manipulators operate during divorce—and how to stop feeding the chaos.Please leave our show a review! www.ratethispodcast.com/notsuckFrom emotional vampires and coercive control to OurFamilyWizard communication strategies, BIFF responses, AI-assisted co-parenting communication, and courtroom credibility, this episode gives actionable tools for anyone feeling emotionally hijacked by a manipulative spouse during divorce.If you’re dealing with high conflict divorce, narcissistic behavior, emotional manipulation, or constant chaos during co-parenting communication, this conversation is a must-listen.In This Episode You Will Learn✅ Why manipulators thrive on emotional reactions during divorce✅ How to stop feeding the chaos and regain emotional control✅ Why viewing divorce like a business transaction changes everything✅ The best way to communicate with a manipulative ex✅ How OurFamilyWizard can help document high conflict behavior✅ Why emotional responses can damage your credibility in court✅ How to use BIFF communication during co-parenting conflict✅ Why boundaries are critical during high conflict divorce✅ How AI tools like ChatGPT can help refine co-parenting communication✅ Why realistic expectations matter during family court disputes💰“You can either spend $50 now… or spend thousands later learning the hard way like we did. Your call. Divorce Crash Course 👇https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseTimestamps(00:00) How manipulators create chaos during divorce(01:26) Meet Lois Liberman and why manipulation is all about control(02:03) Why emotional reactions fuel manipulators(03:47) The “toilet bowl effect” and getting sucked into chaos(04:48) Why people struggle to stop reacting emotionally(05:29) The power of documentation and OurFamilyWizard(07:02) Why emotional emails can hurt your divorce case(08:23) Chad and Brenda: how manipulation destroys credibility(10:35) Setting boundaries with emotional vampires(11:42) Why your ex no longer controls your time(12:54) The myth of “winning” in divorce(16:22) Morgan’s strategy for out-manipulating a manipulator(18:20) Why chaos prevents good decision-making(20:02) Using AI and BIFF communication during divorce(21:27) Running co-parenting messages through AI for perspective(22:05) The real way to out-manipulate a manipulator(23:04) Thinking long-term instead of emotionally reacting(25:04) Why parents often confuse their needs with their child’s needs(27:48) The two biggest ways clients can save money during divorce(30:46) Why realistic expectations matter in family court(33:52) Lois’ advice for staying calm and emotionally detached(35:58) Why boring responses are often the most powerful(37:04) Understanding why manipulators escalate during divorce(39:14) Drawing the line in the sand and taking your power backKey Takeaways🔹 Manipulators rely on emotional reactions to maintain control🔹 The best way to out-manipulate a manipulator is to stop reacting emotionally🔹 High conflict communication can seriously damage courtroom credibility🔹 Boundaries and delayed responses reduce chaos and emotional escalation🔹 Divorce cases are built on facts, evidence, and strategy—not emotional explosions🔹 Tools like OurFamilyWizard, BIFF communication, timelines, and AI can help reduce conflict and improve communicationAbout the HostsMorgan Stogsdill is the Head of Family Law at one of the largest family law firms in the country, bringing expert legal insight and strategy to every episode.Andrea Rappaport is a comedian and divorce survivor who shares real, unfiltered experiences to help others navigate divorce with clarity, strength, and confidence.About the GuestLois Liberman is a nationally recognized New York divorce attorney at Blank Rome LLP known for handling high-profile family law cases and complex divorce litigation. She has represented celebrities, executives, and high-net-worth individuals while helping clients navigate emotionally difficult divorces with strategy, clarity, and strength.Resources:👉 Divorce Crash Course hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course👉 OurFamilyWizard (Co-Parenting App) ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck👉 Soberlink soberlink.com/dcc👉 How to Hire the Right Attorney Guide hownottosuckatdivorce.com/guideshigh conflict divorce, manipulation during divorce, narcissistic spouse divorce, emotional manipulation, coercive control, co-parenting communication, OurFamilyWizard, BIFF communication, divorce strategy, family court advice, divorce lawyer tips, divorce support, divorce podcast, emotional regulation during divorce#DivorceAdvice #HighConflictDivorce #CoParenting #FamilyLaw #NarcissisticAbuse #OurFamilyWizard #DivorceSupport #HowNotToSuckAtDivorceMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Nobody really prepares you for the moment your ex moves on romantically. You may think you’re okay… until suddenly there’s another person around your children, sitting at school events, helping with bedtime routines, or becoming part of your kids’ everyday lives.And that can feel incredibly painful.👉 Before you take your next step, grab the $50 Divorce Crash Course to avoid costly divorce mistakes and make smarter decisions from the start. Typically priced at 150, available now for $50, thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink.This episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.Leave us a review! We'll love you forever.In this emotional and deeply relatable mini episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea reads a powerful passage from Stacey Freeman’s book I Bought My Husband’s Mistress Lingerie and opens up a conversation many divorced parents quietly struggle with: how to cope when your ex’s new partner becomes part of your children’s lives.From feelings of anger, betrayal, jealousy, and grief to the complicated reality of protecting your children emotionally while processing your own pain, this episode explores the emotional complexity of co-parenting after divorce when new relationships enter the picture.If you’re struggling with your ex moving on, step-parent dynamics, or navigating the emotional impact of another adult entering your children’s world, this conversation will make you feel far less alone.In This Episode You Will Learn✅ Why it feels so emotionally difficult when your ex moves on romantically✅ How children are impacted when a new partner enters the family dynamic✅ The emotional reality of step-parent relationships after divorce✅ Why all of your feelings—anger, sadness, jealousy, resentment—are valid✅ The difference between private feelings and public reactions around your children✅ How radical acceptance can help during painful transitions after divorce✅ Why protecting your children emotionally matters more than “winning” emotionally💰“You can either spend $50 now… or spend thousands later learning the hard way like we did. Your call. Divorce Crash Course 👇https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseTimestamps(00:00) The emotional shock of your ex moving on(00:41) Stacey Freeman’s story and the affair that led to divorce(02:10) Reading from I Bought My Husband’s Mistress Lingerie(03:08) “We Welcome With Love, Our New Step Monster”(04:44) The complicated emotions children feel about stepparents(05:53) Why hating the new partner ultimately hurts everyone(06:40) The painful reality of accepting a new person in your children’s lives(07:13) Why your feelings are still completely valid(07:54) Radical acceptance after divorce and co-parenting(08:39) Why your children need emotional safety during transitions(09:36) Divorce is a marathon, not a sprintKey Takeaways🔹 Your ex moving on romantically can trigger grief, anger, fear, and emotional overwhelm🔹 Children often struggle emotionally when a new partner enters the family system🔹 You can validate your feelings without emotionally harming your children🔹 Acceptance does not mean approval—it means acknowledging reality🔹 Co-parenting after divorce often requires emotional flexibility and maturity, even when it’s painfulAbout the HostsMorgan Stogsdill is the Head of Family Law at one of the largest family law firms in the country, bringing expert legal insight and strategy to every episode.Andrea Rappaport is a comedian and divorce survivor who shares real, unfiltered experiences to help others navigate divorce with clarity, strength, and confidence.Resources:👉 Divorce Crash Course hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course👉 OurFamilyWizard (Co-Parenting App)ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck👉 Soberlink👉 Get more support hownottosuckatdivorce.comex moving on after divorce, stepparent relationships, divorce and children, co-parenting after divorce, affair recovery, emotional healing after divorce, new girlfriend after divorce, stepmom dynamics, blended family challenges, divorce grief, high conflict co-parenting, divorce support podcast#DivorceAdvice #CoParenting #StepParenting #DivorceHealing #LifeAfterDivorce #BlendedFamily #DivorceSupport #HowNotToSuckAtDivorceMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Divorcing someone who feels smarter, wealthier, more connected, or more powerful than you can feel incredibly intimidating. Whether your spouse is an attorney, business owner, CEO, doctor, or high-income professional, many people enter divorce already convinced they are going to lose.But here’s the truth: powerful does not mean invincible.👉 Before you take your next step, grab the $50 Divorce Crash Course to avoid costly divorce mistakes and make smarter decisions from the start. Typically priced at 150, available now for $50, thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink.This episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.In this empowering and strategy-packed episode, Andrea and Morgan break down how to navigate divorce when your spouse seems to “know the system” better than you do. From intimidation tactics and financial manipulation to legal jargon and emotional pressure, they explain how powerful spouses often create fear to gain leverage—and what you can do to protect yourself.Morgan shares real stories from divorce cases involving CEOs and high-level professionals, explains why judges are not automatically impressed by wealth or status, and reveals how experts, preparation, and education can completely shift the power dynamic in your divorce.If you’ve ever felt emotionally overwhelmed, financially intimidated, or terrified of going up against a powerful spouse in divorce court, this episode is for you.In This Episode You Will Learn✅ Why powerful spouses often use fear and intimidation during divorce✅ Why attorneys and CEOs are not automatically favored in family court✅ How to stop emotionally surrendering before the divorce even begins✅ Why preparation and education beat panic every time✅ How financial experts and attorneys can protect you from manipulation✅ What to do if your spouse controls the money or uses legal jargon to intimidate you✅ Why highly successful people are often worse witnesses than they realize✅ How to rebuild confidence when you feel completely overwhelmed during divorce💰“You can either spend $50 now… or spend thousands later learning the hard way like we did. Your call. Divorce Crash Course 👇https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseTimestamps(00:00) Divorcing someone who “knows the system”(01:42) Andrea’s Wayfair obsession and post-divorce decorating(03:56) Why powerful spouses create fear during divorce(05:00) Why attorneys often struggle emotionally in their own divorces(06:34) What to do if your spouse knows more than you(07:09) Stop underestimating yourself during divorce(10:08) Chad and Brenda: the CEO divorce story(11:35) Why outside experts can change the power dynamic(13:13) Divorcing a business owner or financially savvy spouse(14:04) Why powerful people are often bad witnesses in court(15:19) Why courts are drawn to authenticity over arrogance(17:17) How manipulative spouses isolate and pressure their ex(18:41) Why fear and manipulation increase during divorce(20:58) Why boundaries matter when your spouse pressures you(22:44) What to do if your spouse says “you’ll never win against me”(24:07) What happens if your spouse controls all the money(25:16) How to handle legal jargon and intimidation tactics(27:13) Why judges don’t automatically favor powerful people(28:06) The most dangerous thing is believing you have no powerKey Takeaways🔹 Wealth, status, and professional success do not make someone invincible in divorce court🔹 Fear and intimidation are often used strategically during divorce negotiations🔹 Preparation, education, and expert support can completely shift the power dynamic🔹 Judges and attorneys are often more persuaded by credibility and authenticity than status🔹 The biggest mistake you can make is emotionally surrendering before the process even beginsAbout the HostsMorgan Stogsdill is the Head of Family Law at one of the largest family law firms in the country, bringing expert legal insight and strategy to every episode.Andrea Rappaport is a comedian and divorce survivor who shares real, unfiltered experiences to help others navigate divorce with clarity, strength, and confidence.Resources:👉 Divorce Crash Course hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course👉 OurFamilyWizard (Co-Parenting App) ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck👉 Soberlink www.soberlink.com/dcc👉 How to Hire the Right Attorney Guide hownottosuckatdivorce.com/guidesdivorcing a CEO, divorcing an attorney, powerful spouse divorce, high conflict divorce, divorce intimidation tactics, financial manipulation divorce, divorce strategy, divorce lawyer advice, divorcing a business owner, family court strategy, divorce help, divorce support#DivorceAdvice #HighConflictDivorce #FamilyLaw #DivorceStrategy #DivorceHelp #DivorcingANarcissist #HowNotToSuckAtDivorce #DivorceSupportMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Should You Hire a “Shark” Divorce Attorney? Here’s What No One Tells YouWhen you’re preparing for a difficult divorce, it’s tempting to think you need the most aggressive divorce lawyer money can buy. A “pit bull.” A “shark.” Someone who promises to destroy your ex in court.But is hiring a shark divorce attorney actually the smartest strategy—or one of the most expensive mistakes you can make?👉 Before you take your next step, grab the $50 Divorce Crash Course to avoid costly divorce mistakes and make smarter decisions from the start. Typically priced at 150, available now for $50, thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink. This episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.In this brutally honest mini episode, Andrea and Morgan break down the truth about so-called “shark” divorce attorneys and why aggressive litigation often creates more chaos, stress, and attorney’s fees than actual results.They explain the difference between a strategic divorce lawyer and an unreasonable one, why judges and opposing counsel hate unnecessary aggression, and how emotional clients often get manipulated into expensive legal battles that don’t improve their outcome.If you’re trying to hire the right divorce attorney and wondering whether “aggressive” really means effective, this episode is a must-listen.In This Episode You Will Learn✅ Why “shark” divorce attorneys often cost clients more money✅ The difference between aggressive litigation and smart legal strategy✅ Why emotional clients are vulnerable to bad attorney fits✅ How unreasonable attorneys create unnecessary chaos in divorce cases✅ What judges really think about overly aggressive lawyers✅ Why you should look for strategy—not intimidation✅ The signs you may have hired the wrong divorce attorney💰“You can either spend $50 now… or spend thousands later learning the hard way like we did. Your call. Divorce Crash Course 👇https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseTimestamps(00:00) Do you really need a shark divorce attorney?(01:06) Why Morgan cringes at the word “shark”(02:26) Why aggressive lawyers appeal to emotional clients(03:24) Why divorce court is not like the movies(03:45) How aggressive attorneys increase legal fees(04:06) The difference between a shark and a strategic attorney(05:12) Why modern family courts are moving away from litigation(05:58) What actually happens when a shark enters a divorce case(06:23) Why you need an attorney who disagrees with you sometimes(07:09) How aggressive attorneys emotionally manipulate clients(08:31) The real reason some attorneys love conflict(08:34) Why strategy beats intimidation every timeKey Takeaways🔹 The most aggressive divorce attorney is not always the most effective🔹 Emotional decision-making often leads to expensive legal mistakes🔹 Strategic attorneys focus on solutions, leverage, and long-term outcomes🔹 Judges and opposing counsel typically dislike unnecessary aggression🔹 A great attorney tells you the truth—not just what you want to hearAbout the HostsMorgan Stogsdill is the Head of Family Law at one of the largest family law firms in the country, bringing expert legal insight and strategy to every episode.Andrea Rappaport is a comedian and divorce survivor who shares real, unfiltered experiences to help others navigate divorce with clarity, strength, and confidence.Resources:👉 Divorce Crash Course hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course👉 How to Hire the Right Attorney Guide hownottosuckatdivorce.com/guides👉 OurFamilyWizard (Co-Parenting App)ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckshark divorce attorney, aggressive divorce lawyer, how to hire a divorce attorney, divorce lawyer advice, strategic divorce attorney, divorce litigation, family court strategy, bad divorce attorney, high conflict divorce, divorce attorney red flags, divorce help, family law attorney#DivorceAdvice #DivorceAttorney #FamilyLaw #DivorceStrategy #HighConflictDivorce #DivorceHelp #DivorcePodcast #HowNotToSuckAtDivorceMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

One of the biggest mistakes people make during divorce is showing up emotionally overwhelmed and completely unorganized. If you want to save money on attorney’s fees, strengthen your divorce case, and stop wasting time reacting emotionally, you need one thing: a timeline.👉 Before you take your next step, grab the $50 Divorce Crash Course to avoid costly divorce mistakes and make smarter decisions from the start. Typically priced at 150, available now for $50, thanks to our angel underwriters.This episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.In this practical and eye-opening episode, Andrea and Morgan explain why organized clients get better legal outcomes—and why unprepared clients often lose cases and spend significantly more money.They break down exactly how to use a divorce timeline to organize evidence, support your legal claims, negotiate strategically, and communicate more efficiently with your attorney. From parenting disputes to financial dissipation claims, retirement accounts, vacation homes, and co-parenting app evidence, this episode explains how timelines help divorce attorneys build stronger cases while saving clients thousands in legal fees.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to organize your divorce, this episode gives you one of the most powerful practical tools you can use.In This Episode You Will Learn✅ Why organized clients save money during divorce✅ How timelines strengthen your divorce case✅ The difference between facts and emotions in family court✅ How to organize evidence for your attorney✅ Why co-parenting apps like OurFamilyWizard matter in legal disputes✅ How timelines help during negotiations and settlement discussions✅ What types of evidence matter most in parenting and financial disputes✅ How timelines help attorneys identify weak or unwinnable claims before wasting money💰“You can either spend $50 now… or spend thousands later learning the hard way like we did. Your call. Divorce Crash Course 👇https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseTimestamps(00:00) Why unprepared divorce clients lose money and cases(01:03) Mercury retrograde and why everyone feels chaotic lately(03:50) The #1 divorce tool that saves money and helps you win your case(04:12) Why timelines matter in family court(05:41) The difference between facts and emotions in divorce(06:09) How OurFamilyWizard strengthens legal evidence(06:50) Why organized timelines save attorney’s fees(08:39) Breaking large divorce disputes into smaller timeline issues(09:59) Chad and Brenda’s summer house dispute explained(16:58) Using timelines for dissipation claims and affair-related spending(19:23) How attorneys use timelines strategically during negotiations(21:24) What a divorce timeline template actually looks like(24:19) Using timelines for retirement accounts and non-marital claims(26:01) Why keeping everything in one organized place matters(27:12) Why prepared clients are calmer clientsKey Takeaways🔹 Divorce cases are won with facts, evidence, and organization—not emotional arguments🔹 Timelines help attorneys understand disputes quickly and strategically🔹 Organized evidence can save thousands in attorney’s fees🔹 Co-parenting apps, text messages, financial records, and calendars can strengthen legal claims🔹 Prepared clients feel calmer, more empowered, and more in control throughout divorceAbout the HostsMorgan Stogsdill is the Head of Family Law at one of the largest family law firms in the country, bringing expert legal insight and strategy to every episode.Andrea Rappaport is a comedian and divorce survivor who shares real, unfiltered experiences to help others navigate divorce with clarity, strength, and confidence.Resources:👉 Divorce Crash Course hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course👉 OurFamilyWizard (Co-Parenting App) ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck👉 How to Hire the Right Attorney Guide hownottosuckatdivorce.com/guidesdivorce timeline, divorce evidence organization, divorce attorney tips, how to save money in divorce, family court evidence, divorce preparation, divorce strategy, co-parenting app evidence, dissipation claim divorce, divorce financial evidence, OurFamilyWizard, divorce lawyer advice#DivorceAdvice #FamilyLaw #DivorceStrategy #DivorceHelp #DivorcePreparation #OurFamilyWizard #CoParenting #DivorcePodcast #HowNotToSuckAtDivorceMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

The Happy Surprises in Divorce No One Talks AboutDivorce is painful, overwhelming, and emotionally brutal—but there are also surprising parts of the divorce process that can be unexpectedly healing, empowering, and even beautiful. If you’re in the thick of divorce and struggling to see beyond the pain, this episode offers a hopeful reminder that not every part of this journey is negative.👉 Before you take your next step, grab the $50 Divorce Crash Course to avoid costly divorce mistakes and make smarter decisions from the start. Typically priced at 150, available now for $50, thanks to our angel underwriters.This episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.In this honest and uplifting mini episode, Andrea shares the happy surprises in divorce that no one prepares you for. From the relief that often comes once the decision is made, to the unexpected ways divorce can improve your nervous system, parenting, confidence, and relationships, this conversation offers a refreshing perspective on what healing can actually look like during the divorce process.If you’re wondering whether life can ever feel good again after divorce, this episode is your reminder that while divorce may break you open—it can also rebuild you.In This Episode You Will Learn✅ Why many people feel relief faster than expected after deciding to divorce✅ How divorce can calm your nervous system in surprising ways✅ Why you may become a more present and emotionally available parent✅ How divorce reveals who your real support system is✅ Why difficult life changes often build unexpected confidence✅ How divorce forces you to discover your own capability and resilience✅ Why some of the hardest seasons create the most growth💰“You can either spend $50 now… or spend thousands later learning the hard way like we did. Your call. Divorce Crash Course 👇https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseTimestamps(00:00) Why no one talks about the happy surprises in divorce(01:05) Relief after finally deciding to divorce(03:02) How divorce can regulate your nervous system(06:15) Signs your body may be calming down after leaving(08:22) Why many people become better parents during divorce(10:17) Andrea’s story about parenting in a small apartment(13:02) How divorce reveals your real support system(15:16) The unexpected people who may show up for you(17:18) Why divorce builds confidence and resilience(19:00) Discovering how capable you truly are(21:08) Final encouragement for surviving the divorce marathonKey Takeaways🔹 Divorce may bring relief faster than you expect once uncertainty is removed🔹 Chronic marital stress can dysregulate your nervous system more than you realize🔹 Many parents become more emotionally present after leaving an unhealthy marriage🔹 Divorce often clarifies who your true support system is🔹 Going through divorce can build confidence, resilience, and self-trustAbout the HostsMorgan Stogsdill is the Head of Family Law at one of the largest family law firms in the country, bringing expert legal insight and strategy to every episode.Andrea Rappaport is a comedian and divorce survivor who shares real, unfiltered experiences to help others navigate divorce with clarity, strength, and confidence.Resources:👉 Divorce Crash Course hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course👉 OurFamilyWizard (Co-Parenting App) ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck👉 How to Hire the Right Attorney Guide hownottosuckatdivorce.com/guideshappy surprises in divorce, life after divorce, divorce healing, divorce recovery, emotional healing after divorce, divorce support, divorce mindset, divorce confidence, surviving divorce, divorce encouragement, divorce podcast, how divorce changes you#DivorceAdvice #LifeAfterDivorce #DivorceHealing #DivorceSupport #DivorceRecovery #DivorceHelp #DivorcePodcast #HowNotToSuckAtDivorceMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Divorce and Big Decisions: How Your Hormones May Be Affecting Your Divorce More Than You ThinkPerimenopause and hormonal changes can impact your mood, anxiety, emotional regulation, and even your ability to make major life decisions—especially during divorce. If you’re wondering whether your marriage is falling apart, your emotions are out of control, or you simply don’t feel like yourself, understanding how hormones and perimenopause affect divorce decisions may be more important than you realize. And men, this episode has some good info for you, too.👉 Before you take your next step, grab the $50 Divorce Crash Course to avoid costly divorce mistakes and make smarter decisions from the start. Typically priced at 150, available now for $50, thanks to our angel underwriters.This episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.In this fascinating episode, Andrea and Morgan sit down with OB-GYN Dr. Jessica Shepherd to discuss the surprising role perimenopause and hormone shifts can play in divorce, marriage struggles, and major legal decision-making.Check out Natural Cycles. They explore why women in midlife often feel like they are “falling apart,” how hormonal changes can affect emotional regulation, why tracking your cycle and symptoms can provide critical insight, and how understanding what’s happening in your body can help you make better, more informed decisions during your divorce.If you’re in your 40s or 50s, questioning your marriage, or simply feeling unlike yourself during this season of life, this episode may give you answers you didn’t know you needed.In This Episode You Will Learn✅ What perimenopause actually is and how it affects your body and mind✅ Why hormonal shifts can impact marriage satisfaction and divorce decisions✅ How anxiety, mood swings, and irritability may be linked to perimenopause✅ Why tracking your cycle and symptoms can improve decision-making during divorce✅ How hormonal data can help you identify better times to make major legal decisions✅ Why understanding your body gives you more autonomy during divorce✅ How hormone-related symptoms can impact both spouses in a marriage💰“You can either spend $50 now… or spend thousands later learning the hard way like we did. Your call. Divorce Crash Course 👇https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseTimestamps(00:00) Why your hormones may be affecting your divorce decisions(01:16) Introducing Dr. Jessica Shepherd and why perimenopause matters in divorce(03:18) What perimenopause actually is(04:42) How hormone shifts can impact marriage and emotional regulation(06:22) How to know if hormones are contributing to marital unhappiness(07:34) How Natural Cycles tracks hormonal changes(09:49) Why hormonal data matters for divorce decision-making(10:51) When not to make major divorce decisions(12:03) Can hormone awareness actually save marriages?(14:50) What to do with hormonal data once you have it(17:15) Three benefits of tracking your cycle during perimenopause(20:59) Why pregnancy risk still matters in perimenopause(24:26) How attorneys may use this information strategically(29:38) Final takeaway: curiosity leads to solutionsKey Takeaways🔹 Perimenopause can significantly impact mood, anxiety, and emotional regulation🔹 Hormonal changes may affect how you perceive your marriage and divorce process🔹 Tracking your symptoms and hormonal patterns can improve decision-making🔹 Data and self-awareness can help you avoid making major decisions at your emotional low points🔹 Understanding your body may provide clarity before making life-changing decisionsAbout the HostsMorgan Stogsdill is the Head of Family Law at one of the largest family law firms in the country, bringing expert legal insight and strategy to every episode.Andrea Rappaport is a comedian and divorce survivor who shares real, unfiltered experiences to help others navigate divorce with clarity, strength, and confidence.Resources:👉 Divorce Crash Course hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course👉 Natural Cycles👉 OurFamilyWizard (Co-Parenting App) ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck👉 How to Hire the Right Attorney Guide hownottosuckatdivorce.com/guidesperimenopause and divorce, hormones and marriage problems, divorce during perimenopause, hormonal changes divorce decisions, perimenopause symptoms, divorce emotional regulation, midlife divorce, marriage problems hormones, natural cycles app, women’s health and divorce, divorce podcast#Perimenopause #DivorceAdvice #HormonesAndMarriage #MidlifeDivorce #DivorceHelp #WomensHealth #DivorcePodcast #DivorceSupport #NaturalCycles #HowNotToSuckAtDivorceMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Why Your Divorce Attorney May Not Be Fighting for You (And What You’re Missing About Divorce Law)Feeling like your divorce attorney isn’t fighting hard enough for you? In many divorce cases, the issue isn’t that your attorney is failing you—it’s that family court only allows attorneys to fight for what the law actually supports. If you don’t understand how divorce laws, family court, and legal strategy work, it can feel like your lawyer is rolling over when they may simply be telling you the truth about your case.👉 Before you take your next step, grab the $50 Divorce Crash Course to avoid costly divorce mistakes and make smarter decisions from the start. Typically priced at 150, available now for $50, thanks to our angel underwriters.This episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.In this mini episode, Andrea and Morgan break down one of the most common frustrations in divorce: feeling like your attorney isn’t advocating hard enough for you. They explain why many clients confuse legal reality with poor representation, how family law actually works, and what it means when your desired outcome is not legally supported.They also cover how strategic attorneys get creative in negotiations, when legal leverage matters more than emotion, and the exact questions you should ask your attorney if you feel frustrated with your case.If you’ve ever wondered whether your lawyer is dropping the ball—or whether the law simply isn’t on your side—this episode will help you understand the difference.In This Episode You Will Learn✅ Why your divorce attorney may not be able to “fight” for everything you want✅ How family court judges actually make decisions✅ Why emotions and legal outcomes are often disconnected in divorce✅ What “legally supported” really means in family law✅ How strong attorneys get creative when the law doesn’t support your ask✅ The role negotiation and “sweeteners” play in divorce settlements✅ The exact questions to ask when you feel frustrated with your attorney💰“You can either spend $50 now… or spend thousands later learning the hard way like we did. Your call. Divorce Crash Course 👇https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseTimestamps(00:00) Why it feels like your attorney isn’t fighting for you(01:25) How family court judges actually make decisions(02:46) Why your emotional truth may not match legal facts(04:30) Why divorce is emotional but family court is not(05:17) The risks of going to trial just to seek retribution(06:07) Why trial can cost you more than it’s worth(07:30) Questions to ask when you want something from your attorney(08:34) What “legally supported” really means(09:22) Why “no” from your attorney is not always game over(10:41) How attorneys get creative in negotiation(11:58) Real examples of strategic negotiation and sweeteners(13:29) The difference between mediocre and strategic attorneys(13:56) Final takeaway: understand the law before judging your attorneyKey Takeaways🔹 Your attorney can only fight for outcomes the law actually supports🔹 Feeling wronged emotionally does not guarantee legal retribution in divorce court🔹 Great attorneys tell you the truth—even when you don’t want to hear it🔹 Negotiation strategy is often more valuable than courtroom drama🔹 Understanding the law helps you advocate for yourself and avoid wasting moneyAbout the HostsMorgan Stogsdill is the Head of Family Law at one of the largest family law firms in the country, bringing expert legal insight and strategy to every episode.Andrea Rappaport is a comedian and divorce survivor who shares real, unfiltered experiences to help others navigate divorce with clarity, strength, and confidence.Resources:👉 Divorce Crash Course hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course👉 OurFamilyWizard (Co-Parenting App)ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck👉 How to Hire the Right Attorney Guide hownottosuckatdivorce.com/guidesdivorce attorney not fighting for me, family court laws, divorce lawyer advice, divorce legal strategy, family court expectations, divorce attorney communication, divorce negotiation strategy, family law explained, high conflict divorce, divorce settlement strategy, hiring a divorce attorney#DivorceAdvice #FamilyLaw #DivorceAttorney #DivorceStrategy #DivorceHelp #FamilyCourt #LegalAdvice #DivorceSupport #HowNotToSuckAtDivorce #DivorcePodcastMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Five years after your divorce, your life will look completely different—and not in the way you’re probably imagining right now. Divorce recovery, life after divorce, and rebuilding your identity can feel overwhelming in the moment, but the long-term outcome might surprise you in the best way.👉 Before you take your next step, grab the $50 Divorce Crash Course to avoid costly divorce mistakes and make smarter decisions from the start. Typically priced at 150, available now for $50, thanks to our angel underwriters.In this emotional and refreshingly honest mini episode, Andrea shares what her life actually looks like five years after her divorce—and why the version of her today is someone she never could have imagined back then.From feeling completely broken and out of control to building a life filled with joy, confidence, and purpose, Andrea walks through the real transformation that happens after divorce. This episode is not about perfection—it’s about progress, healing, and realizing that the life you build after divorce can be better than anything you left behind.If you’re in the middle of your divorce or just starting to think about it, this episode will give you something you need right now: hope.In This Episode You Will Learn✅ What life actually looks like five years after divorce✅ Why happiness after divorce doesn’t happen overnight—but it does happen✅ How Andrea rebuilt her confidence, career, and identity✅ The difference between surviving your marriage and actually living your life✅ Why joy—not perfection—is the real goal after divorce✅ How small actions can help you start rebuilding your life today💰“You can either spend $50 now… or spend thousands later learning the hard way like we did. Your call. Divorce Crash Course 👇https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseTimestamps(00:00) Where you’ll be five years after your divorce(01:00) Finding moments of joy during the hardest times(03:00) Life update: remarriage, growth, and perspective(06:00) The difference between loneliness and true partnership(08:30) Rebuilding confidence and career after divorce(11:00) How Andrea created a completely new life for herself(14:00) Finding joy in small, everyday moments(16:00) Why your life doesn’t end during divorce—it evolves(18:00) Encouragement for anyone in the middle of the processKey Takeaways🔹 Five years after your divorce, your life can look completely different in ways you can’t yet imagine🔹 Happiness after divorce isn’t about perfection—it’s about building a life that feels right for you🔹 You don’t need someone to “save you”—you are capable of creating your own future🔹 Small moments of joy can help you get through even the hardest days🔹 The life you build after divorce can be stronger, healthier, and more fulfilling than before👤 About the HostsMorgan Stogsdill is the Head of Family Law at one of the largest family law firms in the country, bringing expert legal insight and strategy to every episode.Andrea Rappaport is a comedian and divorce survivor who shares real, unfiltered experiences to help others navigate divorce with clarity, strength, and confidence.Resources:👉 Divorce Crash Coursehttps://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course👉 OurFamilyWizard (Co-Parenting App)https://ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck👉 How to Hire the Right Attorney Guidehttps://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/guideslife after divorce, divorce recovery, divorce healing, happiness after divorce, rebuilding life after divorce, divorce support, co parenting after divorce, divorce mindset, starting over after divorce, divorce podcast#DivorceRecovery #LifeAfterDivorce #DivorceSupport #DivorcePodcast #DivorceHelp #StartingOver #HealingJourney #CoParenting #DivorceAdvice #HowNotToSuckAtDivorceFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Divorce Mistakes That Cost Thousands: What NOT to Do Before You FileDivorce mistakes can cost you thousands, especially when you don’t understand the divorce process, hiring a divorce lawyer, or how parenting agreements and legal decisions actually work.👉 Before you take your next step, grab the $50 Divorce Crash Course to avoid costly divorce mistakes and make smarter decisions from the start. Typically priced at 150, available now for $50, thanks to our angel underwriters.In this powerful and personal episode, Andrea shares the biggest divorce mistakes she made and what she would do differently.From hiring the wrong attorney to rushing through parenting agreements and making emotional decisions instead of strategic ones, this episode breaks down the real-life consequences of going through divorce blindly. If you’re thinking about divorce or currently in the process, this conversation will help you avoid costly missteps, protect your finances, and make smarter decisions from the start.You’ll learn how to navigate divorce with clarity, avoid common legal and financial pitfalls, and take control of your situation before small mistakes turn into expensive consequences.In This Episode You Will Learn✅ The most expensive divorce mistakes people make early in the process✅ Why hiring the wrong attorney can cost you thousands✅ How emotional decision-making leads to poor legal outcomes✅ What to look for in parenting agreements before signing✅ How to avoid unnecessary legal fees and communication mistakes✅ Why education and preparation can completely change your outcome💰“You can either spend $50 now… or spend thousands later learning the hard way like we did. Your call. Divorce Crash Course 👇 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseTimestamps(00:00) The most expensive divorce mistake: going in blindly(01:32) Waiting too long to take action and ignoring red flags(04:45) Hiring the wrong divorce attorney and why it matters(09:05) Signing agreements without fully understanding them(11:30) Temporary agreements and why they can cost you later(13:49) Lack of education and why it leads to costly mistakes(17:29) Balancing life, dating, and divorce without rushing decisions(18:16) Protecting your kids and setting communication boundaries(20:24) Co-parenting apps and why documentation matters(23:06) Unrealistic expectations and emotional decision-making(27:33) How to avoid costly legal communication mistakes(28:22) How the Divorce Crash Course helps you avoid these mistakesKey Takeaways🔹 Going into divorce without a plan is one of the most expensive mistakes you can make🔹 Hiring the wrong attorney or rushing the decision can lead to long-term financial consequences🔹 Emotional reactions during divorce often result in poor decisions and higher legal fees🔹 Taking time to understand agreements—especially parenting and financial terms—is critical🔹 Education, preparation, and strategy can save you thousands and reduce stress throughout the process👤 About the HostsMorgan Stogsdill is the Head of Family Law at one of the largest family law firms in the country, bringing expert legal insight and strategy to every episode.Andrea Rappaport is a comedian and divorce survivor who shares real, unfiltered experiences to help others navigate divorce with clarity, strength, and confidence.Resources: 👉 Divorce Crash Course hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course👉 OurFamilyWizard (Co-Parenting App) ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck👉 How to Hire the Right Attorney Guide hownottosuckatdivorce.com/guidesdivorce mistakes, divorce lawyer advice, divorce strategy, divorce crash course, parenting agreement divorce, divorce finances, legal mistakes divorce, high conflict divorce, hiring a divorce attorney, divorce help, divorce planning#DivorceAdvice #DivorceMistakes #DivorceCrashCourse #DivorceHelp #DivorceStrategy #FamilyLaw #CoParenting #LifeAfterDivorce #LegalAdvice #DivorceSupport #PodcastMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

If you're really concerned about saving money in your divorce, then you need The Divorce Crash Course- it will save you THOUSANDS. Get it here. This episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.If your ex or the other side is telling you that your divorce lawyer “isn’t doing their job”… don’t panic just yet.In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport and Morgan Stogsdill break down one of the most common—and manipulative—tactics used during divorce: making you doubt your own attorney.You’ll learn why the other side often blames your lawyer when they’re feeling pressure, how this tactic is used to gain leverage, and how to tell the difference between strategy and an actual problem with your legal representation.Because while it can happen… most of the time, it’s not what you think.WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:Why your ex says your lawyer isn’t doing their jobHow “splitting” is used to create doubt and gain leverageWhen this happens most (mediation, proposals, pressure moments)Why lack of response can actually be a legal strategyHow to avoid spiraling and wasting money reacting emotionallyThe real signs your divorce lawyer might actually be the problemWhen to trust the process vs. when to question itKEY TAKEAWAY:Just because the other side says your lawyer is the problem…👉 doesn’t make it true.In fact, it may mean:👉 your lawyer is doing something right—and they’re feeling the pressure.REAL RED FLAGS TO WATCH FOR:Your lawyer consistently misses deadlinesYou’re not getting responses within a reasonable timeframeOpposing counsel repeatedly calls out real deficienciesJudges or mediators are pushing back on your attorney’s position👉 One comment = noise👉 A pattern = something to evaluateRESOURCES:Want to stop second-guessing everything and start making smarter decisions?👉 Get the Divorce Crash Course:https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course👉 Listen to more episodes:https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/podcastOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Get the Divorce Crash Course and grab your Balance Sheet Template here!Struggling to get what you want in your divorce? You’re not alone—and the problem may not be what you’re asking for, but how you’re negotiating.In this mini episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport and Morgan Stogsdill break down one of the most common (and costly) mistakes people make during divorce negotiations—and how to fix it.Using a real-life example of “Chad and Brenda,” they explain why disorganized settlement proposals, scattered responses, and multiple documents can quickly derail progress, increase stress, and cost you time and money.You’ll learn how to stay aligned in negotiations, keep proposals clear, and use simple visual tools—like structured documents and balance sheets—to track progress and make smarter decisions.WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:How to negotiate effectively in divorceWhy responding within the same proposal structure mattersThe biggest mistake people make in settlement negotiationsHow to avoid confusion and “losing track” during back-and-forth offersWhy using one document or balance sheet can simplify the entire processHow visual organization can reduce stress and improve outcomesKEY TAKEAWAY:Divorce negotiations aren’t just about what you ask for—they’re about how clearly and strategically you communicate.When everything is organized in one place, you make better decisions, avoid unnecessary conflict, and move the process forward more efficiently.RESOURCES:Want a simple way to organize your divorce finances and negotiations?👉 Grab the Divorce Crash Course (includes a balance sheet template designed to help you stay clear and in control):https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseFINAL THOUGHT:Divorce is a marathon, not a sprint. Staying organized, asking the right questions, and using the right tools can make all the difference.You’ve got this—and we’ve got you.Our Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Get the Divorce Crash CourseYou might not want to hear this… but you need to.If your divorce feels more stressful than it should, you might be part of the problem—and it likely comes down to unrealistic expectations.In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, hosts Andrea Rappaport and Morgan Stogsdill break down the most common ways clients unintentionally make their divorce harder, more expensive, and more emotionally draining.From expecting your attorney to respond immediately… to assuming you’ll get full custody… to chasing a “forensic accountant fantasy”… this episode is your reality check.Because divorce is emotional—but the legal system is procedural. And when your expectations don’t match how the system actually works, it creates unnecessary stress, frustration, and costly mistakes.What You’ll Learn:Why expecting immediate responses from your attorney is setting you up for frustrationWhat actually qualifies as a legal “emergency” (and what doesn’t)Why most people don’t need a forensic accountant (and when you actually do)The truth about full custody and how courts really make decisionsWhy divorce timelines are not in your controlHow unrealistic expectations increase your anxiety—and your legal billsKey Takeaway:Divorce isn’t just hard because of your ex.It’s hard because of the expectations you bring into it.When you shift your mindset and understand what you can—and can’t—control, the entire process becomes more manageable.Want more real, no-BS divorce advice?👉 Get full episode breakdowns, strategy, and resources here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/adviceOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Natural Cycles When your body feels unpredictable, your decisions shouldn’t have to be. Get insight and clarity with NC° Perimenopause. Visit Naturalcycles.app/divorce to learn more and save on a subscription and wearable.Natural Cycles

Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseThis episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.Divorce is overwhelming. Some days you’re strong, focused, and ready to tackle legal decisions. Other days you just need something — anything — to help calm your nervous system and get through the moment.In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, host Andrea Rappaport shares three surprisingly simple tools that helped her survive some of the hardest days during her own divorce:Target. Alexa. TikTok.These everyday distractions may sound random, but they can actually help interrupt the emotional spiral that many people experience during divorce. When your brain gets stuck ruminating about things you cannot control, small shifts in your environment can make a big difference.If you’re struggling with loneliness, anxiety, or intrusive thoughts during divorce, this episode offers practical — and refreshingly honest — ways to break the cycle.Why Divorce Triggers Emotional SpiralsDivorce often creates a perfect storm of stress:• uncertainty about the future• loneliness and silence at home• repetitive thoughts about the past• emotional overwhelmWhen your brain gets stuck in this loop, it becomes harder to regulate your emotions. Sometimes the healthiest move isn’t deep therapy work — it’s simply interrupting the spiral long enough to reset your nervous system.3 Surprisingly Helpful Divorce Coping Tools1. Target: Get Out of the HouseWhen you're stuck ruminating about your divorce, one of the best things you can do is change your physical environment.Walking around a place like Target gives your brain new visual input — colors, textures, movement — which can interrupt repetitive thought patterns.You don’t need to go on a shopping spree. Just walking through a store, moving your body, and being around other people can lift your mood and help you reset.2. Alexa: Don’t Sit in SilenceSilence can be one of the hardest parts of divorce, especially when you suddenly find yourself living alone.Using a voice assistant like Alexa (or any smart speaker) can help fill that space with:• music• podcasts• random questions• background noiseEven small interactions with sound can help regulate your emotional state and keep your mind from spiraling.3. TikTok: Embrace the DistractionScrolling on TikTok may not be the self-care advice most therapists give — but sometimes distraction is exactly what you need.When you're deep in divorce stress, going down a completely unrelated rabbit hole can give your brain a break from obsessive thinking.The goal isn’t perfection — it’s survival.Bonus Tip: Go Sit at a Bar (Even If You Don’t Drink)One of Andrea’s unexpected coping strategies during divorce was simply sitting at a bar with a laptop or book.Not for drinking — for connection.Bars are one of the few places where casual conversation with strangers still happens. Being around other people, hearing conversations, and interacting with a bartender can break the feeling of isolation many people experience during divorce.The Truth About Divorce Self-CareSome days you’ll make healthy choices:• therapy• journaling• exercise• meditationOther days you just need something that helps the pain stop for a moment — and that’s okay.Divorce is not a sprint. It’s a marathon. And learning how to survive the difficult days is part of the process.Key Takeaways From This Episode• Divorce anxiety often comes from rumination and emotional isolation• Changing your environment can help interrupt negative thought loops• Sound and background noise can reduce feelings of loneliness• Distraction isn’t always unhealthy — sometimes it’s necessary• You don’t have to do everything perfectly to get through divorceRemember ThisYour divorce will end.You won’t be going through this forever. One day you will look back and realize that you survived something incredibly hard — and came out stronger on the other side.And until that day comes, remember:You’ve got this. And we’ve got you.Our Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Meeting with a divorce attorney for the first time can feel overwhelming. You’re emotional, uncertain, and trying to make decisions that could impact your finances, your children, and your future. The problem is that when you’re in that emotional state, it’s easy to walk into a consultation unprepared and ask the wrong questions-or miss the questions that actually matter.This episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Morgan Stogsdill pulls back the curtain on what really happens during divorce consultations and shares the best—and worst—questions you can ask a divorce attorney.If you're preparing to meet with a lawyer, this episode will help you walk into that consultation with confidence, ask smarter questions, and avoid mistakes that could cost you time and money.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhy divorce attorneys struggle to answer questions like “How long will this take?” and “How much will this cost?”How preparation before your consultation can dramatically improve your legal strategyThe surprising question every client should ask their attorney about how they present as a witnessHow communication expectations with your legal team can affect your experience and your billThe powerful question Morgan asks clients that reveals the hidden risks in a divorce caseThe Questions Divorce Attorneys Wish You Would AskDuring your initial consultation, asking thoughtful questions can help you better understand your case and set realistic expectations.Some of the most helpful questions include:1. How would I present as a witness if this case went to court?Even though most divorces settle before trial, understanding how your behavior, communication, and evidence may be perceived can help you strengthen your case.2. Is there anything in my story that could make achieving my goals difficult?This question allows your attorney to set realistic expectations and identify potential challenges early.3. What is the best way to communicate with you and your team?Many law firms work collaboratively with legal teams. Understanding how communication works can help you get faster responses and better support.4. What can I do to be more prepared and save money on legal fees?Being organized—creating timelines, gathering documents, and preparing information—can significantly reduce the amount of billable time your attorney spends on your case.Questions That Are Hard for Attorneys to AnswerWhile they’re completely understandable, two questions clients ask most often are also the hardest to answer:“How long will my divorce take?”The timeline depends on many variables, including court schedules, negotiations, cooperation between parties, and whether the case settles or goes to trial.“How much will my divorce cost?”Divorce costs can vary widely depending on how contentious the case becomes, whether mediation is used, and how prepared both parties are throughout the process.The Question That Reveals EverythingOne of the most powerful questions Morgan asks potential clients is:“What’s the worst thing your ex is going to say about you?”This question often catches people off guard, but it reveals critical information about potential arguments, credibility, and issues that could surface during negotiations or litigation.Being honest about weaknesses in your case allows your attorney to prepare for them strategically.Preparing for Your Divorce ConsultationWalking into a consultation prepared can make a huge difference in how productive the meeting is. Some helpful steps include:gathering financial documentsunderstanding who your spouse’s attorney may beorganizing a timeline of eventsthinking through your goals for the divorceThe more information you bring to the consultation, the easier it is for your attorney to give meaningful guidance.Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseResources Mentioned in This EpisodeGuide: How to Hire the Right Divorce AttorneyThe Divorce Crash CourseHow Not to Suck at Divorce Private CommunityYou can find direct links to these resources in the episode show notes.About the PodcastHow Not to Suck at Divorce helps people navigate divorce with clarity, strategy, and support. Hosted by comedian Andrea Rappaport and family law attorney Morgan Stogsdill, the podcast breaks down the legal, financial, and emotional realities of divorce so listeners can avoid costly mistakes and move forward with confidence.Our Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseRate our show! www.ratethispodcast.com/notsuckThis episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.Divorce can bring out emotions you didn’t even know you had. One minute you're trying to stay calm and take the high road, and the next minute you’re imagining what it would feel like to throat punch your ex. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone.In this mini episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport talks about what to do when your ex pushes you to your absolute emotional limit. While it might feel satisfying in the moment to lash out, reacting emotionally during the divorce process can make your case more complicated—and a lot more expensive.Instead of reacting impulsively, there are a few powerful ways to redirect that anger and turn it into something far more productive.In this episode, you’ll learn three practical ways to manage intense emotions during divorce, avoid unnecessary conflict, and stay focused on the bigger picture: protecting your outcome and your future.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhy reacting emotionally during divorce can backfire legally and financiallyHow writing the angry email you’ll never send can help release frustrationThe importance of shifting from emotional reaction to strategic thinkingWhy understanding your ex’s motivations can help you respond more effectivelyHow moving your energy into action can help regulate intense emotions during divorce3 Things to Do Instead of Throat Punching Your Ex1. Write the email you want to send—but don’t send it.Get the anger out. Write exactly what you want to say. Just don’t hit send. Emotional messages during divorce can easily become evidence that complicates your case.2. Think, don’t feel.When your ex does something that makes you furious, pause and ask yourself: what are they actually trying to accomplish? Understanding their strategy can help you respond more effectively instead of reacting emotionally.3. Do anything that moves the energy out of your body.Anger is energy. Go for a walk, organize something, run an errand, take a class—anything that helps you move through the emotion instead of sitting in it.Divorce Is Emotional—But Strategy MattersDivorce can sometimes feel like psychological warfare. But the more you can shift from emotional reaction to strategic decision-making, the better your outcome will be.A moment of anger may feel satisfying in the short term, but preparation and clear thinking will serve you much better throughout the divorce process.As Andrea says in this episode:Plan more. Cry less.Need More Support During Divorce?If you feel like your divorce process is happening faster than you can keep up with, the Divorce Crash Course can help.Inside the course, we break down the strategy behind divorce—from finances and working with your attorney to custody agreements and avoiding the biggest mistakes people make during the process.The goal is simple: help you protect your sanity, your finances, and your future.Resources MentionedThe Divorce Crash CourseThe How Not to Suck at Divorce private communityAbout the PodcastHow Not to Suck at Divorce helps people navigate divorce with clarity, strategy, and support. Hosted by Andrea Rappaport and family law attorney Morgan Stogsdill, the podcast breaks down the legal, financial, and emotional realities of divorce in plain English—so you can avoid costly mistakes and move forward with confidence.Our Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicago

Get the NEW Divorce Crash Course right here!This episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.Ever read an email from your divorce attorney and think:“What the hell does that even mean?”You’re not alone.In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, hosts Andrea Rappaport and Morgan L. Stogsdill break down the confusing world of legal jargon, attorney shorthand, and “lawyer speak” that leaves so many divorce clients feeling lost.If your attorney has ever said things like:“We’ll reserve that issue.”“Opposing counsel is being unreasonable.”“The judge may not view this favorably.”“We need more discovery.”…and you nodded along while secretly thinking “am I winning or am I getting screwed?” — this episode is for you.Morgan translates the most common divorce lawyer phrases into plain English, while Andrea asks the questions every client is secretly thinking.You’ll also learn how to tell the difference between normal legal communication and a lawyer who simply isn’t communicating well.Because understanding your divorce strategy isn’t a luxury — it’s your right.What You'll Learn in This Episode✔ What lawyers actually mean when they say “we’ll reserve that issue”✔ Why divorce attorneys avoid giving 100% certainty about outcomes✔ The real meaning behind “the judge may not view this favorably”✔ Why discovery is one of the most misunderstood parts of divorce✔ How to tell if your attorney is explaining strategy clearly✔ Red flags that signal a bad communicator (or worse)✔ When it might be time to get a second legal opinionDivorce Lawyer Phrases TranslatedMorgan and Andrea break down common phrases you may hear from your divorce attorney:“That’s not something we want to concede.”Translation: Not necessarily a “no” — but definitely not right now.“We’ll reserve that issue.”Translation: The decision is being pushed down the road until more information is available.“The judge may not view this favorably.”Translation: This could seriously backfire in court.“Opposing counsel is being unreasonable.”Translation: Something behind the scenes is slowing the process down.“We need more discovery.”Translation: We need documents, financials, or evidence to support your case.Green Flags: Signs You Have a Great Divorce LawyerA strong divorce attorney should be able to explain:• What is happening in your case• Why it matters• What your options are• The risks and rewards of each choice• The strategy moving forward• The potential cost of each moveA good lawyer explains things like they’re talking to their neighbor — not lecturing a law school class.Red Flags in Attorney CommunicationIf you consistently feel:⚠ More confused after speaking with your lawyer⚠ Like your questions are dismissed⚠ Intimidated for asking clarification⚠ Unsure of the strategy⚠ Like you’re being told to “just trust me”…it may be time to reconsider the relationship.Questions You Should Ask Your Divorce LawyerIf something doesn’t make sense, try asking:• “Can you explain that in plain English?”• “What does that mean for my case specifically?”• “What’s the best-case and worst-case scenario?”• “What’s the strategy behind this?”• “Is this something judges typically approve?”• “How will this affect my legal fees?”You deserve to understand the process and the plan.When It Might Be Time for a Second OpinionGetting another legal perspective is not a betrayal.Consider a second opinion if:Communication is unclearStrategy hasn’t been explainedYou feel dismissed or confusedYour gut says something isn’t rightGreat lawyers aren’t threatened by second opinions — they welcome informed clients.Resources Mentioned💡 The Divorce Crash Course (DCC)The step-by-step strategy guide to navigating divorce with clarity.💬 Join our private community for support, resources, and conversations about divorce.Listen If You're WonderingWhy does my divorce lawyer speak in legal jargon?What does discovery mean in divorce?How do I know if my attorney is doing a good job?Should I get a second opinion from another divorce lawyer?Why won’t my lawyer give a clear answer?Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

GET THE DIVORCE CRASH COURSE!In this mini episode of How Not To Suck At Divorce, Andrea Rappaport and family law attorney Morgan L. Stogsdill introduce something they’ve been quietly working on for months: the brand-new Divorce Crash Course (DCC).This project has truly been a labor of love—built to give people going through divorce the information most attorneys simply don’t have time to walk you through.And yes… this episode starts with Andrea surviving a spring break indoor water park, wearing airplane-sized noise-canceling headphones, smelling like pond water, and nearly losing her dignity.But once the laughter settles, Andrea and Morgan dive into something that could change the way you navigate your divorce.The Divorce Crash Course was created to help people avoid the most common—and most expensive—mistakes made during divorce.Because the truth is:Most people enter divorce with no roadmap, no strategy, and no idea what they don’t know yet.That’s where the DCC comes in.What Is the Divorce Crash Course?The Divorce Crash Course is a private podcast paired with a downloadable guidebook designed to walk you step-by-step through the divorce process.Inside the Crash Course, Andrea and Morgan break down the biggest issues people face in divorce and provide practical tools to help you make smarter decisions from the beginning.Unlike typical divorce resources, the DCC combines:a private podcast you can listen to anytimea printable guidebookclickable resources and templatesstep-by-step guidance on navigating divorceThe goal?To give you the same strategic insight Morgan gives her clients in a way that’s accessible, clear, and affordable.Why This Divorce Crash Course Is DifferentAndrea and Morgan spent hours building this program because they know how overwhelming divorce can feel.Instead of leaving people to figure things out alone, the Divorce Crash Course provides:A clear roadmap for navigating divorceGuidance on how to communicate with your attorneyTools to help you save money on legal feesTemplates to organize your finances and parenting plansInsider tips on avoiding costly divorce mistakesAnd thanks to the support of OurFamilyWizard and Soberlink, the program is available for a fraction of what similar legal resources cost.What You'll Learn in the Divorce Crash CourseThe Divorce Crash Course addresses some of the most common questions people have during divorce, including:How to Save Money on Divorce Attorney FeesLearn how to communicate with your attorney efficiently so you’re spending money where it matters most.What to Do With the Family HomeShould you keep the house or sell it? The course walks through how to think about this decision logically and strategically.How to Organize Your Divorce FinancesThe guidebook includes a custom marital balance sheet template that helps you track assets, debts, and financial information before speaking with your attorney.Parenting Plans and Custody AgreementsDivorce often becomes most emotional when discussing parenting time.The course includes:Common court-approved parenting schedulesKey provisions people forget to include in parenting agreementsTips for negotiating custody arrangements effectivelyThe Most Common Divorce MistakesAndrea and Morgan also break down the most frequent—and expensive—mistakes people make during divorce and how to avoid them.What's Included in the Divorce Crash CourseWhen you purchase the Divorce Crash Course, you’ll receive:A private podcast with five guided episodesA downloadable guidebook with clickable resourcesA divorce balance sheet templateCustody schedule examplesTools to help you communicate with your attorney and your exOnce purchased, the private podcast can be added directly to your preferred podcast app so you can listen just like a normal show.Andrea recommends listening to one episode at a time and working through the guidebook alongside it.Frequently Asked Question:Do I Need the New Divorce Crash Course if I Bought the Old One?This is the question Andrea has received most frequently.The answer: Yes, the new Divorce Crash Course is different.While some concepts may overlap with previous guides, this new version contains completely new content, additional tools, and a private podcast format that makes it easier to absorb the information step-by-step.Why Andrea and Morgan Created ThisAndrea went through divorce herself.Morgan has spent nearly two decades practicing family law.Between them, they’ve seen the same painful patterns over and over again:People making expensive mistakes simply because they didn’t know what questions to ask.The Divorce Crash Course was built to change that.It’s designed to give people the knowledge and tools they need to move through divorce with more clarity, confidence, and control.A Little Humor Along the WayThis mini episode wouldn’t be complete without the signature How Not To Suck At Divorce humor.Between discussing the Divorce Crash Course, Andrea shares:Her hatred of indoor water parksThe questionable hygiene of spring break crowdsWearing pilot-style headphones in public to survive the noiseAnd the moment a stranger at Dunkin’ Donuts asked if she was her kids’ great grandmotherBecause if you’re going to survive divorce…You might as well laugh along the way.Where to Get the Divorce Crash CourseYou can purchase the Divorce Crash Course directly through the link below.Once you check out, you’ll receive immediate access to:the private podcastthe downloadable guidebookall templates and resources👉 Get the Divorce Crash Course here:[Insert Link]Need More Support?If you're navigating divorce and looking for support, resources, or community:Join our private communityFollow us on InstagramSend us a DM—we answer themDivorce may feel overwhelming, but you do not have to go through it alone.RememberDivorce is a marathon, not a sprint.You’ve got this.And we’ve got you.Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

How to Respond to Threats and Aggressive Emails During Divorce: 2 Acronyms That Can Save Your SanityDivorce can make even the calmest person feel like they are about to unravel.One inflammatory text. One manipulative email. One last-minute demand from your soon-to-be ex.And suddenly your nervous system is on fire.In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Morgan Stogsdill and Andrea Rappaport share two simple acronyms designed to help you stop spiraling, regulate your nervous system, and decide whether a response is actually necessary.If you are dealing with high-conflict divorce communication, threatening messages, co-parenting drama, or an ex who knows exactly how to push your buttons, this episode will give you practical tools you can use immediately.Because when your ex is trying to bait you, your best move is not to react — it’s to get strategic.In This Episode, We Talk About:how to respond to threatening emails during divorcewhat to do when your ex sends an inflammatory texthow to stop emotional spiraling during divorcewhy your nervous system reacts so strongly to conflictthe best way to pause before responding to your exhow to tell if a message actually requires a responsewhen to call your divorce attorney and when not tohow to communicate strategically in a high-conflict divorcewhy not every “urgent” message is truly urgenthow co-parenting apps like Our Family Wizard can reduce stressWhy Divorce Communication Feels So TriggeringWhen you’re going through a divorce, communication with your ex is rarely neutral.Even a simple message can feel loaded. A text about travel, money, or the kids can instantly send your brain into panic mode — especially if the wording feels aggressive, manipulative, or threatening.Andrea explains that this is often a nervous system response. Your body reacts as though you are under attack, even if the threat is emotional rather than physical.That is why so many people:fire off emotional responsesregret what they wrote laterfeel hijacked by anxietyspend hours spiraling over one messageThis episode teaches listeners how to interrupt that pattern before it hurts their peace — or their case.Acronym #1: STOPThe first tool Morgan and Andrea teach is STOP, a simple framework designed to help listeners stop the immediate emotional unraveling.S — StopLiterally stop.Do not react.Do not respond.Do not keep ruminating.Say the word out loud if you have to:Stop.T — TemperatureChange your temperature to help regulate your nervous system.Andrea explains that cold temperature can help bring your system back online.Examples include:holding iceputting ice on your wristsdrinking ice-cold waterusing an ice roller on your faceO — OxygenBreathe.When people are triggered, they often hold their breath, tense up, and make the spiral worse.The key is to exhale first, then let yourself breathe back in.P — PriorityYour priority is your mental wellbeing, not firing back at your ex.Most messages do not require an immediate response.This is where listeners are reminded to give themselves at least an hour before doing anything.Why You Should Never Respond in the Same Emotional StateMorgan explains that when people respond too quickly, it is often obvious to attorneys, judges, and anyone reading the email that they got baited.That matters.Fast, emotional responses can:escalate conflictmake you look reactivestrengthen the other person’s sense of controlpotentially hurt your caseWhen someone knows they can trigger you instantly, they are more likely to keep doing it.That’s why creating time between the message and the response is such an important strategy in divorce communication.Acronym #2: THREATThe second acronym in the episode helps listeners figure out whether a response is warranted at all — and if so, how to respond strategically.T — TimingAsk yourself:Does this message actually need a response?If it does, do I need to respond today?The answer is often no.H — Highlight the parts that actually matterPull out the parts of the message that involve:your childrenmedical decisionsschedulingextracurricularsactual legal issuesIgnore the inflammatory filler.R — Redline the BSMorgan and Andrea encourage listeners to mentally cross out the emotional garbage.Most threatening divorce emails are full of:baitingexaggerationpersonal attacksirrelevant accusationsAndrea says it best:Most threatening emails are 80% emotional dribble-drabble garbage and only 20% actual legal issues.E — Emotionless evaluation of the factsLook at the message again without emotion and ask:Is there any actual merit here?Is anything true?Is there something that genuinely needs attention?A — Ask your attorneyIf the issue has merit or is really weighing on you, this is where your attorney comes in.Morgan reminds listeners that sometimes spending money on your lawyer is worth it for peace of mind and strategy.T — Take the strategic routeOnce you’ve gone through the steps above, you can decide whether:you should respondwhen you should respondhow you should respondThat is strategy.Not reactivity.High-Conflict Divorce Communication: Why Strategy MattersThis episode is especially helpful for people dealing with high-conflict divorce, difficult co-parenting communication, or an ex who weaponizes timing and urgency.Morgan gives an example of a co-parent suddenly demanding an answer about international travel for the kids and insisting that tickets need to be booked immediately.That kind of message can trigger panic fast.But the point of the THREAT framework is to help listeners separate:true urgencyparenting agreement languagelegal issuesmanipulative pressureSo they can make decisions from clarity instead of fear.Our Family Wizard and How to Reduce Divorce Communication StressMorgan and Andrea also talk about Our Family Wizard, a co-parenting app that can help reduce stress by limiting when messages come through.One feature they highlight is the ability to control what time of day you receive messages from your co-parent.That can be incredibly helpful for people who know they are more emotionally vulnerable at certain times of day.For anyone navigating co-parenting after divorce, using structured communication tools can help reduce conflict and protect mental health.Why This Episode MattersThis episode does something so many divorce resources fail to do:It doesn’t just tell people to “stay calm.”It gives them actual tools to use in the exact moment they’re triggered.And that matters because divorce is not just a legal process.It is an emotional, physiological, and psychological stressor.When someone knows how to:regulate their nervous systempause before reactingidentify what really mattersrespond strategicallythey are far less likely to make costly mistakes.Key TakeawayYou do not have to respond to every message from your ex as though it is an emergency.You do not have to unravel every time they try to bait you.And you do not have to let their words control your peace, your parenting, or your case.Use STOP to calm your system.Use THREAT to evaluate the message.And then choose the strategic route.That is how you protect yourself during divorce.Resources Mentioned in This EpisodeOur Family WizardThe Divorce Crash CourseNew guides and resources on the How Not to Suck at Divorce websiteThe How Not to Suck at Divorce private communityAbout How Not to Suck at DivorceHow Not to Suck at Divorce is a divorce podcast hosted by family law attorney Morgan Stogsdill and Andrea Rappaport.The show offers practical divorce advice, legal insight, co-parenting strategies, and real-life support for people navigating one of the hardest seasons of their lives.If you are dealing with divorce, custody, communication conflict, or emotional overwhelm, this podcast is here to help you feel less alone — and more prepared.Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: <a href="https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Divorce is emotional. It's stressful. And if you're not careful, it can also become incredibly expensive.In this mini episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport shares five things you should absolutely never do during a divorce — from serious legal mistakes that can impact your case to a few embarrassing (but very real) moments she experienced during her own divorce.Because when emotions are running high, it’s easy to make decisions that feel good in the moment but can create bigger problems later.Whether you're navigating divorce right now or trying to prepare for what lies ahead, these practical tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and stay focused on what actually matters.Why Divorce Mistakes Can Cost You More Than You ThinkOne of the hardest parts of divorce is that you’re making major legal and financial decisions while under extreme emotional stress.During this episode, Andrea explains why some of the most common divorce mistakes happen when people:react emotionally instead of strategicallyrely on advice from the wrong sourcesallow their ex to provoke them into conflictbring outside people into the legal dramaLearning how to pause, reset, and respond thoughtfully can save you thousands of dollars in attorney’s fees — and a lot of unnecessary stress.The 5 Divorce Mistakes You Should Never Make1. Taking Legal Advice From Friends Who Got Divorced in Another State (or Another Decade)Divorce laws vary dramatically depending on where you live and when the divorce occurs.Andrea explains why taking advice from a friend who was divorced years ago — or in another state — can create unrealistic expectations and costly confusion.For example:Some states are more likely to award long-term alimonyOther states focus on short-term rehabilitative supportProperty division laws vary significantly across jurisdictionsRelying on outdated or out-of-state advice can lead to misunderstandings and expensive conversations with your attorney.2. Speaking in Court When No One Asked You ToDivorce court can be intimidating — especially in the age of virtual hearings.Andrea shares a hilarious (and slightly humiliating) story about accidentally unmuting herself during a Zoom court hearing when the judge was actually addressing an attorney with the same last name.Lesson learned:Never unmute yourself in court unless the judge is speaking directly to you.3. Responding to Threatening Emails ImmediatelyWhen you're in the middle of a divorce, aggressive emails or legal threats can trigger an emotional reaction.But responding immediately is one of the biggest mistakes you can make.Research shows it takes about 20 minutes for your nervous system to reset after a stressful event.Andrea recommends waiting at least an hour before responding, and using that time to regulate your body with simple strategies like:taking a walkdrinking ice-cold waterholding ice to your wristsdoing quick bursts of physical movementResponding calmly and strategically is always better than reacting emotionally.4. Bringing Your New Relationship Into the Divorce DramaDating during divorce happens more often than people admit.But involving your new partner in the details of your divorce can create unnecessary complications.Andrea explains why bringing your new love interest into legal conflicts can:create loyalty conflictsgenerate bad adviceescalate emotional tensionInstead, keep your dating life separate from the legal process whenever possible.5. Believing the Negative Things Your Ex Says About YouPerhaps the most important advice in this episode:Do not internalize the hurtful things your soon-to-be ex says about you during the divorce process.In many cases, these comments are designed to weaken your confidence or gain leverage in negotiations.Divorce is not the time to determine your self-worth.Your job right now is simply to survive the process and move forward.Healing and personal growth come later — after the legal storm has passed.Divorce Is a Marathon, Not a SprintDivorce often feels like an emotional roller coaster.Some days you’ll feel strong and hopeful.Other days you’ll feel completely overwhelmed.That’s normal.The most important thing to remember is that you are not alone in this process.The How Not to Suck at Divorce podcast exists to provide practical divorce advice, real-life experiences, and the support you need to navigate this difficult chapter with confidence.Coming Up Next on the PodcastIn this week’s full episode, Andrea and Morgan introduce two powerful acronyms designed to help you:respond to threats during divorcemanage aggressive communicationprotect your case while staying calmIf you struggle with how to respond to your ex during divorce, you won’t want to miss it.Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Real answers to the financial, parenting, and legal questions keeping you up at night.If you’re going through a divorce, chances are you’ve asked yourself at least one of these questions:Who keeps the house?Do I have to pay alimony?What happens if my ex won’t cooperate?How does a GAL affect custody?What counts as marital property after separation?In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea and Morgan answer real divorce questions submitted by members of their private community. From community property and spousal support to 50/50 parenting schedules, marital settlement agreements, home sales, custody concerns, and separation, this episode covers the kinds of issues that keep people up at night during divorce.This is an honest, practical, and empowering conversation designed to help you think more strategically, ask better questions, and make smarter decisions during the divorce process.In this episode, we discuss:What happens to business assets and property in divorceWhether keeping finances separate during marriage really protects an assetWhat to know about community property vs. separate propertyHow alimony, maintenance, or spousal support may be determinedWhether a salary increase can affect alimonyWhat to include in a divorce agreement if your ex may stop paying supportHow to think about custody, 50/50 parenting schedules, and parenting plan logisticsWhat a GAL (guardian ad litem) does in a divorce or custody caseHow to present concerns about the other parent without sounding reactiveWhether a spouse who moved out still has to help pay bills, utilities, or repairsWhat happens when an ex refuses to cooperate with the sale of the marital homeWhether retirement assets can be used to buy out a spouse’s share of the houseWhy having the right strategy with your attorney can save money and stressKey takeaways from this divorce Q&amp;ADivorce is rarely just about one issue. It is often a mix of legal questions, emotional stress, parenting concerns, and financial uncertainty all happening at once.In this episode, Morgan explains why it is so important to be proactive, not reactive during divorce. Whether you are dealing with custody, alimony, property division, a difficult ex, or a confusing settlement agreement, the more informed and prepared you are, the better decisions you can make.Andrea also shares an important reminder for anyone deep in divorce stress: sometimes you do not need to blow up your life or make a dramatic change. Sometimes you just need a break, a reset, and a strategy.If you’re struggling with divorce right now…This episode is for you if you are:feeling overwhelmed by the divorce processworried about making the wrong financial decisionconfused about custody or parenting issuesdealing with an uncooperative exunsure what questions to ask your lawyertrying to figure out what is actually worth fighting forBecause divorce is not one-size-fits-all. And sometimes the biggest source of anxiety is simply not having enough information.Mentioned in this episodeOur Family Wizard – a co-parenting communication app often respected by courtsThe How Not to Suck at Divorce private communityThe upcoming Divorce Crash Course, including guidance on how to communicate more effectively with your attorneyAbout How Not to Suck at DivorceIf you’re going through a divorce or thinking about divorce, this podcast is here to help you avoid major divorce mistakes and move through the process with more clarity, confidence, and support.Hosted by Morgan Stogsdill, head of family law at the largest family law firm in the country, and Andrea Rappaport, comedian and marketing expert, How Not to Suck at Divorce combines legal insight, real-life perspective, and humor to help make divorce feel a little less overwhelming.Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Divorce can feel overwhelming, lonely, and emotionally devastating. In fact, during the process it can feel like your entire life has fallen apart — like there’s no way things will ever feel normal again.But what if they do?In this mini episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Morgan shares a real story about a client who struggled deeply during his divorce. At the time, he couldn’t imagine life without his marriage and could barely engage in the divorce process.Fast forward a few years, and his life looks completely different.This episode is a reminder that even when divorce feels impossible, there truly is light at the end of the tunnel.If you’re in the middle of divorce, newly divorced, or feeling stuck in the emotional aftermath, this episode is for you.What We Discuss in This EpisodeWhy divorce can feel emotionally debilitatingThe intense fear, overwhelm, and uncertainty that come with ending a marriageA real-life story of a client who struggled deeply during divorceWhy some people shut down during the divorce processHow life can change dramatically in the years after divorceWhy time truly is one of the most powerful healing toolsHow small steps and mindset shifts help you move forwardThe Truth About Divorce That People Don’t Talk AboutDuring divorce, many people feel:Paralyzed by fearOverwhelmed by decisionsEmotionally exhaustedUnsure what life will look like nextIt’s completely normal.Divorce isn’t just legal paperwork or financial negotiations — it’s a major emotional and mental transition.But as Morgan explains, even clients who struggle the most during divorce often look back years later and realize something powerful:Life didn’t fall apart — it changed, and in many cases, it got better.If You're Going Through Divorce Right NowIf you’re listening and thinking:"That might happen for someone else, but not for me."Take a breath.The truth is that healing from divorce doesn’t happen overnight. Sometimes it happens slowly — one hour, one day, one step at a time.But you will not feel this way forever.RememberEven when divorce feels like the hardest thing you’ve ever gone through:You are still standing.You are still moving forward.And you will get through this.You’ve got this.And we’ve got you.Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

An affair can destroy your marriage — but it does not have to destroy your divorce strategy.In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, family law attorney Morgan Stogsdill and comedian Andrea Rappaport tackle one of the most emotionally explosive divorce triggers: infidelity. Joined by therapist and Now What? podcast host Amy Neufeld, we break down what betrayal does to your nervous system, why your brain goes into survival mode, and how that can lead to expensive, irreversible divorce mistakes.This episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.Check out the $50 Divorce Crash Course If you’re going through divorce after an affair, this conversation will help you understand what’s happening in your body and mind — and give you practical action steps so you can make smarter decisions around custody, finances, and communication.In this episode, we cover:Why an affair can’t destroy your divorce strategy unless you let emotions run the caseThe “Chad and Brenda” story: how revenge spending and legal warfare can implode the marital estateWhy infidelity is often attachment trauma (and why it feels like physical pain)What betrayal does to your brain: hypervigilance, panic, shutdown, and intrusive imagesThe 3 common responses to betrayal: attack, despair, or detachmentWhy anger can feel productive — but still cloud judgment during divorce negotiationsThe unpopular truth: divorce lawyers can fire clients, especially when trauma turns into sabotageHow to stop using the legal system for emotional relief (and why courts can’t “make it right”)Amy’s practical “Now What?” tools to stabilize after betrayal:Routine to rebuild predictabilityContain the pain so it doesn’t take over your entire daySeparate facts from your story to calm your nervous system and make clearer decisionsWhy “the story” can create collateral damage (friends, family, custody dynamics)Co-parenting boundaries: why tools like OurFamilyWizard can help reduce conflict and document patternsThe mic-drop takeaway: An affair is an event. The story you build around it can shape the next decade of your life.If you’re in the middle of divorce after cheating…This episode is for you if you’re:Struggling to eat, sleep, or think straightFeeling consumed by intrusive thoughts or mental imagesTorn between revenge and “doing the right thing”Afraid you’ll make a decision you’ll regret financially or with custodyTrying to co-parent while you’re still emotionally floodedAction Steps from this episodeBuild one predictable routine you can repeat dailyCreate a daily window to contain the pain (even 5 minutes counts)Write down what’s fact vs story so your brain stops spiralingAvoid processing betrayal in court — process it with a qualified trauma-trained therapistUse structured communication to protect yourself during co-parentingGuest: Amy Neufeld — Therapist, Founder of Intentional Action Therapy, Host of Now What?Website: amyneufeldtherapy.comPodcast: Now What? https://pod.link/1881151960Our Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

How do you know when it’s truly time to leave your marriage?In this mini episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport shares the deeply personal story of how she knew her marriage was over — and the warning signs she ignored long before she finally said the words, “I want a divorce.”Andrea talks openly about the quiet red flags that started as whispers, the gut feelings she tried to ignore, and the emotional toll of staying in a relationship that wasn’t healthy or sustainable. If you’re questioning your marriage, feeling lonely in your relationship, or wondering if divorce might be the right next step, this episode offers an honest and compassionate perspective.Sometimes the hardest part of divorce isn’t the legal process — it’s acknowledging what your heart has already been trying to tell you.This episode is about learning to listen to those whispers before they become screams.In This EpisodeAndrea shares:The early red flags she ignored while datingWhy unhealthy relationships can feel familiar and “normal”The emotional experience of living in a marriage that doesn’t feel rightWhat it feels like to avoid going home because the relationship feels so lonelyWhy many people stay in marriages long after they know something is wrongThe moment Andrea finally said “I want a divorce”Why gathering information about divorce can help you feel more empoweredThe importance of having a safe place to talk about what you're going throughIf You’re Wondering Whether It’s Time to Leave Your MarriageIf you're asking yourself questions like:Is my marriage over?Why do I feel so lonely in my relationship?How do I know when it's time to get divorced?What does it feel like when a marriage isn't working anymore?You are not alone. Many people experience the same doubts, fears, and emotional confusion before deciding to leave a marriage.This episode offers a reminder that listening to your instincts and seeking support can help you navigate one of the hardest decisions of your life.Resources MentionedIf you're thinking about divorce, these steps can help you start gathering information and support:Speak with a therapist or trusted professionalTalk to a divorce attorney to understand your optionsConnect with a supportive community of people going through similar experiencesContinue learning about the divorce process so you can make informed decisionsAbout the PodcastHow Not to Suck at Divorce is hosted by Morgan Stogsdill, head of family law at one of the largest family law firms in the country, and comedian Andrea Rappaport.Each episode helps people navigate divorce with expert guidance, honest conversations, and practical advice so you can avoid the biggest divorce mistakes.Divorce may be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone.Final ReminderDivorce is a marathon, not a sprint.Some days you need information.Other days you just need to feel seen and heard.And if you're listening to this episode and questioning your marriage, know this:You deserve happiness.And remember:You've got this… and we've got you.Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

If you think you’re messing up your divorce… relax.In this mini episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Morgan Stogsdill and Andrea Rappaport bring you a much-needed mental break with five outrageous, real-life divorce stories that prove one thing:No matter how chaotic your situation feels… someone is doing it worse.From a $15,000 bedazzled Buddha that cost double to fight over in court, to a couple who spent $100,000 litigating an ashtray (yes, really), to a husband who tried to avoid divorce by claiming he was technically a zombie — this episode highlights the wildest ways people derail their own divorce cases.Because here’s the truth: divorce is emotional, but court is not.And when pettiness, revenge, or ego drive decisions, the only real winner is the attorney bill.In This Episode, We Cover:Why fighting over sentimental items can cost more than they’re worthThe $100,000 ashtray case (and why judges lose patience)The legal consequences of “in-game crime” during divorceThe Beyoncé “To the Left” security system revenge momentThe infamous “zombie defense” divorce caseWhy judges see more chaos than you realizeHow not to let ego drive your legal strategyWhile this mini episode brings humor, the underlying message is serious:✔️ Petty fights cost real money✔️ Emotional reactions extend litigation✔️ Judges have seen everything — including wackadoo defenses✔️ Revenge may feel good, but it rarely plays well in court✔️ Strategy &gt; spectacleDivorce can feel overwhelming, nauseating, and heavy. Sometimes you need a break — and sometimes you need perspective.If you’re doggy-paddling through your divorce, consider this your reminder:You are not alone.You are not the most chaotic case in the courthouse.And you can absolutely get through this.Resources MentionedJoin our free, confidential divorce communityCheck out the updated Divorce Crash CourseExplore our downloadable divorce guidebooksOur Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Living with alcoholism can make you question everything—your judgment, your boundaries, even your reality. If you’re thinking about divorcing an alcoholic (or you’re not ready to leave yet, but you know something has to change), this episode is for you.Morgan Stogsdill and Andrea Rappaport sit down with Jeff Wright, an insurance brokerage founder and mentor who has helped countless people navigate toxic, alcohol-fueled relationships—shaped by his own childhood experience with an abusive alcoholic parent.Together, they unpack why leaving an alcoholic spouse can feel impossible (even when the situation is clearly unsafe), how trauma bonds keep people stuck, and what “self-preservation” really looks like when you’re trying to protect your children and your sanity.You’ll also learn the practical steps to take before you file: who to talk to (and who not to), how to make a plan quietly, how to build confidence when you feel shattered, and what legal tools can help keep kids safe—including monitoring options like Soberlink, testing, and supervised parenting time.If you’ve been surviving in chaos, consider this your permission slip to stop normalizing it—and start building a path out.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy living with an alcoholic partner can distort your reality and decision-makingThe real reasons people stay (hint: it’s often not money)What a trauma bond is and why “they hurt you, then hug you” feels like loveHow alcoholism impacts the drinker’s brain—and why denial can be extremeHow to assess your home environment: stress signals, kids’ behavior, and “waiting for them to come home” tensionWhat self-preservation actually means: privacy, planning, and choosing the right supportWhy your divorce attorney is not your therapist—and why you need bothConcrete action steps: quiet planning, go-bag/documents, separate accounts, and rebuilding confidenceLegal tools that can support safety for kids (monitoring/testing options and structured parenting arrangements)Episode Highlights / Timestamps00:00 The reality: alcoholism can make you question your judgment and reality00:57 Sponsor: OurFamilyWizard + discount code02:11 Who this episode is for (especially if you haven’t left yet)03:07 Meet Jeff Wright and why this is his mission06:07 Jeff’s childhood with an abusive alcoholic father (and lasting impact)08:17 Morgan explains why this becomes “normal” when you’re living it10:29 Why people don’t leave: kids, fear, finances, and responsibility12:25 The real trap: limiting beliefs and fear of what others think13:33 Trauma bonds explained in plain language15:33 Proving alcohol abuse legally + testing options18:04 Emotional detachment vs. physical leaving (why it’s the mind that keeps you stuck)20:15 A powerful self-check: what happens when the drinker isn’t home?22:07 Self-preservation #1: don’t tell the wrong people (privacy matters)26:03 Legal tools for safety: Soberlink, testing, supervision29:38 Unpopular truth: your attorney is not your therapist33:34 Jeff’s 3 action steps: plan quietly, keep promises to yourself, build confidence39:55 “Your gut has never lied to you.”41:10 Changing your role in the story—and protecting what your kids learn as “normal”Action Steps (Quick Takeaways)Make a plan quietly. Brick by brick—documents, accounts, go-bag, and a safe place to land.Talk to the right people only. Professionals bound by confidentiality (attorney/therapist), not the rumor mill.Build confidence with tiny wins. Keep promises to yourself—your nervous system needs proof you can trust you.Get the right team. Divorce strategy = attorney. Emotional survival = therapist.Pay attention to the whisper. The red flags don’t get quieter—they escalate.Get Jeff's ebook here: https://flinchnomore.com/Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck20Friends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Think emailing your divorce lawyer is the “cheapest” way to communicate? Think again.In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Morgan (yes, Morgan is solo because Andrea has the flu 😷) breaks down one of the most expensive mistakes people make during divorce: sending emotional, scattered emails instead of getting real strategy.Check out the $50 Divorce Crash Course This episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.We’re talking about when to email, when to call, when a face-to-face meeting is worth every penny, and how to show up prepared so you’re not paying for chaos. Plus: switching attorneys (when it’s time and when it’s not), pre-divorce “move smarter” tips, how to protect evidence, what to know about non-marital assets, beneficiary red flags, and why tax implications can become negotiation leverage.Bottom line: you need a plan—and you don’t get one by spiraling in your inbox.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy a phone call or face-to-face attorney meeting can be more cost-effective than emailsHow to stop reacting to your ex’s “urgent” messages and start operating with divorce strategyThe best way to prep for billable time: bullet points, goals, and an objectiveWhen it makes sense to consult another attorney (without immediately switching)What “collect evidence” actually means—and where to store it safelyWhy you should document what you entered the marriage with (non-marital assets)The red flag nobody thinks about: beneficiary changes during divorceHow divorce-related tax implications can become powerful negotiation pointsEpisode Highlights (Key Moments)00:00 Why face-to-face meetings can be more valuable (and cost-effective) than email01:15 Sponsor: OurFamilyWizard (co-parenting app / discount code)01:45 Morgan explains why Andrea is out + why this episode is a must-listen rerun03:48 The “nine emotional emails” problem—and what to do instead06:47 Secret #1: You don’t have to respond to everything on your ex’s timeline08:38 How to call your attorney with bullet points (and an objective)09:37 When a phone call isn’t enough and you need face-to-face strategy12:34 Secret #2: Move your body before you make decisions15:02 Secret #3: You can switch attorneys (but don’t do it while activated)20:38 Secret #4: Large purchases pre-filing (why timing matters)22:21 Secret #5: Collect evidence BEFORE it disappears25:44 Secret #6: Know what you came into the marriage with27:15 Secret #7: Watch for beneficiary changes28:35 Secret #8: Tax implications can be negotiation leverage40:09 Final takeaway: Divorce is a marathon—action steps matterThe 8 Best-Kept Secrets (Recap)You don’t have to respond immediately just because your ex demands it.Take a walk / move your body before making decisions.Phone calls or face-to-face meetings beat emotional emails (and can cost less).Consider timing for major purchases if divorce is imminent.Collect and store evidence safely (new email, new cloud, non-shared accounts).Document what you entered the marriage with (non-marital assets).Watch for beneficiary changes on insurance/retirement accounts.Understand tax implications—they can become negotiation points.Call to ActionNeed more support? Join our free community, grab our guides, and get the tools you need to make better decisions during divorce.And remember: You’ve got this… and we’ve got you.Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck20Friends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

If your ex is still controlling you and you keep reacting, explaining, or trying to keep the peace… you might be actively hurting your legal case without even realizing it.Because here’s the thing: divorce doesn’t cure controlling behavior—it often exposes it. And control doesn’t always look loud. Sometimes it looks “polite.” Sometimes it looks like silence. Sometimes it looks like a thousand tiny moments that make your stomach drop.This episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.Check the $50 Divorce Crash Course In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, attorney Morgan Stogsdill and comedian Andrea Rappaport break down what control looks like after separation, why it escalates, and the legal + emotional action steps to shut it down.And yes—there’s also a story involving a tambourine, a fire-lit “happiness class,” and a man casually threatening everyone with a tombstone. (Welcome to the show.)What You’ll Learn in This Episode✅ How control shows up during divorce (even when it’s not obvious)Morgan explains that control can look like:Financial control: “I’ll pay when I feel like it,” monitoring spending, moving goalpostsMicromanaging parenting and second-guessing everything you doWeaponized silence / delayed responses to make you spiralMaking you feel like you need permission for decisions you don’t need permission for“Polite” manipulation disguised as “concern for the kids”Why control often escalates after separationAndrea explains the psychology: when someone loses access and power, they often pull harder—because control is how they regulate their discomfort.The dangerous legal issue most people miss: “splitting”Morgan explains how controlling behavior can drive a wedge between you and your attorney—making you doubt your lawyer, hold back details, or get pulled into the ex’s narrative.That’s not just stressful. It can derail your strategy and cost you serious money.The communication trap that keeps you stuckIf your nervous system is hijacked every time they text you, you’ll default to the old pattern:ReactingOver-explainingTrying to smooth things overTrying to get them to “understand”Which gives them exactly what they want: access.The Tools That Help You Stop the Control1) Tighten the structure (legally + logistically)Morgan explains why vague agreements don’t work with controlling people.Example of vague: “reasonable communication.”Problem: “reasonable” becomes a playground for manipulation.2) Reduce accessBecause (say it with us): control fades when access fades.That may mean:limiting communicationusing a parenting appnot responding to baitpushing communication through proper channels3) Stop JADE-ingAndrea shares the acronym JADE:JustifyingArguingDefendingExplainingMore words = more oxygen = more control.4) Use BIF responsesMorgan shares BIF (from Bill Eddy):BriefInformativeFirmFriendlyThe goal is to respond in a way that doesn’t invite more conflict—and doesn’t make you look unhinged if things end up in court.5) Use OurFamilyWizard (especially for parenting conflict)Morgan explains why a co-parenting app helps:reduces accesscreates recordsprevents chaosprovides structure and timelinesEpisode Takeaways (Your “Do This Now” List)If your stomach drops when they text you, do this:Tell your attorney what’s happening (don’t be embarrassed—this is common)Ask your lawyer how to tighten the structure with clearer court ordersReduce access and stop responding to baitUse JADE + BIF for cleaner communicationIf parenting is involved, get on OurFamilyWizard and stop trying to “co-parent” when you need to parallel parentResources MentionedOurFamilyWizard (court-respected co-parenting communication app)BIF communication method by Bill EddyOur $20 communication guide (how to respond without feeding the chaos)Our free private community for support + questionsAbout the PodcastHow Not to Suck at Divorce is hosted by Morgan Stogsdill, head of family law at the largest family law firm in the country, and comedian/marketing expert Andrea Rappaport. We help you avoid major divorce mistakes with expert guidance—plus the humor and levity you need to survive it.On your worst days, you’ve got this… and we’ve got you.Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicago

Rushing a divorce can cost you money, leverage, and peace—especially if you’re dating, listening to family “advice,” or skipping the right experts. In this episode, Morgan Stogsdill and Andrea Rappaport break down the most common divorce regrets and the smart, strategic moves to avoid them.This episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.Check out the $50 Divorce Crash Course In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Morgan and Andrea unpack the most common divorce regrets they see over and over again: the ones that quietly cost you money, complicate custody, drag out the process, and make you look back thinking… why did I do that?Get real divorce advice your lawyer may be too polite to share. We break down unpopular divorce opinions and practical divorce tips that can save you thousands of dollars in legal fees, reduce stress, and help you avoid costly mistakes. How Not to Suck at Divorce is the divorce podcast for people who want clarity, strategy, and supportFrom rushing because you’ve moved on romantically, to letting your dad become your “legal strategist,” to skipping experts like OurFamilyWizard because you’re trying to save money—this is your highlight reel of what not to do (and what to do instead).And yes… Billy Bob Thornton and Angelina Jolie make an appearance. Because apparently six marriages is one way to earn a PhD in divorce.In this episode, we cover:The #1 regret: rushing your divorce and leaving money on the tableWhy “I want to be divorced by March” can backfire fastHow outdated financials and an old balance sheet can cost you thousandsWhy your new partner should not be part of the divorce “mischigas”The danger of letting family and friends influence legal decisionsHow well-meaning parents can accidentally run up your legal billWhen outside experts (forensic accountants, co-parenting tools, therapists) actually save you moneyWhy trying to “cheap out” can lead to a future court nightmareThe difference between fighting for what matters vs. fighting over balsamic vinegarHow to decide what’s worth it (and what’s just ego, fear, or control)Key Takeaways (Quick &amp; Skimmable)1) Don’t rush the process and leave money on the tableWhen you’re desperate to be done, you cut corners. That’s how people sign agreements with missing details, outdated account values, or unclear parenting language—then regret it later.Do this instead: Ask your attorney if your timeline is realistic, and if it is—map the steps from A to Z.2) Don’t bring your new relationship into your divorce chaosYour new person may mean well, but they are not your lawyer—and emotionally, it can start poisoning the relationship fast.Do this instead: Process the divorce with your therapist, your support system, and your attorney—not your new partner.3) Don’t let non-lawyers steer legal decisionsEven smart, loving parents can unintentionally derail the strategy—especially when they aren’t in the day-to-day “trenches” of your case.Do this instead: If a family member must join a call, keep it controlled: you’re present, they stay muted, and they ask questions at the end.4) Don’t skip tools and experts just to “save money”Skipping the right expert can create a bigger bill later—especially in co-parenting disputes, business valuations, and post-decree enforcement.Do this instead: If your attorney recommends something like OurFamilyWizard or a valuation expert, ask why—and seriously consider it.5) Don’t drag out your divorce fighting over small stuffThere’s a difference between protecting what matters and spending thousands to win a couch, condiment collection, or “principle.”Do this instead: Ask your attorney: Is this worth the cost to fight over?Action Steps (What to do today)Write down your goals: “What do I NEED vs. what do I WANT?”Ask your lawyer directly: “Am I rushing—and what could that cost me?”Update your financials before signing anything (especially account balances).Keep your support team clean: attorney + therapist + trusted friend (not your new partner).Stop paying legal fees for emotional processing—save that for therapy.Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

When your divorce is dragging because the other side won’t respond, it can feel like psychological warfare—especially when kids and money are on the line. In this episode, Morgan Stogsdill and Andrea Rappaport break down what’s actually happening when a divorce case stalls, how to tell the difference between normal delays and strategic stalling, and what to do next.You’ll learn the practical legal steps attorneys use to create structure—like mediation deadlines, motions to compel, subpoenas, depositions, and discovery strategies—plus the mindset shifts that keep you from spiraling and spending thousands of dollars reacting emotionally. Bottom line: when the time is right, get aggressive—because talk is cheap.Stalling is one of the most common (and most infuriating) divorce experiences, and it happens for a few big reasons:They don’t have their shit together (missing documents, incomplete financials, no affidavit, disorganized life)They think you’ll panic and settle cheap just to end the painIt’s a power play (silence = control, especially with high-conflict people)Their attorney is overwhelmed, under-resourced, or occasionally strategic (timing money events like bonuses, etc.)The good news: stalling isn’t a dead end. It’s a problem that can be solved with structure, strategy, and sometimes court pressure.The First Question to Ask Your LawyerBefore you go scorched earth, ask this exact question:“Is this delay normal… or is this strategic stalling?”Morgan explains that a good attorney can often tell you:whether the other lawyer is just chronically slow/unorganized, orwhether the other side is intentionally dragging things out to wear you down.These two scenarios require totally different responses.What Judges Respond To: Structure + DeadlinesStalled cases usually move when there’s something real on the calendar:court datesmotion hearingstrial datesmediations with firm deadlinesMorgan’s most practical advice:If nothing is moving, push for a trial date. Even if the first date doesn’t “stick,” a real end date creates pressure—and pressure creates movement.Action Steps: What You Can Do When the Other Side Won’t Respond1) Stop guessing. Get clarity.Tell your attorney you’re frustrated and ask:Is this normal?What’s the standard timeline in this jurisdiction?What steps do we take in order if they don’t comply?At what point do we file something?This helps you avoid spending money “going aggressive” too early… only for the judge to give them another two weeks anyway.2) Use mediation for structure (when appropriate)If both parties will participate, mediation can impose deadlines and create structure outside the court’s slow pacing.But if the other side is truly non-cooperative, Morgan’s blunt truth is:“The only road it all leads to is the courthouse.”3) File the motion when it mattersWhen someone repeatedly ignores deadlines, attorneys can file motions that force compliance (example: motion to compel for missing financials or discovery).Morgan’s mantra:“When the time is right, get aggressive. File that motion. Put your money where your mouth is—because talk is cheap.”4) Use discovery to shake them awakeDepending on your state/country, your attorney may be able to use tools like:Subpoenas (banks, employers, third parties)Requests to admit (miss the deadline → deemed admitted in some places)Depositions (sometimes the notice alone changes behavior)Other discovery strategies tailored to what the other side is hiding/protectingKey idea: if they think non-response prevents you from finding things, they’re wrong. You have legal tools.The Mindset Shift That Saves You ThousandsAndrea nails why stalling feels so brutal: silence makes our brain fill in the worst story.But spiraling leads to:emotional प्रतिक्रtionslate-night lawyer textsexpensive back-and-forthmore stress (and less strategy)Their advice:treat it like an office problem: warnings → structure → consequencesdon’t “manage” your ex—you can’tfocus on what you control: your strategy + your next moveUnpopular (but important) truth: Sometimes it’s your lawyer.Andrea and Morgan both acknowledge that sometimes the delay is happening because your attorney isn’t assertive enough.What to do:Tell your lawyer clearly what you expect and ask for a planIf it doesn’t improve, consider switching attorneys or adding support from someone else at the firmYou’re allowed to advocate for yourself.Key TakeawaysFind out if the delay is normal vs. strategicStructure moves stalled cases: deadlines, hearings, trial datesAggression works only when timed correctlyDiscovery tools can force the truth out (even when they stall)Don’t let silence bait you into expensive emotional reactionsSometimes the fix is a better plan—or a stronger attorneyWhat can I do if my spouse won’t respond in a divorce?Talk to your attorney about whether it’s normal delay or stalling. If it’s repeated, attorneys can use mediation deadlines, motions to compel, subpoenas, and setting court/trial dates to force progress.When should I file a motion in divorce?Not every delay requires court action. But repeated missed deadlines and noncompliance often require filing a motion—because court pressure creates structure.Can a divorce be delayed on purpose?Yes. Some people stall as a strategy to wear you down emotionally or financially, or to maintain control.What’s the best way to stop stalling tactics?Structure. Deadlines. And if necessary, court dates and motions.Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Find our playlists here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/podcastRate our podcast 5 stars here: www.ratethispodcast.com/notsuckInstagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

If you’re saying “my ex is a narcissist”… listen first.If you’ve spent more than five minutes on TikTok, Reddit, or Instagram, you’ve seen it everywhere: “My co-parent is a narcissist.” And we get why that label feels validating. It gives your pain a name.But here’s the problem: labels don’t carry weight in court — behavior does. And when you lead with a diagnosis you can’t prove, you risk looking reactive, emotional, or unreliable in the one place where credibility matters most.This episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.Check out the $50 Divorce Crash Couse In this episode, we’re joined by two powerhouse custody attorneys — Kristen Holstrom and Samantha McBride (the Custody Queens) — to explain what actually helps you win: specific facts, consistent documentation, strong boundaries, and a strategy that keeps you from getting pulled into emotional warfare.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy calling your ex a narcissist can backfire legally and emotionallyThe difference between traits vs. a true clinical diagnosis (and why it rarely shows up in court)What judges care about most in custody cases: co-parenting and facilitating the other parent’s relationshipHow to build a case using patterns, timelines, and evidenceWhy social media is forever (even if you delete it)How co-parenting apps like OurFamilyWizard can protect you and create documentation“Chess, not checkers”: how to stop reacting and start controlling your side of the streetWhy custody evaluations can go sideways when you show up with labels instead of factsKey Takeaways (AKA: The stuff that saves you money and sanity)1) Labels feel good. Evidence wins cases.Courts don’t decide custody based on “he’s a narcissist.” They decide based on what happened, how often, and how it impacts the children.2) Your credibility is everything.If you sound like you’re diagnosing your ex, you may unintentionally look like the unstable one — especially in high-stakes settings like custody evaluations.3) Social media can cost you custody time and settlement leverage.Posting, reposting, liking, or commenting on “narcissist” content can be used against you. Even deleted posts can come back via screenshots.4) Boundaries are strategy — not weakness.Tools like OurFamilyWizard don’t mean you failed. They mean you’re building guardrails and a paper trail.5) Power is preparation.When you’re organized, strategic, and documenting the right things, you get your power back.Action Steps (Do this after you finish the episode)Drop the label. Keep the facts.Replace “He’s a narcissist” with: “He missed 7 pickups in 30 days.”Build a timeline.Dates, times, missed exchanges, late pickups, medical info withheld, school info excluded.Get specific court orders.Vague orders create chaos. Specificity creates enforcement.Use a co-parenting app (OurFamilyWizard or similar).Keep communication child-focused and court-friendly.Stop feeding the fire on social media.No posting. No subtweeting. No “oops I deleted it.” None.Clean your side of the street.Judges watch who facilitates co-parenting — even with a difficult person.Timestamps (Key Moments)00:00 — “If you’re calling your ex a narcissist… that might hurt you.”01:03 — Meet the guests: Kristen Holstrom &amp; Samantha McBride (“Custody Queens”)02:17 — “Labels don’t carry weight; behavior does.”03:12 — Why “narcissist” and “parental alienation” can reduce credibility06:37 — What judges care about most in custody cases07:52 — “How many times have I seen a formal diagnosis? Zero.”09:45 — Why the “narcissist” label can be a compliment (and a distraction)10:02 — Why your therapist shouldn’t diagnose your ex12:29 — Social media: what happens when it gets used in court16:07 — Andrea’s confession: when your own texts become the problem18:14 — Likes and shares can derail settlement19:46 — “Party favors” story + chain-of-texts problem22:26 — You’re divorcing them… but you’re still co-parenting26:45 — Custody evaluations: how labels can flip the spotlight onto you29:07 — The right way to present problems: evidence, examples, documentation35:32 — OurFamilyWizard: why it protects BOTH parents37:21 — “Legal strategy replaces emotional storytelling.”39:14 — “Power is preparation.”40:04 — Rapid-fire recap: the one thing each guest wants you to remember48:05 — Final takeaway: courts respond to facts, not labels50:18 — You’re going to be okay — minute by minute if neededAbout Our Guests: The Custody QueensKristen A. Holstrom, CFLS and Samantha McBride, CFLS are managing partners of Custody Queens, focused on high-conflict, complex custody cases. They also host podcasts Custody Queens On Air and CQ Off the Clock, and share custody and co-parenting education across social platforms. https://custodyqueens.com/Follow them:Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

One minute you feel strong, clear-headed, and relieved… and the next you’re sobbing in your car wondering if you just destroyed your life. If you feel emotionally unrecognizable during divorce, you are not alone—and you’re not “doing it wrong.”In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, attorney Morgan Stogsdill and comedian/marketing guru Andrea Rappaport break down the emotional rollercoaster of divorce—why it happens, why it’s normal, and how letting emotions drive decisions can create legal and financial consequences you can’t unwind.You’ll learn how to adopt emotional neutrality (without becoming emotionless), why realistic expectations protect your sanity, and the exact do’s and don’ts that help you stay grounded—especially when kids and co-parenting are involved.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy divorce triggers “emotional whiplash” (relief, guilt, rage, panic, regret—sometimes all at once)The difference between feelings vs. facts in divorce decision-makingWhy emotional highs aren’t the problem—expectations areWhy emotional lows don’t mean you’re making the wrong choiceWhat “emotional neutrality” actually means (and why it’s self-preservation)How to ask your attorney for realistic expectations and a Plan BThe biggest mistakes people make when they’re activated (and how to avoid them)Practical ways to regulate your nervous system and get off the rollercoaster(Practical Action Steps)If you’re in the early stages of divorce—or you’re already activated—here’s what Andrea and Morgan want you to do:✅ 1) Adopt emotional neutrality“That meeting went well. Okay.”“That meeting didn’t go well. Okay.” Neutrality is not numbness. It means your feelings are not in charge.✅ 2) Ask for realistic expectations (every time)When something goes well, ask your attorney:“What’s a realistic expectation from here?”“What if this strategy doesn’t work—what’s our Plan B?”✅ 3) Don’t make permanent decisions in temporary emotional statesMorgan’s legal rule: if you’re activated, you pause—not react.✅ 4) Stabilize with routinePredictable routines regulate your nervous system when your life feels unpredictable.✅ 5) Write it down—don’t reactJournal the emotion, then bring it to your therapist (not your attorney). Your attorney is your legal guide—not your emotional support system.✅ 6) Choose ONE safe personAvoid oversharing with people who escalate you (you know who you are, “Tina from the bar” 😅).✅ 7) Use tools that reduce conflictConsider structured communication support through a court-respected co-parenting app like OurFamilyWizard.What Not to Do (This Can Hurt Your Case)Don’t threaten your spouse (ever)Don’t overshare with people who escalate youDon’t send your attorney a midnight novel (it’s expensive and rarely helps your case)Don’t treat one good meeting/email like it means the whole divorce will be easyDon’t catastrophize one bad development into “I ruined my life”Mentioned in This EpisodeOurFamilyWizard (co-parenting communication app) Save 20%: ourfamilywizard.com/not suck 20 (as stated in the episode)Quote-Worthy Moments“Divorce doesn’t bring one emotion. It brings all of them.”“The high isn’t the problem—expectations are.”“Emotional neutrality is self-preservation.”“The law operates on facts, not your feelings.”“The goal isn’t to stop your emotions—it’s to stop letting your emotions drive decisions.”Who This Episode Is ForThis episode is for you if:You’re newly separated or just starting the divorce processYou feel emotionally unrecognizable (high highs + low lows)You’re scared you’re making the wrong decision because you feel unstableYou want practical tools to stay calm and protect your caseYou’re co-parenting or worried about how divorce impacts your kidsDisclaimerThis podcast is for educational and informational purposes and does not provide legal advice. Always consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction regarding your specific situation.Find our playlists here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/podcastRate our podcast 5 stars here: www.ratethispodcast.com/notsuckOur Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicago

If you haven’t filed for divorce yet but you’re spiraling, crying, rage-texting, and panic Googling how to leave your spouse...this episode is your pre-divorce game plan.Andrea walks you through the “invisible work” that protects you before you file: creating a private email, organizing finances, understanding monthly expenses, regulating emotions, interviewing attorneys strategically, protecting kids from adult stress, and avoiding common mistakes that can cost you money (and peace).This is not about being sneaky—it’s about being smart.Check the $50 Divorce Crash CourseThis episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.Key Topics CoveredWhat to do before you file for divorceHow to create a private email and start organizing information safelyThe pre-divorce financial lists you need (accounts, debts, passwords, credit score)Why tracking monthly expenses now saves you later (hello, financial affidavits)How to stay emotionally neutral and avoid the “high-high / low-low” spiralHow to interview attorneys and choose the right “business partner”What NOT to do before filing (spending changes, threats, escalating conflict)How to protect your kids (routines, boundaries, therapy support)Bonus: writing down your “why” and what you want on the other sidePractical Pre-Divorce Action Steps (Checklist)Do these before you file:Create a new private email address (separate from anything your spouse can access).Start a Google Doc/Sheet to track:All known accounts (banking, retirement, investments, credit cards, loans)Unknowns you need to identify (accounts you suspect exist, balances you don’t know)Passwords/access issuesPull your credit score and document it.List all monthly expenses (mortgage/rent, utilities, insurance, subscriptions, kids’ expenses, activities, childcare).Interview at least 3 attorneys before hiring—choose strategy, not vibes.Keep household routines stable (especially if you have kids).Don’t threaten, don’t escalate, and don’t make sudden spending changes.Get a hobby/outlet (something healthy + consistent).Consider lining up a therapist for your kids if you expect the process to hit them hard.Write down your why: what you want, what you’re not getting, and your vision for the future.Notable Quotes“This is not being sneaky—this is being smart.”“Divorce is a business. Marriage is a business. Being in love is not.”“Don’t be like me. I left a lot of f*cking money on the table.”“You’re not hiring a best friend. You’re hiring a business partner.”Who This Episode Is ForAnyone thinking about divorce but not ready to fileAnyone feeling overwhelmed, panicked, or emotionally activatedAnyone worried about money, kids, or choosing the right attorneyAnyone who wants a practical, step-by-step pre-divorce planDisclaimerThis podcast episode is for informational and educational purposes only and does not provide legal advice. Always consult an attorney in your jurisdiction for guidance on your specific situation.Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseFind our playlists here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/podcastRate our podcast 5 stars here: www.ratethispodcast.com/notsuckOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Join our private community on Facebook right hereInstagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Support and survival tools for one of the hardest days of divorce.“When the house is quiet, the feelings are loud.” If you’re facing Christmas (or any holiday) without your kids, this episode is your survival guide.This episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.Check out the $50 Divorce Crash Course Andrea Rappaport and Morgan Stogsdill talk about one of the most painful parts of divorce: the first (or early) holidays when your children are with the other parent. The anxiety can start days in advance, and the empty-house silence can feel unbearable — but Morgan reminds listeners that this is usually a moment in time, not a sign that you made the wrong decision about divorce.You’ll hear real, practical tools for getting through the day hour-by-hour (doggy paddling counts), what not to do when you’re spiraling, and why “effective support” matters. You’ll also get tips for keeping conversations with your kids positive, avoiding emotional landmines, and making a plan that helps you survive the holiday — without shame, stalking your ex, or numbing yourself into oblivion.In This Episode, We CoverWhy holidays without your kids after divorce can feel like a crisis momentHow to tell the difference between grief and a “divorce decision”Why “two truths can coexist” (you can be doing the right thing and it can hurt)The best coping strategies for surviving Christmas without your childrenWhat not to do: social media spirals, isolating, stalking your ex, emotional decisionsWhy moving your body helps your mind calm down (“an exhausted body is a calm mind”)How to use community support (even anonymously) when you feel aloneHow to talk to your kids without making them feel responsible for your emotionsCo-parenting communication tools (and why OurFamilyWizard helps when rules aren’t followed)Morgan’s “Chad” story: how making a plan helped a parent survive the first Christmas aloneWhy leaving the house is the #1 non-negotiable tool (even a drive-through counts)Key Takeaways1) This is normal — it doesn’t mean you’re weakAndrea says it best: no amount of self-care candles fixes the fact that your kids aren’t here. Missing your children doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re hurting.2) Don’t make big decisions in a holiday spiralMorgan sees clients question everything during the holidays — but she rarely sees people truly halt divorce because of it. These feelings are real, but they’re usually temporary.3) Doggy paddling is still progressYou don’t have to “thrive” today. You just have to get through it. Hour-by-hour is allowed.Holiday Survival Plan (From the Episode)Here’s your breakdown, straight from Morgan + Andrea:✅ 1. Move your body (or at least get moving)Walk outside if you canIf it’s cold: use a short YouTube workout videoIf you hate workouts: get in your car and go somewhere (Target counts)✅ 2. Get support — and help someone elseJoin the private community (anonymous if needed)Post what you’re doing to lift your spiritsAsk for support or distractions if you’re strugglingCompliment a stranger — small moments matter✅ 3. Do something with your handsClean. Organize. Junk drawer. Closet. Anything that creates:distractionaccomplishmenta tiny sense of control in a messy season✅ 4. Have a plan for the day (chunk it- hee hee "chunk" is such a funny word)Morning / midday / evening. Decide:where you’ll gowhat you’ll eatwhat you’ll watchwhat you’ll do when the feelings hit✅ 5. Keep kid conversations brief + positiveDon’t guilt your kids or make them feel responsible for your sadness. Have a “safe” positive story ready before you call.✅ Bonus idea: go to a movieIt’s a built-in time block, gets you out of the house, and gives your brain a break.What NOT To Do (Important)Don’t numb yourself into oblivion (alcohol, doom scrolling, dissociating)Don’t isolate all dayDon’t stalk your ex or interrogate your kidsDon’t make big legal/emotional decisions todayDon’t shame yourself for feeling sad or relievedIf you’re spiraling: stay off social mediaHere are some podcasts we love:Morgan's picks:NPR News Now (omg boring)Big Deal Andrea's picks:Crime JunkieAndrea's favorite YouTube workout channel-https://www.youtube.com/@MadFitJoin our private community here: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17bUX16Wvz/Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Why the holidays amplify doubts. What to do instead of panicking.If you're overwhelmed, exhausted, pretending you’re fine, or Googling “How to pretend I'm not miserable in my marriage and ruin Christmas?” this conversation is exactly what you need.Check out $50 Brand New Divorce Crash Course This episode is sponsored by Worthy: the smarter way to sell your jewelry. Get started by heading to Worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your item sells for more than $1,500.December hits differently when your marriage feels heavy. In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, Morgan and Andrea break down why the holidays can push you into emotional overdrive and why that does not automatically mean you need to file for divorce today. From understanding the difference between a crisis moment vs. a clarity moment, to learning the now-iconic Pantry Party Plan, this episode gives you practical strategies to stay grounded, calm, and emotionally safe during one of the most triggering months of the year.You’re Not Weak — You’re OverwhelmedAndrea and Morgan open the episode with a message so many listeners need to hear:You’re going to be okay.Holiday stress isn’t proof that your marriage suddenly collapsed — it’s proof that December is a pressure cooker.Friends. Traditions. Money. Kids. Expectations. Fake joy.Your nervous system is maxed out, and that’s normal.A crisis moment feels like:wanting to flee your househiding in the pantrycrying out of nowherefantasizing about driving away and not coming backpanic bubbling in your chestThese moments do NOT require divorce decisions.A clarity moment feels like:“Yep… this marriage still doesn’t feel right.”annoyance, sadness, or distancenoticing repeating patternscalm recognition of misalignmentClarity = informationCrisis = not the time to actThis distinction alone saves listeners from major mistakes.December will give you a moment where you need to step away — mentally or physically.Andrea introduces the Pantry Party Plan, a simple, strategic grounding tool to stop panic from running the show.Step 1: Set a timer.3 minutes → small wobble5–7 minutes → medium crisis10 minutes → major meltdown preventionStep 2: Exhale first.Panic makes it nearly impossible to breathe in.So start by pushing out all your air, then allow the inhale.Step 3: Add your mantra.Pick something that makes you laugh, relax, or feel powerful.Andrea’s?“Bitches ain’t shit.”Find one that works for YOU.🧘‍♀️ Why December Makes Everything Feel WorseMorgan breaks down the legal + emotional side:Emotional triggers:holiday traditions when you're unhappyforced family timepretending everything is fineloneliness in a room full of peopleconstant “countdown” messagingfinancial pressureLegal triggers:you feel like decisions MUST be made nowyou assume you need to file before year-endemotions wipe out logicReality:Unless you are in a dangerous or urgent situation, you do NOT need to make major legal moves in December.🗓 Give Every Big Feeling 24 HoursDecember creates urgency — emails scream “LAST DAY!” and everyone feels squeezed.But Morgan and Andrea give the rule:WAIT 24 HOURS before acting on heavy emotions.Your clarity returns when your nervous system stabilizes.🛑 This is NOT the Time for Legal ListsUnlike many episodes, this is NOT when you:list marital issueswrite notes for your attorneyplan financial strategymake decisions about filingThis is the month of survival, not productivity.Your only job: protect your head and heart.🎁 Why Gift-Giving Can Actually Be HealingAndrea shares how crafting a thoughtful teacher gift became an unexpected source of joy when nothing else felt good.For some people, creating something for someone else can momentarily relieve the emotional load.For others?Like Morgan?It’s stress-inducing.Pick the lane that helps YOU.📺 What to Watch When Holiday Movies Make You CryAvoid the emotional Hallmark specials.Andrea recommends lighter options — like Nailed It — to give your brain a break from holiday perfection and family-togetherness fantasy scenes.👥 You’re Not Alone — Join the HNTSAD Private CommunityIf you're feeling isolated, the private community offers:anonymitysupport from people who get itguidance from Morgan and Andreaa place to ask real questionsPlus: more tools on the website, including the Divorce Crash Course and other guides.Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicagoMentioned in this episode:Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.