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What If Marriage Came Up for Renewal?
What if marriage wasn't a lifetime contract, but a 20-year contract with the option to renew? In this solo episode, Tania Leichliter challenges the one measure we use to judge every marriage — how long it lasted — and offers a different question entirely: would you choose each other again? A conversation about change, renewal, and why a marriage can end and still have been a success.
In this episode:00:00 - Intro
01:31 - The provocative idea: a 20-year marriage contract with the option to renew
01:55 - Why is the length of a marriage our only measure of success?
02:24 - Twenty good years that end — do we really call that a failure?
02:40 - The extraordinary promise we make when we're young
03:33 - Age 30 to 50: everything that can change before renewal comes up
04:18 - The thought experiment — would you choose me again?
05:05 - If the answer is yes, ask the second question
05:15 - What the next 20 years could be about: travel, intimacy, independence
05:41 - Renewal isn't repeating the first 20 years
06:09 - What if one person wants to renew and the other doesn't?
06:37 - Judging an entire marriage by its ending
07:04 - Marriage can end without the family ending
07:34 - Birthdays, graduations, weddings — the hundreds of moments ahead
08:00 - When amicable isn't possible: safety, abuse, addiction, financial misconduct
08:26 - Becoming enemies is a choice, even after infidelity
08:51 - How the option to renew could make marriages better
09:20 - Would you listen differently? Take them less for granted?
09:41 - Addressing resentment earlier instead of assuming they'll always be there
10:24 - The problem isn't change — it's not updating the relationship
10:48 - The renewal conversation: six questions every five years
11:15 - Therapy isn't proof your marriage is falling apart
12:14 - The question to sit with tonight — would you renew?
12:32 - And would your spouse? What a pause actually means
13:01 - A marriage can end and still have been a successful marriage
13:30 - Join the conversation in the comments
14:11 - Outro
The Six Renewal Questions:Don't wait 20 years. Sit down every five and ask:
Connect with Better Than Bitter™:
Remember: your journey through divorce is unique. Whether you're married, divorced, dating, or somewhere in between, the goal isn't to make marriage easier to leave — it's to build the kind of relationship people keep choosing.
Donna Jean Kendrick discovered her husband Greg had passed away suddenly in 2013 and found herself navigating widowhood with three young children. After settling into their new normal she went back to school to become a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ practitioner and made it her mission to support families in transition. She co-hosts the Widow, Wisdom and Wealth Podcast and is the author of the Life Stages Financial Guides series. Donna, along with her blended family of six kids, raise funds for causes such as Safe Harbor, a grief counseling program for children.
Website: Donna's Website
Connect with Donna Kendrick Here:
@donnajeankendrick on Instagram
Donna on YouTube
Donna's Facebook page
Reinventing Resilience: Donna Jean Kendrick's Journey Through Widowhood, Divorce, and Financial EmpowermentDiscover how Donna Jean Kendrick transformed her life following tragedy into a mission to empower women navigating divorce and widowhood. This episode covers practical financial strategies, emotional resilience, and finding purpose through adversity.
In this episode:00:00 - Welcome and episode overview
01:00 - Donna’s story of widowhood and detours
02:05 - The emotional and financial impact of sudden loss
03:15 - The mantra "I can and I will" for resilience
07:15 - Practical financial steps for those going through divorce and widowhood
10:08 - Building control through organization and professional support
15:37 - Reframing detours into opportunities with intentional planning
18:41 - Donna’s journey from emotional hardship to financial planning career
22:19 - The importance of purpose and passion in building a new life
26:08 - Living in the present minute and controlling what you can
30:20 - Supporting others with kindness and service
34:39 - Scenario planning and managing fear around financial futures
39:50 - Donna’s resourceful books for navigating grief and transition
43:21 - Connecting with Donna and her practice in 13 states
44:25 - Growing the Better Than Bitter community and moving forward with empowerment
Resources & Links:Timestamps: 00:00 - Why dating before divorce is final can be risky 00:21 - Introduction to season two and episode overview 01:07 - Why consider dating during divorce? Common reasons and emotional drivers 02:07 - How dating can complicate legal and financial matters 03:02 - The risks of spending marital assets on a new relationship 03:50 - Effects of cohabitation on alimony and custody 04:20 - Impact of introducing new partners on child custody and stability 05:16 - Legal considerations around adultery and fault states 06:12 - The importance of understanding your true motivations for dating 07:07 - Personal reasons for early dating and potential emotional benefits 08:07 - How to date smartly: financial boundaries and social discretion 09:00 - The importance of legal awareness and consulting professionals 10:05 - Strategies for transparent communication and avoiding trauma bonds 11:12 - Recognizing the infatuation phase and its distinction from real love 12:28 - Buffering pain with new relationships while focusing on healing 13:04 - Protecting your children: the child-centered approach 14:12 - How children perceive new partners and the importance of empathy 15:06 - The emotional impact of new partners on children’s perception 16:07 - Practical rules: timing for introducing partners and social media boundaries 17:17 - Continual check-ins with children and maintaining their stability 18:14 - Recap: key takeaways on legal, emotional, and parental considerations 18:43 - Final encouragement: navigating your divorce journey with clarity and care
Resources & Links: Better Than Bitter Podcast – Join live coaching sessions
Remember: Your journey through divorce is unique. Educate yourself, set clear boundaries, and always prioritize your children's well-being to move forward with confidence and peace.
Discover the exciting new features of the second season of the Better Than Bitter podcast, including live coaching sessions, an active support community, and expert guidance for those navigating divorce.
Main topics:00:00 - Welcome to season two and the new focus on live coaching
00:28 - How to apply for live coaching sessions on the podcast
00:56 - Introducing the Better Than Bitter Community and its purpose
01:23 - Community features: support circles, resources, and events
02:15 - Membership options and community goals for hope and healing
02:45 - Joining instructions and URL overview
03:14 - Closing remarks and encouraging ongoing support
Resources & Links:Jeff Wright is a performance coach, speaker, and someone I’m grateful to call a friend and mentor. He runs a global insurance firm and has built tremendous success professionally — but what really defines Jeff is his commitment to helping people change their lives. He’s the ultimate change-maker, and he genuinely does this work because it matters to him.
Website: Jeff's Website
Connect with Jeff Wright Here:
@therealjeffwright on Instagram
Jeff on YouTube
SPECIAL OFFER:For $1, get a month's access to our Divorce Companion Community. This includes tools tailored to your divorce stage, a self-paced course, and a supportive community of relatable individuals.
Coupon code: BTBCOMPANION2026
Click here to JOIN
SummaryIn this episode, Jeff and Tania explore narcissistic traits, their impact on relationships, especially during divorce, and practical strategies for managing interactions with narcissists. They discuss passive-aggressive behaviors, active listening, and maintaining emotional control to protect oneself.
Keywordsnarcissism, relationships, divorce, passive-aggressive, emotional intelligence, communication strategies, narcissistic traits, conflict resolution, co-parenting, emotional control
Key TopicsNarcissistic traits and behaviors
Impact of narcissism on relationships and divorce
Strategies for effective communication and emotional control
Takeaways"Everybody has a little bit of narcissism in them."
"Model healthy behavior to influence children positively."
"Avoid avoiding conflict; it only makes problems worse."
Chapters00:00 Understanding Narcissism in Today's Society
02:39 Traits of Narcissistic Behavior
04:45 Identifying Narcissistic Responses
07:44 The Importance of Active Listening
10:29 Managing Emotions in Conversations
13:33 Effective Communication Strategies
16:08 Conflict Avoidance vs. Conflict Efficiency
22:31 The Burden of Unspoken Words
24:38 Choosing Your Battles in Relationships
27:06 The Ripple Effect of Family Dynamics
31:27 Recognizing Narcissistic Behaviors
31:57 The Role of Parents in Shaping Narcissism
32:56 Navigating Co-Parenting with a Narcissist
34:49 The Importance of Taking the High Road
36:01 Modeling Behavior for Future Generations
44:15 Introduction to Amicable Divorce
45:37 Resources for Support and Growth
On our website you'll find details and additional information on our 5-Step Gameplan multimedia course, our different types of coaching
methods, monthly memberships, events and retreats, and a whole lot more. Plus, we've got a ton of free resources, like our monthly newsletter, our private Facebook group, our Instagram channel, and a library of articles and free webinars to help you along the way. When you go to our website, you'll be able to schedule a free 45-minute breakthrough call. Remember, we're here to help you reach an amicable resolution. Find your courage and believe in your brighter future because you know what? It is possible.
At Better Than Bitter™, we measure success by what we give and not by what we get. So, let's change the divorce dialogue together. It's time to be better than bitter.
Do you want to know if We Can Help You? Book A Free 1:1 Breakthrough Call Now! Click Here
If you want to connect with a Divorce Concierge, contact Vesta Divorce Concierge here!
For $1, get a month's access to our Divorce Companion Community. This includes tools tailored to your divorce stage, a self-paced course, and a supportive community of relatable individuals.
Coupon code: BTBCOMPANION2026
Click here to JOIN
SummaryIn this episode, Tania Leichliter discusses how to move beyond dwelling on the past in divorce by 'throwing away the why.' She offers practical strategies to release emotional baggage, reframe thoughts, and focus on creating a brighter future, emphasizing emotional accountability and self-care.
Keywordsdivorce, emotional regulation, mental health, self-care, future focus, mental reframe, emotional baggage, healing, child-centered divorce
The importance of releasing the 'why' in divorce
Strategies to reframe negative thoughts
Focusing on future goals and emotional accountability
Throw Away the Why: Moving Forward in Divorce
Reframe Your Past: A Guide to Child-Centered Divorce
"Throw away the why to stop living in the past."
"Healing comes from direction, not explanations."
"Separate others' choices from your self-worth."
00:00 Introduction to Child-Centered Divorce
01:28 The Importance of Emotional Accountability
02:19 Letting Go of the Why
03:50 Creating Space for the Future
04:35 Exercises to Evict the Why
07:19 Healing Through Future Focus
08:20 Conclusion and Next Steps
08:55 Introduction to Amicable Divorce
10:18 Resources for Support and Growth
On our website you'll find details and additional information on our 5-Step Gameplan multimedia course, our different types of coaching
methods, monthly memberships, events and retreats, and a whole lot more. Plus, we've got a ton of free resources, like our monthly newsletter, our private Facebook group, our Instagram channel, and a library of articles and free webinars to help you along the way. When you go to our website, you'll be able to schedule a free 45-minute breakthrough call. Remember, we're here to help you reach an amicable resolution. Find your courage and believe in your brighter future because you know what? It is possible.
At Better Than Bitter™, we measure success by what we give and not by what we get. So, let's change the divorce dialogue together. It's time to be better than bitter.
Do you want to know if We Can Help You? Book A Free 1:1 Breakthrough Call Now! Click Here
If you want to connect with a Divorce Concierge, contact Vesta Divorce Concierge here!
For $1, get a month's access to our Divorce Companion Community. This includes tools tailored to your divorce stage, a self-paced course, and a supportive community of relatable individuals.
Coupon code: BTBCOMPANION2026
Click here to JOIN
In this conversation, Tania Leichliter discusses the concept of a child-centered divorce, emphasizing the importance of emotional regulation and personal responsibility. She introduces the Four Rs method (retract, regroup, re-script, respond) to help individuals navigate their emotions during divorce. The conversation highlights the impact of one's actions on children and the importance of modeling positive behavior. Tania encourages listeners to align their actions with their values and to choose resilience and self-compassion throughout the divorce process.
TakeawaysNavigating Divorce with a Child-Centered Approach
Emotional Regulation in Divorce: The Four Rs
"It begins with you."
"Who is watching you?"
"You get to choose."
child-centered divorce, emotional regulation, four Rs, parenting, divorce support, self-compassion, personal responsibility, emotional maturity, resilience, co-parenting
On our website you'll find details and additional information on our 5-Step Gameplan multimedia course, our different types of coaching
methods, monthly memberships, events and retreats, and a whole lot more. Plus, we've got a ton of free resources, like our monthly newsletter, our private Facebook group, our Instagram channel, and a library of articles and free webinars to help you along the way. When you go to our website, you'll be able to schedule a free 45-minute breakthrough call. Remember, we're here to help you reach an amicable resolution. Find your courage and believe in your brighter future because you know what? It is possible.
At Better Than Bitter™, we measure success by what we give and not by what we get. So, let's change the divorce dialogue together. It's time to be better than bitter.
Do you want to know if We Can Help You? Book A Free 1:1 Breakthrough Call Now! Click Here
If you want to connect with a Divorce Concierge, contact Vesta Divorce Concierge here!
Johana Jimenez
Johana Jimenez, LPC, is a Dallas‑based therapist who helps high‑achieving adults and couples navigate anxiety, depression, identity shifts, and relationship struggles with compassion and evidence‑informed care. Using EMDR, somatic, and Gottman‑aligned approaches, she helps clients move from survival mode into emotional safety, authentic connection, and meaningful living.
Johana's Website
Guest's Social Media Profile:Johana's Facebook page
@thephoenixineveryhumanbeing on Instagram
Johana on YouTube
Keywordsdivorce, emotional healing, high achievers, resilience, child-centered approach, therapy, acceptance, relationships, self-worth, personal growth
In this conversation, Tania Leichliter and Johana Jimenez explore the emotional complexities of divorce, particularly for high-achieving individuals. They discuss the feelings of failure and shame that often accompany divorce, the importance of acceptance, and the need to focus on personal growth and resilience. The conversation emphasizes the significance of a child-centered approach to divorce, ensuring that children's well-being is prioritized. They also highlight the importance of emotional awareness, naming feelings, and recognizing one's self-worth. Ultimately, the discussion encourages listeners to take control of their narratives and strive for a better future post-divorce.
"Divorce is a loss."
"You need to throw away the why."
"You can only control yourself."
00:00 Introduction to Healing Post-Divorce
01:13 Navigating Feelings of Failure and Shame
03:15 Acceptance and Moving Forward
04:58 Exploring Patterns in Relationships
07:05 Understanding Lovability and Self-Worth
09:01 Compartmentalizing Emotions vs. Processing Them
10:52 Modeling Resilience for Children
14:09 Breaking Negative Mindsets in Children
16:51 Creating a Child-Centered Divorce
19:21 The Circle of Control
22:24 Rethinking Emotions and Responses
26:08 Tools for High Achievers in Therapy
37:17 Introduction to Amicable Divorce
38:46 Resources for Support and Growth
On our website you'll find details and additional information on our 5-Step Gameplan multimedia course, our different types of coaching
methods, monthly memberships, events and retreats, and a whole lot more. Plus, we've got a ton of free resources, like our monthly newsletter, our private Facebook group, our Instagram channel, and a library of articles and free webinars to help you along the way. When you go to our website, you'll be able to schedule a free 45-minute breakthrough call. Remember, we're here to help you reach an amicable resolution. Find your courage and believe in your brighter future because you know what? It is possible.
At Better Than Bitter™, we measure success by what we give and not by what we get. So, let's change the divorce dialogue together. It's time to be better than bitter.
Do you want to know if We Can Help You? Book A Free 1:1 Breakthrough Call Now! Click Here
If you want to connect with a Divorce Concierge, contact Vesta Divorce Concierge here!
Our guest for this episode:
Paula Brown, MAIOPFounder, Konenki Menopause Solutions
Paula Brown holds a Bachelor’s in Human Resources Management and a Master’s in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, blending nonprofit and corporate expertise. A learning and development leader, she excels in designing impactful training programs and fostering inclusivity through strong communication and facilitation skills. Resilient and committed to helping others overcome challenges, Paula drives organizational growth with a focus on continuous learning.
Paula is the creator of Rita’s Labyrinth in Holliston, MA, offering mindfulness and spiritual practices inspired by diverse traditions, especially the divine feminine. She is also a facilitator of The Artist’s Way, creating spaces for exploration and growth, integrating her professional and spiritual passions to inspire lasting positive change.
Paula Brown's Website
Konenki Menopause Facebook Page
Konenki Menopause Instagram
SummaryIn this episode of the Better Than Bitter podcast, Tania Leichliter and Paula Brown discuss the intersection of divorce and menopause, exploring the challenges women face during this transitional period. They share personal stories of struggle, resilience, and the importance of support networks. The conversation highlights the impact of hormonal changes on mental health, relationships, and personal reinvention, emphasizing that menopause is a natural life transition rather than a crisis. Listeners are encouraged to seek help and find hope in their journeys.
divorce, menopause, women empowerment, mental health, hormone therapy, personal stories, resilience, support networks, life transitions, relationship dynamics
Navigating Divorce and Menopause: A Journey of Resilience
Personal Stories of Struggle: Finding Strength in Transition
"It's life-changing."
"I thought I had a brain tumor."
"I was fired from two jobs."
00:00 Navigating Menopause and Divorce
02:28 Personal Journeys Through Menopause
09:11 The Role of Support Networks
16:37 Coping with Stress and Brain Fog
18:17 Impact of Menopause on Relationships
28:45 Rekindling Passion and Libido
33:38 Finding Hope and Support
38:36 Introduction to Amicable Divorce
40:05 Resources for Support and Growth
On our website you'll find details and additional information on our 5-Step Gameplan multimedia course, our different types of coaching
methods, monthly memberships, events and retreats, and a whole lot more. Plus, we've got a ton of free resources, like our monthly newsletter, our private Facebook group, our Instagram channel, and a library of articles and free webinars to help you along the way. When you go to our website, you'll be able to schedule a free 45-minute breakthrough call. Remember, we're here to help you reach an amicable resolution. Find your courage and believe in your brighter future because you know what? It is possible.
At Better Than Bitter™, we measure success by what we give and not by what we get. So, let's change the divorce dialogue together. It's time to be better than bitter.
Do you want to know if We Can Help You? Book A Free 1:1 Breakthrough Call Now! Click Here
If you want to connect with a Divorce Concierge, contact Vesta Divorce Concierge here!
Our guest for this episode:
Jon Bassford, JD, MBA, CAEAbout our guest:
He has written a book called "The Co-Parenting Secret: It's not about you”. Jon is actually a consultant.
Link to book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/6gR0ucX
He heads up operations for startups and nonprofits, but he has written this book based on his own personal story. His friends, his family, and people were amazed by him and his wife and how well they were able to co-parent. And they were like, you should write a book. And John's like, huh, maybe I should write a book.
co-parenting, divorce, family dynamics, intentional parenting, emotional well-being, communication, relationships, parenting strategies, self-reflection, family support
In this episode of the Better Than Bitter podcast, Tania Leichliter speaks with Jon Bassford about his book, 'The Co-Parenting Secret: It's Not About You.' They discuss the challenges of co-parenting, the importance of intentionality, and how to navigate new relationships while keeping the children's best interests at heart. John shares his personal experiences and insights on creating a supportive environment for children post-divorce, emphasizing the need for effective communication and emotional well-being.
Navigating the Co-Parenting Journey
Intentional Co-Parenting Strategies
"It's not about you."
"You have to be very intentional."
"Let go of the animosity."
00:00 Introduction to Co-Parenting Dynamics
03:17 The Journey of Writing a Co-Parenting Book
05:42 Navigating Co-Parenting with Young Children
08:09 Intentionality in Co-Parenting Relationships
11:07 Humanizing Divorce and Co-Parenting
13:32 Building a Supportive Co-Parenting Village
16:19 Handling New Relationships and Dating
18:51 Communication as a Pillar of Co-Parenting
21:45 Teaching Children About Relationships
24:22 Focusing on Self-Improvement
26:53 Letting Go of Control and Embracing Flexibility
29:44 Creating a Loving Environment for Children
36:02 Introduction to Amicable Divorce
37:31 Resources for Support and Growth
On our website you'll find details and additional information on our 5-Step Gameplan multimedia course, our different types of coaching
methods, monthly memberships, events and retreats, and a whole lot more. Plus, we've got a ton of free resources, like our monthly newsletter, our private Facebook group, our Instagram channel, and a library of articles and free webinars to help you along the way. When you go to our website, you'll be able to schedule a free 45-minute breakthrough call. Remember, we're here to help you reach an amicable resolution. Find your courage and believe in your brighter future because you know what? It is possible.
At Better Than Bitter™, we measure success by what we give and not by what we get. So, let's change the divorce dialogue together. It's time to be better than bitter.
Do you want to know if We Can Help You? Book A Free 1:1 Breakthrough Call Now! Click Here
If you want to connect with a Divorce Concierge, contact Vesta Divorce Concierge here!
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