We Chat Divorce Podcast

Many couples going through divorce say the same thing: “We’re amicable. We just want to get this done.” In this episode of Divorce Explored, a series within the We Chat Divorce podcast, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan unpack what amicable actually means—and why emotional calm is not the same as financial clarity. With California introducing a new joint divorce petition option in 2026, couples may be able to start the divorce process together with less initial friction. But as Karen and Catherine explain, this procedural change does not reduce the financial work required to reach a fair, sustainable settlement. This conversation breaks down the real differences between contested vs. uncontested divorce, the hidden costs of rushing to agreement, and the financial red flags that quietly turn “easy divorces” into expensive ones. If you’re considering an uncontested or joint filing—and want to stay amicable without sacrificing your financial future—this episode is essential listening. The difference between being emotionally amicable and financially transparent Why agreeing quickly can be more expensive than slowing down What California’s 2026 joint petition option actually changes—and what it doesn’t Common financial “agreement killers” in uncontested divorces Why keeping the house without a budget often backfires How missing documents, unclear income, or mixed business expenses derail settlements Why financial clarity can prevent conflict—not create it What it truly means to compare assets fairly (cash vs. retirement vs. property) Clarity is not conflict. Asking questions does not make a divorce adversarial—it makes it informed. Uncontested divorce still requires full financial discovery. Skipping this step creates costly mistakes. Joint petitions may lower emotional tension, but they don’t reduce financial responsibility. Rushing creates regret. Many uncontested divorces become contested after new information emerges. If you can’t explain your agreement in plain English, you’re not ready to sign it. You may need more structure and support if: You can’t access financial statements Income is variable, unclear, or disputed Business and personal spending are mixed New debt or unexplained transfers appear One spouse is afraid to ask financial questions The plan relies on “it will all work out” At My Divorce Solution, we help individuals and couples get financially organized before legal negotiations begin—so decisions are based on verified data, realistic budgets, and long-term stability. Our MDS Financial Portrait™ helps clients: Organize and verify financial documents Understand true cash flow and post-divorce budgets Model settlement scenarios before committing Avoid expensive renegotiations and legal waste Learn more at mydivorcesolution.com Considering an uncontested or amicable divorce Curious about California’s 2026 joint petition option Afraid of making a financial mistake you can’t undo Trying to stay cooperative without giving away too much Wanting clarity before talking to attorneys We Chat Divorce is the #1 podcast for financial divorce preparation, hosted by Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan—co-founders of My Divorce Solution. Each episode delivers honest, grounded conversations about the financial realities of divorce so listeners can move forward with confidence, not fear. Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode helped you. Clarity changes everything. What You’ll LearnKey TakeawaysFinancial Red Flags to Slow DownHow My Divorce Solution HelpsListen If You Are:About the Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When people hear “forensic accountant” during divorce, expectations run high. Many assume it means hidden money will automatically be uncovered or that every financial mystery will be solved. The reality is more nuanced—and far more strategic. In this episode, we sit down with Sara Nanchanatt, founder of SN Forensics, to demystify what forensic accounting actually does in divorce, when it’s worth the investment, and when it’s not. Sara brings clarity to one of the most misunderstood (and expensive) parts of the divorce process—helping listeners understand how to make informed, cost-effective decisions instead of emotionally driven ones. This conversation is especially important if you’re navigating a divorce involving business ownership, complex finances, cash-based income, or concerns about missing information. What We Cover in This Episode What a forensic accountant really does in divorce—and what they can’t do Why not every divorce requires forensic accounting How attorneys often default to “we need a forensic” (and why that matters) When business valuations make financial sense—and when they don’t The red flags forensic accountants actually look for Why “cash businesses” and “hidden assets” aren’t always traceable The difference between consulting, expert witness, and rebuttal roles How limited-scope forensic work can save thousands What questions to ask before hiring a forensic accountant How preparation and document review can prevent wasted legal and expert fees Key Takeaways for Listeners ✔️ Forensic accounting is a tool, not a guarantee ✔️ Spending money without a clear scope often leads to frustration and disappointment ✔️ The goal isn’t to “prove wrongdoing”—it’s to understand the numbers well enough to make informed decisions ✔️ Preparation before engaging experts can dramatically reduce costs ✔️ A strong divorce team communicates clearly and works collaboratively Why This Conversation Matters Divorce already brings emotional overload. Adding unnecessary experts—without understanding the likely outcome—can escalate costs and stress without improving results. This episode reinforces a core MDS belief: Fear is expensive. Clarity is not. Understanding when forensic accounting adds value—and when it doesn’t—puts control back where it belongs: with you. About Our Guest Sara Nanchanatt is a forensic accountant and business valuation expert with experience spanning Charles River Associates, FINRA, and complex financial investigations across multiple industries. Through SN Forensics, she works with individuals and divorce teams to uncover financial truth while prioritizing efficiency, transparency, and realistic outcomes. 🔗 Learn more: https://www.snforensics.com (Free consultations available when referred through My Divorce Solution) About My Divorce Solution At My Divorce Solution, we help individuals prepare financially before decisions are made—so strategy replaces reaction. Our Financial Portrait™ gives you verified numbers, clarity around your marital estate, and a roadmap for negotiation that saves time, money, and emotional energy. Take the Free Divorce Financial Assessment Join the MDS Community for expert guidance and live Q&A Listen to more episodes of We Chat Divorce Questions or topic requests? Email: wechat@ck11.net 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode with someone who needs clarity💬 Remember: You don’t have to decide everything today. You’re allowed to gather information first. Protect your peace. Let knowledge be your power. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew, Legal Liaison, and Catherine Shanahan, CDFA®, sit down with Jody Bruns, founder of the Certified Divorce Lending Professional (CDLP®) certification and the creator of the divorce mortgage planning profession. The conversation focuses on one of the most expensive and misunderstood parts of divorce: the marital home and the mortgage attached to it. With interest rates, refinancing challenges, and equity decisions shaping modern divorce settlements, this episode breaks down why housing decisions made without preparation often lead to permanent financial consequences. In This Episode, We Cover Why you cannot simply remove a spouse from a mortgage after divorce The difference between a traditional mortgage lender and a Certified Divorce Lending Professional (CDLP®) How refinancing really works — including escrow accounts, taxes, insurance, and closing costs Why alimony and child support payment structure matters for mortgage approval What lenders require to use support income for qualification The financial risks of keeping the house versus selling it How capital gains taxes and filing status changes impact long-term equity Why mortgage assumptions are complex, limited, and not guaranteed The dangers of quitclaim deeds and poorly written settlement language How title changes after divorce can expose homeowners to liens, probate issues, and loss of control Key Takeaway You may want to keep the house. You may even be able to afford it. That does not mean you can qualify to keep it — or that it’s the smartest financial decision. Without coordinated legal, financial, and mortgage planning, housing decisions in divorce often become the most costly mistakes people make. About Our Guest Jody Bruns has over 35 years of experience in mortgage and finance and is nationally recognized for her work at the intersection of divorce, real estate, and lending. Through her certification program and professional training, she helps divorcing homeowners and divorce professionals navigate housing decisions with clarity and strategy. 🔗 Websites DivorceLendingAssociation.com  /  JodyBruns.com  🔗 Social Instagram: @JodyBrunsOfficial LinkedIn: jodylbruns Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

AI can explain what a QDRO is — but it cannot protect your financial future. In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan break down why relying on AI for retirement division in divorce leads to costly, irreversible mistakes. They explain what QDROs actually do, what AI misses, and why verified plan rules, tax impact, and liquidity matter — especially in grey divorce. If retirement accounts are part of your divorce, this conversation will change how you approach every decision. MDS Financial Portrait™ Free MDS Community Source article: https://www.thestreet.com/retirement/gray-divorce-shifts-retirement-one-legal-document-saves-your-401k Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of We Chat Divorce, we sit down with Karen McMahon, high-conflict divorce strategist, certified divorce coach, and founder of Journey Beyond Divorce. Karen shares her deeply personal story of surviving a prolonged, high-conflict divorce—and how that experience became the foundation of her life’s work helping others navigate divorce with emotional clarity and confidence. Together, we explore what it really means to “keep your side of the street clean” during divorce, why reacting emotionally is one of the most expensive mistakes people make, and how staying calm, clear, and confident directly impacts both your legal outcomes and financial future. This episode is essential listening for anyone feeling overwhelmed, triggered, or stuck in defense mode during divorce—especially in high-conflict situations. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why high-conflict divorce often makes the calmer spouse look like the problem The true meaning of “keeping your side of the street clean” How emotional dysregulation leads to rushed, costly decisions Why mindset, emotional regulation, and boundaries are foundational—not optional How to pause before responding to texts, emails, or demands Why financial clarity and emotional clarity must work together How inner work protects your children and breaks generational cycles Why a strong settlement alone does not guarantee peace or freedom How to reclaim your confidence during—and after—divorce Resources Mentioned Journey Beyond Divorce Website: https://www.jbddivorcesupport.com Journey Beyond Divorce Podcast (425+ episodes) Rapid Relief Call with a Journey Beyond Divorce coach: https://www.rapidreliefcall.com At My Divorce Solution, we see this every day:People don’t make poor financial decisions because they’re irresponsible—they make them because they’re overwhelmed, reactive, and emotionally flooded. That’s why we believe divorce preparation must include both financial clarity and emotional grounding. When you understand your numbers and regulate your responses, you stop reacting—and start leading. If you’re navigating divorce and feel like you’re constantly on defense, you don’t need to decide everything today. Ready for Your Next Step? 👉 Start with clarity.👉 Get organized.👉 Protect your future. Visit MyDivorceSolution.com to learn how the MDS Financial Portrait™ helps you understand your full financial picture before decisions get expensive. And be sure to join the MDS Community—a safe, judgment-free space for trusted resources, expert guidance, and live support. About the Guest Karen McMahon is a high-conflict divorce strategist, certified divorce coach, and founder of Journey Beyond Divorce. She is also the host of the Journey Beyond Divorce podcast and co-author of Stepping Out of Chaos: Turning Pain into Possibility. Karen has supported thousands of individuals worldwide in navigating divorce with clarity, confidence, and personal growth—helping them move beyond survival mode and into empowered decision-making. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

High-conflict divorces thrive on chaos. In this episode of We Chat Divorce, hosts Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan sit down with divorce strategist and coach Courtney Harkness to explain why treating divorce like a business deal—not an emotional battleground—can dramatically shift power, protect assets, and preserve peace. Courtney, creator of the Divorce Is a Business Deal framework, shares how successful professionals can stop reacting and start leading their divorce with strategy. Drawing from her own experience co-founding a private-equity-backed company and navigating a high-conflict divorce, Courtney breaks down the three-phase approach she uses with clients: Stabilize, Strategize, Execute. You’ll learn why emotional stabilization must come first, especially when dealing with narcissistic or high-conflict spouses; how reacting fuels conflict and legal costs; and why “no sudden moves” is one of the most powerful rules in divorce. The conversation also explores why rushing to hire an attorney without financial clarity often escalates conflict—and how preparation saves time, money, and long-term regret. Karen and Catherine connect Courtney’s framework directly to the My Divorce Solution methodology, emphasizing the importance of verified financial data, lifestyle analysis, and scenario planning before negotiations begin. Together, they explain how clarity replaces fear, how strategy changes leverage, and why winning in divorce isn’t “beating” your spouse—it’s getting out with your future intact. Key Topics Covered: High-conflict divorce strategy Divorce and narcissistic dynamics Stabilize, Strategize, Execute framework Financial preparation before legal action Why reacting is costly—and preparation is powerful How to protect assets, peace, and decision-making capacity If you’re navigating a high-conflict or high-stakes divorce and feel stuck in reaction mode, this episode offers a grounded, strategic path forward. Next Steps: Start with clarity. Take the free Divorce Financial Assessment or learn more about the MDS Financial Portrait™ at MyDivorceSolution.com. Follow Courtney Harkness at DivorceStrategy.com and on Instagram @divorce.strategy. Protect your peace. Let knowledge be your power. divorce, high conflict divorce, narcissistic spouse, narcissist divorce, divorce strategy, divorce coach, divorce support, divorce advice, divorce tips, divorce planning, divorce preparation, divorce negotiation, divorce settlement, divorce mediation, divorce attorney, legal divorce advice, divorce financial planning, divorce finances, divorce money, financial clarity, CDFA, certified divorce financial analyst, marital assets, asset division, hidden assets, spousal support, alimony, child support, custody conflict, co-parenting with a narcissist, emotional abuse, financial abuse, trauma bond, stop reacting, no sudden moves, divorce is a business deal, business approach to divorce, leverage in divorce, protect your assets, protect your peace, women and divorce, men and divorce, high net worth divorce, complex divorce, divorce discovery, divorce documents, divorce checklist, we chat divorce, my divorce solution, karen chellew, catherine shanahan, courtney harkness, divorce strategy masterclass Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most people would never start a cross-country trip without a map — yet that’s exactly how divorce begins for millions of people every year. In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan break down the concept almost no one talks about early enough: the financial divorce roadmap. Divorce is not just emotional — it is one of the largest financial transactions most people will ever make. Without a clear financial roadmap, decisions get made from fear, pressure, and incomplete information — and those decisions can cost you tens of thousands of dollars over time. Karen and Catherine explain what a real financial roadmap looks like, how it reduces conflict and legal fees, and why clarity — not speed — leads to better outcomes. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, rushed, or pressured to “just get it done,” this episode will help you pause, regain control, and make decisions that actually protect your future. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why divorce requires a financial roadmap, not just legal steps The most common “detours” that quietly destroy long-term financial security Why settling before accounts are verified is one of the biggest mistakes people make How emotions like fear, guilt, and urgency drive bad financial decisions The difference between reacting and negotiating with confidence Why most divorce conflict is actually about uncertainty, not money How a roadmap allows you to pivot when things change — without panicking Key Takeaways Divorce without verified financial information is gambling with your future Legal progress does not equal financial protection A roadmap is a decision tool, not a spreadsheet Preparation reduces conflict, legal fees, and regret You have the right to pause when information is missing Red Flags You’re Divorcing Without a Map You’re negotiating without seeing full statements You’re keeping expensive assets without knowing the true monthly cost You’re relying on verbal numbers or assumptions You don’t know what you need to live each month Your plan is “I just hope this works out” At My Divorce Solution, we call this roadmap the MDS Financial Portrait™ — a verified, structured view of your full financial landscape before permanent decisions are made. Because fear is expensive. Clarity is not. This episode is educational only and does not provide legal or tax advice. Always consult your professional team for guidance specific to your situation. Start with clarity: take the free Divorce Financial Assessment Share this episode with someone who’s starting divorce without realizing they need a map Join the MDS Community for expert guidance and live Q&A support Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The holidays are supposed to be joyful — but when you’re navigating divorce, they can feel emotionally overwhelming, financially stressful, and deeply isolating. In this episode of Divorce Explored on the We Chat Divorce Podcast, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan have an honest, grounding conversation about how to survive the holiday season without falling apart — emotionally or financially. This is not a parenting episode. This is a human episode. Karen and Catherine normalize the reality that joy and grief often coexist during divorce — and explain why boundaries around money, time, energy, and expectations are essential right now. You’ll hear practical guidance, real personal stories, and clear permission to do the holidays differently this year. Why it’s normal to feel grateful and gutted at the same time How holiday expectations quietly increase financial stress during divorce The most important money boundaries to set before you say yes to anything Why “keeping up appearances” can cost you far more than you realize How to avoid holiday debt that follows you into January Thoughtful gift strategies that don’t require overspending Why co-parenting during the holidays is not a competition Time and energy boundaries that protect your nervous system How to say no — without guilt — to events that drain you Navigating the holidays with: Younger children, Adult children, or No children How forgiveness can be a gift to yourself, not a pass for others Why different holidays don’t mean bad holidays — just new ones How the financial and emotional choices you make in December show up in January You are not failing because the holidays feel heavy. Boundaries are not selfish — they protect your future and your stability. You don’t need to explain or defend your divorce to anyone. January will come, and preparation now creates confidence later. Choose one financial boundary and one emotional boundary to honor this season. Write them down. Keep them visible. That’s enough. At My Divorce Solution, we help you replace financial fear with clarity. Our process begins with a Lifestyle Analysis — real numbers, real insight, and a clear understanding of what you can afford before decisions are made. Learn how the MDS Financial Portrait™ gives you verified numbers, expert guidance, and a personalized roadmap to protect your financial future. 👉 Visit MyDivorceSolution.com We also invite you to join the MDS Community — a free, supportive space with live Q&As, expert guidance, and conversations with people who truly understand what you’re going through. You don’t have to do this alone. If this episode resonated with you, please like, follow, share, and leave a comment. Your experience may be exactly what someone else needs to hear. Take a breath. Protect your peace — and your wallet. Let knowledge be your power. In this episode, we cover:Key truths we want you to remember:Your simple holiday assignment:Need help navigating the financial side of divorce?Join the MDS Community Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Narcissistic partners don’t just manipulate emotions — they manipulate money, security, and your sense of stability. In divorce, that mix is dangerous: fear clouds judgment, and confusion gets expensive. In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew (Legal Liaison) and Catherine Shanahan (Certified Divorce Financial Analyst) sit down with Dr. Onalee, an expert in narcissistic relationship dynamics, to break down what actually helps you recover — emotionally and financially — when you’re dealing with gaslighting, coercion, and high-conflict behavior. You’ll learn Dr. Onalee’s DONE framework (a 4-step recovery process), why “trying to win” arguments backfires with narcissistic personalities, and how verified financial clarity becomes the backbone that helps you stop reacting and start leading. How narcissistic dynamics show up as financial control, dependency, and fear Why people stay: the real role of financial paralysis (even when there’s money) The love-bombing → withdrawal cycle and why it keeps people hooked The counterintuitive strategy that protects your peace: neutrality, not engagement Why you don’t need to prove, protect, or defend your story to “flying monkeys” A practical mindset shift for long marriages: you’re not “too late” — you’re waking up A crucial divorce truth: you may not need to defend yourself socially, but you do need to prove assets with documents What to do if you’re afraid to ask for financial records or worried your spouse will find out you’re preparing Why “lawyering up” too early can pour gasoline on the fire — and what to do first instead Dr. Onalee teaches a simple framework to move from stuck to stable: D — Decide you’re done O — Look at the origin (the wound/pattern being triggered) N — No more (boundaries + detachment from proving yourself) E — Enjoy your life (rebuild identity, peace, and future) If you’re dealing with a high-conflict, narcissistic-leaning spouse, clarity is your leverage. When you know the numbers and have documents to support them, you stop negotiating from fear — and start making decisions that protect your future. Dr. Onalee specializes in helping people recover from narcissistic relationship patterns, rebuild self-worth, and create healthier relationships after high-control dynamics. She’s also the host of Coming Home with Dr. Onalee. Find Dr. Onalee: Instagram: @Dr.Onalee In this episode, we cover:Dr. Onalee’s DONE Method (the 4 steps)Key takeawayAbout Dr. OnaleeYouTube/Podcast: Coming Home with Dr. Onalee Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen and Catherine sit down with Susan Guthrie—one of the nation’s leading family law attorneys, top divorce mediators, and a recent guest on the Oprah podcast—to break down the realities of navigating divorce in today’s turbulent economic climate. With inflation, job uncertainty, rising debt, and shrinking safety nets affecting families across the country, divorce has become more complicated, more expensive, and more emotionally overwhelming. Susan brings 35 years of experience to this conversation and explains why fear and confusion escalate when people attempt to negotiate or compromise without verified financial information. Together, Karen, Catherine, and Susan expose some of the biggest misconceptions surrounding mediation, financial disclosures, attorney roles, and the belief that a net-worth statement or Excel spreadsheet is “good enough.” They outline the critical need for accurate, neutral financial clarity—something the MDS Financial Portrait™ uniquely provides—to prevent stalled negotiations, runaway legal fees, and emotionally driven decisions that people regret later. Whether you’re considering divorce, preparing for mediation, or already working with an attorney, this conversation offers the actionable guidance needed to move forward with confidence, strategy, and peace of mind. Connect with Susan Guthrie Explore her podcast and resources: DivorceAndBeyondPod.com Use her new AI-powered episode search tool to find topics like alimony, gray divorce, co-parenting, and more. Resources Mentioned MDS Financial Portrait™⁠ — the gold-standard tool for financial clarity in divorce Free Financial Assessment — learn where you stand and what steps make sense MDS Community — expert-led Live Q&A events and support Ready to Take the Next Step? Whether you're just beginning the divorce process or have been stuck in uncertainty for years, financial clarity is your strongest advantage. Start with the Free Financial Assessment, explore the Divorce Financial Portrait™, and step into mediation or legal discussions with confidence—not fear. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan sit down with high-conflict divorce coach and post-separation abuse strategist Jackie Miller to talk about what it really looks like to divorce a narcissist, survive Crazy Town, and protect yourself from financial abuse during and after divorce. Jackie shares her story of a 16+ year emotionally and financially abusive marriage, how post-separation abuse showed up through the legal and court system, and why so many smart, successful women still feel “crazy” and powerless when trying to leave a controlling or narcissistic spouse. Together, we unpack how manipulation, false narratives, financial control, and threats of litigation are used to keep you spinning — and how nervous system regulation, financial clarity, and the right support team can help you reclaim your power, make smart financial decisions, and move forward. If you’re feeling stuck in a high-conflict divorce, being gaslit about money, or overwhelmed by attorneys, forensics, and financial documents, this episode will give you language, validation, and a roadmap for your next steps. About Our Guest – Jackie Miller Jackie Miller is a high-conflict divorce coach and post-separation abuse strategist who helps women and out-spouses disentangle from toxic relationships, reclaim their energy, and stop reacting to narcissistic manipulation — especially inside the family court system. A survivor of a 16.5-year emotionally and financially abusive marriage followed by a high-conflict divorce, Jackie blends lived experience, neuroscience, and practical strategy in her work. She is also the host of the podcast “Out of Crazy Town: Your Guide to Divorcing a Narcissist,” where she speaks directly to those navigating the chaos of narcissistic and high-conflict divorce. Connect with Jackie: Website: jackiemillercoaching.com Podcast: Out of Crazy Town – Your Guide to Divorcing a Narcissist (available on major podcast platforms) Instagram & YouTube: @outofcrazytown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The holidays can magnify every stress you’re carrying—especially if you’re quietly preparing for a separation, navigating financial uncertainty, or simply trying to hold things together one more season. In this special Thanksgiving episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan break down how to manage holiday emotions and protect your financial stability when divorce is on your mind or already underway. With decades of combined legal and financial expertise, the co-founders of My Divorce Solution (MDS) help you understand what really matters right now: ✔ Staying grounded ✔ Avoiding financial mistakes that follow you into the new year ✔ Keeping perspective when emotions run high ✔ Knowing what spending today means for your marital estate tomorrow This episode delivers clear, actionable insights to help you move from stress to strategy—because clarity is power, especially during the holidays. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your brain isn’t wired to make you happy — it’s wired to keep you safe. During divorce, that “safety system” often looks like fear, guilt, second-guessing, and staying stuck in situations that no longer serve you. In this powerful episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan sit down with neuropsychologist and therapist Isabelle Ulenaers, creator of the UNTAMED™ Framework, to unpack how your brain and nervous system respond to divorce — and how you can rewire fear so you can move from survival mode into self-trust. Isabelle explains why your brain treats divorce like a “lion attack,” how the amygdala, fight-flight-freeze response, and window of tolerance affect your decisions, and why so many women feel guilty for wanting to leave a relationship that “looks fine on paper.” Together, they explore silent divorce, gray divorce, burnout, numbness, and the subtle ways we abandon ourselves to keep the peace. You’ll also hear how daily grounding practices, nervous-system regulation, and practical financial clarity can calm your brain’s alarm system so you can prepare for divorce with a clear mind — instead of letting fear, urgency, or guilt drive the process. This episode is a roadmap for anyone who feels stuck, scared, or unsure whether they’re “allowed” to want more from their life, love, and money story. Resources Connect with Isabelle Ulenaers to learn more about her work, the UNTAMED™ Framework, and how she supports ambitious women through divorce and major life transitions. https://www.isabelleulenaers.com/ https://www.instagram.com/isabelle.ulenaers/ Turn Fear into Financial Facts with My Divorce Solution Visit MyDivorceSolution.com to learn how the MDS Financial Portrait™ gives you a verified, complete view of your marital estate so you can calm financial fear with facts and make confident settlement decisions. https://mydivorcesolution.com/ Join the Free MDS Community: https://community.mydivorcesolution.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rebranding Divorce: The Post-Divorce Growth Cycle—Radical Self-Care, Money Confidence, and Community Founders Mimi Sullivan and Carolyn Bilyak of Rebranding Divorce join Karen and Catherine to unpack the Post-Divorce Growth Cycle—a practical framework that helps women move from survival to confidence through radical self-care, money clarity, and healthy relationships. We discuss why community accelerates healing, how nervous-system awareness changes your money story, and why clear financial data—not emotion—drives better post-divorce decisions. Key Takeaways Clarity compounds: build confidence in one pillar (money or self-care) and the others strengthen. Regulate, then calculate: calm the nervous system so you can actually work the numbers. Community beats isolation: safe spaces prevent ruminating, revenge-energy, and rushed decisions. Data protects you: verified financials reduce mistakes, regrets, and legal costs. Growth is cyclical: each pass through the cycle allows deeper work (from budgeting → investing, from rest → purpose). If you’re thinking about divorce—or already in it—and want fact-based financial clarity, start with our Free Financial Assessment. Then use the MDS Financial Portrait™ to see verified numbers, disclosures, and your settlement options so you can move forward with confidence. Have a question for Karen & Catherine? Email: wechat@ck11.net Resources & Links Rebranding Divorce — ⁠rebrandingdivorce.com⁠ Free MDS Financial Assessment — ⁠https://myfinancialportrait.com/⁠  MDS Community (Free) —⁠ https://community.mydivorcesolution.com/⁠ MDS Financial Portrait™ — a verified, flat-fee roadmap to divorce financial clarity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thinking about divorce mediation? Before you walk into the room, ask yourself one question: What exactly are you mediating if you don’t even know what you have? In this episode of Divorce Explored, Karen Chellew (Legal Liaison) and Catherine Shanahan, CDFA® (Certified Divorce Financial Analyst) from My Divorce Solution reveal the most common — and most costly — mistake they see every week: people going into mediation without complete, verified financial information. They’ll show you why financial clarity is the strategy, and why mediation is just a tool. What You’ll Learn: ✅ Why “just mediating to get it over with” can cost you thousands later ✅ The real difference between asset division and spousal support ✅ How a “55/45 split” can be misleading (and not actually in your favor) ✅ How to avoid the pressure of signing after 10+ hours at the table ✅ When to say “I’m not ready” — and why that’s your legal right ✅ How the MDS Financial Portrait™ prepares you for mediation with facts, not fear. Before You Mediate: 1) Verify all assets and debts (not just what someone says out loud) 2) Confirm income for both parties 3) Know your realistic support range 4) Review property division scenarios 5) Identify your non-negotiables 6) Get your MDS Financial Portrait™ to organize it all About My Divorce Solution: Founded by Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan, CDFA®, My Divorce Solution has helped over 15,000 families navigate divorce with financial confidence and clarity, saving over $1M in legal costs using their signature process — the MDS Financial Portrait™ Start with their free Financial Assessment, then get your verified Financial Portrait™ to walk into mediation empowered, informed, and prepared. 🌐 Website: https://mydivorcesolution.com 👥 Join our free Divorce support community: https://community.mydivorcesolution.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan sit down once again with the inspiring Jessica Frew—wife, ex-wife, mom, stepmom, podcast host, and now author of Shove Your Shoulds. Jessica shares how her unique journey through divorce, co-parenting, and remarriage has shaped her mission to help women step out of overthinking and into powerful decision-making. Jessica opens up about: Navigating divorce after discovering her husband was gay—and why she chose to stay married for several years after knowing. How she and her ex built a co-parenting relationship rooted in respect and friendship, putting their daughter first. Why letting go of “shoulds” frees us from shame and judgment, allowing space for clarity and confidence. The power of informed, intentional choices—whether staying, leaving, or rebuilding life after divorce. Why confidence comes not from having all the answers, but from taking action, one step at a time. Karen, Catherine, and Jessica also discuss how financial clarity—through tools like the MDS Financial Portrait™—helps women face uncertainty with strength, whether they decide to stay married or divorce. Knowledge is power – facing your reality (financial and personal) allows you to make empowered decisions. Be willing to pivot – life may not go as planned, but that doesn’t mean it can’t still be good. Let go of the shoulds – true confidence comes from action, not perfection. Learn more about Jessica and grab her new book Shove Your Shoulds: shoveyourshoulds.com Follow Jessica on Instagram: @heyjessicafrew Explore the MDS Financial Portrait™: mydivorcesolution.com We Chat Divorce is brought to you by My Divorce Solution, the #1 resource for financial clarity during divorce. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this Divorce Explored episode of We Chat Divorce, MDS co-founders Catherine Shanahan, CDFA®, and Karen Chellew, Legal Liaison, reveal how common financial shortcuts can cost divorcing couples thousands—sometimes hundreds of thousands—of dollars. From so-called “honesty policies” that skip verification, to misclassifying home-sale proceeds as income, to cashing out retirement accounts too soon, Catherine and Karen unpack the real impact of assumptions, missing documents, and misunderstood advice. They’ll show you why verified data—not verbal promises—is the only way to protect your financial future. Whether you’re preparing for mediation, negotiating a settlement, or already divorced, this episode will help you spot red flags before they turn into regret. You’ll Learn How To: Identify the red flags that signal financial shortcuts in divorce Understand when assets ≠ income in support calculations Avoid costly mistakes when dividing or liquidating retirement accounts Confirm accurate valuation dates and tax implications Use the MDS Financial Portrait™ to model real cash flow before you sign Resources Mentioned Free MDS Financial Assessment – discover your starting point The Divorce Financial Portrait™ – verified data = financial clarity MDS Community – connect for support and education Listen & Subscribe - Follow We Chat Divorce on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube for weekly financial divorce insights that turn fear into focus, focus into knowledge, and knowledge into power. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What really happens behind the scenes at a divorce law firm? In this eye-opening episode of We Chat Divorce, co-founders Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan sit down with Attorney Kirk Stange, Founding Partner of Stange Law Firm, to uncover the truth about how family law really works—from the attorney’s side of the table. Kirk has guided clients through divorce for more than 20 years, leading a firm with offices across 30 states. He joins Karen and Catherine for a candid conversation about what makes a great divorce attorney, why so many clients lose trust in the legal process, and how preparation and financial clarity can change everything. Together, they discuss: What makes a lawyer truly good at family law Why some attorneys avoid going to trial (and what that means for you) How judges pressure lawyers to settle cases The real story behind billable hours and “winning” in divorce Why financially prepared clients make better decisions If you’ve ever felt frustrated or confused by your attorney—or just want to know how to work smarter with one—this episode will change the way you see the legal side of divorce. 👉 Learn how the MDS Financial Portrait™ gives you the clarity and confidence to protect your future and collaborate effectively with your attorney. mydivorcesolution.com Hosts: Karen Chellew, Legal Liaison & Co-Founder of My Divorce Solution -and- Catherine Shanahan, CDFA®, Divorce Financial Specialist & Co-Founder of My Divorce Solution Guest: Kirk C. Stange, Founding Partner & President, Stange Law Firm 🌐familylawrepresentation.com | stangelawfirm.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’re over 50 and quietly wondering whether to stay or go, you’re not alone. In this episode of We Chat Divorce: Divorce Explored, My Divorce Solution co-founders Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan, CDFA®, break down the real truths behind gray divorce—and why so many couples live in a silent divorce long before they ever make a decision. They share personal stories, client experiences, and the financial insights that can help you stop the emotional bleed and start building a plan. Whether you’re thinking about divorce, living in financial fog, or simply craving clarity, this conversation will help you move from confusion to confidence. You’ll learn: What a silent divorce really looks like—and how to recognize if you’re in one The biggest financial mistakes people make in gray divorce Why clarity—not conflict—should guide your next steps How to use the MDS Financial Portrait™ to see your complete financial picture Why Step Zero (getting organized) is the most important part of your divorce journey About We Chat Divorce Hosted by Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan, CDFA®, co-founders of My Divorce Solution, We Chat Divorce explores the financial, emotional, and practical sides of divorce so you can move forward with clarity and confidence. Learn more about The MDS Financial Portrait™:https://mydivorcesolution.com/financial-portrait  Join the MDS Community for guidance, resources, and support:https://mydivorcesolution.com/community Listen to more episodes: https://mydivorcesolution.com/podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🚨 The Hidden Cost of Toxic Love 🚨 Why is it so hard to leave someone who hurts you? And how do trauma bonds show up in divorce — emotionally and financially? In this episode of We Chat Divorce, hosts Catherine Shanahan, CDFA® and Karen Chellew, Legal Liaison, sit down with Dr. Nadine Macaluso — therapist, author of Run Like Hell, and survivor of one of the most infamous toxic marriages in modern history. Dr. Nadine was once married to the real-life “Wolf of Wall Street,” a chapter of her life portrayed in the blockbuster film. Together we explore: 💔 What a trauma bond really is (and why it’s so hard to break) 💰 How toxic love often comes with financial abuse and control 🚩 Red flags to spot early in relationships 🔥 Why leaving can feel like pulling the fire alarm 🌱 How to protect yourself — emotionally and financially — in divorce Dr. Nadine shares her story of survival and transformation, and how she now helps others break free from trauma bonds and reclaim their power. 🔗 Connect with Dr. Nadine: Website: drnadine.com Instagram: @TheRealDrNadine Book: Run Like Hell Resources from My Divorce Solution: Learn about the MDS Financial Portrait™ → https://mydivorcesolution.com/ Join our supportive Community → https://community.mydivorcesolution.com/ ✅ Subscribe for weekly episodes of We Chat Divorce — the #1 podcast for financial divorce preparation and empowerment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices