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, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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 works
• Why financial planning is absolutely critical to your future outcomes
• Practical strategies you can implement right now to prepare effectively
• How to navigate the emotional challenges while staying focused on your goals

This 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, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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 agency
• Setting effective boundaries with difficult exes (that actually work)
• Healing from divorce trauma without getting stuck in the pain
• Making sound decisions when emotions are overwhelming
• Finding your authentic voice after years of silencing yourself
• Practical tools for rebuilding your identity and confidence

This 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, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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 work
• Energy-boosting techniques you can do anywhere
• Mindful eating hacks for when you're too overwhelmed to meal plan
• Sleep optimization tricks to help you rest when your mind is racing
• Practical self-care that fits into your chaotic schedule

This 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, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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 benefits
• Retirement account division including 401(k)s, pensions, and the critical QDRO process
• Employment challenges for those re-entering the workforce after decades
• Spousal support considerations for long-term marriages
• Valuing complex assets like family businesses and protecting against future windfalls
• Estate planning updates you must make immediately after divorce
• Tax implications of retirement withdrawals and settlement decisions

When 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, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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 judgment
• Healing activities like rage rooms, movement, and free dance to channel difficult feelings
• Taking control of your narrative and creating an authentic life based on your values
• Building and asserting boundaries post-divorce, including learning to say "no"
• Small daily victories and why celebrating them matters during tough times

This 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, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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 approaches
• How this process can protect your children and set up healthier co-parenting relationships
• Whether collaborative divorce is the right fit for your specific situation
• Practical steps to get started if you're interested
• Common myths that might be holding you back
• Renee's top tips for making the collaborative process successful

This 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, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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 stress
• Distinguishing authentic intuition from fear-based denial when making major decisions
• Breaking free from others' expectations to hear your own inner wisdom
• The mindset shift that helps move from paralysis to clarity
• Why midlife divorce decisions involve unique considerations
• A specific journaling exercise that consistently cuts through confusion
• Essential emotional preparation before consulting attorneys

One 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, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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 divorce
• The 4 biggest mistakes people make with estate planning during divorce
• Key documents to update including wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations
• Guardianship decisions for minor children and why this can't wait
• Powers of attorney updates when your spouse can no longer make decisions for you
• Tax implications you need to consider before making changes

If 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, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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 think
• What to consider when meeting with local family law attorneys
• How 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 money
• What to be mindful of BEFORE starting the divorce process including financial readiness and emotional considerations
• Different legal routes (litigation, mediation, collaborative divorce) and how to choose
• Strategic ways to save time and money during the divorce process
• How to prepare for consultations so you get the most value from each meeting

Meeting 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, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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 think
• Essential elements every plan needs including schedules, communication protocols, and decision-making frameworks
• Common mistakes like vague language that leads to conflict down the road
• Strategies for high-conflict situations including detailed boundaries and neutral exchange locations
• Child-centered considerations that go beyond legal requirements
• Age-appropriate provisions that evolve as your children grow
• Conflict resolution mechanisms to handle disagreements without constant renegotiation

This 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, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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 homes
• Effective communication strategies for keeping both parents involved in daily life
• Creating cohesive parenting plans that support consistency across households
• How the Home Sweet Homes Journal works as a communication tool for kids and parents
• Prioritizing your child's mental health during and after divorce
• Co-parenting with a united front even when you don't get along with your ex
• Age-appropriate ways for children to express their feelings about the transitions

When 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, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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 advisors
• When to bring in a CDFA (hint: earlier than most people think)
• Common financial blind spots that cost divorcing people thousands
• How to protect retirement accounts during property division
• Why your attorney alone isn't enough for financial planning
• Long-term wealth strategies beyond just settlement day
• Tax implications of different settlement structures
• The financial mistakes people make that haunt them for years

Whether 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, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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 professionals
• The biggest timing mistake people make with mortgage planning during divorce
• Realistic mortgage qualification assessments based on your post-divorce income
• Creative mortgage solutions specifically designed for divorce transitions
• How settlement language can make or break your future mortgage eligibility
• Structuring support payments to maximize mortgage qualification benefits
• Credit protection strategies during and after divorce
• When 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, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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 say
• Location strategy and why where you have the talk can escalate or defuse emotions
• What to say and what not to say including specific phrases that work
• Managing unexpected reactions from shock and anger to denial and bargaining
• How to stay grounded when emotions escalate (breathing techniques, mantras, grounding strategies)
• When to pause the conversation and give both of you space to process
• Protecting your kids and why the conversation with your spouse happens first
• Planning for immediately after including where you'll go and who you'll call
• What to do if you're still living together and how to create space in a shared home

Whether 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, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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 gaps
• Holiday and vacation scheduling that prevents disputes year after year
• Clear communication protocols between co-parents to minimize conflict
• Setting boundaries that protect your children's wellbeing during transitions
• How to address sensitive concerns like a spouse's alcohol use or behavior issues
• Handling plan modifications as your kids grow and their needs change
• Legal language that matters and why vague terms lead to future battles
• Both legal and emotional perspectives on creating sustainable agreements

Whether 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, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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 coverage
• Financial protection strategies during the separation period
• Critical documentation that impacts spousal support determinations
• Your rights to remain in the family home with your children
• Strategic negotiation approaches when you've been out of the workforce
• Understanding your true value in the marriage partnership

Sharie 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-tips

Want more resources? Check out my blog, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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 decisions
• The negative thought loop and how to break it using neuroscience
• The power of the pause and how deep breathing resets your nervous system
• Stress response patterns (fight, flight, freeze, fawn) and which one you default to
• Neuroplasticity explained and how you can actually rewire your brain
• How to stop reacting to your ex by creating new neural pathways
• Why midlife divorces happen and how they catalyze post-traumatic growth
• Avoiding toxic patterns when dating again by understanding your triggers
• One thing you can do today to start healing your brain (writing down your intention)
• The role of gratitude in rewiring your thoughts
• Why you need support and how talking things through helps your brain heal

Whether 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, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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 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 case
• How to advocate for equal parenting time when you're fighting outdated assumptions
• What breadwinning dads need to know about child support and alimony calculations
• Creating a parenting plan that works with demanding work obligations
• Financial strategies to protect yourself while supporting your children
• Legal realities vs. what fathers assume about their rights
• The one piece of advice Bill wishes every dad could hear before starting the divorce process
• Common mistakes fathers make that cost them time with their kids

If 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, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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 co-parent with a toxic or high-conflict ex, you're not alone—and you're not crazy for finding it exhausting. In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Leah Marie Mazur, a certified divorce recovery coach and founder of Mindfully Ready, for a practical conversation about protecting your peace while co-parenting with someone who makes everything harder.

Leah specializes in helping single moms heal, set boundaries, and thrive after divorce, especially when dealing with difficult co-parents. We dive deep into the real strategies that actually work when you're dealing with someone who ignores boundaries, manipulates situations, or makes co-parenting feel impossible.

What we cover:

• How to identify if your ex is truly toxic vs. just difficult to deal with
• What "protecting your peace" actually means when you share kids with someone
• Setting and enforcing boundaries with someone who constantly ignores them
• Overcoming mom guilt when you need to put yourself first
• Handling parental manipulation and alienation tactics
• Minimizing contact while still effectively co-parenting
• Protecting your mental health from a draining co-parent relationship
• When to involve lawyers and how to document concerning behavior
• First steps to take when you feel completely overwhelmed
• Talking to your kids about the situation without causing harm

Whether you're navigating parallel parenting, dealing with high-conflict situations, or just trying to survive co-parenting with someone who turns everything into drama, this conversation offers real, actionable strategies that prioritize both your children's wellbeing and your own mental health.

Want more resources? Check out my blog, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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 suspect your spouse might be hiding money during divorce—or you're in a situation where they control all the finances—this episode is exactly what you need. In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Jennica Moore, a forensic accountant with over 10 years of specialized experience in fraud examination and family law matters, for a crucial conversation about finding hidden assets and protecting your financial future during divorce.

Jennica brings expert insight into the most common ways people hide money, the red flags to watch for, and what you can actually do to uncover hidden assets—even if you don't control the finances in your marriage.

What we cover:

• What a forensic accountant does during divorce and how they differ from regular accountants
• When to bring in a forensic accountant and whether your suspicions justify the cost
• Most common ways people hide money including cryptocurrency, offshore accounts, cash businesses, and underreported income
• Red flags to watch for before you even hire an expert
• What to do if your spouse controls all the finances and how to access information safely in a controlling situation
• What's actually traceable and the limits of forensic investigation
• Biggest financial mistakes people make once they know divorce is coming
• Legal consequences of hiding assets and how it impacts the divorce settlement
• First steps to take if you suspect hidden money but don't have proof
• Cost vs. benefit of forensic investigation and what you might uncover

Whether you're dealing with a business owner spouse, suspect hidden accounts, or just have a gut feeling something isn't right with the finances, this conversation provides expert guidance to help you protect your financial interests during divorce.

Want more resources? Check out my blog, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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 decision paralysis, overwhelmed by every choice you need to make during divorce, this episode is for you. Today I'm sharing one of my signature coaching frameworks: the 5-5-5 Rule.

When you're contemplating divorce or in the middle of one, every decision feels enormous. Should you file now or wait until after the holidays? Should you keep the house or sell it? Should you fight for the retirement accounts or let them go? Should you tell your spouse you want a divorce or stay married?

The weight of these decisions can freeze you. You overthink. You ask seventeen people for advice. And then you still don't do anything.

The 5-5-5 Rule helps you zoom out when you're stuck in the weeds. It's a simple but powerful framework that helps you figure out which decisions actually matter, and which ones are just emotional noise you need to let go of.

Whether you're contemplating divorce, actively going through it, or struggling to make post-divorce decisions, the 5-5-5 Rule will give you a clear lens for moving forward with confidence.

Want more resources? Check out my blog, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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've been wondering what divorce actually costs—and getting frustrated with vague "it depends" answers—this episode is exactly what you need. In today's episode, I welcome back Dennis R. Vetrano Jr., a New York-based family law attorney and mediator, for a straightforward conversation about the real costs of divorce.

We dive deep into the financial realities most people don't understand until they're already spending thousands more than they expected.

What we cover:

• What divorce actually costs including real ranges for different types of divorce
• Hidden fees that blindside people and catch them off guard
• Hourly rates vs. flat fees and which payment structure works best for your situation
• When you actually need expensive experts like forensic accountants or appraisers (and when you don't)
• The biggest money mistakes people make that cost them thousands
• How being organized saves you money with your attorney and mediator
• What to do if you can't afford divorce including resources and options
• Smart strategies to keep costs down without screwing yourself over in the settlement 

Whether you're just starting to consider divorce or actively going through the process, this conversation provides the practical financial information you need to make smart decisions about how you spend your money and protect your interests.

Want more resources? Check out my blog, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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

Here's something nobody tells you about divorce: the entire process is designed to pull you backward. Every negotiation is about what happened—who earned what, who did what wrong. You spend months, sometimes years, staring into the rearview mirror. And then suddenly it's over, and you're standing in a life you don't recognize, because you were so consumed by the past that you never stopped to build toward a future.

Here's what I learned during my own divorce: you can't build a future by only looking at the past.

So I did something that changed everything. I wrote a letter to myself from my future self. And then, with every decision I faced in the divorce process, I asked one question: does this get me closer to that future? That single shift—from looking backward to looking forward—kept me on track, helped me make smarter choices, and let me feel hopeful about my life on the other side.

In this episode, I'll walk you through how to write your own letter from your future self and use it as your compass through divorce. It's the same practice I shared on the Divorce and Beyond podcast, where it became their most downloaded episode of the year.

Whether you're contemplating divorce, deep in negotiations, or just tired of making decisions from a place of anger and fear, this episode will help you stop reacting and start building something specific, hopeful, and yours.

Want more resources? Check out my blog, grab my free "24 Questions to Ask A Divorce Attorney" guide, or sign up for my free 4-Email Divorce Prep Series for a step-by-step roadmap before you meet with an attorney. 

Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips.

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