Divorce 101

In today’s Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell explains what a parenting plan is and why it is one of the most important documents in any divorce involving children. Brought to you by the letter P and the number 2, this episode highlights the two essential components of every parenting plan: parenting time (when the child is with each parent) and parental responsibility (how decisions are made).Listeners learn the purpose of parenting plans, the different types of schedules families may choose, and how a thoughtfully structured plan helps children feel secure, grounded, and loved across two homes. Olivia also explores the emotional challenges of creating a parenting plan and offers a grounding action step to help parents begin with clarity and compassion.This episode is ideal for divorcing parents, mediators, therapists, and anyone supporting children through family transitions.🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/

In this Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell explains one of the most essential parts of the divorce process: orders. Brought to you by the letter O and the number 4, this episode breaks down the four major types of orders — temporary orders, financial orders, custody and parenting time orders, and final orders — and explains how they guide, protect, and structure the entire divorce journey.Listeners learn why orders matter, what happens when someone violates an order, and how these instructions create predictability and safety during a highly emotional time. Olivia also offers a grounding action step to help listeners understand which orders already exist in their case or may be coming next.This episode is ideal for anyone newly navigating divorce, trying to understand court paperwork, or feeling overwhelmed by legal terminology.🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/

In this Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell explains the importance of notice in the divorce process. Brought to you by the letter N and the number 30, the episode breaks down what notice is, why legally valid service is required, what methods are accepted in most states, and how notice ensures fairness, predictability, and due process in divorce proceedings.Listeners learn the emotional and logistical realities of giving and receiving notice, as well as the common “30-day rule” that governs many divorce deadlines and responses. Olivia also offers a grounding action step to help listeners organize their next 30 days of divorce-related tasks.This episode is ideal for anyone beginning the divorce process, preparing for service, or navigating upcoming court deadlines.🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/

In this Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell breaks down the meaning of mediation — one of the most common and collaborative ways to navigate divorce without litigation. Brought to you by the letter M and the number 3, the episode explains the three essential qualities that make mediation successful: openness, honesty, and willingness to find common ground.Listeners learn what mediation is, how it works, when it’s appropriate, and when it’s not. Olivia explains the mediator’s role, the emotional experience of sitting across from a spouse, and why mediation offers many families a more peaceful, cost-effective path forward. A grounding action step helps listeners identify their own intentions for the process.This episode is ideal for anyone considering mediation, entering mediation sessions, or weighing different divorce process options.🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/

In this Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell explains what a legal separation is, how it works, and why some couples choose it instead of divorce. Brought to you by the letter L and the number 6, this episode outlines the six most common reasons couples choose legal separation — from health insurance considerations to religious beliefs to emotional readiness and financial protection.Listeners learn what legal separation does (and doesn’t) accomplish, how it compares to divorce, and why it is available only in certain states. Olivia also explores the emotional complexity of choosing separation and offers a grounding action step to help listeners assess whether this option might support their needs.This episode is perfect for anyone considering separation, evaluating divorce options, or needing clarity on legal choices during major life transitions.🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/

In today’s Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell explains what a kitchen table agreement is and how couples can use this collaborative approach to outline the terms of their divorce without high conflict or litigation. Brought to you by the letter K and the number 2, this episode highlights why kitchen table agreements work best when two people can communicate respectfully and want to shape their own future rather than leave decisions to the courts.Listeners learn which topics are typically covered in a kitchen table agreement, why informal negotiations still need legal review, and when this approach is not appropriate — especially in situations involving abuse, imbalance of power, or limited financial transparency. Olivia also shares the emotional reality of sitting across the table from someone you’re separating from and offers a simple, grounding action step to support clarity and collaboration.This episode is ideal for couples pursuing mediation, amicable separation, or low-conflict divorce.🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/

In this Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell explains the meaning of a divorce judgment — the final court order that legally ends a marriage. Brought to you by the letter J and the number 2, the episode breaks down the two major components of a judgment: the legal dissolution of the marriage, and the detailed terms outlining custody, support, property division, and more.Listeners learn the differences between a judgment, a decree, and a settlement agreement, and why the judgment becomes the foundational document for all future decisions, questions, or disputes. Olivia also addresses the emotional experience of receiving a final judgment and offers a simple action step to support clarity and empowerment.This episode is ideal for anyone in the final stages of divorce, reviewing paperwork, or preparing for settlement negotiations.🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/

In this Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell breaks down one of the most common — and most misunderstood — legal terms in divorce: irreconcilable differences. Brought to you by the letter I and the number 1, this episode explains the meaning of irreconcilable differences in plain language, why it exists, and why most modern divorces use this no-fault ground.Listeners learn why this term simplifies the divorce process, how it protects privacy, and why it doesn’t require proving wrongdoing. Olivia also discusses the emotional reality behind the phrase — how something so simple can feel so heavy — and offers a grounding action step to support clarity and self-trust.This episode is perfect for anyone considering divorce or trying to understand modern no-fault filing requirements.📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/

In today’s Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell breaks down what a hearing actually is during a divorce. Brought to you by the letter H and the number 10, this five-minute explanation clarifies why hearings are usually short, simple, and procedural — often lasting 10 minutes or less — and why they matter even when they feel overwhelming.Listeners learn what happens during a hearing, the types of issues hearings resolve, the difference between a hearing and a trial, and why most of the fear around hearings comes from uncertainty, not reality. Olivia also offers a gentle action step to help listeners prepare emotionally for their next court date.This episode is ideal for anyone who has an upcoming hearing, feels anxious about court, or wants to better understand the legal process of divorce.📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/

In today’s Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell breaks down a key legal term at the start of every case: grounds for divorce. Brought to you by the letter G and the number 2, this five-minute guide explains the difference between fault-based and no-fault divorce, how each option works, and why most modern divorces proceed through the no-fault pathway.Listeners will learn which grounds may still affect alimony or custody, why no-fault divorce reduces conflict, and how to choose the filing approach that best supports emotional wellbeing, privacy, and safety. Olivia ends with a grounding action step to help listeners identify their intentions before filing.This episode is perfect for anyone considering divorce, navigating early legal steps, or supporting someone who is beginning the process.🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/

In this episode of Divorce Happens, we continue the Divorce 101 A to Z series with the letter F, breaking down the meaning of financial disclosure — one of the most essential steps in any divorce. Brought to you by the letter F and the number 30, this short, approachable episode explains what financial disclosure includes, why transparency is legally required, and how accurate information lays the groundwork for fair property division, alimony, and child support.Host Olivia Howell offers a gentle, clear explanation of the financial documents typically required, what happens if someone fails to disclose fully, and why understanding your financial picture can feel both emotional and empowering. She also shares a simple action step to help listeners begin organizing their financial information with confidence.This episode is ideal for anyone preparing for divorce, in the early stages of filing, or trying to understand the paperwork involved in creating a fair settlement.🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/

In today’s Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell explains the meaning of equitable distribution, the system most states use to divide marital property during divorce. Brought to you by the letter E and the number 50, this short, accessible episode helps listeners understand why equitable does not always mean 50/50 — and why fairness is based on context, not simple math.Listeners learn what counts as marital property, how courts determine a fair division, and why contributions like caregiving, homemaking, and career sacrifices matter. Olivia also shares a grounding action step that helps listeners begin organizing their financial picture with clarity and confidence.This episode is ideal for anyone beginning the divorce process, preparing for mediation, or trying to understand property division in an equitable distribution state.🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/

In today’s Divorce 101 A to Z episode of the Divorce Happens podcast, Olivia Howell breaks down the meaning of a divorce decree, the final court order that officially ends a marriage. Brought to you by the letter D and the number 1, this short, accessible episode explains what a decree includes, why it matters, and how it functions as the single, legally binding document that shapes life after divorce.Listeners learn the difference between a decree, a settlement agreement, and a judgment — and why understanding this one document can prevent confusion, conflict, and overwhelm. Olivia also shares a grounding action step that helps listeners approach their decree (or the idea of one) with clarity and confidence.Whether you’re preparing for divorce, navigating the final stages, or supporting someone going through it, this Divorce 101 mini-lesson offers simplicity, reassurance, and practical guidance.🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/

In this episode of Divorce Happens, we continue the Divorce 101 A to Z series with the letter C, focusing on one of the most important and emotional aspects of divorce: custody. Brought to you by the letter C and the number 2, this short, accessible episode explains the difference between legal custody and physical custody, how parenting schedules work, and why custody is not about ‘winning’ or ‘losing’—it’s about creating stability and emotional safety for children.Host Olivia Howell offers a compassionate overview of custody basics, dispels common myths, and shares a grounding action step to help parents create security during a major transition. This episode is ideal for anyone navigating divorce with children, preparing for co-parenting, or simply trying to understand how custody decisions are made.🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/

This episode of Divorce Happens continues the Divorce 101 A to Z series with the letter B, where we break down one of the most important emotional skills during divorce: boundaries. Brought to you by the letter B and the number 2, this short, compassionate episode explains what boundaries are, why they matter, and how they can dramatically reduce conflict and overwhelm during a divorce or separation.Host Olivia Howell shares real-life examples of boundaries that support healthier communication, co-parenting rhythms, and emotional safety. She also names the internal discomfort many people feel when setting boundaries and offers validation for those learning this skill for the first time. The episode ends with a simple, grounding action step anyone can take today.Whether you’re navigating divorce, supporting a friend, or trying to understand healthier relationship dynamics, this Divorce 101 A to Z mini-lesson offers clarity, confidence, and emotional support.🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/

Welcome to Divorce 101 A to Z, the Divorce Happens mini-episode series designed to make confusing divorce terms simple, compassionate, and easy to understand. Today’s episode is brought to you by the letter A and the number 12, and we’re breaking down one of the most foundational financial terms in divorce: alimony.Host Olivia Howell explains what alimony really is (and what it isn’t), why courts award it, and how it supports financial stability during separation or divorce. You’ll learn the factors judges consider, the difference between temporary and long-term support, and why alimony exists as a bridge — not a punishment. This short, accessible episode also includes a grounding action step to help listeners begin building financial clarity and confidence during a difficult transition.Whether you’re actively navigating divorce, exploring your options, or helping someone you care about, this Divorce 101 episode offers clarity, emotional validation, and straightforward education.🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/

Divorce 101: A to Z is a 26-episode educational mini-series from the Divorce Happens podcast, created to make divorce easier to understand, less overwhelming, and far more human. Hosted by Olivia Howell—founder of Fresh Starts Registry and a leading voice in modern divorce education—the series breaks down divorce terms, concepts, and processes one letter at a time, from A to Z.Each episode is short and approachable, designed to explain one divorce-related topic in clear, plain language. There is no legal jargon, no fear-based messaging, and no assumption that listeners already know how divorce works. Instead, Divorce 101 offers straightforward explanations meant for real people who are navigating divorce for the first time—or supporting someone who is.Whether you are considering divorce, in the middle of the process, adjusting to life after divorce, or simply trying to understand what a loved one is going through, Divorce 101 provides clarity, context, and reassurance. The goal of the series is not to turn listeners into legal experts, but to help them feel informed enough to ask better questions, make more confident decisions, and feel less alone in a process most people are never taught how to navigate.Divorce 101 is part of the broader Divorce Happens mission to support people before, during, and after divorce with education, inspiration, and a little bit of laughter. Because divorce happens—and then, you start fresh. One letter at a time.🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/