In today’s episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, we dive deep into the collaborative divorce process with Lucia Levias, a family law attorney specializing in this approach. We discuss what collaborative divorce is, how it differs from traditional litigation, and whether it might be the right choice for your situation. Lucia shares the benefits of this process, including cost savings and a more peaceful resolution, while also addressing who is best suited for this approach and the potential pitfalls to watch out for.In this episode, you'll learn:The basics of collaborative divorce and how it worksHow collaborative divorce can potentially save you money compared to traditional litigationWhat professionals are involved in a collaborative divorce and how they support the processWhen a collaborative divorce may or may not be right for youHow to approach your spouse about considering a collaborative divorceThe importance of being aligned with your spouse for this process to succeedReal-life examples of how collaborative divorce can help resolve tough issues like spousal support and parenting plansLucia's website: https://duboislaw.net/Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicago

In this episode, we're joined by Sarah Armstrong, author of A Mom's Guide to a Good Divorce, to discuss the importance of compartmentalizing during the divorce process. Divorce is emotionally draining, and the ability to compartmentalize can help you navigate it more effectively—especially when emotions run SUPER high. Sarah shares her personal journey through divorce and how she learned to compartmentalize to keep her focus on what really mattered: her daughter, her career, and making the best decisions for the long term. And oh - she's the VP of global marketing operations, at Google...yep!What you'll learn:The importance of compartmentalizing during divorce and how it can help you make better decisionsHow to manage emotional triggers and not let them dictate your actionsPractical steps for compartmentalizing, such as taking a breath and giving yourself time to cool down before reactingThe power of focusing on the long game and making decisions that are best for you and your kidsHow Sarah used her compartmentalization skills to balance her career at Google, motherhood, and her personal life post-divorceIf you're feeling overwhelmed by the emotional rollercoaster of divorce, this episode will give you the tools to regain control and make decisions that serve YOU and your kids in the long run. Whether it's deciding when to show emotion or learning to take a step back during tense moments, Sarah’s insights are invaluable for anyone navigating the difficult journey of divorce and we're here for it - and we're here for you, too!Connect with Sarah:Sarah's website: https://www.gooddivorce.guideSarah's book: A Mom's Guide to a Good DivorceOur Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicago

Yep, divorce confessions! We're talking real moments that often come up during divorce! We share anonymous confessions and are here to remind you that divorce can make you feel like you're losing your mind, but you're not alone.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why it’s totally normal to have wild, irrational thoughts during divorce (and you’re not crazy)How to protect yourself legally when things get out of controlThe importance of having a legal team you can trust, especially if criminal behavior is involvedWhy you should absolutely NOT write your kids a letter explaining your divorceWhy giving into the urge to stalk or harass your ex can make everything worseWhat to do when you’re overwhelmed and just want to pack your shit and leaveNo matter how crazy things feel right now, you’re not losing it. You'll feel that in this episode!Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicago

Today we welcome Hilary Rosenberg back to the show to dive into the topic of mental preparation for divorce. I know, I know - but hear is out. The emotional complexities that come with ending a marriage are so hard, terrible, overwhelming and more. Let us take a load off and share our insights and practical strategies to help you navigate your divorce with clarity and strength!In this episode, you'll learn:The critical importance of allowing yourself to grieve the end of your marriageActionable steps to support your mental well-being during the divorce processHow to create a nurturing and positive environment for yourself as you transition to this new chapterOur Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicago

In this episode, we're diving into the difficult and emotional topic of creating a custody schedule. Whether you’re just beginning the divorce process or in the thick of it, figuring out the best arrangement for your children while managing your own emotions can feel overwhelming. We’re here to help you break it down, with guidance from family law attorney and mediator Rebecca Parra. Rebecca brings a wealth of experience in creating custody plans and offers practical tools to help you make the best decisions for your family.In this episode, we answer questions like:What are the biggest challenges parents face when creating a custody plan?How can the new Custody Navigator tool help visualize and plan your custody schedule?What creative custody arrangements can be used for non-traditional work schedules?How do factors like child support affect custody agreements?What can you expect from mediation, and how can it help you come to a peaceful resolution?Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicago

In this episode, we explore the relationship between alcohol and divorce, diving into how exactly how drinking impacts your emotional state, decision-making, and overall well-being during one of life’s most challenging times. This episode IS NOT about giving up drinking completely; it’s about understanding when alcohol is helping or hurting as you navigate the divorce process.In this episode, you'll learn:-What actually happens in your brain when you drink to cope with stress?-How do you know if you're drinking for the wrong reasons?-What are the warning signs that you’re blowing past your emotional "stop signs"?-What action steps can you take to keep your relationship with alcohol in check during a divorce?Our guest, Colleen Kachmann, known as the "Hangover Whisperer," is a recovery-certified master coach and an expert in alcohol use awareness. She shares science-backed insights on the impact of alcohol on the body and mind during stressful periods and offers practical advice on mindful drinking.Remember, this episode is here to guide you without judgment—only support. Whether you decide to drink less, stay mindful, or seek more support, we’re here to help you navigate this journey in the healthiest way possible.Connect with Colleen: Website: https://www.colleenkachmann.com/Instagram: @thehangoverwhispererTiktok: @hangoverwhispererOur Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicago

In today’s episode, we’re tackling one of the toughest realities of divorce: custody. Custody arrangements can feel unnatural, overwhelming, and emotional. Deciding when and how much time you spend with your children after a divorce is never easy, but it’s an unavoidable part of the process. In this episode, we break down how to handle custody agreements, how to mentally prepare for time away from your kids, and what you need to know to navigate this difficult terrain.We share personal insights and experiences, including the pain of feeling like you’re “having your cake and eating it too” and how to come to terms with these challenging decisions. Special guest Heather Quick, founder of the Florida Women’s Law Group, joins us to explain how custody laws have changed in Florida and what that means for parents.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why custody arrangements can feel so unnatural and how to start accepting this new reality.How the new Florida custody law that assumes 50/50 time-sharing affects parents.The importance of planning for holidays, summers, and unexpected changes in parenting plans.How to prioritize your children's needs while managing your own emotions and mental health.Why you need to think long-term when negotiating custody agreements.We answer the questions:What do you do when you just can’t agree to 50/50 custody?How do you plan custody arrangements for holidays and summers?What are some real-life examples of custody agreements that work (and don’t work)?Is it really possible to modify a custody plan later?How do you start emotionally preparing for time away from your kids?Whether you're in the middle of a custody battle, preparing for it, or just want more insight into how to handle this part of divorce, this episode will give you the perspective and tools you need to navigate this tough chapter with more clarity. You’ve got this, and we’ve got you!Connect with Heather:Website: https://www.floridawomenslawgroup.com/Tune in to learn how you can handle these difficult decisions without losing your sanity (or your dignity).Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicago

In this episode, we dive into the difficult topic of feeling strung along in a marriage. Whether your spouse is coming and going as they please or avoiding making a decision about your future together, it can leave you feeling powerless. The hosts discuss how midlife changes like perimenopause and stress only make these dynamics more challenging, but the real focus is on how to take back your power by setting boundaries.Morgan shares a real-life story about a client stuck in this frustrating limbo, and they explore how setting boundaries—though scary—can be the key to getting clarity in your relationship. With humor and compassion, they tackle why it’s so important to reclaim control, even if it means being labeled the "bad guy."In this Episode, You’ll Learn:How to recognize if you're being strung along in your marriage.Why setting boundaries might be the healthiest move (even if it feels terrifying).How midlife changes like perimenopause can impact your emotional and mental well-being.What to do when your spouse seems to have one foot in and one foot out of the relationship.Why sometimes being the bad guy is the best thing you can do for yourself.How hair extensions may not save your marriage, but they sure can comfort you through tough times.Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicago

In today's episode, it's REAL TALK as we tackle some of the biggest hurdles in divorce—financials, legal strategy, and emotional resilience. We talk about staying calm under pressure, understanding your finances, and working effectively with your attorney.Are you feeling overwhelmed by the flood of legal requests? Unsure whether you're working with the right attorney? Or maybe you're wondering what purchases to make before you file for divorce? These are just some of the questions we tackle in this episode.Key Questions Explored:Do you really have to respond to every demand from your ex immediately?What simple action can help you reset when you're overwhelmed?Why might a phone call or face-to-face meeting with your attorney be a smarter move than sending another email?What should you do if you're unsure your attorney is the right fit for you?Is there a smart time to make big purchases before your divorce?How can you protect what you brought into the marriage, financially?What red flags should you watch for during the divorce process?Can understanding tax implications actually help you negotiate better terms?Hit play for these practical tips and secrets to help you feel more confident and in control during your divorce.Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicago

In today's episode, guess what we’re tackling today? Yep—money. Let’s be honest, talking finances is about as fun as doing taxes, but it’s one of the biggest reasons people hit pause on their divorce plans. Fear of the unknown can be paralyzing, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!Joining us is Phil Weiss, a certified CPA, CFA, and RLP (that’s fancy speak for financial wizard 🧙‍♂️), and he’s here to break down the scary stuff. Phil’s personal story is a reminder of why understanding your finances is key, and he’ll guide us through the basics—from budget apps to aligning your money with your values (yes, that’s a thing).We’re diving into how to plan financially before, during, and after your divorce, and why having the right attorney is as crucial as knowing how to log into your online bank account (don’t act like you haven’t forgotten!).Tune in for some straight talk, practical tips, and a whole lot of empowerment as you tackle those financial fears head-on.Schedule a free consultation with Phil HEREOur Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-courseOur Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuckFriends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorceFollow Andrea: @theandrearappaportFollow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicago