In this Clam Slam episode, we explore all that is my mentor, Shar. She has taught me so much about what it truly means to be an independent, empowering woman, and I’m excited to share her story with you. Shar opens up in the classic Clam way—with humor and raw authenticity. She talks about her marriage, divorce, navigating traumatic relationships, motherhood, and being the breadwinner for her family. We also explore the significant differences between being a working woman in today’s office culture versus that of her early 20's. I hope my audience can take something from her stories and life, just as I have.

00:17 Introducing Shar: A Mentor and Friend

01:40 Shar's Influence and Resilience

03:42 Dedication to the Women in My Life

04:43 Meeting Shar: The Beginning of a Friendship

05:04 Podcasting and Helping Others

05:30 Shar: A Personal Introduction

09:02 The Dark Humor Bond

11:51 Navigating Relationships and Personal Growth

21:49 Core Memories and Financial Security

23:55 Marriage and Early Red Flags

27:59 Wedding Night and Early Marriage Challenges

32:42 Postpartum Depression and Emotional Support

35:48 Divorce and Co-Parenting Realities

37:33 Realizing the Need for Change

37:51 The Impact on Children

39:21 Moments of Disappointment

41:31 Financial Struggles and Resentment

44:06 Emotional Unavailability and Red Flags

50:53 Navigating Grief and Finding Support

55:10 Starting Over and Dating Again

56:51 Meeting PB and Red Flags

01:15:09 Manipulation and Paranoia

01:19:40 Suspicion and Roadblocks

01:20:02 Background Checks and Confrontations

01:20:43 The Prison Revelation

01:31:08 Court Date and Sentencing

01:43:56 Aftermath and Reflection

01:53:19 Reflecting on a Traumatic Relationship

01:54:02 The Pathological Liar

01:54:57 The Illusion of Love

01:57:37 The Impact of Continued Contact

01:58:29 A Visit to the Past

02:00:36 The Importance of Background Checks

02:01:30 Navigating Modern Dating

02:10:23 Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

02:26:29 Advice for the Younger Generation

02:29:13 Closing Thoughts and Farewell