Most people imagine divorce like a courtroom drama: two lawyers, a judge, and a battle that leaves everyone bruised. But in this episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell pulls back the curtain on what actually happens in the vast majority of divorces—and why a calmer, smarter path is often hiding in plain sight. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the divorce process, afraid of the costs, or desperate to protect your future co-parenting relationship, this conversation offers a deep exhale and a clear next step.

Olivia is joined by Fresh Starts expert Allison McFadden, a family law attorney turned mediator who left traditional legal practice specifically to help people reach agreements outside of court—before things hit that “impossible phase.” Allison breaks down divorce mediation in plain language: a structured, guided process led by a neutral third party who keeps the conversation on track, focuses on the decisions the court needs, and helps couples avoid rehashing old arguments. She also tackles the most common fear head-on—“What if I get taken advantage of?”—explaining how knowledge, preparation, and support from the right professionals (including attorneys and financial planning experts) can help you negotiate from a place of clarity instead of panic.

What makes this episode land is the emotional truth underneath the legal logistics: divorce is overwhelming for almost everyone, and feeling confused doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re human. Allison shares the mindset shift that changes everything: zoom out, hold your end goal, and give yourself grace as you move through conflict resolution one decision at a time. Listeners will walk away with practical co-parenting-aware guidance (including how to handle a skeptical spouse), plus an empowering takeaway: you can choose neutral ground, preserve resources, and design a more livable outcome—because divorce happens, and then you start fresh.

🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:

The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/

📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry

🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/

📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/