How Not To Suck At Divorce

Guided Divorce Meditations If you’re stuck in a divorce fight that is making you anxious, angry, or completely unable to think clearly, start here. Our Guided Divorce Meditations are designed for the moments when you need to regulate your nervous system before you respond, negotiate, argue, or make another expensive decision. Divorce Crash Course Going through divorce and wondering what you should fight for, what you should let go, and how to avoid making expensive mistakes? Our Divorce Crash Course is a private podcast and guidebook designed to help you understand the divorce process, make smarter decisions, and avoid costly emotional mistakes. Typically priced at $150, it’s available now for $50 , thanks to our angel underwriters OurFamilyWizard and Soberlink . Episode Show Notes People spend thousands of dollars fighting over some truly ridiculous things in divorce. A wooden spoon. A blender. A sixth-grade yearbook. Beanie Babies. Airline miles. Even a tanning bed. And as funny as those stories sound, there is a very real reason they matter. Because most of the time, the thing you are fighting over is not actually the thing you are fighting over. In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce , Andrea Rappaport and family law attorney Morgan Stogsdill are joined by attorneys Sarah Jacobs and Jamie Berger of Jacobs Berger for a conversation about the emotional and financial cost of digging in during divorce. One client spent hours in court fighting over a wooden spoon named Willy Woo. Another divorce came down to a battle over a blender. And one case required attorneys to spend days sorting through tubs of Beanie Babies because neither side could let them go. The stories are absurd. The behavior behind them is not. Divorce Can Turn Small Things Into Expensive Battles When you are going through divorce, emotion can completely distort value. An object may be worth $100, but suddenly it represents your marriage, your history, your independence, your power, or your need to finally “win.” That is where people start spending far more in attorney fees than the thing they are fighting over is actually worth. In the episode, Andrea points out that the fight over one wooden spoon likely cost thousands of dollars in legal fees alone. And that is exactly why divorce strategy matters. Before you dig in, you have to ask yourself: What is this actually worth? Not emotionally. Financially. The Real Problem May Be Control Sometimes the fight is not about property at all. Morgan explains that many of these so-called “squirrel issues” ultimately come down to control. When someone feels like they have lost control of their life, their finances, their family, or the divorce process itself, they may try to regain that feeling of control by pushing the other person’s buttons. Sarah adds that fear can drive the same behavior: fear of change, fear of being alone, fear of losing the life you knew, and fear of what comes next. That means the blender may not be about the blender. The yearbook may not be about the yearbook. And the airline miles may not be about the airline miles. Sometimes the fight itself has become a way to stay connected to the relationship, hold onto control, or avoid confronting the much bigger reality that the marriage is ending. Principle Has a Price Tag One of the strongest lines in this episode comes from Jamie: Principle has a price tag. If you are fighting over something purely because you believe you are right, you need to understand what that principle is going to cost you. That cost may be financial. It may also be emotional. You can absolutely decide that something matters enough to fight for. But that decision should be intentional—not reactive. Jamie recommends being honest with yourself and with your attorney about what truly matters to you and why. Treat Divorce Like a Business Transaction Morgan’s advice is simple: do the math. Take the emotion out of the issue for a moment and write down the actual numbers. What is the item worth? What would it cost to replace? How many hours will your attorney spend fighting over it? How much will those hours cost? What are you potentially giving up in order to get it? Sometimes seeing those numbers on paper is enough to change your perspective. That does not mean divorce is emotionless. It means your decisions should not be controlled by those emotions. Give Your Attorney the “Shark Tank” Pitch Sarah offers another test: If you are determined to fight for something, explain why it matters in a way that would actually sound reasonable to a judge. Sell the argument. Explain the value. Explain what you are willing to give up in exchange. If you cannot make the case convincingly to your own attorney, you may want to reconsider whether this is really the hill you want to die on. And that matters beyond the object itself. Being unreasonable about a relatively small issue can affect how your position is perceived when the court is dealing with things that matter much more—support, custody, property division, or settlement. Ask Yourself What This Will Matter Five Years From Now This may be the most useful perspective shift in the entire episode. Five years from now, are you going to care who got the blender? Are you really going to remember the airline miles? Will winning the fight over a piece of furniture have made your post-divorce life meaningfully better? Probably not. Andrea shares her own experience of losing a baby blanket she had slept with since birth—something she once believed she could never live without. A decade later, she is still standing. That is not to minimize the emotional meaning of possessions. It is to remind you that you are capable of letting go. Three Questions to Ask Before You Fight Before you spend another dollar arguing over something in your divorce, do three things. First, ask yourself why this matters so much . Second, do the math and compare the value of the item to the cost of fighting for it. Third, if you still want it, make the case. Explain why it matters, what it is worth, and what you are willing to give up to get it. If you cannot answer those questions clearly, it may not be worth the fight. Because getting divorced is already expensive enough. You do not need to make it more expensive just to prove a point. In This Episode Andrea, Morgan, Sarah, and Jamie discuss ridiculous divorce fights, how emotional attachment can drive up legal fees, why control and fear fuel unnecessary conflict, when possessions really are worth negotiating over, how mediation can help rein in a case, and how to make smarter financial decisions during divorce. They also tackle one critical question: Is this thing actually valuable—or are you just trying to win? SEO Keywords divorce mistakes, expensive divorce mistakes, what to fight for in divorce, divorce legal fees, divorce strategy, fighting over assets in divorce, divorce property division, emotional divorce decisions, high conflict divorce, divorce settlement strategy, divorce mediation, divorce attorney fees, divorce negotiation tips, divorce financial mistakes, dividing property in divorce

Need Help Calming Your Nervous System? Try our Guided Divorce Meditations , created specifically for the moments when divorce anxiety, anger and overwhelm are taking over. Use them before responding to a triggering text, before a difficult conversation, before court, before mediation—or anytime you need help getting out of your head and back into control. Divorce Crash Course Going through divorce and have no idea what you’re supposed to be doing next? Start with our Divorce Crash Course —a private podcast and guidebook designed to help you understand the divorce process, avoid expensive mistakes, and feel a whole lot less lost. Typically priced at $150, it’s available now for just $50 , thanks to our angel underwriters OurFamilyWizard and Soberlink . High-conflict people—and especially manipulative, narcissistic exes—can have an incredible ability to get inside your head. One text, one email, one strange interaction at school pickup can completely derail your nervous system if you let it. And during divorce, that matters. Because when you are already emotionally exhausted, stressed, angry and running on fumes, that is exactly when you are most likely to make a bad decision. You fire off the text. You respond to the email. You call your attorney while completely dysregulated. You snap at your kids. You take the bait. In this mini episode, Andrea talks about what happens when a high-conflict ex triggers you and why your first job is not to win, explain, defend or react. Your first job is to recognize that you are triggered and give yourself a grown-up timeout. And that is where STFU comes in. No, not that STFU. This one stands for: S — Stop Recognize what is happening before you react. T — Take Space Get out of the immediate situation long enough to regulate yourself. F — Find Your Goal Ask yourself what you actually want to accomplish in that moment. U — Utilize a Resource Call a friend. Talk to your therapist. Go for a walk. Fold laundry. Clean the kitchen. Listen to music. Or use one of our Guided Divorce Meditations to help calm your nervous system and move through the anxiety, anger and overwhelm before you do something you regret. Andrea also talks about splitting , a manipulation tactic often seen in high-conflict dynamics. Splitting can push you away from the very people who are trying to support you—your friends, family, therapist, attorney or partner. And when you are already worn down by divorce, it becomes even easier to start taking your stress out on those people. That is exactly why emotional regulation matters so much during a high-conflict divorce. The goal is not to never get triggered. You will. The goal is to catch yourself before that trigger starts making decisions for you. And if you are in one of those moments where your brain is spinning, your heart is racing and you feel like you are about to absolutely lose it, this is also exactly what our Guided Divorce Meditations were created for. They are short, practical tools you can use when divorce anxiety, anger or panic is taking over and you need help getting yourself back to baseline. Because sometimes the best thing you can do for your case, your kids and your own sanity is simple: Stop. Take space. Find your goal. Utilize a resource. Divorce is a marathon. Protect your energy. Protect your judgment. Protect the relationships that matter to you. And when a high-conflict ex tries to pull you into the chaos? Do not take the bait. In This Episode Andrea talks about dealing with a high-conflict or narcissistic ex, recognizing emotional manipulation during divorce, avoiding reactive communication, managing divorce triggers, understanding splitting, using the STFU method to regulate yourself, and knowing when to step away before making a costly mistake. Need Help Calming Your Nervous System? Try our Guided Divorce Meditations , created specifically for the moments when divorce anxiety, anger and overwhelm are taking over. Use them before responding to a triggering text, before a difficult conversation, before court, before mediation—or anytime you need help getting out of your head and back into control. Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode, and leave us a review if the show is helping you. www.ratethispodcast.com/notsuck You can do this. You are doing this. And you are going to get through your divorce. high conflict divorce, narcissistic divorce, divorcing a narcissist, narcissistic manipulation in divorce, high conflict ex, divorce triggers, emotional manipulation, toxic ex spouse, divorce anxiety, emotional regulation during divorce, co parenting with a narcissist, how to respond to a narcissist, divorce meditation, guided divorce meditation, divorce stress, divorce podcast

Divorce and Emotional Endurance: 3 Ways to Survive a High-Conflict Divorce Guided Divorce Meditations for When You’re About to Lose Your Sh$t For the moments when you can’t sleep, when you miss your kids, when you’re worried about money, or just need to get through the next ten minutes. 👉 GET THE GUIDED DIVORCE MEDITATIONS HERE Going through a divorce? Start with the Divorce Crash Course. We created the Divorce Crash Course to help you understand the divorce process, communicate smarter with your attorney, avoid expensive mistakes, and make better decisions when your brain is completely overwhelmed. Typically priced at $150, available now for $50, thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink. 👉 GET THE DIVORCE CRASH COURSE HERE If you're going through a high-conflict divorce , you already know that the exhaustion isn't just coming from court dates and legal bills. It's the texts. The emails. The accusations. The schedule changes. The constant wondering what your ex is going to do next. And eventually, your nervous system starts living like there's an emergency around every corner. In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce , Andrea Rappaport and family law attorney Morgan Stogsdill talk about something that doesn't get nearly enough attention during divorce: emotional endurance. Because when you're dealing with a difficult, unpredictable, or high-conflict spouse, you cannot control everything they throw at you. But you can get better at protecting your energy, responding strategically, and recovering when something knocks you sideways. We're breaking down three practical ways to emotionally survive a high-conflict divorce without letting it take over your entire life. 1. Build a Tiny Divorce Decision-Making Team One of the biggest mistakes people make during divorce? Making everybody in their life part of their divorce. Your friends. Your sister. Your neighbor. The moms at school. The guy at the dry cleaner. When you're scared and overwhelmed, it is completely natural to want to tell everyone what is happening. You're looking for reassurance, advice, validation—or sometimes you just need the insanity to come out of your mouth. But every new person you involve comes with another opinion. And more opinions can mean more anxiety, more confusion, and more second-guessing. Instead, build a very small divorce team. That might include: Your divorce attorney for legal strategy A therapist for emotional processing One trusted friend who can listen when you need to lose your mind for five minutes Other professionals your attorney recommends based on your case Everybody else? They can still be part of your life. They just don't need to be part of your divorce strategy . And sometimes the healthiest thing you can say when a friend asks about your divorce is: "It's a complete shit show. Anyway, where did you get that purse?" Your brain desperately needs conversations that have absolutely nothing to do with divorce. 2. Stop Expecting Fairness From a High-Conflict Ex This one is HARD. When somebody behaves irrationally, unfairly, or cruelly during divorce, your brain keeps waiting for the moment when they finally become reasonable. You think: Surely they'll realize this is hurting the kids. Surely they'll see how ridiculous this is. Surely we can agree on this one thing. Maybe. But if you're divorcing a genuinely high-conflict person, waiting for fairness can drain every ounce of emotional endurance you have. As Morgan explains in this episode, "fair" is not necessarily the legal standard—and your definition of fair probably isn't your spouse's definition of fair anyway. So stop making fairness the goal. Instead, focus on: Strategy. What does your attorney recommend? Enforceability. Can the agreement actually be enforced? Closure. What gets this divorce finished so you can move forward with your life? You may also experience something incredibly confusing with a high-conflict spouse: the roller coaster. One day they're reasonable. You think: Holy shit. Maybe we're finally turning a corner. And 24 hours later? They're completely off the rails again. That doesn't mean you did something wrong. It means you need to stop using their behavior as the barometer for whether your divorce is going well. Take the reasonable moments when they come. Use them strategically. But don't build your emotional stability around whether your ex is having a good day. Co-Parenting With a High-Conflict Ex? Use the Right Tools If you are co-parenting through even a moderately high-conflict divorce, organization and documentation matter. That's why we repeatedly recommend Our Family Wizard . A co-parenting app can help move communication out of chaotic text threads, keep calendars and expenses organized, and create a clearer record of communication. And listeners of How Not to Suck at Divorce can receive a significant discount on the first year of the Essentials package. 👉 LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR FAMILY WIZARD Ask your divorce attorney whether using a co-parenting app proactively makes sense in your case. 3. Create a 20-Minute Recovery Window Something awful happens during your divorce. You receive an email from your attorney. Your ex sends a text. A financial issue appears. A parenting dispute erupts. Your heart starts racing. You're furious. You're scared. And then you do what most of us do: You immediately go back to your life. You jump onto a work call. You pick up the kids. You respond to another email. You start making dinner. But emotionally, you're still standing inside the explosion that just happened. That's why we want you to create what we call a recovery window . Give yourself approximately 20 minutes before responding or making another important decision. During those 20 minutes: Take a walk. Sit somewhere quiet. Go sit in your car. Cry. Take a shower. Listen to music. Drink cold water. Try a grounding exercise. Listen to one of our guided divorce meditations. But here's the most important part: Do not respond yet. Don't email your attorney. Don't text your spouse. Don't fire off a message because you're furious. Don't start reading five more divorce emails while you're already activated. Recover first. Then decide what actually deserves a response. Emotional Endurance Does NOT Mean Becoming Numb We are not telling you to stop feeling. You are going to get triggered during divorce. You are going to have terrible days. You are going to receive messages that make your stomach drop. And you may occasionally want to throw your phone directly into Lake Michigan. You're human. Emotional endurance means becoming more intentional about: Who gets your energy. What expectations you let go of. How quickly you react. How you recover after something rattles you. The goal isn't to become immune to your divorce. The goal is to stop allowing one awful text at 9:07 a.m. to hijack the next twelve hours of your life. Remember: Divorce Is a Marathon We say this constantly because you need to hear it constantly: Divorce is a marathon. It is not a sprint. Some days you'll manage it day by day. Other days? Hour by hour. That's okay. You don't get a ribbon for getting divorced faster. There is no trophy waiting at the courthouse for the person who endured the most abuse without taking a break. Pace yourself. Protect your energy. Use the right people. Use the right tools. Stop waiting for an unreasonable person to suddenly become reasonable. And when something knocks you down, give your brain time to recover before deciding what happens next. You may feel like you're going to battle this person forever. You won't. The other side may feel impossible to see right now, but it is there. And on the days when you think: I cannot do this. Remember: You already are. You've got this, my friends. And we've got you. More Divorce...

🧘 DIVORCE MEDITATIONS Divorce can make your nervous system feel like it’s running a marathon with no finish line. Our Divorce Meditations are here when you need to calm your brain, stop the spiral, and give yourself a few minutes to breathe. 👉 Listen to the Divorce Meditations here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/guides/p/divorce-guided-meditations 💥 THE DIVORCE CRASH COURSE If you’re going through divorce and terrified of making an expensive mistake, start here. The Divorce Crash Course gives you the information we wish every person had before making major decisions in divorce — including how to save money on attorneys, understand your finances, navigate custody and parenting agreements, and avoid mistakes that can cost you thousands. Typically priced at 150, available now for $50, thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink. 👉 Get the Divorce Crash Course here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course Think you’re sucking at divorce? Good news: there are people who have sucked at it significantly harder. In this mini episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce , Andrea brings you some of the strangest, funniest and most unbelievable divorce stories we’ve ever heard — involving a donated kidney, ex-in-laws buried in a backyard, a six-pound catfish named Pinky, and one extremely smart ex-wife who made sure a future Nobel Prize was covered in her divorce settlement. Yes. All of that happens in one episode. But underneath the ridiculous divorce stories is something we actually want you to remember: Divorce is a marathon, not a sprint. You cannot spend every hour of every day thinking about your divorce, answering emails, talking to your attorney, worrying about your kids, analyzing your ex, making decisions and trying to predict what happens next. Your brain needs a break. Sometimes that means taking a walk. Sometimes it means binge-watching something completely stupid. And sometimes it means listening to stories about someone arguing over a giant catfish during their divorce so you can remember that maybe — just maybe — you're doing better than you think. In this episode: One man who reportedly wanted compensation for a kidney he donated to his wife The divorce dispute involving urns and headstones in the backyard The tragic tale of Pinky, the six-pound divorce catfish The incredibly savvy divorce settlement that gave an ex-wife half of a future Nobel Prize Why you don't have to make every divorce decision immediately Why taking mental breaks during divorce is not selfish How to pace yourself during a long or high-conflict divorce Why laughter can actually be part of getting through this And why your goal isn't to get through divorce the fastest — it's to get through it as healthy and whole as possible YOUR REMINDER TODAY: You are allowed to take a day off from divorce. You are allowed to laugh. You are allowed to watch garbage television. You are allowed to stop thinking about your ex for five freaking minutes. And you do not need to win an award for being the fastest person ever to get divorced. When you think you cannot do this, remember: You already are doing it. Your win is getting to the other side — and giving yourself the opportunity to build the healthiest, happiest next chapter of your life. We are so freaking proud of you. You've got this. And we've got you. ⭐ FOLLOW HOW NOT TO SUCK AT DIVORCE If this episode gave you a laugh when you desperately needed one, please follow the show and leave us a rating and review! www.ratethispodcast.com/notsuck And go back through the How Not to Suck at Divorce library — we have episodes covering divorce finances, custody, co-parenting, attorneys, mediation, high-conflict divorce, emotional recovery and pretty much every WTF moment that can happen along the way. SEO KEYWORDS divorce stories, funny divorce stories, divorce humor, getting through divorce, divorce emotional support, divorce burnout, surviving divorce, high conflict divorce, divorce stress, divorce self care, weird divorce cases, crazy divorce stories, divorce settlement, divorce finances, divorce advice for women, divorce advice, coping with divorce, life after divorce, divorce podcast, How Not to Suck at Divorce

Divorce and Hidden Cryptocurrency: How to Find Crypto Your Spouse May Be Hiding 🧘 DIVORCE MEDITATIONS Divorce can make your brain feel like it’s running 24/7. Our Divorce Meditations were created to help calm your nervous system, quiet the spiral, and get you through the moments when everything feels like too much. Listen to the Divorce Meditations here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/guides/p/divorce-guided-meditations 💥 THE DIVORCE CRASH COURSE If you’re overwhelmed by divorce and terrified of making an expensive mistake, start here. The Divorce Crash Course gives you the information we wish every person had BEFORE making major decisions in divorce — including how to save money on attorneys, understand your finances, navigate custody and parenting agreements, and avoid the mistakes that can cost you thousands. Typically priced at $150, available now for $50, thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink. 👉 Get the Divorce Crash Course here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course What happens if you think your spouse is hiding money in cryptocurrency during your divorce? First: don’t panic. And definitely don’t assume crypto is impossible to find. In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce , Andrea Rappaport and family law attorney Morgan Stogsdill are joined by Jason Wright, Managing Director in the Disputes, Compliance & Investigations group at Stout , to break cryptocurrency down for the rest of us — and explain exactly what can happen when crypto becomes part of a divorce. We’re starting with the basics: What the hell is cryptocurrency? What’s a crypto wallet? What’s a private key or seed phrase? What are Coinbase, Kraken and other crypto exchanges actually doing? Then we get into the question that matters during divorce: Can your spouse actually hide marital money in crypto — and can you find it? Jason explains why cryptocurrency isn’t necessarily as anonymous or untraceable as people think, how forensic experts can follow transactions on the blockchain, and what financial clues might indicate that money has been moved into cryptocurrency. We discuss: • How cryptocurrency differs from traditional bank and investment accounts • Crypto exchanges like Coinbase, Kraken and Gemini • The difference between custodial and non-custodial crypto wallets • What private keys and seed phrases actually mean • Crypto ATMs — yes, apparently those exist • Transfers and cash withdrawals that could signal cryptocurrency activity • How forensic experts trace crypto transactions • Why the blockchain can actually help investigators follow money • When your divorce attorney may need to subpoena an exchange • How to decide whether pursuing suspected crypto is financially worth it • Cryptocurrency and dissipation of marital assets • What happens when someone loses the password to a crypto wallet • Why hidden crypto may still be discoverable after divorce • Why you should NOT confront your spouse if you suspect they’re hiding cryptocurrency One of the biggest takeaways from this episode? You do not need to become a cryptocurrency expert. If something doesn’t look right, gather the financial information you have lawful access to, document what you’re seeing, and bring it to your divorce attorney. Let your attorney decide whether additional investigation, subpoenas or a forensic expert are necessary. And if your lawyer doesn’t have much experience dealing with cryptocurrency in divorce? Ask them. You have every right to know whether the team handling your divorce understands the assets that may be involved. Because going on an unnecessary financial “truffle hunt” can cost you money — but walking away from tens of thousands, hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars that should have been part of your marital estate can cost you a whole lot more. ABOUT OUR GUEST Jason Wright is a Managing Director in the Disputes, Compliance & Investigations group at Stout . He works with attorneys and clients on complex financial investigations, including tracing cryptocurrency and digital assets. We’ll link Jason’s information below so you and/or your attorney can contact him if his expertise is needed. Jason Wright / Stout: https://www.stout.com/en/professionals/jason-wright ⭐ LOVE HOW NOT TO SUCK AT DIVORCE? Please take a minute to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts . Reviews help more people going through divorce find the show when they need it most. www.ratethispodcast.com/notsuck And make sure you’re following How Not to Suck at Divorce so you never miss an episode. We’re here twice a week with full episodes, mini episodes, legal education, emotional support and the information you need to get through divorce without losing your mind — or your money. You’ve got this. And we’ve got you. SEO KEYWORDS cryptocurrency divorce, crypto divorce, hidden assets in divorce, hiding money during divorce, hidden cryptocurrency divorce, Bitcoin divorce, crypto assets divorce, finding hidden money in divorce, financial discovery divorce, forensic accountant divorce, cryptocurrency marital assets, tracing crypto assets, hidden marital assets, divorce financial investigation, spouse hiding money, divorce attorney cryptocurrency, blockchain divorce, crypto wallet divorce, dissipation of marital assets, divorce finances Mentioned in this episode: Need Extra Cash? Why not see how much Worthy can get you for your ring? It's a risk free process- and Worthy works with you to get the best price possible. Get an extra $100 if your ring sells for more than $1500. https://vip.worthy.com/divorcepod/?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=how_not_to_suck_at_divorce Our Family Wizard How Not to Suck at Divorce is proud to be the only podcast that can offer you 20% off your first year of the essentials package. Visit Our Family Wizard to ask your attorney is OFW is right for your family. Our Family Wizard

Divorce Keeping You Up at Night? How to Stop the 2 A.M. Spiral DIVORCE CRASH COURSE: Divorce is expensive. Making avoidable mistakes makes it even more expensive. Our Divorce Crash Course gives you the information we wish every person had before and during divorce—from choosing an attorney and understanding your finances to custody, parenting agreements and the mistakes that can cost you thousands. Typically priced at $150, available now for $50, thanks to our angel underwriters, OurFamilyWizard and Soberlink. [GET THE DIVORCE CRASH COURSE HERE] NEW: GUIDED DIVORCE MEDITATIONS: When your brain won't shut up about your divorce, we made something specifically for that. Our Guided Divorce Meditations are short, on-demand meditations for the moments divorce hits hardest—including when you can't sleep, you're worried about money or your kids, you're spiraling about your marriage, or you're struggling with a custody transition. [GET THE GUIDED DIVORCE MEDITATIONS HERE ] If divorce is keeping you awake at night, you're definitely not alone. You go to bed exhausted, but the second everything gets quiet, your brain decides it's time to solve your entire divorce. What if my ex is hiding money? What if something happens with the kids? What does that email from my attorney mean? What if this goes to trial? Did I remember to send that document? Should I respond to that text? What if I can't afford this? Suddenly it's 2:34 a.m., you're wide awake, and you're trying to solve problems that probably cannot be solved from your bed. In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce , Andrea Rappaport and family law attorney Morgan Stogsdill are talking about divorce anxiety, insomnia and what to do when you can't stop thinking about your divorce at night. And we're giving you an actual strategy. Morgan explains how to separate the things that genuinely require action from the things that feel urgent because your anxious brain is filling in the blanks. Andrea shares why losing sleep during divorce can make an already difficult situation worse—and potentially affect the decisions you're making the next day. The goal isn't to pretend everything is fine. It's learning to recognize what needs your action—and what needs your inaction. In This Episode You'll Learn Why divorce anxiety can feel so much worse at night What to do when you wake up worrying about your divorce The pen-and-paper strategy Morgan recommends for getting worries out of your head How to determine whether something actually requires action Why you should think twice before emailing your divorce attorney late at night How to create a running list of questions for your attorney Why you should draft—but NOT send—emotional late-night emails How late-night texts and emails from your ex can destroy your sleep Why setting communication boundaries with your co-parent matters How to use OurFamilyWizard notification settings more strategically Why sometimes doing absolutely nothing is the smartest action you can take What to tell yourself when your brain refuses to shut down Why resting can be enough when you can't force yourself to fall asleep How changing your environment may help break the cycle when you're lying awake spiraling The 2 A.M. Divorce Brain Dump If you wake up in the middle of the night and your brain is racing, Morgan recommends keeping a pen and paper next to your bed. Write down everything that's occupying your brain—not just the divorce stuff. Then go through the list and ask yourself: Can I actually take action on this tonight? Or: Do I have any control over the outcome of this tonight? If the answer is no, cross it out for tonight. If the answer is yes, decide whether it truly requires action immediately or whether you can make a plan to handle it tomorrow. Most things can wait until morning. And if it's something you want to discuss with your divorce attorney, write it down or put the email in your drafts. Do not hit send at 2 a.m. Your rested morning brain may have a very different—and considerably shorter—email to send. Stop Letting Your Ex Into Your Bedroom Not literally. We have an entirely different podcast episode for that problem. We're talking about your phone. If your ex tends to send inflammatory texts, emails or co-parenting messages late at night, you do not have to allow those notifications to dictate when your nervous system goes into overdrive. Morgan recommends setting boundaries around when you receive and read messages. Andrea also points out that if you're using OurFamilyWizard, you can choose when you receive your daily notifications. Your ex's 10:30 p.m. message does not automatically become your 10:31 p.m. emergency. And it goes both ways. Don't send your ex angry late-night messages either. Aside from destroying everyone's sleep, creating a documented pattern of bad communication is probably not something you want your attorneys—or potentially a judge—reading later. What Needs Action—and What Needs Inaction? We often divide our problems into two categories: Things I can control. Things I can't control. Andrea offers a different way to think about it during divorce: What needs my action? And: What needs my inaction? Sometimes inaction is an active decision. You can recognize that something is scary, painful or uncertain without trying to solve it tonight. You aren't pretending the problem doesn't exist. You're deciding: Not now. Tomorrow, you can reopen the box. Tonight, your job is to rest. When Your Brain Still Won't Shut Up Sometimes you've written everything down. You've made tomorrow's list. You've silenced your notifications. You've decided what can wait. And your brain is still going. That's exactly why we created our Guided Divorce Meditations . Earlier this week, we released one of the meditations completely free on the podcast: For When You Can't Sleep. It's about 10 minutes long, and Andrea walks you through putting those thoughts and fears somewhere safe for the night—not throwing them away, not pretending they don't matter, but giving yourself permission to stop carrying them until morning. The complete Guided Divorce Meditation library is $20 and includes meditations created specifically for different moments of divorce when you need help quieting the noise. [GET THE GUIDED DIVORCE MEDITATIONS HERE] Resources Mentioned Divorce Crash Course Guided Divorce Meditations OurFamilyWizard Soberlink Subscribe, Rate & Review If How Not to Suck at Divorce is helping you get through your divorce a little smarter, calmer and more prepared, please subscribe and leave us a review. It helps more people find the show and allows us to keep creating resources that actually help you through this process. Rate the podcast: www.ratethispodcast.com/notsuck And remember: you are going to get through this. One step at a time. One day at a time. And sometimes, one hour at a time. You've got this. And we've got you. 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Divorce Anxiety Keeping You Awake? A Guided Meditation for Sleep Get the complete Guided Divorce Meditation collection here. Can't sleep because of your divorce? This episode is for you. When you're going through a divorce, nighttime can be brutal. The house gets quiet, the distractions stop, and suddenly your brain decides it's the perfect time to think about everything . Money. Your kids. Your ex. That text you received earlier. What your attorney said. What you wish you'd said. What happens next. What went wrong in your marriage. What your life is going to look like six months from now. And somehow you're supposed to sleep. In this special mini episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce , Andrea is sharing one of our brand-new Guided Divorce Meditations completely free. This meditation was created specifically for the nights when divorce anxiety won't let you sleep. Put in your earbuds, get comfortable, and press play. You don't need to figure out your entire divorce tonight. You don't need to solve tomorrow's problems from your bed. Right now, you just need to get through this moment and give your brain and body a chance to rest. Get the Complete Guided Divorce Meditation Collection If this meditation helps, we've created an entire library of Guided Divorce Meditations for the specific moments during divorce that can feel completely overwhelming. These aren't generic meditations. They're designed for the actual thoughts, fears and situations that come with divorce—worrying about money, worrying about your children, replaying your marriage, dealing with the emotions around custody transitions, and the moments when your mind simply will not stop spiraling. We created these for you because sometimes you don't need another piece of divorce advice. Sometimes you just need someone to help you get through the next ten minutes. And if there's a part of divorce you're struggling with that we haven't created something for yet, tell us. Reach out and let us know what you need. Everything we create at How Not to Suck at Divorce is designed to make this process a little less overwhelming. You can do this. You're already doing it. One step at a time. One day at a time. You've got this...and we've got you. And if you need more support with action steps, our Divorce Crash Course is available for you right here.

🎧 Divorce Crash Course (DCC) Thinking about divorce or already in it? Before you make a decision that could cost you thousands, get the information you wish someone had given you from the very beginning. Get the Divorce Crash Course (DCC) today. Typically priced at $150 , available now for just $50 , thanks to our angel underwriters Our Family Wizard and Soberlink. Whether you're considering divorce, in the middle of one, or trying to rebuild afterward, this course can save you time, money, and unnecessary heartbreak. Episode Description There are a LOT of divorce myths out there. And believing the wrong one isn't just annoying—it can give you completely unrealistic expectations and potentially cost you a whole lot of money. In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce , Andrea and family law attorney Morgan Stogsdill are busting some of the biggest divorce myths they hear over and over again. Should you be concerned if your divorce attorney is friendly with your ex's attorney? (Spoiler: probably the opposite.) Are you actually going to end up in a dramatic divorce trial where a judge finally hears your story and tells you that you were right? Do you need a divorce coach because someone on Instagram told you that you do? And should your attorney be responding to every email immediately? Andrea and Morgan also tackle one of the biggest misconceptions about hiring a divorce attorney: that a "simple divorce" means you don't need to think carefully about the level of attorney—and level of service—you hire. Morgan explains why having attorneys who can work well together can actually reduce posturing, speed up negotiations and potentially save clients money. She also shares that in her own practice, she estimates 5% or fewer of her cases actually reach a full trial—and why settlement is generally preferable when it's possible. This episode is about separating what divorce looks like on TV, Instagram and in your imagination from what actually happens—and helping you make smarter decisions with your time, money and legal strategy. Divorce Myths We're Busting MYTH #1: Your attorney shouldn't be friendly with opposing counsel. Actually, a good professional relationship between attorneys can make negotiations more efficient and reduce unnecessary fighting—and unnecessary legal fees. MYTH #2: Your divorce is probably going to trial. A hearing isn't the same thing as a full-blown trial. Morgan estimates that 5% or fewer of her own cases reach a full trial, in part because trial is expensive and ultimately puts major decisions about your life into the hands of a judge. MYTH #3: You need a divorce coach. Not necessarily. Morgan's advice is to involve your attorney before adding a coach to your divorce team and to make sure anyone you hire has appropriate credentials and a clearly defined role. Andrea and Morgan also distinguish this from a collaborative divorce where coaching may already be part of the process. MYTH #4: Your divorce attorney should always respond immediately. Your situation may feel like an emergency—and emotionally, it absolutely may be—but law firms have to triage truly urgent situations. Morgan explains what she considers reasonable communication expectations and why this is something you should ask about before hiring an attorney. MYTH #5: A "simple divorce" doesn't require a great attorney. Andrea and Morgan explain why you should hire based not only on the conflict in your case, but also on the level of communication and service you need. And that includes evaluating the entire firm—not just the attorney sitting across from you during the consultation. In This Episode You'll Learn Why your attorney having lunch with opposing counsel can actually be a GOOD thing How attorney relationships can affect your legal bill Why most divorces don't end in a full-blown trial Why going before a judge probably won't give you the vindication you're imagining When a divorce coach can help—and when another voice could complicate your legal strategy What you can reasonably expect when communicating with your divorce attorney The questions to ask about response times before hiring a law firm Why the staff and client experience matter when choosing an attorney Why "simple divorce" doesn't necessarily mean you should choose the cheapest lawyer Key Takeaways Your divorce attorney being friendly with opposing counsel does not mean they're "in cahoots." In many cases, trust and professional respect between attorneys can mean less posturing, faster negotiations and fewer billable hours. Don't build your entire emotional strategy around finally getting your day in court. As Morgan explains, even clients who technically "win" at trial can walk away feeling like they've lost after the financial and emotional cost of getting there. And when you're interviewing divorce attorneys, ask very specific questions about communication: What's your normal response time? Who will I hear from if you're unavailable? What should I expect from your staff? If an attorney can't clearly answer those questions during the consultation, Andrea says to pay attention—that may tell you something about what the client experience will look like later. Resources Mentioned Divorce Crash Course OurFamilyWizard Soberlink How Not to Suck at Divorce Private Community Divorce Guided Meditations — coming soon! Subscribe, Rate & Review If How Not to Suck at Divorce is helping you get through your divorce a little smarter, calmer and more prepared, please subscribe and leave us a review. It helps more people find the show—and allows us to keep bringing you honest conversations about what divorce is actually like. www.ratethispodcast.com/notsuck And remember: divorce is a marathon, not a sprint. Some days you're taking it day by day. Other days it's hour by hour. But it will end. You've got this. And we've got you. SEO Keywords divorce myths, divorce attorney advice, divorce lawyer, divorce trial, divorce coach, choosing a divorce attorney, divorce lawyer communication, divorce settlement, divorce mediation, divorce legal fees, divorce mistakes, family law attorney, divorce advice, divorce podcast, how to choose a divorce lawyer, how much does divorce cost Mentioned in this episode: Our Family Wizard How Not to Suck at Divorce is proud to be the only podcast that can offer you 20% off your first year of the essentials package. Visit Our Family Wizard to ask your attorney is OFW is right for your family. Our Family Wizard

Want Your Ex to Behave Better? Try This Instead 🎧 Divorce Crash Course (DCC) Thinking about divorce or already in it? Before you make a decision that could cost you thousands, get the information you wish someone had given you from the very beginning. Get the Divorce Crash Course (DCC) today. Typically priced at $150 , available now for just $50 , thanks to our angel underwriters Our Family Wizard and Soberlink. Whether you're considering divorce, in the middle of one, or trying to rebuild afterward, this course can save you time, money, and unnecessary heartbreak. Episode Description It may sound completely backwards, but sometimes the fastest way to improve your co-parenting relationship is to thank your ex. No, this isn't about pretending they're Parent of the Year. It's not about rewarding bad behavior or forgetting everything they've put you through. It's about understanding something surprisingly simple: people tend to repeat behaviors that are acknowledged. In this mini episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce , Andrea explains why a genuine "thank you" after your co-parent does something thoughtful, flexible, or simply doesn't make your life harder can change the tone of your relationship. From switching weekends without a fight to communicating well about the kids, small moments of appreciation can reinforce the behaviors that make co-parenting easier for everyone. If your goal is raising healthy kids—not winning against your ex—this simple mindset shift could make your divorce a little less stressful. In This Episode Why positive reinforcement works on adults, too The psychology behind encouraging better co-parenting Why appreciation doesn't mean approval When you should (and shouldn't) thank your co-parent How one sentence can reduce conflict Why the goal is healthy kids—not keeping score How changing the tone of communication benefits everyone Why kindness can be a surprisingly effective co-parenting strategy Key Takeaways You don't have to like your ex to reinforce good behavior. Appreciation is different from excusing past behavior. Positive reinforcement can encourage healthier communication. Your kids benefit when co-parenting becomes less adversarial. Sometimes the strongest strategy is changing the tone—not escalating the conflict. Small moments of kindness can create meaningful shifts over time. Memorable Quotes "We repeat positive behaviors that get acknowledged." "This isn't being weak. This is strategy." "The goal isn't to win against your ex. The goal is to raise healthy kids." "You don't need to write them a haiku. Just say thank you." Resources Mentioned Divorce Crash Course (DCC) OurFamilyWizard Soberlink Divorce Guided Meditations (Coming Soon) How Not to Suck at Divorce Community Subscribe & Review If this episode made you think differently about co-parenting, we'd love your support. Please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who could use a little more peace in their co-parenting relationship. Your reviews help us reach more people navigating divorce, and we truly appreciate every single one. www.ratethispodcast.com/notsuck SEO Keywords divorce, co-parenting, co-parent communication, divorce podcast, positive reinforcement, parenting after divorce, co-parenting tips, divorce advice, parenting plan, family law, healthy co-parenting, conflict after divorce, raising kids after divorce, divorced parents, divorce support

🎧 Divorce Crash Course (DCC) Thinking about divorce or already in it? Before you make a decision that could cost you thousands, get the information you wish someone had given you from the very beginning. Get the Divorce Crash Course (DCC) today. Typically priced at $150 , available now for just $50 , thanks to our angel underwriters Our Family Wizard and Soberlink . Whether you're considering divorce, in the middle of one, or trying to rebuild afterward, this course can save you time, money, and unnecessary heartbreak. Episode Description We've all heard the advice: "Be the bigger person." But what happens when being the bigger person turns into giving away your financial security, parenting time, or legal leverage? In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce , Andrea and family law attorney Morgan Stogsdill tackle one of the most common—and costly—mistakes people make during divorce: confusing kindness with surrender. They explain why people-pleasers often struggle during negotiations, how manipulative exes exploit "nice" personalities, and why your long-term future matters far more than making today's conflict disappear. Morgan and Andrea also share their powerful THINK framework—a practical decision-making tool to help you slow down before agreeing to anything you'll regret. If you've ever worried about coming across as "mean" during your divorce, this conversation could save you years of regret. In This Episode You'll Learn Why kindness and weakness are not the same thing The hidden cost of being a people pleaser during divorce How manipulative spouses use guilt to get what they want Why short-term peace often creates long-term problems When your attorney should be the one saying "no" How to protect yourself without becoming combative Morgan's THINK framework for making smarter divorce decisions Why leverage matters in divorce negotiations How OurFamilyWizard can reduce manipulation and conflict Why thinking long-term is one of the most important divorce skills you'll ever develop How Not to Suck at Divorce's THINK Framework Before responding to your spouse, pause and THINK: T – Think long-term, not just about today's pain. H – Have a purpose. Know why you're making every decision. I – It's okay to say no. N – Nice isn't the same as fair. K – Keep your leverage. Key Takeaways Divorce is a marathon—not a sprint. Being calm leads to better long-term decisions. Your attorney exists to protect your future, not just settle today's argument. Don't give something away simply because conflict feels uncomfortable. You can be compassionate while maintaining healthy boundaries. Protecting yourself isn't selfish—it's smart. Resources Mentioned Divorce Crash Course (DCC) OurFamilyWizard Soberlink How Not to Suck at Divorce Private Community Remember friends, we are the only podcast that can offer you 20% off your first year of Our Family Wizard! Head here: www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck20 Subscribe & Review If this episode helped you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Every review helps us reach more people navigating one of life's hardest transitions. www.ratethispodcast.com/notsuck SEO Keywords divorce advice, divorce negotiation tips, people pleaser divorce, divorce boundaries, divorce strategy, family law, mediation tips, divorce attorney advice, divorce leverage, co-parenting, OurFamilyWizard, divorce settlement, emotional abuse, manipulative spouse, divorce podcast, parenting plan, divorce mistakes, custody negotiations, divorce support, how not to suck at divorce

🚨 Before You Spend Thousands More on Your Divorce... If you're navigating divorce and want to avoid the costly mistakes so many people make, grab our Divorce Crash Course today. Typically priced at $150, available now for just $50, thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink. Inside you'll learn: How to avoid expensive legal mistakes What to expect throughout the divorce process How to communicate more effectively with your attorney The biggest financial pitfalls people don't see coming Practical strategies to save money, reduce stress, and make smarter decisions 👉 Get instant access today: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course Divorce: Don't Leave Your Lawyer's Office Confused (It Could Cost You Thousands) Have you ever walked out of your attorney's office, gotten into your car, and suddenly realized... "I don't actually know what we just decided." You're not alone. In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce , Andrea and family law attorney Morgan Stogsdill tackle one of the most common—and expensive—mistakes people make during divorce: pretending to understand or agree with a legal strategy when they really don't. Too many people stay quiet because they're embarrassed to ask questions, don't want to challenge their attorney, or need more time to process what they just heard. Unfortunately, that silence can lead to unnecessary legal fees, poor strategic decisions, and frustration for both you and your lawyer. Andrea and Morgan explain why speaking up isn't being difficult—it's being a smart client. In This Episode, We Discuss: Why so many people leave attorney meetings feeling confused The hidden cost of pretending you understand your legal strategy How to tell your attorney a proposed strategy doesn't feel right Why asking, "What do you think the other side will do next?" is one of the smartest questions you can ask When it's okay to ask for time before making a major legal decision Why changing your mind after your attorney has already started working can become expensive The importance of making sure your attorney's strategy aligns with your personal goals How to ask your lawyer for a recap email after a meeting Why a recurring weekly check-in can actually reduce stress and unnecessary communication Memorable Quotes "You're the driver of the bus. Your lawyer is there to guide you—but the decisions are ultimately yours." "Don't nod your head just because you're afraid to look like you don't understand." "Silence can be one of the most expensive mistakes you make during divorce." Resources Mentioned Divorce Crash Course: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course Join our private divorce community for support and resources. Subscribe to How Not to Suck at Divorce so you never miss an episode. If You Enjoyed This Episode... Please leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review and share this episode with someone navigating divorce. It helps more people find practical, trustworthy guidance during one of the hardest seasons of their lives. www.ratethispodcast.com/notsuck Connect With Us 🌐 Website: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com 📱 Follow us on social media for daily divorce tips, legal education, and emotional support. @hownottosuckatdivorce @divorcepodcast SEO Keywords divorce attorney communication questions to ask your divorce lawyer divorce legal strategy how to work with your divorce attorney divorce mistakes divorce legal advice family law attorney tips divorce mediation vs litigation saving money during divorce how not to suck at divorce

🎧 Divorce Crash Course Before you hire an attorney—or if you're already in the middle of your divorce—don't miss our Divorce Crash Course . Learn how to avoid the costly mistakes that can impact your finances, custody, and future. Typically priced at $150 , it's available now for just $50 , thanks to our angel underwriters: Our Family Wizard and Soberlink. 👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course Episode Description When people think about divorce, they often assume the shame comes after the marriage ends. For Andrea, it began years earlier. In this deeply personal solo episode, Andrea opens up about the emotional weight of pretending everything was okay while privately living in a lonely, disconnected marriage. She shares the shame of hiding a sexless marriage, constantly editing her reality to protect appearances, and questioning her own worth because of what was happening behind closed doors. She also explores the quieter forms of emotional control that can slowly erode your confidence, why shame thrives in silence, and how years of living in survival mode affected both her mind and body. If you've ever smiled through the pain, convinced everyone your marriage was fine, or wondered if something was wrong with you because your relationship felt so different from everyone else's, this episode is for you. You are not alone. In This Episode You'll Learn: Why shame often begins long before divorce The emotional toll of pretending your marriage is okay How loneliness can become internalized as self-worth The hidden impact of emotional control and chronic stress Why many people question their own reality in unhealthy relationships The connection between living in survival mode and your mental health How shame keeps us silent—and why speaking the truth is the first step toward healing Why your circumstances do not define your worth Resources Mentioned Divorce Crash Course Our Family Wizard Soberlink How Not to Suck at Divorce Community Connect With Us 🌐 Website: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com 💬 Join our private community for support, resources, and conversations with people who truly understand what you're going through. 📧 Questions or episode ideas? Email us at hello@hownottosuckatdivorce.com If This Episode Helped You... Please take a moment to follow the show, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. You never know who is quietly pretending everything is okay. SEO Keywords divorce shame, shame after divorce, emotional abuse, emotionally abusive marriage, controlling marriage, surviving emotional abuse, loneliness in marriage, sexless marriage, divorce healing, panic disorder after divorce, trauma and divorce, unhealthy marriage, emotionally controlling relationship, divorce podcast, high-conflict marriage, mental health after divorce, how not to suck at divorce, healing from divorce, relationship shame, surviving divorce

🎧 Before You Continue… Don't Navigate Divorce Alone The Divorce Crash Course If you're thinking about divorce, in the middle of one, or trying to rebuild your life afterward, our Divorce Crash Course can help you avoid the mistakes that cost people thousands of dollars—and months (or years) of unnecessary stress. Typically priced at $150 , it's available now for just $50 , thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink . Inside you'll learn: How to prepare before filing for divorce The biggest legal and financial mistakes to avoid How to save money on attorney's fees Parenting and custody considerations What to expect throughout the divorce process 👉 Get instant access today: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course Episode Description "I'm smart...so how did I end up in such a toxic marriage?" If you've ever looked back on your relationship and asked yourself that question, this episode is for you. One of the most painful parts of divorce isn't just grieving the relationship—it's trying to understand why you stayed . Andrea explores why intelligent, educated, capable, and successful people often remain in unhealthy marriages far longer than they expected. This isn't about weakness or a lack of intelligence. It's about hope, psychology, love, and the very human tendency to believe that if we just try a little harder, things will eventually get better. In this deeply personal mini episode, Andrea discusses: Why toxic relationships usually develop gradually The psychology of normalization and why unhealthy behavior becomes easier to accept over time Why successful people often stay because they're natural problem-solvers The role hope plays in keeping us stuck Why leaving a marriage is rarely "just one decision" How shame can become one of the biggest obstacles to healing Why replacing self-blame with understanding is one of the most important steps in recovery If you've ever wondered, "What was I thinking?" this episode offers a different perspective—one rooted in compassion instead of shame. Because healing doesn't begin with blaming yourself. It begins with understanding yourself. In This Episode Why smart people stay in toxic marriages The psychology behind unhealthy relationships How normalization changes what we accept Why hope can sometimes keep us stuck Why problem-solvers often struggle to leave The hidden cost of shame after divorce Replacing self-blame with self-understanding The first steps toward emotional healing Resources Mentioned Divorce Crash Course Learn how to protect yourself legally, financially, and emotionally before, during, and after divorce. 👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course Join Our Free Community Connect with thousands of people navigating divorce who truly understand what you're going through. 👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com Questions or Episode Ideas? We'd love to hear from you. 📧 hello@hownottosuckatdivorce.com If This Episode Helped... Please consider following How Not to Suck at Divorce on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Your follows, ratings, and reviews help more people find support during one of the hardest seasons of their lives. SEO Keywords Why smart people stay in toxic marriages Toxic marriage Emotional abuse Divorce podcast Divorce recovery High-conflict marriage Unhealthy relationships Why people stay in bad relationships Divorce healing Shame after divorce Divorce emotional recovery Relationship psychology How to leave a toxic marriage Healing after divorce How Not to Suck at Divorce

Divorce Crash Course Thinking about divorce or already in the middle of one? Don't make expensive mistakes before you understand your rights. Our Divorce Crash Course gives you practical guidance on attorneys, finances, custody, parenting agreements, and the biggest mistakes people make during divorce. Typically priced at $150, available now for just $50 thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink. 👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course 🎙️ Episode Description What can Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Johnny Depp, Amber Heard, Kevin Costner, Kim Kardashian, Britney Spears, Jeff Bezos, and Alec Baldwin teach us about divorce? A lot more than you might think. In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce , Andrea Rappaport and top family law attorney Morgan L. Stogsdill break down some of Hollywood's most famous divorces—not for the celebrity gossip, but for the real-life legal and emotional lessons that apply to everyday people. From prenups and child support to co-parenting, high-conflict custody battles, social media mistakes, and negotiating outside of court, these celebrity cases reveal common divorce pitfalls that can cost people time, money, and peace of mind. Whether you're considering divorce, currently navigating one, or helping someone through the process, this episode is packed with practical advice you can actually use. ⭐ In This Episode Why Kevin Costner's divorce proves prenups aren't magic What Johnny Depp and Amber Heard teach about text messages and digital evidence The expensive lesson behind Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's years-long legal battle Kim Kardashian and Kanye West's co-parenting challenges Alec Baldwin's custody mistakes and what every parent should learn Britney Spears, Kevin Federline, and when child support can actually be modified Jeff Bezos' divorce strategy and why settling outside of court often saves everyone How to identify your true "must-haves" during divorce negotiations Why protecting your integrity is often your greatest victory 🔑 Key Takeaways ✔️ Not every battle is worth fighting. ✔️ Every text, email, voicemail, and social media post could become evidence. ✔️ Prenups reduce uncertainty—but they don't eliminate conflict. ✔️ Child support modifications require a significant change in circumstances. ✔️ The best divorce outcomes often happen through thoughtful negotiation—not courtroom battles. ✔️ Focus on your true priorities instead of trying to "win" every issue. 🎧 More Divorce Resources 🌐 Website: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com 🎙️ Listen to more episodes: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/podcast Our Family Wizard: You guys, please check them out. They are the most court respected coparenting app. And we are the only podcast that can offer you 20% off your first year of the essential's package. www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck About How Not to Suck at Divorce Hosted by Andrea Rappaport and Morgan L. Stogsdill , Head of the Family Law Group at Beermann LLP, How Not to Suck at Divorce provides practical legal, financial, and emotional guidance for people navigating divorce. Our mission is simple: help you make smarter decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and build a better life on the other side of divorce. Because divorce is a marathon—not a sprint. You've got this. And we've got you. 📚 Resources Mentioned Prenuptial Agreements Child Support Modifications Custody & Parenting Time Mediation vs. Litigation High-Net-Worth Divorce Digital Evidence in Divorce Cases 📱 Connect With Us Instagram: @HowNotToSuckAtDivorce Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1EQe3x7zCR/ Website: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com Hashtags #Divorce #CelebrityDivorce #FamilyLaw #Prenup #ChildCustody #ChildSupport #CoParenting #DivorceAdvice #DivorcePodcast #HowNotToSuckAtDivorce SEO Keywords celebrity divorce lessons, Brad Pitt divorce, Angelina Jolie custody battle, Kevin Costner prenup, Johnny Depp Amber Heard divorce, Kim Kardashian Kanye West custody, Britney Spears child support, Jeff Bezos divorce, Alec Baldwin custody, divorce advice, family law, divorce mistakes, divorce attorney, co-parenting, high-conflict divorce. Mentioned in this episode: Smarter Way to Sell Your Jewelry After my divorce was finalized, I sold my old engagement ring to a jeweler — and honestly, I was stunned by how little I got for it compared to what it originally cost. If I could do it all over again — which is kind of the theme of this podcast — I would have sold it through Worthy. Worthy is a modern, smarter way to sell your jewelry online. Their process is incredibly easy: they cover shipping and insurance, professionally clean and photograph your jewelry, and have it graded by experts to help maximize its value. What makes Worthy different is that they create a competitive auction environment where buyers bid against each other for your piece — meaning they are motivated to help you get the highest price possible. It’s completely risk-free and honestly something I wish I had known about sooner. Get started today by heading to worthy.com/divorcepod and lock in an extra $100 when your jewelry sells for more than $1,500.

Divorce Isn't Fair: How to Stop the Negative Spiral and Move Forward 🎧 Divorce Crash Course – Just $50 (Limited Time) Before you spend thousands on avoidable divorce mistakes, invest in yourself. Our Divorce Crash Course walks you through the biggest legal, financial, and emotional mistakes people make before, during, and after divorce. Typically priced at $150 , it's available now for just $50 , thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and SoberLink . Learn more here! Episode Summary One of the hardest truths about divorce is also one of the most important: It's not fair. Whether it's a custody decision, financial settlement, or something you genuinely believed you deserved, getting stuck on what isn't fair can keep you emotionally trapped long after your divorce moves forward. In this mini episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce , Andrea Rappaport and family law attorney Morgan L. Stogsdill explain why obsessing over fairness often leads to costly legal decisions, emotional exhaustion, and unnecessary conflict. They also share a practical mindset shift that can help you regain momentum and make smarter choices throughout your divorce. If you're struggling to let go of something that feels unfair, this episode offers both legal perspective and emotional guidance to help you move forward. In This Episode Why divorce often feels deeply unfair—and why that's normal How focusing on fairness can keep you emotionally stuck The hidden financial cost of fighting every issue Why friends and family can unintentionally make the situation worse How to know whether an issue is worth continuing to fight The powerful question every client should ask their divorce attorney How acceptance can help you heal without approving of what happened Why letting go isn't giving up—it's moving forward Key Takeaway You don't have to like what happened. You don't even have to think it's fair. But staying trapped in resentment won't change the outcome—it only keeps you from building what's next. Sometimes the healthiest decision is accepting what you cannot change so you can focus your energy on creating a better future. Resources Mentioned Divorce Crash Course Our Family Wizard SoberLink Join our free private Facebook community Upcoming Divorce Meditation Series Subscribe & Review If How Not to Suck at Divorce has helped you navigate divorce with more confidence, we'd be incredibly grateful if you'd subscribe, leave a rating, and write a review. Your support helps more people find trustworthy divorce guidance when they need it most. www.ratethispodcast.com/notsuck Connect With Us Website: www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1HNN44whZq/ Instagram YouTube Check out Our Family Wizard- the most court respected coparenting app. We are the only podcast that can offer you 20% of your first year! www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck20 Keywords divorce advice, divorce podcast, divorce lawyer, divorce settlement, divorce mindset, divorce emotional healing, divorce mediation, child custody, divorce strategy, unfair divorce settlement, accepting divorce, co-parenting, family law, healing after divorce, divorce support

Divorce Cyberstalking: What to Do If You Think Your Ex Is Watching You Online Divorce Crash Course: Don’t make expensive divorce mistakes. Our Divorce Crash Course walks you through the biggest legal, financial, emotional, and co-parenting mistakes people make during divorce — and how to avoid them. Typically priced at $150 , available now for just $50 , thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink . Start the course here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course Cyberstalking during divorce can make you feel unsafe, paranoid, unsteady, and completely overwhelmed. But here’s the thing: sometimes what feels “crazy” is actually a real digital safety issue. In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce , Andrea Rappaport and Morgan L. Stogsdill are joined by Steven Bradley , a former FBI task force leader, cybersecurity expert, domestic violence specialist, and cyberstalking educator, to talk about what to do if you think your ex is watching, tracking, monitoring, or digitally harassing you during divorce. And yes — this episode is scary. But more importantly, it is actionable . Steven explains that cyberstalking is often easier than people realize because many exes already know your passwords, security question answers, shared devices, family routines, Wi-Fi setup, smart home devices, and personal information. Cyberstalking is not always some dramatic hacker-in-a-hoodie situation. Sometimes it is access to your Amazon Alexa, Ring doorbell, Nest thermostat, pet camera, cloud account, location sharing, shared passwords, or old devices. In other words: your ex may not need to “hack” you if they already have access. Terrifying? Yes. Useful to know? Also yes. In this episode, we cover: How cyberstalking can show up during divorce Why many people dismiss early warning signs as “coincidences” How smart home devices can be used to monitor or harass someone Why shared passwords and security questions are a major risk What to do if you think your ex has access to your phone, email, cloud, or devices Why you should not delete suspicious messages or evidence How to create a timeline of cyberstalking concerns When to tell your divorce attorney Why co-parenting apps can help protect communication How VPNs, multi-factor authentication, and anti-malware tools can help Why public Wi-Fi can be risky What parents should know about children’s apps, gaming, and Discord Why taking action can lower paranoia and help you feel safer First signs of cyberstalking during divorce Cyberstalking can start small. You may notice: strange text messages anonymous calls or emails your ex showing up where you are smart home devices acting strangely lights, thermostats, or cameras changing unexpectedly unfamiliar apps on your phone login alerts odd account activity someone seeming to know things they should not know Steven explains that many offenders start with small behaviors and escalate when they feel they can get away with it. That is why it is important not to dismiss everything as coincidence, especially during a high-conflict divorce or custody battle. What to do if you think you are being cyberstalked Steven’s first action step is simple: Do not delete anything. Preserve texts, emails, screenshots, suspicious messages, device alerts, app changes, login warnings, and anything that feels off. Create a timeline. Write down what happened, when it happened, where you were, and what evidence you have. Digital evidence can be time-sensitive, and some data may disappear or overwrite itself. The sooner you document, the better. Tell your divorce attorney early If you believe you may be dealing with cyberstalking, do not wait until it becomes unbearable. Tell your attorney. Morgan explains that divorce lawyers may need outside experts to help connect the dots, preserve evidence, and explain what is happening in a way the court can understand. Cyberstalking can be technical, and many attorneys and judges are not cybersecurity experts. This is not about panicking. It is about protecting yourself, documenting what is happening, and getting the right people involved early. Secure your digital life Steven recommends assuming your passwords may be compromised and taking steps to secure your digital life. That may include: changing passwords changing security questions turning on multi-factor authentication reviewing location sharing checking Life360, Find My, Snap Maps, and similar apps auditing old accounts closing accounts you no longer use using anti-malware tools on phones and computers avoiding public Wi-Fi when possible using a reputable VPN checking shared smart home devices reviewing cloud access removing your ex from shared accounts and devices And yes, this includes the things people forget about: Alexa, pet cameras, thermostats, doorbells, old apps, children’s devices, shared family accounts, and even old platforms you forgot existed. Friendster, we are looking at you. Why co-parenting apps matter If communication with your ex feels unsafe, chaotic, manipulative, or digitally risky, this may be a time to talk to your attorney about using a court-monitored co-parenting app. In this episode, Steven and Morgan discuss how a co-parenting app like Our Family Wizard can help keep communication contained, documented, and harder to manipulate. If you are concerned about cyberstalking or digital harassment, talk to your attorney about whether requesting a co-parenting app makes sense in your case. Our Family Wizard: www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck20 How Not to Suck at Divorce listeners can save 20% off the Essentials package for the first year through our relationship with Our Family Wizard. The biggest takeaway Technology is not the problem. Stalking, control, and harassment have existed forever. Technology just makes it easier. The goal is not to become paranoid. The goal is to become aware, document what is happening, and take action early. As Andrea says in this episode, doing nothing is often the part that makes you feel crazier. Taking action — documenting, telling your attorney, changing passwords, securing accounts, using a co-parenting app, and asking for help — can help you feel safer and more grounded. If something feels off, do not ignore it. Document it. Tell your attorney. Secure your devices. Get help early. You’ve got this. And we’ve got you. Connect with Steven Bradley Steven Bradley is a former FBI task force leader, cybersecurity expert, domestic violence specialist, and cyberstalking educator. sbradley@ourfamilywizard.com Join The How Not to Suck at Divorce Community Need more support during divorce? Join our free private Facebook community for real conversations, support, and guidance from people who understand what you are going through. How Not to Suck at Divorce Community Listen to How Not to Suck at Divorce Website: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/ Podcast: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/podcast Divorce Crash Course: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course SEO Keywords divorce cyberstalking, cyberstalking during divorce, cyberstalking ex, online stalking during divorce, digital safety during divorce, divorce cybersecurity, ex tracking me during divorce, smart home devices divorce, co-parenting app, Our Family Wizard, divorce safety, high conflict divorce, divorce attorney advice, digital harassment divorce, cyber abuse divorce, online harassment divorce, divorce podcast, How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport, Morgan Stogsdill, Steven Bradley

Divorce: How to Stay Grounded When Everything Feels Unsteady Divorce Crash Course: Don’t make expensive divorce mistakes. Our Divorce Crash Course walks you through the biggest legal, financial, emotional, and co-parenting mistakes people make during divorce — and how to avoid them. Typically priced at $150 , available now for just $50 , thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink . Start the course here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course Divorce can make everything feel unstable. Your home, your routines, your finances, your parenting schedule, your future — all of it can feel like it’s shifting under your feet. So how do you stay grounded when the divorce process feels anything but steady? In this mini episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce , Andrea Rappaport shares a simple but powerful grounding reminder from her own backyard: be like the tree. Yes, really. After staring up at the big, mature trees in her yard, Andrea reflects on how trees survive season after season. They lose leaves. They lose branches. They weather storms. But because their roots run deep, they remain standing. And honestly? That is a pretty perfect divorce metaphor. This episode is a calming reminder for anyone going through divorce, considering divorce, or recovering from divorce anxiety. You may feel overwhelmed, reactive, scared, or completely unsteady right now — but that does not mean you are going to be taken down by this process. You may lose some leaves. You may lose a branch. You may look and feel different on the other side. But you will still be here. You will still be strong. You will still be you. Andrea also talks about how spending time outside, planting flowers, caring for something living, and reconnecting with nature can be a surprisingly grounding way to manage divorce stress and anxiety. No, you do not need to become a full horticulture goddess. You do not even need to know if “horticultury” is a word. But you may need a plant. Or a pot. Or a tree to stare at for a minute while you remind yourself that you are more rooted than this moment feels. In this episode, Andrea talks about: How to stay grounded during divorce Why divorce can make you feel emotionally reactive How nature can help regulate stress and anxiety Why trees are the perfect metaphor for surviving divorce How to calm your nervous system when life feels unstable Why divorce is a marathon, not a sprint How small grounding practices can help you through hard days Why you will still be standing after this storm passes This episode is for you if: You are feeling overwhelmed by divorce You are struggling with divorce anxiety You feel emotionally reactive or unsteady You need a quick grounding reminder You are trying to get through a hard divorce day You need reassurance that you will survive this process You want a calming mini episode that does not feel overly woo-woo Divorce is unsettling. It is emotional. It can feel completely unhinged. But you do not have to become unhinged with it. When in doubt, be like the tree. Stay rooted in who you are. Stay grounded in what you know. And remember: you are going to get through this. You’ve got this. And we’ve got you. Listen to How Not to Suck at Divorce Website: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/ Podcast: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/podcast Divorce Crash Course: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course SEO Keywords divorce anxiety, divorce stress, how to stay grounded during divorce, grounding during divorce, divorce meditation, divorce mini episode, coping with divorce, emotional regulation during divorce, divorce support, divorce podcast, divorce advice, how to get through divorce, divorce healing, divorce overwhelm, divorce nervous system, stress during divorce, nature and anxiety, How Not to Suck at Divorce, Andrea Rappaport, Morgan Stogsdill

Divorce issue:When you don't agree with your attorney and Why Going Rogue Can Cost You Thousands 🎧 Before You Listen... Don't make expensive divorce mistakes. Our FREE guide, The 5 Divorce Mistakes That Cost People Thousands , will help you avoid some of the biggest legal, financial, and emotional mistakes people make before, during, and after divorce. 👉 Download it FREE here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com If you're ready for a deeper roadmap, our Divorce Crash Course walks you through the entire divorce process—from choosing the right attorney to protecting your finances and avoiding costly mistakes. Typically priced at $150, available now for just $50, thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink. 👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course Episode Description Every person going through divorce eventually reaches the same breaking point. You become convinced your attorney is wrong. The judge doesn't get it. The legal system is broken. And your brain starts whispering... "Forget it. I'll just handle this myself." Unfortunately, that's often the exact moment people make the most expensive mistake of their entire divorce. In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce , Andrea Rappaport and family law attorney Morgan Stogsdill are joined by Atlanta family law attorney Daniel Bloom to discuss why otherwise smart people make impulsive decisions during divorce, what "going rogue" really looks like, and how one emotional decision can cost you tens of thousands of dollars. From firing off an angry email to texting your ex after one too many drinks, this episode explains why patience, strategy, and emotional regulation can ultimately save your case—and your wallet. In This Episode You'll Learn: ✔ Why divorce makes even intelligent people act impulsively ✔ What "going rogue" actually means in a divorce case ✔ The hidden financial cost of ignoring your attorney's advice ✔ Why waiting during divorce feels unbearable—and what's really happening behind the scenes ✔ What your attorney is doing while you think "nothing is happening" ✔ When it makes sense to seek a second legal opinion ✔ Why therapy can be one of the smartest investments during divorce ✔ Three simple steps to stop yourself before making an emotional decision you'll regret ✔ Why divorce is a marathon—not a sprint One Email Can Change Everything Daniel shares real-life examples of clients who ignored legal advice, sent one emotional email, and watched their entire case unravel. Sometimes the cost isn't just financial. It's your credibility. Your settlement. Your co-parenting relationship. Or even your relationship with your children. Feeling Like Your Attorney Isn't Listening? Many people mistake silence for inaction. In reality, experienced divorce attorneys are often developing strategy, gathering information, and protecting your long-term interests—even when it feels like nothing is happening. Learn why the waiting process is often one of the hardest—and most important—parts of divorce. Thinking About Going Rogue? Before you send the email... Before you post on social media... Before you text your ex... Ask yourself one question: "How will this affect my case six months from now?" That one pause could save you thousands of dollars. Resources Mentioned 📘 FREE Divorce Guide The 5 Divorce Mistakes That Cost People Thousands 👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com 💛 Divorce Crash Course Avoid expensive legal mistakes before they happen. 👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course 👥 Join Our Free Private Community Connect with thousands of people navigating divorce who truly understand what you're going through. 👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com Reach out to Daniel Bloom (Atlanta Family Law Attorney and Guardian ad Lietum) https://bloomlineslaw.com/our-team/daniel-bloom/ Subscribe & Connect If this episode helped you: ⭐ Follow How Not to Suck at Divorce @hownottosuckatdivorce ⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify www.ratethispodcast.com/notsuck ⭐ Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it Every review helps us reach more people before they make expensive divorce mistakes. SEO Keywords divorce advice, divorce mistakes, divorce attorney, family law attorney, divorce podcast, custody case, Guardian ad Litem, divorce strategy, co-parenting, divorce lawyer advice, divorce communication, texting your ex during divorce, divorce settlement, high-conflict divorce, divorce emotions, divorce legal advice, Daniel Bloom, How Not to Suck at Divorce

Divorce: How to Talk to a Guardian ad Litem Without Hurting Your Custody Case 🎧 Before You Listen... Don't make expensive divorce mistakes. If you're navigating divorce, custody, or co-parenting, our Divorce Crash Course can help you avoid the mistakes that cost people thousands of dollars—and months of unnecessary stress. Typically priced at $150, it's available now for just $50 thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink. 👉 Enroll here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course Click here to get our free guide on avoiding the biggest divorce mistakes! Episode Description If a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) has been appointed in your divorce or custody case, every conversation matters more than you probably realize. Many parents unintentionally damage their credibility by focusing on the wrong things, oversharing, attacking the other parent, or getting caught up in petty conflicts. In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce , Andrea Rappaport and family law attorney Morgan Stogsdill sit down with Atlanta family law attorney Daniel Bloom to discuss exactly what Guardians ad Litem look for—and the mistakes that can quietly hurt your custody case. You'll learn why your words matter, how to communicate effectively with a Guardian ad Litem, and why keeping your child's best interests front and center is always the winning strategy. Whether you're currently working with a GAL or simply want to better understand the custody process, this episode offers practical advice that could save you stress, money, and heartache. In This Episode You'll Learn: What a Guardian ad Litem actually does The biggest mistakes parents make during custody evaluations Why constantly criticizing your co-parent can backfire Why saying "my child" instead of "our child" matters more than you think How pettiness can damage your credibility The right way to communicate concerns to your Guardian ad Litem When email is better than texting Why OurFamilyWizard can improve communication during divorce Why quality parenting matters more than counting parenting days How humility often earns more credibility than trying to look like the "perfect" parent Key Takeaways Put your child—not your ex—at the center of every conversation. A Guardian ad Litem wants to understand your child's needs, strengths, and challenges—not hear a list of complaints about your co-parent. Don't let small battles cost you the bigger war. Arguments over jackets, forgotten shoes, or missing hockey sticks may feel important in the moment, but repeatedly escalating minor issues can make you appear unreasonable. Be honest. Not perfect. No parent gets everything right. Guardians ad Litem appreciate parents who acknowledge mistakes, ask thoughtful questions, and demonstrate a willingness to learn. Communication matters. Text messages sent in anger often become evidence later. Daniel explains why thoughtful emails and structured communication tools can make a significant difference. Focus on influence—not percentages. Great parenting isn't measured only by the number of overnight visits. What matters most is the quality of your relationship with your children. Resources Mentioned Divorce Crash Course Avoid the biggest mistakes people make before, during, and after divorce. 👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course Get in touch with Daniel Bloom https://bloomlineslaw.com/our-team/daniel-bloom/ OurFamilyWizard The co-parenting communication tool trusted by attorneys, judges, and mental health professionals. Use our exclusive discount and save 20% on your first year. www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck20 Free Divorce Guide Download our FREE guide: The 5 Divorce Mistakes That Cost People Thousands 👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com Subscribe & Connect If this episode helped you, please: ⭐ Leave a review 🎧 Follow How Not to Suck at Divorce 👥 Join our free private Facebook Community 📱 Follow us on social media for daily divorce tips, expert interviews, and practical advice. SEO Keywords Guardian ad Litem, GAL, Guardian ad Litem divorce, custody evaluator, child custody, custody battle, divorce advice, divorce podcast, co-parenting, OurFamilyWizard, family court, custody evaluation, parenting plan, divorce attorney, family law, divorce support, custody tips, child custody attorney, high-conflict divorce, divorce help. Divorce: How to Talk to a Guardian ad Litem Without Hurting Your Custody Case 🎧 Before You Listen... Don't make expensive divorce mistakes. If you're navigating divorce, custody, or co-parenting, our Divorce Crash Course can help you avoid the mistakes that cost people thousands of dollars—and months of unnecessary stress. Typically priced at $150, it's available now for just $50 thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink. 👉 Enroll here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course Episode Description If a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) has been appointed in your divorce or custody case, every conversation matters more than you probably realize. Many parents unintentionally damage their credibility by focusing on the wrong things, oversharing, attacking the other parent, or getting caught up in petty conflicts. In this episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce , Andrea Rappaport and family law attorney Morgan Stogsdill sit down with Atlanta family law attorney Daniel Bloom to discuss exactly what Guardians ad Litem look for—and the mistakes that can quietly hurt your custody case. You'll learn why your words matter, how to communicate effectively with a Guardian ad Litem, and why keeping your child's best interests front and center is always the winning strategy. Whether you're currently working with a GAL or simply want to better understand the custody process, this episode offers practical advice that could save you stress, money, and heartache. In This Episode You'll Learn: What a Guardian ad Litem actually does The biggest mistakes parents make during custody evaluations Why constantly criticizing your co-parent can backfire Why saying "my child" instead of "our child" matters more than you think How pettiness can damage your credibility The right way to communicate concerns to your Guardian ad Litem When email is better than texting Why OurFamilyWizard can improve communication during divorce Why quality parenting matters more than counting parenting days How humility often earns more credibility than trying to look like the "perfect" parent Key Takeaways Put your child—not your ex—at the center of every conversation. A Guardian ad Litem wants to understand your child's needs, strengths, and challenges—not hear a list of complaints about your co-parent. Don't let small battles cost you the bigger war. Arguments over jackets, forgotten shoes, or missing hockey sticks may feel important in the moment, but repeatedly escalating minor issues can make you appear unreasonable. Be honest. Not perfect. No parent gets everything right. Guardians ad Litem appreciate parents who acknowledge mistakes, ask thoughtful questions, and demonstrate a willingness to learn. Communication matters. Text messages sent in anger often become evidence later. Daniel explains why thoughtful emails and structured communication tools can make a significant difference. Focus on influence—not percentages. Great parenting isn't measured only by the number of overnight visits. What matters most is the quality of your relationship with your children. Resources Mentioned Divorce Crash Course Avoid the biggest mistakes people make before, during, and after divorce. 👉 https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course OurFamilyWizard The co-parenting communication tool trusted by attorneys, judges, and mental health professionals. Use our exclusive discount and save 20% on your first year. (Direct link in the show notes.) Free Divorce Guide Download our FREE guide: The 5 Divorce Mistakes That...

Divorce and Children: The Parenting Mistakes That Can Increase Your Child's Anxiety | Featuring Retired Judge Michele Lowrance 🎧 Divorce Crash Course – Save Thousands Before You Make a Costly Mistake Before you spend thousands on attorney's fees or make decisions you'll regret, check out our Divorce Crash Course . Learn how to: Avoid the biggest divorce mistakes Save money on attorney's fees Understand the divorce process Protect your children Make smarter legal and financial decisions Typically priced at $150, available now for just $50, thanks to our angel underwriters, Our Family Wizard and Soberlink. 👉 Get instant access: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course Episode Description Can one decision during your divorce impact your child's anxiety for years? According to retired Cook County Judge, mediator, and family law pioneer Michele Lowrance , the answer is yes. In this powerful episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce , Andrea Rappaport and Morgan Stogsdill sit down with Judge Lowrance to discuss the divorce behaviors that can unintentionally hurt children, why high-conflict litigation can have lasting emotional consequences, and how parents can begin making more child-centered decisions—even when divorce feels impossible. Andrea also shares something deeply personal: the parenting mistakes she made during her own divorce, what she wishes she had done differently, and why perfection isn't the goal—awareness is. Whether you're in the middle of a custody dispute, considering mediation, or simply trying to protect your children through divorce, this episode offers practical perspective and hope. In This Episode You'll Learn: The biggest divorce behaviors that increase children's anxiety Why fighting over parenting time isn't always about the schedule What "Heroic Parenting" actually means How parental conflict affects children long after the divorce is finalized Why mediation can protect your children in ways court often cannot The difference between putting your children first and protecting your own ego Why learning to let go benefits both you and your children How one parent can begin changing the family dynamic—even if the other parent won't About Michele Lowrance Michele Lowrance is a retired Cook County Domestic Relations Judge, mediator, author of The Good Karma Divorce , and one of the nation's leading voices on family-centered divorce and mediation. After decades practicing family law and serving on the bench, she continues helping families navigate divorce with less conflict and more compassion. Resources Mentioned The Good Karma Divorce by Michele Lowrance Divorce Crash Course Our Family Wizard- Click here to save 20%! Connect With Us 🌐 Website: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com 📱 Follow us on social media for daily divorce support, legal tips, and encouragement. @hownottosuckatdivorce 💬 Join our free private divorce community for support from thousands of people navigating divorce. join here! ⭐ If this episode helped you, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your review helps other people find support during one of the hardest seasons of their lives. Rate us here! Keywords divorce podcast, divorce and children, child custody, co-parenting, divorce mediation, parenting after divorce, protecting children during divorce, high conflict divorce, family law, child anxiety after divorce, divorce advice, custody disputes, Michele Lowrance, divorce help, divorce support, parenting through divorce