Divorce at Altitude: A Podcast on Colorado Family Law

Colorado Licensed Legal Paraprofessionals: Expanding Access to Family Law

In this episode of Divorce at Altitude, Amy Goscha is joined by Megan Flanagan, a Licensed Legal Paraprofessional (LLP), to discuss how Colorado’s LLP program is evolving and what it looks like in practice. They explore the role LLPs play in family law, recent changes expanding what LLPs can do in court, how law firms are integrating LLPs into their teams, and how the program is helping make legal guidance more accessible to people who may not be able to afford traditional attorney representation.

Guest Information

Megan Flanagan is a Licensed Legal Paraprofessional with more than 20 years of experience in family law, beginning her career as a paralegal. She was part of Colorado’s first class of LLPs and currently practices with Drexler Law Group in Colorado Springs. Megan handles family law matters within the LLP scope and works collaboratively with attorneys when cases involve issues outside that scope.

Episode Highlights

What a Licensed Legal Paraprofessional does – Understanding the role of an LLP, how it differs from a traditional paralegal, and what it means to have a limited license to practice law in Colorado family law matters.

Making legal representation more accessible – How LLPs can help individuals who may not have the financial resources to retain an attorney but still need legal advice and guidance through the divorce or custody process.

LLPs and law firm collaboration – How firms can use LLPs alongside attorneys, associates, and paralegals to make sure clients receive the right level of support depending on the complexity of their case.

Recent courtroom rule changes – How expanded rules now allow LLPs to examine and cross-examine witnesses and introduce evidence, enabling them to take a more active role during hearings.

Preparing LLPs for courtroom advocacy – Why training in evidence, objections, mock trials, continuing legal education, and mentorship has become increasingly important as the LLP role expands.

Helping self-represented parties – How LLPs can assist people with understanding deadlines, financial disclosures, witnesses, exhibits, mediation, and the procedural steps required to effectively present their case.

Settlement and mediation – Why many LLP cases may be well suited for resolution through negotiation or mediation, especially when the matter is lower conflict or involves relatively straightforward financial and parenting issues.

Knowing the limits of the LLP scope – Why LLPs must recognize when a case becomes too complex or involves legal issues outside their permitted scope and when an attorney should become involved.

From paralegal to LLP – Megan shares how becoming an LLP changed her responsibilities, including managing her own cases, appearing in court, participating in mediation, and making legal decisions for clients.

The future of Colorado’s LLP program – Amy and Megan discuss possible expansion into additional practice areas, the importance of mentorship, and efforts to build a stronger educational and career pipeline for future LLPs.

Why Listen?
Whether you are going through a divorce, working in family law, considering becoming an LLP, or simply interested in how Colorado is expanding access to legal services, this episode provides a practical look at how Licensed Legal Paraprofessionals are changing the family law landscape. Learn what LLPs can do, how they work alongside attorneys, how courtroom responsibilities are evolving, and what the future may hold for this growing profession.

What is Divorce at Altitude?

Ryan Kalamaya and Amy Goscha provide tips and recommendations on issues related to divorce, separation, and co-parenting in Colorado. Ryan and Amy are the founding partners of an innovative and ambitious law firm, Kalamaya | Goscha, that pushes the boundaries to discover new frontiers in family law, personal injuries, and criminal defense in Colorado.

To subscribe to Divorce at Altitude, click here and select your favorite podcast player. To subscribe to Kalamaya | Goscha's YouTube channel where many of the episodes will be posted as videos, click here. If you have additional questions or would like to speak to one of our attorneys, give us a call at 970-429-5784 or email us at [email protected].

What is Divorce at Altitude? 

Ryan Kalamaya and Amy Goscha provide tips and recommendations on issues related to divorce, separation, and co-parenting in Colorado. Ryan and Amy are the founding partners of an innovative and ambitious law firm, Kalamaya | Goscha, that pushes the boundaries to discover new frontiers in family law, personal injuries, and criminal defense in Colorado. 

To subscribe to Divorce at Altitude, click here and select your favorite podcast player. To subscribe to Kalamaya | Goscha's YouTube channel where many of the episodes will be posted as videos, click here.  If you have additional questions or would like to speak to one of our attorneys, give us a call at 970-429-5784 or email us at [email protected].

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DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS ON THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE. CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE OR AREA TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE ON ANY OF THESE ISSUES.

Parental Relocation in Divorce: Legal and Social Science Insights

In this episode of Divorce at Altitude, Ryan Kalamaya and Amy Goscha explore the complex and high-stakes world of parental relocation after separation or divorce. Joined by Dr. Kate McNamara, a child and family evaluator, they dive into the legal framework in Colorado, social science research, and practical strategies for navigating relocation cases—where children’s stability, parental rights, and family dynamics intersect.

Guest Information

Dr. Kate McNamara, PhD is a licensed psychologist and child/family evaluator with decades of experience in parental responsibility evaluations, long-distance parenting coordination, and therapy. She provides expert insight on social capital, risk factors, and protective factors that influence children’s adjustment to relocation.

Episode Highlights

Legal framework for relocation – Understanding Colorado statutes (C.R.S. 14-10-124 & 129), pre-decree vs. post-decree relocation, and burden-shifting standards from key cases like Cheslick, Spawner, and In re Dale. 

Social capital and children’s outcomes – How the web of relationships with family, friends, teachers, and community supports affects adjustment to relocation. 

Age-specific risks – Young children, adolescents, and children with special needs face unique challenges in maintaining relationships and routines. 

Gatekeeping and parental involvement – Restrictive behaviors that limit access to the non-relocating parent can significantly impact relocation outcomes. 

Practical planning – Designing parenting plans, summer schedules, and decision-making protocols to mitigate stress and preserve relationships. 

Evidence-based evaluation – Using tools like PREs, CFIs, and risk assessment models to forecast potential impacts on children and guide informed judicial decisions. 

Why Listen?
Whether you are a parent, attorney, or family law professional, this episode equips you with the knowledge to understand relocation risks, legal requirements, and strategies to support children through high-stakes transitions. Learn how to balance parental rights, child stability, and long-term well-being in complex relocation scenarios.

What is Divorce at Altitude? 

Ryan Kalamaya and Amy Goscha provide tips and recommendations on issues related to divorce, separation, and co-parenting in Colorado. Ryan and Amy are the founding partners of an innovative and ambitious law firm, Kalamaya | Goscha, that pushes the boundaries to discover new frontiers in family law, personal injuries, and criminal defense in Colorado. 

To subscribe to Divorce at Altitude, click here and select your favorite podcast player. To subscribe to Kalamaya | Goscha's YouTube channel where many of the episodes will be posted as videos, click here.  If you have additional questions or would like to speak to one of our attorneys, give us a call at 970-429-5784 or email us at [email protected].

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DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS ON THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE. CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE OR AREA TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE ON ANY OF THESE ISSUES.

Divorce Technology and Onward.life: Simplifying Financial, Legal, and Emotional Challenges

In this episode of Divorce at Altitude, Ryan Kalamaya is joined by Alexa and Jason, the founders of Onward.life, a legal tech platform designed to help individuals navigate the complexities of divorce. From financial disclosures to co-parenting plans and emotional wellness, this conversation explores how technology is streamlining divorce processes and providing holistic support for families.

Guest Information

Alexa experienced the frustrations of divorce firsthand, inspiring her to create Onward.life to support others through financial, legal, and emotional aspects. Jason Weiss co-founded the company, bringing deep experience in technology and product development to ensure the platform is practical, secure, and user-friendly. Together, they provide a holistic solution for those navigating divorce, whether self-represented or working with attorneys.

Episode Highlights

Origin story – How Alexa’s personal divorce experience led to the creation of Onward.life. 

Financial transparency and automation – Using open banking and AI tools to import and organize assets, debts, income, and expenses for accurate disclosure and planning. 

Legal guidance – Helping users prepare for state-specific financial statements and co-parenting plans, with ongoing support throughout the process. 

Emotional wellness – Interactive tools like the Feelings Wheel, journaling, and daily check-ins to address mental health during divorce. 

AI in divorce tech – Supporting tasks in the background without replacing human judgment or legal counsel. 

Community and resources – Access to peer forums, educational content, and therapist-led support groups. 

Why Listen?
Whether you’re navigating divorce personally or professionally, this episode offers insights into how technology can reduce stress, save time, and empower families. Learn how Onward.life integrates legal, financial, and emotional support into a single, accessible platform.

What is Divorce at Altitude? 

Ryan Kalamaya and Amy Goscha provide tips and recommendations on issues related to divorce, separation, and co-parenting in Colorado. Ryan and Amy are the founding partners of an innovative and ambitious law firm, Kalamaya | Goscha, that pushes the boundaries to discover new frontiers in family law, personal injuries, and criminal defense in Colorado. 

To subscribe to Divorce at Altitude, click here and select your favorite podcast player. To subscribe to Kalamaya | Goscha's YouTube channel where many of the episodes will be posted as videos, click here.  If you have additional questions or would like to speak to one of our attorneys, give us a call at 970-429-5784 or email us at [email protected].

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DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS ON THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE. CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE OR AREA TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE ON ANY OF THESE ISSUES.

Digital Assets, Cryptocurrency & Privacy in Divorce

In this episode of Divorce at Altitude, Ryan Kalamaya is joined by Chicago-based family law attorney Jonathan Steele to explore the rapidly evolving world of digital assets, cryptocurrency, and privacy in divorce cases. As technology continues to shape financial and personal lives, this episode breaks down how crypto works in divorce, common misconceptions, and practical strategies for uncovering hidden assets while protecting client privacy.

Guest Information

Jonathan Steele is a family law attorney based in Chicago with a unique background that combines divorce law with cybersecurity and digital privacy expertise. During the COVID era, he developed a deep focus on digital assets, authentication of evidence, and privacy issues—particularly in high-asset divorce and stalking-related cases. In addition to practicing family law, Jonathan consults on cybersecurity and digital privacy matters, helping attorneys and clients navigate complex issues involving cryptocurrency, digital tracking, and online data.

Episode Highlights

What counts as a digital asset in divorce
Jonathan explains that digital assets go beyond cryptocurrency. They can include domain names, software, online businesses, and other digital property.

The biggest misconception about cryptocurrency
A key myth is that crypto is completely anonymous. Jonathan clarifies that it is actually “pseudonymous,” meaning transactions are permanently recorded on a blockchain.

Understanding exchanges vs. cold storage
Ryan and Jonathan break down how crypto is held. Exchanges like Coinbase function similarly to brokerage accounts, while cold storage wallets (offline devices) act more like a private safe.

Why subpoenas aren’t always enough
Many attorneys default to subpoenaing exchanges, but Jonathan notes that this often misses the bigger picture. 

The “on-ramp and off-ramp” strategy
Instead of starting with exchanges, Jonathan recommends looking at bank statements.

Cold wallets and the seed phrase problem
Cold storage wallets require a private “seed phrase” (often 12 words) to access funds.

What is Divorce at Altitude? 

Ryan Kalamaya and Amy Goscha provide tips and recommendations on issues related to divorce, separation, and co-parenting in Colorado. Ryan and Amy are the founding partners of an innovative and ambitious law firm, Kalamaya | Goscha, that pushes the boundaries to discover new frontiers in family law, personal injuries, and criminal defense in Colorado. 

To subscribe to Divorce at Altitude, click here and select your favorite podcast player. To subscribe to Kalamaya | Goscha's YouTube channel where many of the episodes will be posted as videos, click here.  If you have additional questions or would like to speak to one of our attorneys, give us a call at 970-429-5784 or email us at [email protected].

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DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS ON THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE. CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE OR AREA TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE ON ANY OF THESE ISSUES.

Forensic Accounting in Divorce: Following the Money with Doug Cash

In this episode of Divorce at Altitude, Amy Goscha is joined by forensic accountant Doug Cash to discuss how forensic accounting fits into divorce cases, especially when one spouse knows far more about the finances than the other. Doug explains the difference between tracing and following money, how forensic accountants differ from business valuation experts, and why getting a forensic accountant involved early can make a major difference in a divorce case.

Guest Information

Doug Cash is a forensic accountant with Eide Bailly whose background is unusually rooted in law enforcement and financial investigations. He spent nearly three decades in law enforcement in New Mexico and Arizona, including work as a fraud detective with the City of Mesa, as a special agent for the State of Arizona investigating insurance fraud, and in anti-money laundering and anti-terrorist financing investigations for JPMorgan Chase.

Episode Highlights

Why forensic accounting matters in divorce
Amy and Doug discuss how many divorce cases involve a major imbalance in financial knowledge. One spouse may have managed the business, accounts, and records, while the other has little idea where the money went or what the actual financial picture looks like.

Doug’s unusual path into forensic accounting
Doug shares that his professional background began in law enforcement, not accounting. He started as a police officer at 18 later moved into fraud investigations, worked insurance fraud and anti-money laundering cases and eventually transitioned into forensic accounting.

The difference between a forensic accountant and a business valuation expert
Doug explains that a business valuation expert is usually working from financial statements profit and loss statements, tax returns, and other summarized documents to form an opinion about what a business is worth.

Why source documents matter
A recurring theme in the episode is that source documents are critical. Doug explains that tax returns and sworn financial statements are only numbers on a page unless someone checks the documents underneath them.

How forensic accountants can help shape discovery
Doug notes that forensic accountants can be useful before discovery is even served. By helping attorneys identify the right documents and requests early they can make the process more efficient and targeted.

What is Divorce at Altitude? 

Ryan Kalamaya and Amy Goscha provide tips and recommendations on issues related to divorce, separation, and co-parenting in Colorado. Ryan and Amy are the founding partners of an innovative and ambitious law firm, Kalamaya | Goscha, that pushes the boundaries to discover new frontiers in family law, personal injuries, and criminal defense in Colorado. 

To subscribe to Divorce at Altitude, click here and select your favorite podcast player. To subscribe to Kalamaya | Goscha's YouTube channel where many of the episodes will be posted as videos, click here.  If you have additional questions or would like to speak to one of our attorneys, give us a call at 970-429-5784 or email us at [email protected].

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DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS ON THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE. CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE OR AREA TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE ON ANY OF THESE ISSUES.

Discretionary Trusts in Divorce: What Is Actually Protected?

In this episode of Divorce at Altitude, Ryan Kalamaya is joined by associate attorney McKenzie Ralston to discuss discretionary trusts and how they are treated in Colorado divorce cases. Many people believe that assets held in a trust are “bulletproof” and completely protected from division—but as Ryan and McKenzie explain, that is not always the case. The episode explores when trusts are protected, when they may be considered property, and how trust distributions can still impact child support and spousal maintenance.

Guest Information

McKenzie Ralston is an associate attorney at Kalamaya Goscha with a background in estate planning and tax law. She earned both her Juris Doctor and a Master’s in Tax from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law. McKenzie brings a unique perspective to family law by focusing on the intersection of divorce, trusts, and estate planning, helping clients understand how wealth structures like trusts are treated in divorce proceedings.

Episode Highlights

Why people think trusts are “bulletproof”
Ryan explains that many clients come into divorce believing that if assets are in a trust, they are automatically protected. While this is sometimes true, it depends heavily on the type of trust and how it is structured.

What is a discretionary trust?
McKenzie breaks down discretionary trusts as trusts where the trustee has full discretion over whether to make distributions to the beneficiary. This means the beneficiary does not have a guaranteed right to receive money.

Revocable vs. irrevocable trusts
Revocable trusts can be changed or revoked by the person who created them and are generally not considered property in divorce. Irrevocable trusts, on the other hand, cannot be changed and may raise more complex issues.

When a trust becomes property in divorce
The episode highlights that not all trusts are protected. If a beneficiary has a guaranteed right to receive assets—such as in certain remainder interests—those assets may be considered property under Colorado law.

The Balanson case and why it matters
Ryan and McKenzie discuss In re Marriage of Balanson, a key Colorado case that established that even a future interest in a trust can be considered property if it cannot be withheld.

What is Divorce at Altitude? 

Ryan Kalamaya and Amy Goscha provide tips and recommendations on issues related to divorce, separation, and co-parenting in Colorado. Ryan and Amy are the founding partners of an innovative and ambitious law firm, Kalamaya | Goscha, that pushes the boundaries to discover new frontiers in family law, personal injuries, and criminal defense in Colorado. 

To subscribe to Divorce at Altitude, click here and select your favorite podcast player. To subscribe to Kalamaya | Goscha's YouTube channel where many of the episodes will be posted as videos, click here.  If you have additional questions or would like to speak to one of our attorneys, give us a call at 970-429-5784 or email us at [email protected].

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DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS ON THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE. CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE OR AREA TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE ON ANY OF THESE ISSUES.

Colorado Child Support Statute Updates: What Changes in 2025 and 2026 Mean for Families

In this episode of Divorce at Altitude, Amy Goscha and associate attorney Kate Mulholland break down major updates to Colorado’s child support statute. They explain how House Bill 25-1159 changes the treatment of extraordinary medical expenses, tax credits, retroactive child support, low-income calculations, and parenting-time credits. The conversation focuses on what family law practitioners and parents need to know as the new rules take effect in phases across 2025 and 2026.

Guest Information

Kate Mulholland is an associate attorney at Kalamaya Goscha, where she practices primarily family law and also handles criminal defense and civil protection order matters. She joined the firm in August 2024 and works on contested family law issues, post-decree disputes, motions practice, and cases involving the overlap between family law and criminal law.

Episode Highlights

Why Colorado overhauled its child support framework
Kate explains that House Bill 25-1159 is the most significant child support update in more than a decade. The goal is to modernize the statute to reflect current cost-of-living realities, address low-income situations more fairly, clarify medical expense handling, and align state practice with IRS guidance on tax benefits.

Medical expense changes effective May 31, 2025
One of the first major updates eliminated the old $250 threshold that each parent had to meet before being reimbursed for extraordinary medical expenses.

Ordinary vs. extraordinary medical expenses are now defined
The statute now clearly distinguishes between ordinary and extraordinary medical expenses. Extraordinary expenses include co-pays, deductibles, uninsured out-of-pocket expenses, prescription medication, medical equipment, orthodontia, and dental treatment.

Why this matters in real life
Amy and Kate use Eric and Melanie Wolf as an example. Before the update, Melanie might have had to spend $250 of her own money on the children’s extraordinary medical expenses before she could seek reimbursement.

The statute now creates more predictability for reimbursement
Kate notes that the updated law also gives structure to reimbursement timing. A parent seeking reimbursement must provide proof within a reasonable time, and if proof is not provided by July 1 of the following year.

What is Divorce at Altitude? 

Ryan Kalamaya and Amy Goscha provide tips and recommendations on issues related to divorce, separation, and co-parenting in Colorado. Ryan and Amy are the founding partners of an innovative and ambitious law firm, Kalamaya | Goscha, that pushes the boundaries to discover new frontiers in family law, personal injuries, and criminal defense in Colorado. 

To subscribe to Divorce at Altitude, click here and select your favorite podcast player. To subscribe to Kalamaya | Goscha's YouTube channel where many of the episodes will be posted as videos, click here.  If you have additional questions or would like to speak to one of our attorneys, give us a call at 970-429-5784 or email us at [email protected].

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DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS ON THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE. CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE OR AREA TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE ON ANY OF THESE ISSUES.

Meet Associate Kate Mulholland: Family Law, Criminal Defense, and Supporting Clients Through Crisis

In this episode of Divorce at Altitude, Amy Goscha introduces associate attorney Kate Mulholland and discusses her background, her path into law, and the perspective she brings to family law cases. They explore her experience in divorce, parenting disputes, civil protection orders, and criminal defense, along with the importance of communication, managing expectations, and supporting clients through high-stress situations.

Guest Information

Kate Mulholland is an associate attorney at Kalamaya Goscha, focusing primarily on family law while also handling criminal defense and civil protection order matters. Originally from Ohio, Kate moved to Colorado for law school and gained extensive early experience through internships, trial work, and clinical programs. Her practice includes contested divorce issues, post-decree modifications, mediation, and cases involving the intersection of family law and criminal law.

Episode Highlights

Kate’s path into family law
Kate shares that personal experiences with family members going through divorce inspired her to pursue family law, where she can make a meaningful impact during critical moments in clients’ lives.

Early hands-on legal experience
From working with the Denver Municipal Public Defender to participating in DU’s criminal defense clinic, Kate gained trial and appellate experience early in her career, shaping her litigation skills.

The firm’s team-based approach
Amy and Kate discuss the partner-associate-paralegal model, emphasizing how collaboration improves strategy, efficiency, and client outcomes.

How Kate supports clients in high-stress situations
Kate focuses on meeting clients where they are emotionally while ensuring they have a full support system, including therapists, financial professionals, and co-parenting coaches.

The importance of early intervention
Addressing issues early in a case especially those involving children and finances can prevent escalation and lead to better long-term outcomes.

Managing client expectations realistically
Kate emphasizes transparency from the beginning, helping clients understand both the strengths and limitations of their case and the realities of the legal system.

What is Divorce at Altitude? 

Ryan Kalamaya and Amy Goscha provide tips and recommendations on issues related to divorce, separation, and co-parenting in Colorado. Ryan and Amy are the founding partners of an innovative and ambitious law firm, Kalamaya | Goscha, that pushes the boundaries to discover new frontiers in family law, personal injuries, and criminal defense in Colorado. 

To subscribe to Divorce at Altitude, click here and select your favorite podcast player. To subscribe to Kalamaya | Goscha's YouTube channel where many of the episodes will be posted as videos, click here.  If you have additional questions or would like to speak to one of our attorneys, give us a call at 970-429-5784 or email us at [email protected].

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DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS ON THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE. CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE OR AREA TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE ON ANY OF THESE ISSUES.

Youth Sports and Divorce: How Parents Can Keep Kids Out of the Conflict

In this episode of Divorce at Altitude, Ryan Kalamaya and Amy Goscha discuss how youth sports can become a major source of conflict in divorce and co-parenting cases. They explain why sports can be incredibly positive for children, how parental pressure and competing households can complicate things, and what parents should address in a parenting plan to avoid turning sports into another battleground.

Episode Highlights

Why youth sports matter so much in divorce cases
Sports are often a huge part of a child’s life and identity. They provide physical activity, structure, resilience, teamwork, leadership, friendships, and an emotional outlet. For children going through divorce, sports can also be a stabilizing force and a break from family stress.

The benefits of youth sports for kids
Ryan and Amy highlight that sports teach children how to fail safely, recover from setbacks, and commit to something bigger than themselves. They also emphasize the mental health benefits, physical movement, and social belonging that sports can provide during a difficult family transition.

How youth sports have become much more intense
Both Ryan and Amy note that youth sports today are far more intense than when they were growing up. Seasons now run year-round, travel teams start younger, and the pressure to specialize early has increased dramatically.

The different developmental stages matter
Ryan explains that younger children should usually be in a “sampling” phase, trying different sports and activities rather than specializing too early. As kids get older, one or two sports may emerge more naturally, but parents should be careful not to force specialization before the child is ready.

The danger of parental pressure
One of the biggest themes of the episode is how easy it is for parents to make sports about themselves. Parents may project their own hopes, identity, or fears onto the child. That can lead to too much pressure, burnout, and conflict both with the child and with the other parent.

Why divorced parents often clash over sports
Sports can create disputes over schedules, practices, tournaments, coaching roles, costs, travel, and how much commitment is too much. One parent may view a sport as an important developmental opportunity, while the other sees it as an expensive, disruptive, or unnecessary burden.

What is Divorce at Altitude? 

Ryan Kalamaya and Amy Goscha provide tips and recommendations on issues related to divorce, separation, and co-parenting in Colorado. Ryan and Amy are the founding partners of an innovative and ambitious law firm, Kalamaya | Goscha, that pushes the boundaries to discover new frontiers in family law, personal injuries, and criminal defense in Colorado. 

To subscribe to Divorce at Altitude, click here and select your favorite podcast player. To subscribe to Kalamaya | Goscha's YouTube channel where many of the episodes will be posted as videos, click here.  If you have additional questions or would like to speak to one of our attorneys, give us a call at 970-429-5784 or email us at [email protected].

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DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS ON THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE. CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE OR AREA TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE ON ANY OF THESE ISSUES.

Sleepaway Summer Camps and Divorce: How Parents Can Plan Ahead

In this episode of Divorce at Altitude, Ryan Kalamaya and Amy Goscha discuss how sleepaway summer camps can become a major issue in divorce and co-parenting cases. They explain why camps can be valuable for kids, why they often create conflict between parents, and how careful planning in a parenting plan can prevent unnecessary disputes.

Episode Highlights

Why sleepaway camp becomes a divorce issue
Summer camp is not just about fun. For divorced parents, it often means lost parenting time, extra expenses, travel logistics, and disagreements over whether camp is even a good idea. Ryan and Amy explain that this becomes especially important when parents already feel like they are losing time with their children.

The emotional side of camp for parents
One of the biggest drivers of conflict is emotional. A parent may feel that a sleepaway camp takes away precious summer time with their child, especially when parenting time is already divided. That emotional reaction can turn camp into a bigger fight than it might otherwise be.

History and family tradition matter
If a child has gone to the same camp for years, or if one parent has a personal connection to that camp from childhood, that history can make the issue more complicated. A legacy camp may feel deeply meaningful to one parent while the other sees it as unnecessary or one-sided.

Why early planning is critical
Many sleepaway camps fill up months in advance. Ryan and Amy stress that if parents wait too long to discuss camp, the issue can become a crisis. They recommend addressing summer camp deadlines early in the year and putting specific planning deadlines into parenting agreements.

Why judges are not the best solution for camp disputes
If parents wait until there is a fight and then try to get a judge to decide, it may be too late. Courts are unlikely to treat a summer camp disagreement as an emergency, which means the timing often makes litigation impractical.

What “nesting” means and why it matters
Although the main focus is summer camp, Ryan and Amy touch on nesting as another example of creative parenting solutions. In a nesting arrangement, the children stay in one home while the parents rotate in and out. They note that families in mountain communities may have housing setups, such as lock-offs, that make these arrangements more realistic.

What is Divorce at Altitude? 

Ryan Kalamaya and Amy Goscha provide tips and recommendations on issues related to divorce, separation, and co-parenting in Colorado. Ryan and Amy are the founding partners of an innovative and ambitious law firm, Kalamaya | Goscha, that pushes the boundaries to discover new frontiers in family law, personal injuries, and criminal defense in Colorado. 

To subscribe to Divorce at Altitude, click here and select your favorite podcast player. To subscribe to Kalamaya | Goscha's YouTube channel where many of the episodes will be posted as videos, click here.  If you have additional questions or would like to speak to one of our attorneys, give us a call at 970-429-5784 or email us at [email protected].

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DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS ON THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE. CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE OR AREA TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE ON ANY OF THESE ISSUES.