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When most people think of divorce, they picture contentious courtroom battles and emotional warfare. But what if there's a better way? Family law attorney and certified domestic relations mediator Xavier Prather reveals how mediation offers couples a path to resolution that  saves money, and creates better outcomes for everyone involved.

Xavier brings an unexpected background to his mediation practice. As the historic winner of Big Brother Season 23—the first Black winner in the show's two-decade history—he developed remarkable skills for helping people in conflict communicate effectively. "In the Big Brother house, just like in divorce, you're dealing with a lot of different personalities and emotions in an environment designed to bring out some of the most toxic feelings," Xavier explains. "That experience taught me how to help people express themselves while still finding common ground."

The conversation explores the critical differences between facilitative and evaluative mediation approaches. While evaluative mediation focuses on assessment based on courtroom experience, facilitative mediation centers on improving communication between parties. Xavier passionately advocates for approaches that give couples more control over their outcomes rather than surrendering decisions to the court system.

Perhaps most fascinating is Xavier's discussion of marriage mediation—a proactive approach for couples who want to stay together but struggle with communication issues that could eventually lead to divorce. Unlike couples therapy, which delves into psychological patterns, marriage mediation focuses on practical communication strategies and agreements about responsibilities, finances, and parenting. "The couples that go to mediation—I applaud them because they're recognizing they need help before it's too late," Xavier notes.

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Striving to Improve Lives Through Financial Planning Done Right! https://www.centerfinplan.com/

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Visit us at https://www.roesslerdivorce.com/ to learn more about Jacki's practice and to find valuable resources for your case.

The Divorce Rich podcast is proudly sponsored by Center for Financial Planning: Striving to Improve Lives through Financial Planning Done Right! https://www.centerfinplan.com/

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Understanding payroll stubs is a crucial yet often overlooked skill during divorce proceedings. Jacki breaks down how to read both your and your spouse's payroll documentation to ensure you're getting accurate financial information for support calculations and settlements.

• Difference between gross pay (what's earned before deductions) and net pay (what's deposited in your account)
• Federal and state tax withholdings and how to spot potential overwithholding
• Understanding Social Security withholding caps and their impact on paychecks throughout the year
• Health insurance, 401(k) and other deductions that affect net pay
• How to calculate reasonable federal tax withholding percentages
• Year-to-date totals and their importance in cross-checking against W-2 forms
• Box 5 on W-2 forms shows Medicare wages, often the best reflection of true gross earnings
• Importance of year-end payroll stubs for breaking down different income sources
• Four power tips: review all stubs, keep copies of everything, look beyond take-home pay, and learn the payroll system

If you like this podcast, please follow us on Apple or anywhere that you download podcasts and share this link with any friends or family that you think might benefit from this information.

Center for Financial Planning
Striving to Improve Lives Through Financial Planning Done Right! https://www.centerfinplan.com/

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Visit us at https://www.roesslerdivorce.com/ to learn more about Jacki's practice and to find valuable resources for your case.

The Divorce Rich podcast is proudly sponsored by Center for Financial Planning: Striving to Improve Lives through Financial Planning Done Right! https://www.centerfinplan.com/

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The economic landscape is shifting. With potential downturns and job insecurity looming, knowing exactly when and how to modify child support becomes more than just useful information—it's financial protection.  This candid conversation with family law attorney Jorin Rubin of https://rubinframpton.com/jorin-g-rubin/ reveals the hidden mechanisms behind child support modifications that every divorced or separating parent should understand.

What makes this discussion particularly valuable is the exploration of complex scenarios rarely addressed in standard divorce guidance. For self-employed parents, those standard business deductions that keep the IRS satisfied won't shield your income from support calculations. Regular financial gifts from family members might count toward your support obligation. Even that inheritance you received after divorce could impact calculations if you're drawing income from it.

To find Jorin on Social Media; 

• https://www.instagram.com/tipsdivorceattorney/
• https://www.tiktok.com/@jayattorney

To schedule an intro free consultation with Jacki, click the link below 

https://calendly.com/roessler-jacki/30min?month=2024-03

Center for Financial Planning
Striving to Improve Lives Through Financial Planning Done Right! https://www.centerfinplan.com/

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Visit us at https://www.roesslerdivorce.com/ to learn more about Jacki's practice and to find valuable resources for your case.

The Divorce Rich podcast is proudly sponsored by Center for Financial Planning: Striving to Improve Lives through Financial Planning Done Right! https://www.centerfinplan.com/

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Facing the financial complexities of divorce in your 50s or 60s? The retirement planning decisions you make now could save you tens of thousands in taxes down the road.

Jacki Roessler welcomes financial planning expert Nick Defenthaler to unpack the crucial yet often overlooked retirement account strategies that can transform your financial future after divorce. Nick breaks down the fundamental differences between traditional and Roth IRAs with crystal clarity, revealing why understanding these distinctions matters tremendously when dividing assets in a divorce settlement.

Nick shares practical wisdom about creating an optimal "retirement paycheck" by drawing from different account types in a strategic sequence. You'll discover why the financial decisions you make during this transition period can have tax implications lasting decades, and why partnering with advisors who understand both divorce and tax planning is essential for long-term financial security.

RESOURCES

• To learn more about Nick, click the link below:   https://www.centerfinplan.com/nick-defenthaler
•  Check out the articles Nick has written for ‘The Street: Retirement Daily”  by clicking the following link  https://www.thestreet.com/retirement-daily/author/nick-defenthaler-cfp-ricp
• To schedule a complimentary introductory consultation with Jacki, click the link below:https://calendly.com/roessler-jacki/30min?month=2024-03

Whether you're contemplating divorce, currently navigating the process, or adapting to life after a gray divorce, this episode provides the financial literacy you need to make informed decisions about your retirement accounts and create a more secure future. Subscribe to Divorce Rich for more insights on achieving financial clarity during this challenging life transition.

Visit us at https://www.roesslerdivorce.com/ to learn more about Jacki's practice and to find valuable resources for your case.

The Divorce Rich podcast is proudly sponsored by Center for Financial Planning: Striving to Improve Lives through Financial Planning Done Right! https://www.centerfinplan.com/

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When market volatility collides with divorce proceedings, the resulting anxiety can feel overwhelming. But what if this turbulence actually presents unexpected opportunities? Jacki Roessler and wealth advisor Melissa Fradenburg cut through the political noise surrounding recent tariffs to deliver actionable financial wisdom for those navigating divorce during uncertain economic times.

This eye-opening conversation tackles the psychological barriers that prevent smart financial decision-making. While most of us hunt for sales when shopping for clothes or furniture, we panic when investments go "on sale" during market dips. 

During divorce, when emotions already run high, this reminder to distinguish between realistic concerns and anxiety-driven fears could be the difference between financial recovery and costly mistakes. Whether you're newly managing investments post-divorce or worried about assets still being divided, this episode offers the clarity needed to make sound decisions despite market turbulence.

RESOURCES:

• To reach out to Melissa Fradenburg, click the link below www.antonelliadvisors.com/melissafradenburg
• Click Here to read Hartford Funds' Article, "Beyond Investment Illusions"  https://www.hartfordfunds.com/dam/en/docs/pub/prospectingmaterials/Brochures/P3320.pdf
• To learn more about Jacki's work as a divorce financial planner and to see if she's a good fit for your case,  schedule an initial complimentary consultation by clicking the link below https://calendly.com/roessler-jacki/30min?month=2024-03

Visit us at https://www.roesslerdivorce.com/ to learn more about Jacki's practice and to find valuable resources for your case.

The Divorce Rich podcast is proudly sponsored by Center for Financial Planning: Striving to Improve Lives through Financial Planning Done Right! https://www.centerfinplan.com/

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The marital home represents far more than bricks and mortar during divorce—it embodies memories, stability, and often the largest financial asset couples must address. This insightful roundtable discussion brings together key experts who should be involved in these critical decisions: family law attorney Max Emmer, mortgage specialist Leeanne McKeon (a Certified Divorce Lending Professional), real estate expert Jodi Douglas, and host Jacki Roessler (a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst).

Most eye-opening are the experts' warnings about poorly crafted divorce decree language,  unrealistic refinancing deadlines, improper quitclaim deed timing, and failure to verify accurate home values which can create catastrophic financial consequences that last years beyond the divorce itself. Through real case examples and practical guidance, they demonstrate why assembling the right professional team early prevents costly mistakes.

• Contact Certified Divorce Lending Professional, LeeAnn McKeon https://movement.com/lo/leeann-mckeon
• Contact Family Law Attorney, Max Emmer  https://www.emmerlawplc.com/contact-us/
• Contact Realtor, Jodi Douglas, MS, CDRE™, RCS-D™   https://jodidouglas.howardhanna.com/
• Schedule a complimentary consult with Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, Jacki Roessler by clicking the link below: https://calendly.com/roessler-jacki/30min?month=2024-03
• Download Jacki's budget worksheet by clicking the link below https://www.roesslerdivorce.com/resources/

To Register to Attend a Live Workshop on this topic with Jacki, Max, Leeann and Jodi on May 14, 2025 at the Bloomfield Township Library, email Jacki @[email protected].

Have you listened to our previous episodes? Subscribe now to ensure you never miss the financial guidance and expert insights that can transform your divorce experience.

Visit us at https://www.roesslerdivorce.com/ to learn more about Jacki's practice and to find valuable resources for your case.

The Divorce Rich podcast is proudly sponsored by Center for Financial Planning: Striving to Improve Lives through Financial Planning Done Right! https://www.centerfinplan.com/

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Tax season brings anxiety for many, but for those navigating divorce, it also presents unique opportunities to protect your financial future. Despite the complexity, understanding a few key tax concepts can literally put thousands of dollars back in your pocket during this challenging life transition.

Tax literacy remains shockingly low among Americans—only 2% demonstrate proficient knowledge according to recent studies. Yet as this episode reveals, even basic tax understanding becomes a powerful tool during divorce negotiations. For example, the difference between filing as "single" versus "head of household" isn't just paperwork; it represents a $7,300 higher standard deduction and access to valuable credits that could significantly reduce your tax burden.

• To learn more on this topic,  click the link below to watch Jacki's webinar on Tax Literacy for Divorce which was recently posted for Phoenix Financial Advocates. 
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ez2sTDEihS0
• To schedule an introductory consult (at no charge) with Jacki, click the link below. 
  • https://calendly.com/roessler-jacki/30min?month=2025-03

Visit us at https://www.roesslerdivorce.com/ to learn more about Jacki's practice and to find valuable resources for your case.

The Divorce Rich podcast is proudly sponsored by Center for Financial Planning: Striving to Improve Lives through Financial Planning Done Right! https://www.centerfinplan.com/

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Discover how Barb Greenberg transformed the heartbreak of a 33-year marriage ending into a powerful movement of hope and empowerment for women navigating the aftermath of divorce. This episode features Barb's extraordinary journey from personal turmoil to founding "Rediscovering U," an inspiring company that offers educational resources and a community of connection. Listeners will hear about the transformative impact of workshops and monthly gatherings that Barb hosts, where women share their experiences, gain confidence, and find solace in the collective strength of others who understand their path.

We'll also highlight the courageous stories of the women who attend these events, each one demonstrating resilience and bravery as they strive to improve their lives against the odds. These inspiring narratives underscore the profound impact of support and camaraderie in healing and personal growth. Through these shared experiences, we celebrate the incredible strength found in community, and we invite you to join us in recognizing the power of shared stories and collective healing. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to the resilience of women everywhere who are facing the complexities of divorce and choosing to rise above.

SPECIAL OFFER! FIRST 5 people that leave a review on Apple podcasts (please screenshot and email to Jacki at [email protected]) will receive a free copy of Barb's book, "Seasons of Divorce" as a thank you!

Click below to purchase Barb's book, Seasons of Divorce 

https://www.amazon.com/Seasons-Divorce-Insights-Women-Transition-ebook/dp/B08NNP5KV9/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2KIR2E3ZZ2ZYR&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.YQ5RziS75KkLDCncw05bPw.KdLGViZFzrTUwFCzmrn6UGZHTLbAn79rmdovbrJBlIc&dib_tag=se&keywords=seasons+of+divorce+barb+greenberg&qid=1740082909&sprefix=seasons+of+divorce+barb+greenberg%2Caps%2C107&sr=8-1

Visit us at https://www.roesslerdivorce.com/ to learn more about Jacki's practice and to find valuable resources for your case.

The Divorce Rich podcast is proudly sponsored by Center for Financial Planning: Striving to Improve Lives through Financial Planning Done Right! https://www.centerfinplan.com/

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Have you ever wondered how to navigate the maze of post-divorce financial tasks without losing your sanity? This episode promises to equip you with essential tools and strategies, transforming a challenging process into a manageable one. From mastering the art of organization with a downloadable worksheet to celebrating your progress with well-deserved rewards, Jacki ensures you're not just surviving but thriving after divorce.

This episode is packed with quick, practical advice designed to guide you through the first crucial year after a divorce. Learn the importance of updating your beneficiary designations, creating a new budget, and scheduling vital tasks to ease future burdens. Jackie also explores the benefits of holistic financial planning, offering insights into engaging a CPA and financial advisor for tailored guidance. Whether you're at the start of your post-divorce journey or several months in, this episode is your roadmap to financial clarity and independence.

• CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO DOWNLOAD JACKI'S POST-DIVORCE GAME PLAN FILLABLE FORM!  https://www.roesslerdivorce.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/post-divorce-gameplan-fillable.pdf
• CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO "BOSSING THE QDRO PROCESS" https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bossing-the-qdro-process-divorce-rich-snacks/id1735150222?i=1000687117197
• CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO "UNDERSTANDING YOUR BUDGET AND DIVORCE" https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/understanding-your-budget-and-divorce-with-jacki/id1735150222?i=1000648601917

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A FREE CONSULT WITH JACK TO DISCUSS FLAT-FEE POST-DIVORCE TRANSITION COACHING https://calendly.com/roessler-jacki/post-divorce-transition-coaching-consult?month=2025-02

Visit us at https://www.roesslerdivorce.com/ to learn more about Jacki's practice and to find valuable resources for your case.

The Divorce Rich podcast is proudly sponsored by Center for Financial Planning: Striving to Improve Lives through Financial Planning Done Right! https://www.centerfinplan.com/

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Discover the transformative power of organization during life's most challenging transitions with our special guest, professional organizer, Lani Moore. Having made a remarkable shift from the world of supply chain to become a professional organizer, Lani opens up about her personal journey through divorce. She shares how structured organization can provide both a therapeutic outlet and a sense of control amidst chaos. From managing the overwhelming piles of paperwork to gracefully dividing personal property, Lani offers invaluable insights for anyone navigating the turbulent waters of divorce.

RESOURCES:

• Book a consultation with Lani by clicking the link below https://www.theorganizedlifeco.com/contact
• Book an initial consult with Jacki to learn about getting your post-divorce account transfers (QDROs, IRA Transfers, Brokerage Accounts, etc...)  on track.  https://calendly.com/roessler-jacki/post-divorce-transition-coaching-consult?month=2025-02

Visit us at https://www.roesslerdivorce.com/ to learn more about Jacki's practice and to find valuable resources for your case.

The Divorce Rich podcast is proudly sponsored by Center for Financial Planning: Striving to Improve Lives through Financial Planning Done Right! https://www.centerfinplan.com/