The Divorce Planner

If you're a dad navigating divorce, you know the challenges are different than what most people talk about. How do you advocate for equal parenting time when the system feels stacked against fathers? What happens to your finances when you're the breadwinner? How do you create a parenting plan that works with demanding work obligations?In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Bill Farias, a family law attorney, for an honest conversation about the real hurdles fathers face during divorce—and we didn't hold back.Bill breaks down what dads actually need to know to protect their relationships with their children and their financial futures. We dive deep into the misconceptions that hurt fathers in divorce proceedings and the strategic moves that help level the playing field.What we cover:The biggest misconceptions about fathers going through divorce and how they hurt your caseHow to advocate for equal parenting time when you're fighting outdated assumptionsWhat breadwinning dads need to know about child support and alimony calculationsCreating a parenting plan that works with demanding work obligationsFinancial strategies to protect yourself while supporting your childrenLegal realities vs. what fathers assume about their rightsThe one piece of advice Bill wishes every dad could hear before starting the divorce processCommon mistakes fathers make that cost them time with their kidsIf you're a dad going through this—or you know someone who is—this episode will help you understand your rights and advocate effectively for yourself and your kids.Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be.The Divorce Planner podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.Podcast Original Music, Editing, and Mixing by: Benjamin Robinson

If you're experiencing brain fog, replaying painful conversations on an endless loop, or feeling like you can't think straight during your divorce, you're not imagining it—there's actual neuroscience behind what you're experiencing.In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Dr. Nicole A. Tetreault, a neuroscientist, for a fascinating conversation about what's really happening in your brain during divorce and, more importantly, what you can do to heal and rewire it.Dr. Nicole breaks down the science behind why everything feels harder right now—from making decisions to regulating your emotions to stopping negative thought loops—and explains how you can use neuroplasticity to literally rewire your brain for healing and growth.What we cover:What's actually happening in your brain during divorce (stress hormones, frontal cortex access, trauma response)Why you can't think clearly when you need to make major decisionsThe negative thought loop and how to break it using neuroscienceThe power of the pause and how deep breathing resets your nervous systemStress response patterns (fight, flight, freeze, fawn) and which one you default toNeuroplasticity explained and how you can actually rewire your brainHow to stop reacting to your ex by creating new neural pathwaysWhy midlife divorces happen and how they catalyze post-traumatic growthAvoiding toxic patterns when dating again by understanding your triggersOne thing you can do today to start healing your brain (writing down your intention)The role of gratitude in rewiring your thoughtsWhy you need support and how talking things through helps your brain healWhether you're in the middle of divorce feeling like you're losing it, or you're healing on the other side and want to avoid repeating patterns, this conversation provides science-backed strategies to help you understand what's happening and take control of your healing.Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be.The Divorce Planner podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.Podcast Original Music, Editing, and Mixing by: Benjamin Robinson

If you're a stay-at-home mom considering divorce and worried about your financial future, this episode is exactly what you need. In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Sharie Reyes Albers, a family law attorney from Virginia Family Law Center, for a crucial conversation about protecting your financial stability when you've been financially dependent during your marriage.Sharie breaks down the legal protections and strategies that stay-at-home moms often don't realize are available to them. We dive deep into practical steps you can take right now to safeguard your future and maximize your negotiating position.What we cover:Health insurance options post-divorce and how to maintain coverageFinancial protection strategies during the separation periodCritical documentation that impacts spousal support determinationsYour rights to remain in the family home with your childrenStrategic negotiation approaches when you've been out of the workforceUnderstanding your true value in the marriage partnershipSharie shared: "The financial power many stay-at-home moms bring to negotiations is often drastically undervalued - both by their spouses and sometimes even by their own legal representation."This conversation perfectly illustrates why I'm so passionate about helping people understand their rights and options before jumping into the legal process. When you know what protections are available and how to document your contributions, you can negotiate from a position of strength instead of fear.For more detailed guidance, check out my blog post "Complete Divorce Preparation Guide for Stay-at-Home Moms: Expert Tips": https://www.thedivorceplanner.net/post/complete-divorce-preparation-guide-for-stay-at-home-moms-2024-expert-tipsWant more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be.The Divorce Planner podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.Podcast Original Music, Editing, and Mixing by: Benjamin Robinson

Creating a parenting plan during divorce can feel overwhelming. You're trying to predict the future, protect your kids, and navigate legal requirements all while dealing with your own emotions about the end of your marriage. How do you create a plan comprehensive enough to anticipate challenges before they arise—from schedule changes to behavior concerns?In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Morgan Given, a Chicago-based family law attorney who specializes in helping parents understand the critical elements most people miss when creating parenting agreements that actually work.Morgan breaks down the legal language that prevents future conflicts and the specific provisions you need to include now to avoid costly modifications later. We dive deep into both the practical and sensitive aspects of parenting plans that many parents don't think about until problems arise.What we cover:Essential elements most parenting plans overlook and how to avoid those gapsHoliday and vacation scheduling that prevents disputes year after yearClear communication protocols between co-parents to minimize conflictSetting boundaries that protect your children's wellbeing during transitionsHow to address sensitive concerns like a spouse's alcohol use or behavior issuesHandling plan modifications as your kids grow and their needs changeLegal language that matters and why vague terms lead to future battlesBoth legal and emotional perspectives on creating sustainable agreementsWhether you're just starting the divorce process or need to modify an existing agreement, this conversation provides actionable strategies to help you build a parenting plan that protects your children and sets clear expectations for years to come.Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be.The Divorce Planner podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.Podcast Original Music, Editing, and Mixing by: Benjamin Robinson

If you're facing one of the hardest conversations you'll ever have—telling your spouse you want a divorce—this episode is exactly what you need. In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Kim Polinder, a relationship coach, for essential guidance on how to have this life-changing conversation with compassion, clarity, and control.Kim breaks down the practical and emotional aspects of "the talk"—from choosing the right timing and location to managing your spouse's unexpected reactions and protecting yourself emotionally. We dive deep into what actually works when you need to deliver difficult news with as much care as possible.What we cover:Choosing the right timing and why when you have this conversation matters as much as what you sayLocation strategy and why where you have the talk can escalate or defuse emotionsWhat to say and what not to say including specific phrases that workManaging unexpected reactions from shock and anger to denial and bargainingHow to stay grounded when emotions escalate (breathing techniques, mantras, grounding strategies)When to pause the conversation and give both of you space to processProtecting your kids and why the conversation with your spouse happens firstPlanning for immediately after including where you'll go and who you'll callWhat to do if you're still living together and how to create space in a shared homeWhether you've been planning this conversation for months or you're just starting to prepare, this episode provides the scripts, strategies, and emotional support you need to navigate one of life's most difficult moments.For detailed conversation scripts and preparation guidance, check out my blog post "How to Tell Your Spouse You Want a Divorce: A Compassionate Guide."Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be.The Divorce Planner podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.Podcast Original Music, Editing, and Mixing by: Benjamin Robinson

If you're navigating divorce and wondering what happens to your home or how you'll qualify for a mortgage on your own, this episode is exactly what you need. In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Tami Wollensak, a Certified Divorce Lending Professional (CDLP), for an essential conversation about protecting your real estate and mortgage interests during divorce.Most people don't realize there's a specialized professional who can prevent costly mortgage mistakes during divorce—and they wait until after their divorce is finalized to get mortgage guidance, which can be a huge financial mistake.Tami breaks down what a CDLP does, why timing matters more than you think, and how bringing this expert onto your divorce team early can save you from impossible mortgage situations written into your settlement agreement.What we cover:What a CDLP is and how they differ from regular mortgage professionalsThe biggest timing mistake people make with mortgage planning during divorceRealistic mortgage qualification assessments based on your post-divorce incomeCreative mortgage solutions specifically designed for divorce transitionsHow settlement language can make or break your future mortgage eligibilityStructuring support payments to maximize mortgage qualification benefitsCredit protection strategies during and after divorceWhen to bring a CDLP into your divorce team (hint: earlier than you think)As Tami powerfully explains: "The biggest mistake I see is people waiting until after their divorce is finalized to consult with a mortgage professional. Once the divorce decree is signed, you're legally bound to those terms—even if they create impossible mortgage situations."Whether you're hoping to keep the family home, planning to buy a new place, or refinancing to remove your ex-spouse, this conversation provides the specialized guidance you need to make informed decisions that actually work in the real world.Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be.The Divorce Planner podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.Podcast Original Music, Editing, and Mixing by: Benjamin Robinson

If you're navigating divorce and worried about protecting your financial future, you need to know about one of the most valuable professionals most people have never heard of: a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA).In today's episode, I'm sitting down with CDFA Josephti Cruz for a crucial conversation about when to bring financial expertise into your divorce process and what critical blind spots could cost you thousands.Most people think their divorce attorney handles all the financial aspects, but as Josephti reveals, your attorney isn't enough for comprehensive financial planning during divorce. A CDFA brings specialized expertise in analyzing the long-term financial implications of settlement offers that can make or break your post-divorce financial security.What we cover:What a CDFA does and how they differ from regular financial advisorsWhen to bring in a CDFA (hint: earlier than most people think)Common financial blind spots that cost divorcing people thousandsHow to protect retirement accounts during property divisionWhy your attorney alone isn't enough for financial planningLong-term wealth strategies beyond just settlement dayTax implications of different settlement structuresThe financial mistakes people make that haunt them for yearsWhether you're just beginning to consider divorce or actively negotiating your settlement, this episode provides essential financial guidance to help you make informed decisions that protect your wealth and create a solid foundation for your future.Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be.The Divorce Planner podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.Podcast Original Music, Editing, and Mixing by: Benjamin Robinson

If you're worried about how your children will handle going back and forth between two homes during or after divorce, this episode is exactly what you need. In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Fiona Kong, creator of the Home Sweet Homes Journal, for a practical conversation about making transitions easier for your kids—and for you.Fiona developed the Home Sweet Homes Journal from her own experience navigating co-parenting and realizing her children needed a better way to communicate their feelings and experiences across two households. We dive deep into how simple tools and intentional communication can help your children maintain stability and security during one of the biggest changes in their lives.What we cover:Techniques for maintaining stability during transitions between homesEffective communication strategies for keeping both parents involved in daily lifeCreating cohesive parenting plans that support consistency across householdsHow the Home Sweet Homes Journal works as a communication tool for kids and parentsPrioritizing your child's mental health during and after divorceCo-parenting with a united front even when you don't get along with your exAge-appropriate ways for children to express their feelings about the transitionsWhen you have the right tools and strategies, you can create a stable environment where your children feel secure and loved—even across two homes.Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be.The Divorce Planner podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.Podcast Original Music, Editing, and Mixing by: Benjamin Robinson

If you're at a point in your marriage where you're wondering when the right time is to meet with a divorce attorney, the answer is simple: now. If you're asking the question, you're already contemplating change—and this is your cue to start educating yourself about the road ahead.In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Dennis R. Vetrano Jr., a New York-based family law attorney and mediator, for a crucial conversation about preparing for attorney consultations and what to expect when you take that first step.Dennis shares invaluable insights into how to approach this pivotal transition from contemplation to action. We dive deep into the practical and emotional considerations you need to understand before starting the divorce process.What we cover:When to start meeting with attorneys and why earlier is better than you thinkWhat to consider when meeting with local family law attorneysHow to pick the right attorney for your specific situation (it's like finding the right bed in Goldilocks)Essential preparation before your first consultations to save time and moneyWhat to be mindful of BEFORE starting the divorce process including financial readiness and emotional considerationsDifferent legal routes (litigation, mediation, collaborative divorce) and how to chooseStrategic ways to save time and money during the divorce processHow to prepare for consultations so you get the most value from each meetingMeeting with a divorce attorney doesn't necessarily mean you're committing to divorce. It's about education and empowerment. Gathering information, understanding your rights, and preparing yourself mentally and financially are all part of laying the groundwork for whatever decision you make.Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be.The Divorce Planner podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.Podcast Original Music, Editing, and Mixing by: Benjamin Robinson

If you're navigating divorce with children, creating an effective parenting plan might be the most important document you'll ever write. But how do you create a plan that actually works in real life—especially if you're dealing with a high-conflict co-parent?In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Samantha Boss, a parenting plan expert and mediator who specializes in helping parents develop practical solutions that prioritize children's wellbeing while creating sustainable co-parenting relationships.Samantha breaks down the essential strategies for creating parenting plans that function in the real world, not just on paper. We dive deep into what needs to be addressed now to avoid conflicts later and how to become your own best advocate throughout the process.What we cover:Choosing the right attorney for parenting plan development and why this matters more than you thinkEssential elements every plan needs including schedules, communication protocols, and decision-making frameworksCommon mistakes like vague language that leads to conflict down the roadStrategies for high-conflict situations including detailed boundaries and neutral exchange locationsChild-centered considerations that go beyond legal requirementsAge-appropriate provisions that evolve as your children growConflict resolution mechanisms to handle disagreements without constant renegotiationThis conversation perfectly illustrates why I'm so passionate about helping parents prepare effectively before finalizing their divorce agreements. When you invest time upfront to create a detailed, functional parenting plan, you save countless hours of conflict later while protecting what matters most—your children's wellbeing.Whether you're just starting the divorce process or modifying an existing arrangement, this episode will help you create a framework that serves your children's needs and sets up a sustainable co-parenting relationship.Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be.The Divorce Planner podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.Podcast Original Music, Editing, and Mixing by: Benjamin Robinson

If you're stuck in the painful cycle of not knowing whether to stay in your marriage or leave, this episode is exactly what you need. In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Betsy Pake, a midlife change expert and host of "The Art of Living Big" podcast, for a transformative conversation about finding clarity when you're facing one of life's most difficult decisions.This isn't your typical "should I stay or should I go" advice. Betsy and I dive deep into why this particular decision feels so impossible and how the indecision itself takes a physical and emotional toll on your body and health.What we cover:The physical toll of indecision and how your body literally stores this stressDistinguishing authentic intuition from fear-based denial when making major decisionsBreaking free from others' expectations to hear your own inner wisdomThe mindset shift that helps move from paralysis to clarityWhy midlife divorce decisions involve unique considerationsA specific journaling exercise that consistently cuts through confusionEssential emotional preparation before consulting attorneysOne of the most powerful moments in our conversation is when Betsy explains how our bodies physically store the stress of indecision, creating symptoms we often misattribute to other causes. This insight alone could change how you approach your decision-making process.This conversation perfectly illustrates why I'm so passionate about addressing the emotional side of divorce alongside the practical preparation. Whether you ultimately decide to stay or leave, finding clarity through your own inner wisdom—not external pressure—is what empowers you to become your own best advocate.Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be.The Divorce Planner podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.Podcast Original Music, Editing, and Mixing by: Benjamin Robinson

In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Mindy Stern, an estate planning attorney, for a crucial conversation about protecting your financial future when everything in your life is changing. Mindy breaks down why divorce is a significant end that requires a fresh look at your entire universe of estate plans (will, trust, etc.). We dive deep into the practical steps you need to take and the common mistakes that could cost you dearly if you wait too long.What we cover:When to start the process and why timing is critical during divorceThe 4 biggest mistakes people make with estate planning during divorceKey documents to update including wills, trusts, and beneficiary designationsGuardianship decisions for minor children and why this can't waitPowers of attorney updates when your spouse can no longer make decisions for youTax implications you need to consider before making changesIf you're going through divorce, the idea of having to update your estate planning documents can make you feel like burying your head in the sand. Don't stress - this episode is exactly what you need to hear to motivate you to get it done.Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be.The Divorce Planner podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.Podcast Original Music, Editing, and Mixing by: Benjamin Robinson

If you're feeling completely drained and struggling to take care of yourself during divorce, this episode is exactly what you need. In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Jenny Jiles, a nutritionist and holistic wellness expert, for a practical conversation about maintaining your health when everything feels like it's falling apart.Jenny brings real-world strategies that don't require overhauls or expensive supplements. We dive deep into simple, actionable ways to support your body and mind during one of the most stressful times of your life.What we cover:Stress-busting nutrition strategies that actually workEnergy-boosting techniques you can do anywhereMindful eating hacks for when you're too overwhelmed to meal planSleep optimization tricks to help you rest when your mind is racingPractical self-care that fits into your chaotic scheduleThis conversation perfectly illustrates why I'm so passionate about addressing your physical well-being alongside the emotional and practical preparation for divorce. When you're taking care of your basic needs, you're better equipped to make smart decisions and advocate for yourself throughout the process.Episodes like this one help you make sure you don't lose yourself in the overwhelming process of divorce, so you can create the foundation for your best next chapter.Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be.The Divorce Planner podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.Podcast Original Music, Editing, and Mixing by: Benjamin Robinson

If you're considering divorce after 50 and feeling overwhelmed about your financial future, this episode is exactly what you need. In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Jorin Rubin, a Michigan-based family law attorney, for an essential conversation about navigating "gray divorce"—the fastest-growing divorce demographic today.Jorin breaks down the unique challenges that couples over 50 face when divorcing, from employment fears to complex retirement asset division. We dive deep into the financial strategies and legal considerations that can make or break your post-divorce security.What we cover:Social Security benefits after divorce and how to claim 50% of your ex-spouse's benefitsRetirement account division including 401(k)s, pensions, and the critical QDRO processEmployment challenges for those re-entering the workforce after decadesSpousal support considerations for long-term marriagesValuing complex assets like family businesses and protecting against future windfallsEstate planning updates you must make immediately after divorceTax implications of retirement withdrawals and settlement decisionsWhen you understand the unique financial landscape of divorce after 50, you can make strategic decisions during divorce that protect your future instead of reactive choices that could cost you decades of security.Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be.The Divorce Planner podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.Podcast Original Music, Editing, and Mixing by: Benjamin Robinson

If you're struggling to find your authentic voice and inner strength during divorce, this episode is exactly what you need. In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Ana del Castillo, an empowerment and "rightness" coach, for an inspiring conversation about navigating divorce while staying grounded in who you truly are.Ana specializes in helping individuals, particularly women, achieve what she calls "rightness"—an internal balance of vulnerability and strength, or as she beautifully puts it, "a soft belly and a strong spine." We dive deep into practical strategies for quieting the mental noise and self-doubt that can overwhelm you during this challenging time.What we cover:Building resilience by embracing your emotions without judgmentHealing activities like rage rooms, movement, and free dance to channel difficult feelingsTaking control of your narrative and creating an authentic life based on your valuesBuilding and asserting boundaries post-divorce, including learning to say "no"Small daily victories and why celebrating them matters during tough timesThis conversation perfectly illustrates why I'm so passionate about addressing the emotional side of divorce alongside the practical preparation. When you're grounded in your authenticity and have tools to process your emotions, you're better equipped to make smart decisions and advocate for yourself throughout the process.Episodes like this one help you tackle the emotional side of divorce, so you can navigate this transition with strength and create the foundation for your best next chapter.Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be.The Divorce Planner podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.Podcast Original Music, Editing, and Mixing by: Benjamin Robinson

If you're considering divorce but the thought of a long, drawn out court battle scares you, this episode is going to be a game-changer for you.I'm sitting down with Renee E. Turner, a family law attorney and collaborative divorce expert, who's here to break down an approach that could save you thousands of dollars while protecting your family's emotional well-being. Collaborative divorce isn't just about being "nice"—it's a strategic approach that often leads to better outcomes for everyone involved, especially your children.In our conversation, we cover:What collaborative divorce actually is (and what it isn't)Real cost comparisons between collaborative and traditional divorce approachesHow this process can protect your children and set up healthier co-parenting relationshipsWhether collaborative divorce is the right fit for your specific situationPractical steps to get started if you're interestedCommon myths that might be holding you backRenee's top tips for making the collaborative process successfulThis episode perfectly illustrates why I'm so passionate about exploring all your options before jumping into the legal process. Remember, there's that crucial step most people miss between considering divorce and meeting with an attorney: preparation. Understanding your options—including collaborative divorce—is part of preparing yourself to tackle both the emotional and business sides of divorce effectively.Whether you ultimately choose collaborative divorce or another path, this conversation will help you approach your situation with more knowledge and confidence. That's exactly what being your own best advocate looks like.Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be.The Divorce Planner podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.Podcast Original Music, Editing, and Mixing by: Benjamin Robinson

If you're struggling with emotional healing during or after divorce, this episode is exactly what you need. In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Joanna Nisioti, a divorce recovery coach, for a powerful conversation about reclaiming your strength when divorce leaves you feeling completely powerless.Joanna brings incredible insight into how to find yourself again when everything feels lost. We dive deep into practical strategies for moving beyond victim mentality and reconnecting with your inner strength.What we cover:Moving beyond victim mentality to reclaim your personal agencySetting effective boundaries with difficult exes (that actually work)Healing from divorce trauma without getting stuck in the painMaking sound decisions when emotions are overwhelmingFinding your authentic voice after years of silencing yourselfPractical tools for rebuilding your identity and confidenceThis conversation perfectly highlights why I'm so passionate about addressing the emotional side of divorce alongside the practical preparation. It allows you to jumpstart your healing journey while helping you reclaim your power during a time that can feel very uncertain. As Joanna powerfully shares: "Reclaiming your power isn't about controlling everything around you—it's about reconnecting with the inner strength that's always been there."Episodes like this one help you tackle both the emotional and business sides of divorce, so you can navigate this transition with strength and create the foundation for your best next chapter.Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be.The Divorce Planner podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.Podcast Original Music, Editing, and Mixing by: Benjamin Robinson

Hey there! In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Sharie Reyes Albers, a seasoned family law attorney from Virginia Family Law Center, for an incredibly valuable conversation about what you can really expect from the divorce process.If you're feeling overwhelmed about the legal side of divorce, this episode is exactly what you need. Sharie brings years of experience and breaks down the legal landscape in a way that's actually understandable. We dive deep into how proper preparation—both financial and emotional—can completely change your divorce experience.What we cover:Inside insights into how the legal process actually worksWhy financial planning is absolutely critical to your future outcomesPractical strategies you can implement right now to prepare effectivelyHow to navigate the emotional challenges while staying focused on your goalsThis conversation perfectly illustrates why I'm so passionate about preparation. When you walk into attorney consultations armed with organized documents, clear financial understanding, and realistic expectations, you save time, money, and stress while getting better results.Remember, there's a crucial step most people miss between considering divorce and meeting with an attorney: preparation. Episodes like this one help you tackle both the emotional and business sides of divorce early in the process, so you can make smart choices and get the outcome you want.Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be.The Divorce Planner podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.Podcast Original Music, Editing, and Mixing by: Benjamin Robinson

If you're considering divorce or your spouse just brought it up, you're probably feeling overwhelmed. There's a crucial step most people miss between identifying divorce as a possibility and meeting with an attorney: preparation.I'm Alex Beattie, a divorce prep coach who helps people navigate divorce with financial clarity and confidence. Drawing from my own experience and years as a divorce prep expert, I combine project management expertise with deep empathy to transform an overwhelming process into an opportunity for personal growth.Welcome to The Divorce Planner Podcast—your mini masterclass on navigating divorce. Each week, we'll have honest conversations with experts about both the emotional journey and practical decisions ahead, giving you actionable strategies to move forward.Divorce is hard, but preparing for one doesn't have to be.The Divorce Planner Podcast premieres Wednesday, January 7, 2026. Subscribe now so you don't miss the first episode!Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be.The Divorce Planner podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.Podcast Original Music, Editing, and Mixing by: Benjamin Robinson