The Joy! A.A.C.T.™

You're not a building that needs to be torn down to the foundation. You're already here, living and breathing. This is the stage where you take responsibility for your future without blaming yourself for your past. Learn how to stand on your story instead of staying stuck in it.

Acceptance isn’t about liking what happened — it’s about stopping the fight with reality.In this episode of The Joy! A.A.C.T.™ Podcast, Dr. Lisa Summerour explores Stage Seven of the Loss Cycle: Acceptance — the quiet, powerful moment when truth lands softly instead of violently.You’ll learn how acceptance shows up without drama, why emotional neutrality is a sign of healing (not numbness), and how letting go of resistance frees your energy for what’s next. Dr. Lisa walks you through reflection questions, closure rituals, and the subtle shifts that signal you’re no longer surviving — you’re stabilizing.This episode is about facing what was, reclaiming your inner calm, and creating closure without chasing it from anyone else.The Joy! A.A.C.T.™ Podcast provides coaching insight and educational content and is not a substitute for therapy or medical care. Dr. Lisa Summerour is a divorce recovery coach, not a licensed mental health or medical professional.

In this episode of The Joy! A.A.C.T.™ Podcast, Dr. Lisa guides you into the Testing stage of the Loss Cycle — the moment you start living again. Not by jumping into romance, forcing healing, or pretending you’re “over it”… but by experimenting, exploring, and allowing curiosity to lead you forward.This stage isn’t about perfection. It’s about movement. Small ones. Brave ones. Honest ones.You’ll learn how to step back into your life with intention — whether that means updating your résumé, joining a new group, taking yourself to lunch, or yes, even creating a dating profile… but this time with boundaries, clarity, and self-respect at the center.Testing isn’t about replacing anyone. It’s about rediscovering you.If you’re ready to try — gently, slowly, intentionally — this episode will meet you right where you are.

In this powerful episode of The Joy! A.A.C.T.™ Podcast, Dr. Lisa Summerour breaks down the least-discussed stage of the loss cycle: depression. With honesty, clarity, and compassion, she explains why depression during divorce is not a failure—it’s a natural, human response to loss.Drawing from her own journey and the teachings of Dr. Kübler-Ross, Dr. Lisa helps you understand the difference between grief-related depression and clinical depression, why emotions repeat in cycles, and why avoiding the sadness actually slows healing.You’ll hear practical tools to help you move through the heaviness—timed emotional processing, movement, grounding, connection, and simple self-care that keeps your mind and body supported.This episode gives language to what you’re feeling, anchors your experience in truth, and reminds you of this:You’re not broken. You’re grieving. And you’re going to make it through this.

Join Dr. Lisa Summerour in this week's episode of her series on The Loss Cycle, where she delves into the bargaining stage. Dr. Lisa discusses the emotional intensity and desperation that can accompany this phase, especially near the end or after the end of a relationship. Through personal anecdotes and expert insights, she explores how bargaining manifests, its impact on individuals, and the importance of recognizing and addressing it. She also provides practical steps to ground oneself in reality and move forward. This episode is a must-watch for anyone navigating the complexities of emotional loss and looking to rediscover their path to healing and growth.

In this episode, Dr. Lisa dives deep into the "Anger" stage of the Loss Cycle after divorce. Learn how to recognize, process, and transform anger into a tool for healing and self-discovery. Whether you’re navigating heartbreak or supporting someone who is, this episode is packed with insights, research, and practical exercises to help you reclaim your power.

In this episode, Dr. Lisa continues her series on the Loss Cycle, focusing on the stage of Denial after divorce. She shares personal stories, practical strategies, and powerful exercises to help you move from surviving to thriving.

In this episode, Dr. Lisa Summerour begins her series on the loss cycle by exploring shock—often the first overwhelming response to divorce or breakup. Drawing from personal experience, Dr. Lisa explains the physical and emotional symptoms of shock, including racing heartbeat, numbness, confusion, and the inability to process what's happening. She shares how shock is an automatic protective response your body uses when faced with something too devastating to handle all at once, and emphasizes that what you're feeling is completely normal. Learn practical tools like the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique to help you stay present during moments of panic, and discover why it's crucial not to make major decisions while in this state. Dr. Lisa reminds listeners that divorce ranks as the second most stressful life event, just behind the death of a spouse, and encourages self-compassion and grace during this difficult stage. Whether you're currently experiencing shock or reflecting on past feelings, this episode offers validation, understanding, and actionable strategies for navigating this challenging emotional terrain.

In this introductory episode of The Loss Cycle Series, Dr. Lisa Summerour challenges long-held beliefs about divorce, guilt, and self-worth. Through global perspectives, personal stories, and thought-provoking questions, she helps you reframe what divorce really means—and begin releasing the shame that’s been holding you back. It’s time to end the guilt, reclaim your joy, and embrace your next chapter with confidence.

In this episode, Dr. Lisa Summerour continues with Part 2 of her response to Kevin O'Leary's controversial take that marriage is primarily an economic union and divorce should be avoided at all costs.What You'll Learn:The hidden health costs of staying in an unhappy marriage (stroke risk, immune system impact, cognitive decline)What a 12-year Penn State study reveals about life satisfaction in unhappy marriages vs. after divorceHow high-conflict homes affect children's mental health and future relationshipsWhy the "staying for the kids" argument doesn't hold up according to researchThe double standard: Why failed entrepreneurs are celebrated while divorced people are stigmatizedKey Questions Explored:If you'd leave a business partner for embezzling, why stay with a spouse committing financial infidelity? If we celebrate entrepreneurs who try again and again, why stigmatize people with multiple marriages? What's the real ROI on doubled stroke risk, therapy for traumatized kids, and years of lost productivity?The Bottom Line: Divorce has financial costs, but staying in a dysfunctional marriage has health, emotional, and life-satisfaction costs that compound over years you can never get back.

In this two Part series, Dr. Lisa Summerour challenges Kevin O'Leary's view of marriage as an economic union, exploring the double standard between business and personal relationships. If you've ever felt shame or guilt about divorce, if you've been inclined to believe that having multiple divorces must mean something is "wrong with you," this episode is for you.

Are you navigating divorce or supporting someone who is? In this episode of The Joy Act, Dr. Lisa Summerour (breakup & divorce coach) sits down with financial expert Mary Julia Cordero to share empowering advice for women facing divorce.Discover why financial literacy is crucial, how to build the right support team, and the mindset shifts that lead to joy and stability after separation.In This Episode We Cover:✅ The 50/50 truth about finances and ownership in marriage (that no one tells you)✅ Why women's income often drops after divorce—and how to prepare✅ The importance of having both emotional AND financial support✅ How to move from surviving to thriving with Dr. Lisa's A.A.C.T.™ framework✅ When to start planning (even before you file)Whether you're considering divorce, in the middle of one, or rebuilding after separation, this conversation will help you take ownership, find support, and create a joyful new chapter.

In this episode of The Joy! A.A.C.T.™ Podcast, I reveal the hidden realities of financial abuse post-divorce and share practical steps to protect yourself and rebuild your life. Key Topics CoveredHow financial abuse continues after divorceTactics abusers use: child/spousal support, credit, employment, legal gamesEmotional and professional impactSteps to protect your assets and creditWhy documentation is crucialWhen to seek professional help

Are you navigating life after divorce and concerned about digital abuse or tech-based control from an ex? In this episode, Dr. Lisa Summerour dives deep into the realities of digital and technological abuse, sharing real stories, practical tips, and empowering advice to help you reclaim your digital safety and emotional freedom.

Leaving doesn’t always mean the abuse is over. In this episode of The Joy! A.A.C.T.™, Dr. Lisa Summerour shares how emotional and psychological abuse can continue long after separation or divorce — and what you can do to reclaim your peace.You’ll learn how to:Recognize ongoing emotional and psychological abuseProtect your emotional space and set healthy boundariesUse tools like journaling, therapy, and the A.A.C.T.™ framework to healReclaim your joy and freedom after divorce or breakup

In this episode of The Joy! A.A.C.T.™, Dr. Lisa Summerour sits down with trauma release coach Bi Aminah Opondo. Bi shares her courageous journey of surviving a 30-year marriage that ended when the emotional, physical, and spiritual abuse began. Be shares her life-changing decision to flee Kenya for Canada with her daughters. Together, they discuss the realities of leaving abusive relationships, the importance of planning and support, the challenges of healing, and how to find joy and purpose after trauma.Whether you’re seeking hope, guidance, or understanding, this conversation is a masterclass in resilience, empowerment, and the power of silent action. If you or someone you know is navigating a difficult relationship, this episode is a must-listen.

Sometimes the best way to understand why someone does what they do is to hear it straight from them. In this episode, I’m sharing a behind-the-scenes look at why I started podcasting about divorce coaching—and what I’ve learned along the way.If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to show up for women navigating divorce while balancing a career, or what drives me to keep these conversations going week after week, this one’s for you.

In this episode of The Joy! A.A.C.T.™, Dr. Lisa Summerour sits down with trauma-informed organizer and Certified Erotic Blueprint coach Colette Roy to explore how your physical environment reflects—and affects—your emotional state, especially after divorce.Colette shares her step-by-step approach to creating a home that feels like a safe, sensual sanctuary. You’ll learn how to identify emotional attachments to clutter, where to start when you feel overwhelmed, and how your space can either support or sabotage your healing. The conversation goes deeper than decluttering—touching on self-trust, identity, and even self-pleasure as a form of reclaiming joy.

In this episode of The Joy! A.A.C.T.™, Dr. Lisa Summerour, an accredited breakup and divorce coach, delves into the major reasons why people hesitate to ask for help during difficult times such as a breakup or divorce. Addressing perfectionism, fear of judgment, past disappointments, and the cultural belief in self-reliance, Dr. Summerour redefines asking for help as a sign of strength, maturity, and growth. She shares personal stories of realizing the importance of seeking support and provides actionable steps on how to effectively ask for help. Dr. Summerour encourages viewers to create a support network, emphasizing the transformative impact of community and professional guidance in moving from survival to thriving. This episode is designed to empower women to rediscover confidence and joy, ensuring that life's challenges become stepping stones to a joyful new beginning.

Are you ready to feel truly alive again after a breakup or divorce?In this transformative episode, Dr. Lisa Summerour sits down with Darshana Avila, Erotic Wholeness Guide and Somatic Sex Educator, to explore why erotic pleasure might matter more than you think in your healing journey after divorce. Discover how sensual healing can revive your spirit, rebuild your confidence, and reconnect you with a deeper, more attuned version of yourself.They dive into:💫 How to rediscover your sensual self after heartbreak💫 Practical exercises to awaken your body and senses💫 Why intimacy is about so much more than sex💫 Overcoming shame and guilt around pleasure💫 Cultivating self-trust, confidence, and embodiment for a fulfilling, joy-filled life

Join Dr. Lisa Summerour in this episode of The Joy! A.A.C.T.™ as she sits down with Krista Young, a former architect turned business coach, to explore the journey of overcoming divorce and discovering joy. Learn how Krista transformed her life, from battling alcoholism and a troubled marriage to finding her true calling in helping other women rebuild their lives and businesses. Hear inspiring stories, practical strategies, and the power of embracing autonomy and self-love.

In this episode of The Joy A.A.C.T.™, Dr. Lisa Summerour dives into the often-overlooked topic of insurance and its critical role post-divorce. Dr. Lisa shares personal anecdotes, discusses the necessity of various types of insurance like life, health, homeowner’s, and auto insurance, and emphasizes updating personal information and beneficiaries. She also highlights the importance of having a power of attorney and advanced healthcare directives, especially for elderly family members. Dr. Lisa provides actionable advice and encourages proactive steps to prevent financial pitfalls during life transitions.

In this powerful episode of The Joy! A.A.C.T.™, Dr. Lisa sits down with Staci A. Smith — a Hope Empowerment Coach, educator, and inspirational speaker who has conquered significant personal challenges including a kidney transplant and breast cancer. Together, they delve into the process of healing from trauma, especially after breakups or divorce. Staci shares her journey of overcoming identity loss, emotional fog, and finding her true self again. Discover insights into how emotional and mental health impacted her physical healing and learn practical steps to transition from merely surviving to thriving. This episode is a heartfelt conversation that provides a path to self-love, resilience, and hope for anyone looking to rebuild and reclaim their joy.

Join accredited breakup and divorce coach Dr. Lisa on 'The Joy! A.A.C.T.™' as she guides women through healing and transformation after a breakup or divorce. This episode focuses on the crucial step of setting boundaries with an ex. Dr. Lisa shares her personal story and introduces her A.A.C.T.™ framework—Accountability, Alignment, Communication, and Trust—to help establish and maintain healthy boundaries. Learn actionable steps to protect your peace, practice effective communication, and navigate complications like co-parenting. Discover the power of boundaries in reclaiming your life, and explore Dr. Lisa's masterclass '4 Essential Steps to Creating Joy After a Difficult Divorce' for deeper support. Subscribe for more insights and support on your journey to joy and healing.

Join Dr. Lisa, an accredited breakup and divorce coach, in this episode of The Joy Act podcast as she delves into the feelings of loneliness and anxiety that often accompany the end of relationships. Dr. Lisa explains the proprietary Joy A.A.C.T.™ framework, which stands for Accountability, Alignment, Communication, and Trust. Learn actionable steps to address and move through anxiety about being alone, understand the difference between feeling alone and feeling lonely, and discover how to rebuild your self-trust and sense of purpose. This episode is sponsored by Dr. Lisa's masterclass, '4 Essential Steps to Creating Joy After a Difficult Divorce.

Join Dr. Lisa, an accredited breakup and divorce coach, as she explores how to find joy after a divorce, with a particular focus on the nuances of maintaining relationships with adult children. Dr. Lisa discusses the importance of fostering independent relationships with each parent, handling situations when children pick sides, and essential steps to creating a joyful life post-divorce. Discover practical advice, emotional insights, and learn about her free masterclass, 'Four Essential Steps to Creating Joy After a Difficult Divorce,' and her book 'Divorce is Not a Destination.

In this episode of 'The Joy Act,' Dr. Lisa Summerour, an accredited breakup and divorce coach, explores the concept of 'friendly fire'—how ending a romantic relationship can impact friendships. Dr. Lisa delves into why some friendships dissolve post-breakup while others persist, providing insights from both sides: friends and the person going through the breakup. She outlines strategies to deal with friendship changes, how to rebuild and reframe relationships, and emphasizes accountability and communication. The episode also introduces Dr. Lisa’s free masterclass '4 Essential Steps to Creating Joy After a Difficult Divorce,' offering critical steps to overcome emotional challenges and foster joy beyond the breakup.

In this episode of The Joy! A.A.C.T™, Dr. Lisa Summerour, an accredited breakup and divorce coach, discusses the crucial role that family and friends play during a breakup, separation, or divorce. She shares personal experiences and insights on how loved ones can provide emotional support, reduce stress, and encourage growth. Dr. Summerour emphasizes the importance of asking for help, setting boundaries, and the healing power of connection. She also offers advice for family and friends on how to be present and supportive without overstepping. Tune in to learn essential steps for rebuilding joy and thriving after a difficult breakup.

Join Dr. Lisa, a breakup and divorce coach, as she delves into the anxiety and discomfort around being alone post-breakup or divorce. She addresses the common mistakes of dating too soon, not vetting potential partners, and staying in unfulfilling relationships to avoid loneliness. Dr. Lisa emphasizes the importance of connecting with oneself, discovering personal joys, and taking time to heal before pursuing new relationships. She offers practical advice on how to enjoy your own company and build a fulfilling life on your own terms. This episode is a must-watch for anyone struggling with post-relationship anxiety and seeking to rediscover their joy and purpose.

In this episode of The Joy! A.A.C.T., Dr. Lisa Summerour, your accredited breakup and divorce coach, explores the often-overlooked impact of divorce on your career. From lost productivity to emotional challenges, she shares practical strategies for navigating divorce at work without letting it define your career. Learn how to communicate effectively with HR and supervisors, set boundaries, create a support team, and regain confidence and control during this challenging time. Remember, divorce is not a destination—it’s a transition.🎥 Join Dr. Lisa’s free masterclass, 4 Essential Steps to Creating Joy After a Difficult Divorce: http://dr-lisa.life/JoyBeyondDivorce📖 Grab your copy of Divorce Is Not a Destination on Amazon: Amazon Link

In this episode of The Joy! A.A.C.T.™, Dr. Lisa explores the vital connection between sleep and stress, particularly for those navigating post-divorce life. Drawing from personal experiences and research, she highlights the importance of a good night's sleep, detailing how inadequate rest makes stress and emotional turmoil worse. Learn about REM sleep, its role in emotional healing, and practical strategies to improve your sleep quality. Dr. Lisa also introduces an easy to follow evening routine and discusses how to create a sleep-friendly environment to enhance your overall well-being. 🔗 FREE MASTERCLASS: 4 Essential Steps to Create Joy After a Difficult Divorce → dr-lisa.life/JoyAfterDivorce📖 Read the book: Divorce Is Not A Destination → order.divorceisnotadestination.com/Amazon order.divorceisnotadestination.com/barnesandnoble 

Your divorce or breakup doesn’t define you—but how you rebuild does. In this episode of The Joy! A.A.C.T.™ Podcast, Dr. Lisa Summerour, a Master Practitioner breakup and divorce coach, shares powerful insights on how to recognize and leverage your skills to regain your financial, emotional, and professional independence.Whether you’re navigating the loss of a marriage or even a career change (because, yes, job loss is its own kind of divorce), this conversation will help you take control, rediscover your strengths, and build a life beyond survival—one filled with confidence, purpose, and joy.You already have what it takes. Let’s unlock it together.📌 Join Dr. Lisa’s FREE masterclass: 4 Essential Steps to Create Joy After a Difficult Divorce → dr-lisa.life/JoyAfterDivorce📖 Read the book: Divorce Is Not A Destination → order.divorceisnotadestination.com/barnesandnoble🎧 Subscribe for more episodes on healing, rebuilding, and thriving!

Parenting through divorce or separation can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be that way with everything. In this episode of The Joy! A.A.C.T.™, Dr. Lisa Summerour, an Accredited Breakup and Divorce Coach, shares personal stories, practical advice, and essential tools to guide you through supporting your child as you navigate the changes together. From understanding their unique experiences to fostering healthy communication and support, this episode is packed with insights to empower parents and kids alike.

Welcome to The Joy! A.A.C.T., where we explore the transformative power of Accountability, Alignment, Communication, and Trust. In today’s episode, Dr. Lisa Summerour discusses the potential pitfalls of excessive positivity and the importance of staying true to your emotions during challenging times. Through personal anecdotes and practical tips, discover how to embrace positivity without invalidating your authentic experiences. This episode is perfect for anyone looking to process their emotions healthily while maintaining hope for the future.

In this episode Dr. Lisa Summerour discusses fire preparedness with actionable steps you can take today. From documenting your valuables to checking your home for fire hazards, learn how to protect what matters most. Tune in for practical advice and reflections on taking responsibility in uncertain times. You can't prevent certain things but there are things you can do to be better prepared.

In this New Year's episode, Dr. Lisa guides you through a transformative exercise to identify the people, spaces, and places that enhance your life—and those that don’t. With actionable tips and heartfelt examples, you’ll gain the tools to simplify, assess, and take charge of your journey toward joy and fulfillment. Start your year with intention and purpose!

In this episode of The Joy A.A.C.T., Dr. Lisa Summerour speaks directly to those navigating a difficult breakup or divorce. If you've always been the "strong one," receiving help might feel unfamiliar or uncomfortable. But what if receiving isn't a sign of weakness, but a gateway to deeper strength and connection?Listen as Dr. Lisa unpacks:Why it’s hard for us to ask for or accept help.How vulnerability builds resilience and community.Simple ways to practice receiving and let others in.This conversation is your invitation to embrace the art of receiving – a skill that w

🎙️ Episode Title: Honoring Your Values: Navigate Life with IntegrityHow do your values shape the decisions you make in your personal and professional life? In this episode, Dr. Lisa Summerour dives into the challenges and rewards of honoring your values. From communication breakdowns in relationships to standing up for integrity in the workplace, she shares real-life stories and practical strategies for staying true to what matters most.🎯 Key Takeaways:Define your core values and their role in your life.Recognize the signs of misalignment in relationships and work.Make decisions rooted in your values for greater peace and authenticity.Join us for this powerful conversation on living a values-driven life, even in the face of conflict or discomfort. Don’t miss out—tune in now!🔗 Subscribe and share with someone who needs this message!

In this episode, I'm introducing a new therapeutic concept I've developed called emotional brining™. Just as brining a duck draws out impurities while infusing flavor, emotional brining™ is about taking intentional time after a difficult relationship to detox from dysfunction while rediscovering your authentic self. From the inspiration that struck in my kitchen to practical applications in healing from toxic relationships, learn how this unique approach differs from simply 'taking time for yourself.' Whether you're a foodie who understands the power of a good brine, or someone seeking a fresh perspective on healing after a breakup, this episode offers a new recipe for emotional recovery.

Discover how to rebuild trust - especially self-trust - after divorce in this powerful final episode of our transformation series. Learn the Three Pillars of Self-Trust, explore post-traumatic growth, and master practical techniques for trusting your intuition. This episode provides actionable tools for your healing journey. Featured highlights: - Dr. Tara Swart's three-step intuition process - The connection between perfectionism and stagnation - Practical trust-building exercises - Essential wisdom about self-trust after betrayalWhether you're newly divorced or well along your healing path, this episode will help you transform trust from a wound into a superpower.

Master your dialogue game with Episode 3 of The Joy A.A.C.T.! Dr. Lisa shares powerful communication techniques through the lens of theater, helping you become the star of your own story. Learn how to express yourself assertively, listen actively, and deliver clear messages that transform your relationships. Perfect for anyone looking to improve their communication skills, especially during challenging life transitions.

In this powerful episode, Dr. Lisa Summerour guides you through the concept of Alignment after divorce. Discover how to reconnect with your core values, set meaningful objectives, and chart a new course for your life. Through practical exercises, visualization techniques, and real-world examples, you'll learn how to:Identify and embrace your evolving personal valuesCreate an actionable vision for your futureUncover your renewed sense of purposeDevelop daily practices for maintaining alignmentWhether you're newly divorced or well into your journey, this episode provides the tools you need to navigate your path forward with confidence and authenticity. Join Dr. Summerour as she shares powerful insights, including a personal story about vision boarding and practical strategies for sustainable personal growth.#TheJoyAACT #DivorceRecovery #PersonalGrowth #FindingJoy

In this origin story of our A.A.C.T. series, Dr. Lisa reveals how Accountability isn't just another self-help tool - it's your hidden superpower waiting to be unleashed. Discover how taking ownership of your 1% transforms you from feeling powerless to becoming the hero of your own story.Your Hero's Journey IncludesThe Origin Story: Why accountability is your gateway to personal powerYour Hero Training: The four powers of accountabilityPower #1: Assess - Your truth-seeking visionPower #2: Act with Intention - Your strategic strengthPower #3: Cultivate Growth Mindset - Your resilience shieldPower #4: Track Progress - Your victory sensor

The curtain rises on an exciting new chapter! Dr. Lisa returns with a show-stopping transformation as "Divorce is Not a Destination" evolves into "The Joy A.A.C.T." In this premiere episode, discover why this isn't just a rebranding – it's a powerful expansion that puts JOY center stage. Get ready to learn about the game-changing A.A.C.T. framework (Accountability, Alignment, Communication, and Trust) that will guide you not just through divorce, but toward a life filled with purpose and authenticity.