Intentional Divorce Insights

Welcome to another uplifting episode of Intentional Divorce Insights, hosted by Leah Hadley and featuring special guest Jackie Pilossoph, founder of Divorced Girl Smiling. This episode dives deep into the unexpected silver linings that can come from a divorce, focusing on empowerment, reinvention, self-discovery, and the importance of building a supportive community. Key Takeaways: - The Good That Can Come from Divorce: Jackie Pilossoph and Leah Hadley discuss how divorce can be a catalyst for self-discovery and personal growth, even in the face of fear, shame, and uncertainty. - Financial Independence & Empowerment: The journey from financial fear to confidence is explored, including practical steps like opening bank accounts and managing investments for the first time.  - Re-entering the Workforce: Jackie shares her experience of returning to work after divorce and how it led to increased confidence, new friendships, and a sense of accomplishment. - Rebuilding Confidence After Divorce: A candid conversation about how divorce inevitably impacts self-esteem, but also opens the door for self-love, therapy, coaching, and rediscovering passions. - The Power of Community and Friendships: Jackie offers practical tips for overcoming loneliness after divorce: start by befriending one person, join communities or classes aligned with your interests, and make a habit of getting out of the house—even for simple activities like coffee or a walk. - New Opportunities for Love and Partnership: The episode explores how divorce creates the possibility of finding a more compatible partner—and how sometimes, the post-divorce partner better fits each person’s lifestyle and values.  Connect with Jackie Pilossoph: Website: https://www.divorcedgirlsmiling.com/  Email: jpilossoph@gmail.com  IG: @Divorced_Girl_Smiling FB: Divorced Girl Smiling LI:  jackie-pilossoph-0851814 Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions: IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/ LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/ YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights   Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist.  

In this insightful episode, host Leah Hadley welcomes Karen Covy—a “recovering lawyer,” respected divorce coach, mediator, author, and podcaster—to dive deep into decision making throughout the divorce journey. Together, they unpack the emotional and practical complexities of divorce, highlighting the value of intentional, empowered choices from the moment the idea of divorce surfaces through to life beyond the settlement. Key Take Aways: - How to Make Empowered Divorce Decisions: Karen Covy shares her unique exercises for identifying your values and priorities, and how to anchor your decision making—even when things feel emotionally overwhelming and fast-paced. -The Importance of Intentionality Discover: Why stepping back and determining your big-picture goals early can help protect your peace and financial future, even when decisions are being made under pressure. - Mindset and Moving Forward: The conversation explores the powerful mindset shift required to view divorce as a chapter—not your defining moment—and strategies to avoid common regrets. - Communicating with Adult Children: Karen provides compassionate coaching for parents facing tough conversations with adult children and explains why clear boundaries and loving honesty are vital. - Becoming the CEO of Your Divorce: Learn why you—not your attorney—are in charge of your divorce’s direction, and how assembling the right professional team (without overspending) creates the best path to your desired outcome. - Avoiding Costly Mistakes: Leah and Karen discuss the financial pitfalls often missed without early expert help, and why getting advice too late can not only increase stress but also escalate legal and emotional battles. Resources Mentioned: Free download: One-page Divorce Process Comparison Chart: https://karencovy.com/freechart/ Connect with Karen Covy: Website: www.karencovy.com  Email: Karen@karencovy.com  IG: @karencovylawyer FB: @Karen A Covy TikTok: @karen.covy Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions: IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/  YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights  Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist.  For more valuable insights on navigating divorce with intention and clarity, be sure to subscribe to Intentional Divorce Insights and leave a review to help others discover empowering divorce. resources.

Welcome to a brand new season of Intentional Divorce Insights! In this powerful solo episode, Leah Hadley—certified divorce financial analyst and founder of Intentional Divorce Solutions—invites listeners to move beyond the “clinical” conversations around divorce and explore the unseen, often unspoken, costs that truly impact those going through this life change. If you’re facing divorce and feeling overwhelmed or isolated, this episode is for you. Leah Hadley compassionately illuminates the five most devastating hidden costs of divorce—beyond what’s found on a legal bill—arming you with awareness so you can better protect yourself, your family, and your future. Key Takeaways: The “Quiet Thieves” of Divorce: Hidden costs that extend beyond legal fees and settlements. Social Fallout: How friendships and family dynamics often fracture, leading to profound isolation at your most vulnerable. Career Impact: Why divorce can quietly stall your professional life and what to watch for at work. Financial Surprises: From asset appraisals to new living expenses and changes in insurance and tax status, it’s not just about the attorney's invoice. Effects on Children: The long-term emotional toll on kids, especially in high-conflict splits. Your Health Matters: How lingering, chronic stress from a difficult divorce impacts both emotional and physical well-being. How to Prepare: Steps you can take now for emotional, financial, and practical readiness—including leaning on support systems and seeking professional guidance. Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions: IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/  YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights  Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist.  For more valuable insights on navigating divorce with intention and clarity, be sure to subscribe to Intentional Divorce Insights and leave a review to help others discover empowering divorce resources.

In this heartfelt and practical solo episode, Leah Hadley, certified divorce financial analyst and founder of Intentional Divorce Solutions, wraps up Season 4 with a powerful discussion on embracing a financial fresh start after divorce. As the year ends, Leah invites listeners to reflect, reset, and take intentional steps toward a confident and empowered 2026. Key Topics Covered: - Season Reflection & Gratitude: Leah Hadley expresses deep thanks to both longtime and new listeners, reflecting on the emotional breakthroughs and practical guidance shared throughout the season. - Why December is a Powerful Time to Reset: Discover why early December provides a unique opportunity for clarity and reflection, especially after a significant life transition like divorce. - Steps to a Financial Fresh Start: Review Your Finances: Honest tips for reviewing where your money really went this year, identifying surprises, and assessing changing priorities post-divorce. - Reset Your Earnings Power and Career Direction: Leah discusses how divorce impacts career confidence and earnings, and why it's okay (and powerful!) to want and ask for more. - Prioritize Your Emotional Bandwidth: Learn how your emotional wellness is tied to your financial well-being and the importance of seeking support instead of going it alone. - Common Post-Divorce Planning Mistakes: Leah Hadley highlights pitfalls such as waiting until January to make changes, setting goals without understanding your true cash needs, and underestimating the value of support. - Guided Reflection Exercise: Leah leads listeners through thoughtful questions to help assess what they’re proud of, what drained them, and what kind of support and decisions can create more ease moving into the new year. Special Workshop Invitation: A FREE LIVE WEBINAR If you’re seeking to boost your earnings or shift your career in 2026, Leah invites you to the free "Earn With Intention" workshop, co-hosted with career expert Cindy Haba. Monday, December 8, 2025 7:00 PM EST Register HERE: https://www.watchherthrive.co/earn-with-intention  Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions: IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/  YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights  Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist. 

In this insightful episode, Leah Hadley welcomes Sam Asra, a specialist in high conflict divorce, particularly supporting fathers through the complexities of separation, custody battles, and parental alienation. Drawing from his own experience as a child of a tumultuous divorce, Sam Asra discusses the early warning signs of high conflict, the emotional drivers behind contentious divorces, and effective strategies to de-escalate and protect both finances and family relationships. Key Topics:  - Early Warning Signs of High Conflict Divorce: Sam Asra shares tell-tale signs such as refusal to cooperate in mediation, hostile language, and the tendency to take disputes to court unnecessarily. - De-escalation Strategies: Insights on using soft skills ("fighting fire with water") rather than escalating arguments. Setting boundaries and clarifying non-negotiables help create a space for strategic, less emotional decision-making. - Emotional Drivers of Divorce Conflicts: Discussion on common fears: loss of stability, fear of losing children’s love, and lack of control when courts dictate terms. - Importance of the Co-Parenting Relationship: Leah Hadley candidly shares her evolution in prioritizing her co-parenting relationship, showing how adult children and future family events mean ex-partners remain in each other’s lives. - Practical Techniques for Communication & Boundaries: Sam Asra explains the importance of direct and assertive communication, without aggression or passivity, and offers examples of how reframing requests (e.g., choices for pickup times) can shift the dynamic. - Protecting Kids During High Conflict Divorce: Tips for parents on supporting the other parent’s involvement (when safe), facilitating open communication, and considering therapy for children. Resource Spotlight: Sam Asra offers a free training on “Five Essential Questions to Ask Your Lawyer” that can help save significant legal fees by ensuring you have the right legal support. Find it on his website: https://www.fathersconnect.co/ Connect with Sam Asra: Website: https://www.fathersconnect.co/  Email: sasra@fathersconnect.co  Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fathersconnect  Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions: IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/ LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/ YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist.

In this episode, host Leah Hadley welcomes self-empowerment coach Karen Krupp for a deeply honest conversation about navigating relationship uncertainty, personal growth, and finding clarity—both during and after divorce. Karen shares her personal journey through multiple divorces, how she reclaimed her financial independence, and the ways she now supports other women facing similar crossroads. Key Topics Covered: - Karen’s Story: Karen Krupp shares how her work as a massage therapist led to life coaching, her own experiences navigating unsupportive marriages, and how her challenges shaped her calling to help other women find confidence and clarity in their relationships. - Making the Decision to Divorce: Karen candidly discusses the difficulty in reaching the decision to leave, the years of feeling unseen and unheard, what finally made her realize it was time—and how working with a coach helped her get clear. - Breaking Through Shame & Isolation: Karen outlines the common barriers women face—shame, lack, and isolation—and how shifting these internal patterns is foundational to moving forward. She explains her coaching approach to helping women examine these beliefs and transition towards self-responsibility and empowered choices. - Reclaiming Financial Independence: After growing up in a generation where men handled finances, Karen details how she learned to budget, bought her own home, and now relishes the empowerment of managing her money—encouraging other women to embrace financial independence too. - Healing After Divorce: Karen reflects on what she learned from each of her marriages and why she’s currently enjoying focusing on herself—prioritizing her personal growth, family, friendships, and career over a new relationship. - Coaching with Karen: Karen describes her embodiment-based, women-centered coaching—including breathwork, guided visualization, and practical tools for growth. She offers a special “Stay or Go Blueprint Call” for women grappling with relationship doubt. Special Offer: Karen is offering a 90-minute “Stay or Go Blueprint Call” for those needing clarity on their relationship crossroads. This stand-alone session helps you break free from confusion and plot your next steps. Email Karen for more information. Connect with Karen: Email: anotherwayforwardcoaching@gmail.com  Website: www.karenkrupp.com  IG: karenkrupplifecoaching FB: Karen Krupp LI:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenkrupp/ Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions: IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/ LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/ YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights  Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist. 

In this heartfelt episode, Leah Hadley welcomes Patricia Villarreal, an experienced psychotherapist and leader of Holding Space for Psychological Wellness in Chicago. Together, they explore the emotional complexities of divorce and the importance of creating safe, supportive environments for healing. Key Topics: - Patricia’s Journey to Psychotherapy: Patricia Villarreal shares her lifelong connection to helping others, discussing her path from empathic child to founder of a thriving group practice focused on trust, safety, and authentic healing. - The Importance of Trust & Emotional Safety: She breaks down how safety is fundamental to healing, particularly through major transitions like divorce. Without it, our nervous system remains on high alert, and we can’t examine or move through our pain constructively. - Transparency and Co-Creating Safety: Learn how being authentic, honest—even vulnerable—as a therapist or support person lays the groundwork for genuine trust and growth in the healing process. - Navigating Grief & Major Transitions: Patricia discusses the non-linear nature of healing from divorce, highlighting the need for self-compassion and recognizing grief not only in loss of loved ones but also in the endings of relationships and dreams for the future. - Reconnecting with Personal Power: She offers practical ways to remember and reclaim your strengths, even when life feels overwhelming—reminding listeners of the value in their journey and how therapy can help reflect their own resilience back to them. - Avoidance and the Accumulation of Emotional Clutter: A vivid metaphor about sweeping issues “under the rug” illustrates how avoidance might seem to help short-term but eventually limits our capacity to thrive emotionally and physically. - Building Compassionate Inner Dialogue: Practical tips for recognizing and shifting negative self-talk are offered. Patricia Villarreal suggests mindfulness as a first step—paying attention to our inner narratives before we can transform them. - Understanding Triggers and Boundaries: The conversation touches on the “triggers” we carry from past relationships, how these inner voices aren’t always ours, and the importance of distinguishing our reactions and needs in new relationships. - Start Noticing Your Inner Dialogue: Begin paying mindful attention to how you speak to yourself, especially in tough moments. Writing thoughts down or sharing with a trusted friend can be powerful first steps on the path to self-compassion and positive change. Connect with Dr. Patricia Villarreal: Website: https://holdingspacepsych.com/  IG: @holdingspacepsych FB: Holding Space for Pychological Wellness   LI: Holding Space for Psychological Wellness Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions: IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/ LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/ YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist. For more valuable insights on navigating divorce with intention and clarity, be sure to subscribe to Intentional Divorce Insights and leave a review to help others discover empowering divorce resources.  

In this heartfelt solo episode, Leah Hadley, certified divorce financial analyst and founder of Intentional Divorce Solutions, invites listeners to step into the holiday season with intention. Key Topics: - Reframing Abundance: Leah Hadley challenges the traditional view that abundance is about having more money, success, or things, and instead encourages aligning your life, finances, and values to find fulfillment. - Navigating Big Life Changes: The holidays can be especially tough after a divorce, a move, a job change, or the loss of a loved one. Leah Hadley shares personal stories and acknowledges the pressures that come with this season. - The Power of a Gratitude Practice: Learn how focusing on what you already have—and what’s working—can shift your mindset from scarcity to peace. Leah Hadley introduces a simple three-part gratitude exercise for reflecting on finances, giving, and experiences. - Intentional Spending & Gifting: Leah Hadley shares practical tips for simplifying your gift list and prioritizing meaningful experiences over material gifts. She encourages listeners to create a “heart list” instead of a traditional gift list, and to gift presence and connection rather than expensive presents. - Values-Based Budgeting: Create a holiday budget that protects both your finances and your peace of mind, focusing on what feels right for you—especially important for those co-parenting or adjusting after divorce. - Creating New Traditions: Life transitions are a perfect opportunity to intentionally craft new, meaningful holiday traditions, whether volunteering, hosting a brunch, or simply taking time for self-care. - Mindful Generosity: Generosity goes beyond spending money; it’s about sharing your time, energy, and empathy—with others and with yourself. - Modeling Intentional Choices: Leah Hadley emphasizes that your approach to the season shapes those around you, particularly children. Expressing abundance through gratitude and presence sets a powerful example. Learn more about the Empowered Sisterhood! https://www.watchherthrive.co/empowered-sisterhood Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions: IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/ YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist. 

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, host Leah Hadley welcomes Tracy O’Malley, renowned Enneagram expert and leadership strategist. Tracy shares her personal journey through divorce, how the Enneagram transformed her relationship with her children, and the power of emotional vulnerability in overcoming resentment and building resilience. The conversation dives into financial challenges, navigating career changes post-divorce, and offers actionable advice for listeners currently facing similar struggles. Key Topics Discussed: - Tracy’s divorce story and the impact on her family - Discovering and using the Enneagram as a tool for self-awareness, healing, and communication - The importance of showing emotional authenticity to children during tough times - Surviving a financial downturn and rebuilding after losing a home and business - Tracy’s rock-bottom moment, going to rehab, and committing to personal growth - Building a new career and identity after divorce - Advice for women feeling stuck or overwhelmed in mid- or post-divorce - The significance of keeping "your side of the street clean" and leading by example - Tips for asking for help and finding support through difficult transitions Join the Empowered Sisterhood! Learn more here: https://www.watchherthrive.co/empowered-sisterhood  Connect with Tracy: Website: https://tracyomalley.com/  IG: @tracy_omalley    FB: https://www.facebook.com/tracy.omalley  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-o-malley/ Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions: IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/  YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights  Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist.  For more valuable insights on navigating divorce with intention and clarity, be sure to subscribe to Intentional Divorce Insights and leave a review to help others discover empowering divorce resources.

In this episode, Leah welcomes Kristin Kirkpatrick, a renowned registered dietitian with over 22 years of experience in integrative and holistic nutrition. The focus is on how food choices and emotional eating impact those navigating the stress of divorce or other major life changes. Kristin shares actionable insights on developing sustainable, individualized nutritional strategies that go far beyond diet fads — supporting both physical and mental health through transitions. Key Topics: - Why Nutrition Matters During Divorce Why emotional eating is a common response to grief, loss, and life transitions. How shifts in eating habits can affect your energy, mental clarity, and overall ability to cope with stress. - Early Roots of Emotional Eating Kristin shares how childhood experiences—like being comforted with food—can carry into adulthood and influence eating patterns during stress. - A Personalized, Holistic Approach There’s no one-size-fits-all diet; personalization is key. The importance of understanding your “why” for better nutrition—whether it’s long-term health, disease prevention, or mental resilience. - Mindset & Sustainability Kristin encourages listeners to focus on what’s truly sustainable for them, not just quick fixes. She shares strategies for getting back on track after setbacks and emphasizes that “falling off the wagon” happens to everyone. - Food’s Role in Mental Health New research on nutritional psychology connecting food and mood. The impact of omega-3s and vitamin D on depression and anxiety, and how trauma can influence the gut-brain connection. - Practical Strategies for Difficult Times Setting up your kitchen for success Keep healthy foods at eye level Plan ahead for emotional triggers, especially during tough weeks (like child-free periods in co-parenting) Connect with Kristin Kirtpatrick: Email: kristin@kristinkirkpatrick.com  Website: www.kristinkirkpatrick.com  IG: https://www.instagram.com/fuelwellwithkrissy/?hl=en  FB: Kristin Kirtpatrick  Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions: IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/  YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights  Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist.  For more valuable insights on navigating divorce with intention and clarity, be sure to subscribe to Intentional Divorce Insights and leave a review to help others discover empowering divorce resources.

In this powerful episode, host Leah Hadley welcomes Carla Shohet, a seasoned trauma psychologist and educator with over two decades of experience in trauma recovery, narcissistic abuse, and nervous system health. Carla shares her expertise on the complexities of divorcing a narcissist, the challenges survivors face, and practical strategies for protecting your well-being and your children during high-conflict separations. Key Topics Discussed: - Understanding Narcissistic Abuse in Divorce. - How narcissism is a protective strategy, not merely a diagnosis or personality flaw. - Why divorcing a narcissist isn’t just the end of a relationship, but a continuation of abuse in new forms.  - Survivor Strategies for Protection & Emotional Regulation - The importance of keeping all communication in writing and meticulously documenting everything. - Practical nervous system regulation techniques such as orienting (grounding in your environment), breathwork (extending the exhale to signal safety), somatic self-touch (subtle gestures for self-soothing), and the importance of staying hydrated during stressful situations - Co-Parenting vs. Parallel Parenting: why co-parenting is not realistic with a narcissist. - Parallel parenting: setting firm boundaries, minimizing contact, and offering children one stable, healthy parent. - The importance of having a trauma-informed support team. Trusting your gut when choosing legal, financial, and therapeutic professionals. Free Resource: Access your free guide, Your Safe Exit Plan: A Trauma Psychologist’s Guide for High-Conflict Divorce  👉Download the Guide Now Connect with Carla: Email: carla@carlashohet.com Website: https://carlashohet.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/carla_shohet/# FB: https://www.facebook.com/carlalcshohet  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlashohet/  Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions: IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/  YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist.         

In this empowering solo episode, Leah Hadley dives deep into the number one financial regret she hears from women post-divorce: not seeking financial guidance early enough. Leah unpacks why this is such a persistent issue, how emotional overwhelm and misconceptions keep women from getting help, and what the long-term consequences can be. Key Takeaways: Number One Regret: The most common (and preventable!) financial regret is waiting too long to get financial guidance during divorce. Why Women Wait: Overwhelm, perceived cost, and assuming other professionals (attorneys/accountants) have the financial side covered can all contribute to delays. Ripple Effects: Seemingly fair settlements can lead to significant disadvantages over time. Emotional Decisions: High emotions often cause rushed choices and asset trades that may not serve you long-term. Don’t miss Leah’s upcoming workshop: The Biggest Financial Mistakes Women Make After Divorce (And How to Avoid Them) October 15th at 1 PM EST (or catch the replay) Register Today! https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/biggest-financial-mistakes-women-make-after-divorce  Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions: IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/ LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/ YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist.       

In this insightful episode, host Leah Hadley welcomes Maria Natapov, a seasoned co-parenting and step-parenting coach who specializes in helping families navigate the complexities of blended family life. Together, they dive deep into Maria’s BH2O framework for collaborative co-parenting, exploring the mindset, regulation, and values-based strategies that help parents and step-parents create a supportive environment for kids during and after divorce. Key Topics Discussed: - Introducing Maria Natapov: Her personal story, professional background, and motivation for helping blended families. - The BH2O Framework: A 16-week co-parenting curriculum focusing on transformational shifts—beyond just “do’s and don’ts,” it addresses the root of conflict, mindset, and sustainable change in co-parenting relationships. - Maintaining Control & Emotional Regulation - Building Effective Co-Parenting Plans - Why Early Professional Support Matters - How to Avoid Unintentional Stress for Kids Featured Resource: Family Fusion: 6 Steps to Collaborative Co-Parenting A free resource from Maria Natapov full of actionable tips, tools for parents and step-parents, facts about blended families, and self-care strategies. Get the free guide at https://synergisticstepparenting.com/  Connect with Maria Natapov: Website: https://synergisticstepparenting.com/  Email: maria@synergisticstepparenting.com Phone: 617-419-0878 LI: Maria Natapov  FB: Maria Natapov  Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions: IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/  YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights  Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist.     

In this episode, host Leah Hadley welcomes Laurie James, a mother of four, author, divorcee, somatic relationship coach, and host of the “Confessions of a Free Bird” podcast. Together, they dive deep into Laurie's journey through the challenges of divorce, caregiving, and self-discovery, and reveal the transformative power of somatic experiencing to heal past trauma and regulate the nervous system. Laurie shares practical tools and actionable strategies for listeners navigating divorce and feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or disconnected from their bodies. Key Topics Covered: - Laurie James’s personal journey as a mother, caregiver, and divorcee - Discovering the impact of trauma stored in the body and the definition of somatic experiencing. - How divorce and major life transitions uniquely dysregulate the nervous system - The difference between somatic experiencing, talk therapy, and mindset coaching - Three simple tips to self-regulate during stressful times - The importance of grounding, curiosity, and clarity in decision-making during divorce Mentioned Resources: - Free Beginner’s Guide to Somatic Healing https://laurieejames.myflodesk.com/bgtsh Laurie’s Book: Sandwiched: A Memoir of Holding On and Letting Go https://www.laurieejames.com/book  Connect with Laurie James: Website: https://www.laurieejames.com/  IG: https://www.instagram.com/laurie.james/  FB: https://www.facebook.com/laurie.james.79219754  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-james-8336a0168/  Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions: IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/  YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights  Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist.     

In this insightful episode, Leah Hadley and guest Liesl Darby take a deep dive into “The Power of the Pivot”—exploring what it means to make big life changes, especially in the context of divorce. Liesl shares personal stories and professional guidance to help listeners understand how to navigate the pivots life throws their way, whether these changes are chosen or thrust upon us. Key Takeaways: - The Metaphor of the Pivot  - Discovering Your True Values - Choosing vs. Facing a Pivot  - Overcoming the Fear of Change - Empowerment and Independence Post-Divorce  Resources Mentioned:  Free Download: Divorce Coaching the Unfair Advantage workbook: https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-coaching-opt-in  Learn more about the Empowered Sisterhood https://www.watchherthrive.co/empowered-sisterhood  Schedule a complementary meeting with Liesel to learn more about her coaching and mediation services https://calendly.com/lieseldarby/info-call-for-individual-coaching  Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions: IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/ LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/ YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist.

This enlightening episode dives deep into the often-overlooked legacy of parental divorce, especially as its effects linger and evolve into adulthood. Host Leah Hadley welcomes Kent Darcie, an expert on supporting adults with divorced parents, to unpack the complex emotional terrain adult children face—whether the divorce happened in childhood or as a "gray divorce" later in life. Kent shares insights from both personal and professional perspectives, examining issues like anger, fear, trust, and the unique challenges presented by parents’ late-life separations. He also introduces strategies for breaking the cycle of divorce and explores key themes from his book and upcoming releases. Key Take Aways: - Kent’s Journey: How his parents’ divorce shaped his life and led him to this important work. - Core Challenges: The emotional fallout for adult children—unresolved anger, loss, father hunger, trust issues, and loyalty conflicts. - Gray Divorce: Unique impacts when parents separate after children are grown, from support gaps to information overload and shifting family dynamics. - Supporting Adult Children: How parents can avoid TMI, nurture healthy boundaries, and provide real emotional support—plus why it’s never too late to improve family relationships. - Hope & Healing: The importance of community, faith, and intentional self-work in managing the legacy of divorce. Resources Mentioned: Kent Darcie’s website provides resources such as blogs, recommened podcasts and books for adults with divorced parents. https://abundanthopecounseling.com/  Books: Choose a Better Path: Overcoming the Impact of Your Parents Divorce by Kent Darcie Daughters of Divorce by Terry Gaspard Home Will Never Be the Same Again by Carol Hughes & Bruce Fredenburg Upcoming Book: Preparing to Say I Do When Parents Said I Don’t (Fall 2025) Connect with Kent Darcie: Email: acdministries@gmail.com IG: https://www.instagram.com/hope4acd/?hl=en  Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions: IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/  YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights  Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist.       

Welcome back to Intentional Divorce Insights! In this solo episode, Leah Hadley, Certified Divorce Financial Analyst and founder of Intentional Divorce Solutions, dives into a frequently asked question: What’s the difference between saving and investing, and where should you start after divorce? Leah breaks down these foundational financial concepts in simple terms and offers empowering insights to help you navigate your post-divorce finances with clarity, intention, and confidence. Key Topics Covered: - The Financial Reset After Divorce: Understand how your income, expenses, and financial goals can shift dramatically after divorce, and why it’s normal to feel a wide range of emotions about money during this time. - Saving vs. Investing—Core Differences: - Where to Start After Divorce: - Goal-Setting and Time Horizons: Learn why being specific about your financial goals (like buying a home or planning a remodel) helps determine whether savings or investing (or both) is your best bet. - Practical First Steps: - The Importance of Regular Review: Your financial situation and goals will evolve—so should your strategy. Leah offers real-life examples of adjusting plans as life changes. Special Invitation: Register for the Empowered Money Series  a free three-part webinar designed to help you build financial confidence post-divorce—even if you can’t attend live, you’ll get access to the recording. Dates: September 2, 9, and 16 Time: 1:00PM ET Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions: IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/  YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist. For more valuable insights on navigating divorce with intention and clarity, be sure to subscribe to Intentional Divorce Insights and leave a review to help others discover empowering divorce resources.      

In this insightful episode, Leah Hadley is joined by fellow CDFA, Jacki Roessler, for a deep-dive into some of the most common and costly financial mistakes made during divorce. Drawing from decades of experience, Leah and Jacki share a wealth of knowledge relating to the financial aspect of divorce. Whether you’re beginning the divorce process, in the thick of negotiations, or advocating for someone you care about, this episode is packed with tips and stories to help you approach financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Key Topics Covered: - Biggest Financial Mistakes in Divorce - Most Commonly Overlooked Assets - Red Flags in Settlement Offers - Worst Financial Advice Heard in Divorce - Why Collaboration Matters Resources from Jacki Roessler: Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/divorce-rich-with-jacki-roessler-cdfa/id1735150222 Downloadable Resources: https://www.roesslerdivorce.com/resources/   Connect with Jacki Roessler: Website: https://www.roesslerdivorce.com/  Email: jacqueline@roesslerdivorce.com  IG: https://www.instagram.com/jacquelineroessler/?hl=en  FB: https://www.facebook.com/JackiRoesslerCDFA  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackiroessler/  Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions: IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/  YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights  Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist.  For more valuable insights on navigating divorce with intention and clarity, be sure to subscribe to Intentional Divorce Insights and leave a review to help others discover empowering divorce resources.      

In this insightful episode, Leah Hadley welcomes Justin Milrad—divorce coach, speaker, and author of You 2.0: A Better Way Forward After Divorce. Together, they explore what it means to choose an intentional, growth-oriented path through divorce. Drawing on both personal experience and professional expertise, Justin shares practical advice, powerful reflections, and the significance of self-care when navigating this challenging transition. Key Topics: Justin’s Divorce Journey: Justin recounts his own tumultuous three-year divorce, including the realization that the traditional system is often adversarial. He emphasizes how intentional choices—especially regarding co-parenting—helped him, his ex, and their children thrive post-divorce. The Inspiration Behind You 2.0: Justin discusses why he wrote his book—to offer the resource he wished he’d had. The book provides actionable advice and heartfelt stories to guide others in reclaiming their confidence and rebuilding life after divorce. The Role of a Divorce Coach: Many people aren’t familiar with divorce coaching. Justin explains how coaching can support individuals at any stage (contemplating, during, or years after divorce), focusing on mindset, strategy, team-building, communication skills, and personal growth. He describes the coach as a thought partner—helping clients process emotions, plan, and shift from survival to thriving. Financial Insights: Finances are a huge concern for most people facing divorce. Justin touches on addressing financial fears, assembling the right team, and understanding that attorneys often lack in-depth financial training—making a well-rounded support system vital. Self-Care, Music, and Joy: Justin shares how music, particularly uplifting songs like "Fix You" by Coldplay, helped him heal and push through dark times. He highlights daily practices like gratitude journaling and finding small joys, which made a transformative impact on his well-being. Advice for Moving Forward: Whether you are starting the divorce process or in the thick of it, Justin urges listeners to focus on what you can control, seek support, and know that life can be good again—with intentional effort. Resources Mentioned: Justin Milrad’s Book: You 2.0: A Better Way Forward: https://a.co/d/0Y9Tw56  Connect with Justin Milrad: Website: https://reclaimandreboot.me/  Email: justin@reclaimandreboot.me  Phone/Text: 404-353-5175  IG: https://www.instagram.com/reclaimandreboot.me/  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/105537078/admin/dashboard/  FB: https://www.facebook.com/ReclaimAndReboot  Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions: IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/  YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights  Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist .      

In this illuminating episode, Leah Hadley sits down with Joe Dillon, a trailblazer in divorce mediation and the co-founder of Equitable Mediation Services. Drawing from his 17+ years of experience and an impressive 98% resolution rate, Joe unpacks the fundamentals of effective mediation, why preparation is critical, and how to approach your divorce with clarity and intention. Key Topics Discussed:  Joe’s Approach to Mediation: Discover how Joe blends financial expertise with compassionate mediation to help couples reach fair and lasting agreements—prioritizing budgets, assets, and facts over reactive emotions. Discovery Before Deciding: Both hosts emphasize the importance of gathering all financial and personal information before making major decisions, debunking the myth that you can “wing it” or rely on hearsay. Mediation’s Reputation & Success Factors: Why does mediation sometimes get a bad rap? Joe and Leah discuss common misconceptions and the real reasons behind high mediation success rates—plus the pitfalls of coming to mediation unprepared. Looking Forward, Not Back: Joe explains his philosophy of “looking through the windshield, not the rearview mirror,” helping clients focus on building new lives instead of rehashing past grievances. Financial Mistakes in Divorce: The hosts candidly discuss the dangers of letting emotions drive financial decisions, such as using money to punish your ex or underestimating the cost of living post-divorce—especially regarding budgets and health insurance. Child-Centered Agreements: The human impact of divorce on children, and how amicable, well-structured agreements can set the stage for healthy co-parenting relationships. The Role of Education: Joe shares the value of becoming an educated client and points listeners to a wealth of free resources on his website, including a comprehensive online course on mediation and state-specific guides. Free Resources Mentioned: Free Divorce Mediation Course: Understand the basics of mediation, the “big buckets” (parenting, child support, alimony, property division), and how the process works. State-Specific Divorce Guides: In-depth FAQs and guides for divorce in WA, CA, IL, NY, NJ, and PA. Access the Resource Center & Courses One-on-One Consultations: Schedule a free call with Cheryl Dillon (divorce coach) to explore if mediation is right for your situation. https://www.equitablemediation.com/ Connect with Joe: Email: jdillon@equitablemediation.com Website: https://www.equitablemediation.com/ LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephfdillon/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/equitablemediation/  FB: https://www.facebook.com/equitablemediation  Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions: IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/ LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/ YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist.