Finding hope in hard times, faith during divorce, and surrendering to God—this episode will help you navigate life’s most difficult seasons with strength and peace. If you're searching for hope in hard times, especially during divorce, health struggles, or emotional overwhelm, this episode is for you.

In this heartfelt solo episode, Lesa shares her personal journey through breast cancer, surrender, and faith—and how those hard seasons shaped her into a stronger, more grounded woman. Rooted in Romans 5:2–5, this conversation explores how suffering produces perseverance, character, and ultimately… hope.

If you're in the middle of something hard right now, this episode will remind you: this season is not breaking you—it’s shaping you. And there is hope waiting on the other side.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction to getting through hard times with faith

(02:10) Why this episode was inspired by real-life struggles

(04:25) Reading and reflecting on Romans 5:2–5

(07:15) Understanding suffering, perseverance, character, and hope

(10:30) Personal story: navigating breast cancer and surrender

(15:45) The moment of letting go of control

(19:20) Why you can’t rush healing in hard seasons

(22:10) Learning to sit in suffering and trust the process

(25:00) Practical tool: “I’m safe, God’s got me” mantra

(28:40) Processing emotions after the crisis moment

(31:15) How hard times transform who you become

(34:00) Why this season is shaping—not breaking—you

Key Takeaways:

• Hard times are part of a process that leads to growth, strength, and hope
• Surrendering control to God creates peace during uncertainty
• You don’t have to “fix” everything—sometimes you just need to stay present
• Simple practices like grounding and prayer can calm you in overwhelming moments
• The hardest seasons often lead to the most meaningful transformation

Guest Bio:

This is a solo episode with Lesa Koski, divorce mediator, life coach, and host of Doing Divorce Different. Lesa helps women over 40 navigate divorce and life transitions with clarity, faith, and strength—guiding them to create a better life on the other side.

Resource Links:

• https://www.lesakoski.com/

Tags/Keywords:

hope in hard times, faith during divorce, surrender to God, Christian encouragement, divorce support for women over 40, emotional healing, overcoming adversity, midlife transformation, trusting God in hard seasons, mindset and faith, personal growth through struggle

Divorce anxiety, stress management, and nervous system regulation—this episode gives you real tools to feel calm and grounded during life’s hardest moments. If you’re navigating divorce anxiety or overwhelming stress, this conversation will help you regulate your nervous system, reduce anxiety, and find peace again.

In this powerful episode, I sit down with stress expert Lane Kennedy to talk about what actually works when you're in the middle of emotional overwhelm—whether it’s divorce, health scares, or life transitions. We break down how to calm your nervous system, why your body may feel stressed even when your mind doesn’t, and simple tools you can use immediately.

If you’ve ever felt anxious “for no reason,” struggled to slow down, or wondered how to truly feel better during hard seasons—this episode is for you.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction to stress, anxiety, and life transitions

(03:45) Lane Kennedy’s journey into stress and nervous system work

(07:12) Why you feel stressed even when life seems “fine”

(12:30) The hidden impact of screens, overworking, and lack of recovery

(18:05) How your nervous system actually works (and why it matters)

(22:40) The importance of rest, recovery, and honoring your limits

(27:15) What to do in the moment of extreme anxiety (divorce, crisis, fear)

(31:20) Simple breathwork + mantra practice (“I am safe”)

(36:10) How to handle anxiety in the middle of the night

(41:45) Why you shouldn’t process emotions during peak anxiety

(45:30) Using movement (trampoline, walking, dancing) to release stress

(50:05) How to safely process emotions and past triggers

(55:20) Understanding your thoughts vs. reality

(59:10) The “What do I need?” method for emotional clarity

(01:03:40) Why healing takes time—and how to be patient with yourself

Key Takeaways:

• Your body can be stressed even when your mind feels calm—your nervous system doesn’t lie
• Recovery (not just exercise) is critical for reducing anxiety and long-term stress
• Simple tools like breathwork and mantras can regulate your nervous system in real time
• Movement (like walking, dancing, or even a trampoline) helps release stored emotional stress
• Healing isn’t instant—true transformation happens over time with awareness and compassion

Guest Bio:

Lane Kennedy is a stress management expert, functional nutritionist, mindfulness teacher, hypnotherapist, and DNA wellness practitioner. With over 15 years of experience, she helps high-achieving individuals regulate their nervous systems, reduce anxiety, and build sustainable wellness habits that support long-term health and emotional resilience.

Resource Links:

Lane Kennedy Website: https://lanekennedy.com/Home

Tags/Keywords:

divorce anxiety, stress management for women over 40, nervous system regulation, anxiety relief, breathwork for anxiety, mindfulness for stress, divorce support, emotional healing, midlife transformation, calming anxiety naturally, HRV stress, women’s wellness, life after divorce, mental health tools

Flat fee divorce mediation Minnesota, divorce cost Minnesota, and how to divorce without court—this episode breaks down everything you need to know about divorce mediation in Minnesota. Learn how flat fee divorce mediation Minnesota works, what it includes, and how to avoid costly attorney battles.

In this Saddle Up segment of Doing Divorce Different, Lesa Koski walks you step-by-step through her flat fee divorce mediation process in Minnesota. If you're worried about the cost of divorce, overwhelmed by the process, or looking for a more peaceful path forward, this episode gives you clarity and direction.

Lesa explains exactly what’s included in her full-service mediation—from parenting plans and financial agreements to filing guidance—so you can move forward with confidence. She also shares why mediation is often a more respectful, affordable, and effective alternative to traditional litigation.

If you want to avoid court, reduce conflict, and protect your future (and your kids), this episode is your roadmap to doing divorce differently.

(00:00) Introduction to flat fee divorce mediation in Minnesota

(02:10) Why divorce costs matter and how to reduce them

(04:30) What $5,800 flat fee mediation includes

(07:15) Legal information vs. legal advice explained

(10:05) Why AI alone isn’t enough for divorce

(13:20) The importance of guided communication during divorce

(16:00) What documents are included in your divorce paperwork

(19:10) Parenting plans and why they matter

(22:30) Mediation vs. hiring attorneys: key differences

(26:00) When attorneys are necessary

(29:15) The emotional and financial benefits of mediation

(32:40) How mediation helps you start your next chapter well

(35:10) DIY divorce course vs. full mediation

(38:20) Parenting Plan Blueprint explained

(41:00) Final thoughts: creating a better life after divorce

• Flat fee mediation gives you clarity, predictability, and cost control
• Divorce doesn’t have to be a battle—mediation creates a more peaceful path
• Communication during divorce directly impacts your future relationship (especially with kids)
• AI tools can help, but human guidance is critical for agreements and communication
• How you end your marriage sets the tone for your next chapter

Lesa Koski is a divorce mediator, attorney, and life coach based in Minnesota. With over 25 years of legal experience, she helps couples navigate divorce in a more peaceful, cost-effective way through mediation and coaching. Lesa is the host of Doing Divorce Different, where she empowers women over 40 to approach divorce with clarity, dignity, and strength.

https://www.lesakoski.com/

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Divorce advice, stay or go decisions, and co-parenting tools—this episode dives deep into how to navigate divorce with clarity and protect your kids. If you’re questioning your marriage, this conversation on divorce, relationships, and emotional healing will help you find your next step.

In this powerful episode of Doing Divorce Different, I sit down with master life coach, relationship expert, and 7-time bestselling author Sharon Pope to unpack one of the hardest questions women face: Should I stay or should I go?

We talk honestly about divorce, relationships, and the emotional toll of feeling stuck—and more importantly, what to do about it. Sharon shares practical tools for making the stay-or-go decision, how to stop trying to change your partner, and why doing your own inner work is the most powerful step you can take.

We also dive into one of the biggest concerns for women over 40 navigating divorce—your kids. You’ll learn how to support your children through divorce in a healthy way and why divorce doesn’t have to damage them—it can actually help them thrive.

If you’re navigating divorce, questioning your marriage, or trying to protect your kids through it all, this episode is a must-listen.

(00:00) Introduction to Sharon Pope and her story

(04:30) Why Sharon chose to help women navigate divorce

(08:15) Can divorce be peaceful? Rethinking the narrative

(12:20) The truth about loving someone and still leaving

(16:05) How divorce impacts children and generational patterns

(20:40) How to know if it’s time to stay or go

(26:10) Why “trying” in marriage often doesn’t work

(31:45) The power of working on yourself first

(37:20) Why you can’t change your partner (and what to do instead)

(42:10) The biggest mistake women make in relationships

(47:30) How to help your kids thrive through divorce

(52:00) A simple tool to reduce your child’s fear

(56:40) Teaching kids boundaries through divorce

(01:01:10) Doing what’s best for your kids—even when it’s hard

(01:06:00) Borrowed courage and finding support

(01:10:15) Final takeaway: You can do hard things

• You can love someone and still choose to leave the relationship
• The most powerful way to improve your marriage is to work on yourself
• Children don’t need perfect parents—they need emotionally aware ones
• Divorce done well can positively impact future generations
• You don’t need certainty—you need tools, support, and courage

Sharon Pope is a master life coach, relationship expert, and 7-time bestselling author who helps women navigate the difficult decision of whether to stay in or leave their marriage. With over a decade of experience, Sharon provides practical tools and emotional support to help women make empowered decisions, strengthen relationships, and create healthier futures for themselves and their families.

• Sharon Pope Website: https://sharonpope.com
• Sharon’s Book: https://sharonpopebook.com
• Lesa Koski Parenting Plan Course: (add your link)
• Doing Divorce Different Podcast: (add your link)

divorce advice, should I get divorced, stay or go marriage, divorce and kids, co-parenting tips, marriage help for women, relationship advice, divorce coaching, midlife divorce, emotional healing, marriage problems, parenting through divorce, healthy divorce, women over 40 divorce

Cost of divorce in Minnesota explained. Learn mediation vs attorney costs, real divorce expenses in Minnesota, and how to avoid high conflict and fees.

If you’re wondering about the cost of divorce in Minnesota, this episode breaks it down clearly and honestly. From attorney retainers to hourly billing, and how mediation compares, you’ll learn what divorce really costs—and why the process you choose matters.

In this Saddle Up Segment of Doing Divorce Different, Lesa Koski explains the cost of divorce in Minnesota, including attorney-led divorce vs mediation, real numbers, and what you’re truly paying for. If you want to reduce conflict, save money, and stay in control, this episode will help you understand your options and make a confident decision.

(00:00) Introduction to cost of divorce in Minnesota

(01:10) Why divorce costs feel overwhelming

(02:15) Attorney retainers and hourly rates explained

(04:00) Real cost of attorney-led divorce in Minnesota

(06:10) Hidden cost: paying for conflict and escalation

(07:45) How divorce mediation works differently

(09:10) Mediation costs vs attorney costs

(10:30) Flat-fee mediation and what it includes

(12:00) What you’re really choosing: cost, control, and conflict

(13:40) When attorneys are necessary

(15:00) Why mediation is often the better fit

(16:30) How to get started with a consultation

• Attorney-led divorce in Minnesota can cost $10,000–$25,000+ per person
• Mediation is often more cost-effective and reduces conflict
• Flat-fee mediation provides cost clarity with no hourly surprises
• The process you choose impacts time, stress, and long-term outcomes
• Many couples can resolve divorce respectfully without going to court

Lesa Koski is a Minnesota-based divorce mediator, attorney, and life coach who helps couples navigate divorce with clarity, dignity, and less conflict. With decades of legal experience and a passion for helping families, Lesa specializes in flat-fee mediation that guides clients step-by-step through the entire divorce process.

• https://www.lesakoski.com/

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Grief after divorce and loss is real. Learn how to rebuild your life with spiritual resilience, process grief, and move forward after major life transitions.

In this powerful conversation, Lesa Koski sits down with spiritual resilience coach Carrie Hopkins to explore grief beyond death—including divorce, life transitions, and identity shifts. If you’re navigating grief after divorce or loss, this episode will help you understand how to process emotions, create a safe space for healing, and begin rebuilding your life.

Together, they unpack the early stages of grief, why avoiding emotions can make things harder, and how spiritual resilience allows you to move forward—not move on—with strength and clarity.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction to grief beyond death

(02:15) Carrie’s story: loss, divorce, and becoming a grief coach

(05:40) Understanding grief in life transitions

(08:30) Grief after divorce vs grief after death

(11:10) Why we avoid emotions and what happens when we do

(14:25) Step 1: Creating a safe space to feel your emotions

(18:10) Naming emotions and why it matters

(21:05) Step 2: Radical self-care during grief

(24:30) Why neglecting yourself makes grief harder

(27:15) Step 3: Making peace with the past

(31:20) Letting go of judgment and limiting beliefs

(35:10) The danger of idealizing relationships after loss

(39:00) Moving forward vs “moving on”

(42:00) How to begin rebuilding your life

Key Takeaways:

Grief is not just about death—it includes divorce, identity shifts, and life transitions

Avoiding emotions can intensify grief and lead to emotional or physical consequences

Creating a safe space to feel and express emotions is the first step toward healing

Radical self-care is essential to build capacity during difficult seasons

Healing comes from making peace with the past—not staying stuck in it

Guest Bio:

Carrie Hopkins is a spiritual resilience coach and founder of Life’s Next Chapter Coaching. She specializes in helping individuals rebuild their lives after loss, including divorce, bereavement, and major life transitions. Through her Rebuilding Your Life After Loss program, Carrie guides clients to reconnect with their inner strength and create a life they love after grief.

Resource Links:

Carrie Hopkins Coaching: Life’s Next Chapter Coaching

Rebuilding Your Life After Loss Program

Contact: [email protected]

Lesa Koski Mediation & Coaching: Lesakoski.com

Tags/Keywords:

grief after divorce, grief after loss, spiritual resilience, divorce healing, life after divorce, rebuilding after loss, emotional healing, grief coaching, midlife transitions, women over 40, divorce recovery, loss and healing

Minnesota divorce mediation explained step-by-step. Learn how divorce mediation works in Minnesota, avoid court, reduce conflict, and save money with a guided process.

If you’re in Minnesota and wondering how divorce mediation works, this episode walks you through the entire process—from consultation to finalization. Divorce mediation in Minnesota offers a calmer, more structured alternative to litigation, helping couples avoid court and move forward with less conflict.

In this episode, Lesa Koski explains how divorce mediation works in Minnesota, what to expect in each step, and why so many couples choose mediation over traditional divorce. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure what to do next, this will give you clarity and a path forward.

(00:00) Introduction to divorce mediation in Minnesota

(02:10) What divorce mediation actually is

(04:30) Why mediation feels scary (and why it works anyway)

(06:15) Step-by-step process of mediation in Minnesota

(09:40) Parenting plans and financial agreements explained

(13:20) How paperwork and filing works in Minnesota

(15:10) Why couples choose mediation over court

(18:00) Benefits for children and long-term relationships

(20:10) How to get started with mediation

• Divorce mediation in Minnesota allows couples to avoid court and stay in control of decisions
• A structured, guided process reduces conflict and overwhelm
• Parenting plans and financial agreements are created collaboratively
• Mediation is often more cost-effective than attorney-led divorce
• The way you handle divorce impacts your long-term relationship and your children

Lesa Koski is a Minnesota-based divorce mediator, attorney, and life coach who helps couples move through divorce with clarity, dignity, and less conflict. With decades of experience and a heart for guiding families through difficult transitions, Lesa combines legal knowledge with emotional support to create a calmer path forward.

• Schedule a Consultation
• Parenting Plan Blueprint

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Divorce and finances can feel overwhelming, confusing, and scary—but they don’t have to. In this episode, we break down divorce and finances, how to overcome fear, and how to build financial confidence after divorce. If you’re navigating divorce and finances, this conversation will help you feel more empowered, informed, and in control of your future.

In this episode, Lesa sits down with financial advisor and Certified Transition Specialist Kathleen Judge to talk about one of the biggest fears women face during divorce—finances. Together, they explore how your relationship with money is shaped, why so many women feel disconnected from financial decisions, and how to rebuild confidence step by step.

You’ll learn the three phases of financial transition, how to avoid costly mistakes, and how to align your finances with what truly matters most in your life. Whether you’re going through a divorce, preparing for one, or simply want to feel more confident with your money, this episode is for you.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction to divorce and financial fear

(03:45) Kathleen’s personal story and career transition

(08:20) Why women feel disconnected from finances

(12:10) Financial triage: what to do first in divorce

(18:30) The messy middle: emotions and decision-making

(24:15) Common financial mistakes to avoid

(28:40) Understanding assets, debt, and beneficiaries

(34:10) Aligning money with your values

(40:05) Creating a vision for your financial future

(45:20) Final thoughts and how to get support

Key Takeaways:

1. Financial fear during divorce is normal—and can be overcome with clarity and support
2. Avoid major financial decisions in the first 3–6 months (financial triage phase)
3. Understanding your assets, debts, and cash flow creates immediate empowerment
4. Your financial decisions should align with your personal values and life goals
5. Working with a financial advisor can prevent costly mistakes and provide peace of mind

Guest Bio:

Kathleen Judge is a financial advisor with Edward Jones and a Certified Transition Specialist. She specializes in helping individuals navigate major life transitions such as divorce, widowhood, and retirement. Kathleen is passionate about empowering women to understand their finances, build confidence, and create a secure financial future.

Resource Links:

1. Kathleen Judge (Edward Jones):
2. Doing Divorce Different Podcast
3. Lesa Koski Coaching & Mediation Services

Tags/Keywords:

divorce and finances, divorce financial planning, women and money, financial empowerment for women, divorce recovery, financial advisor divorce, budgeting after divorce, divorce coaching, midlife divorce, financial confidence, money mindset, women over 40 finances, divorce mediation, financial independence, life after divorce

Anxiety after divorce, trauma healing, and nervous system regulation—learn how to heal anxiety naturally and feel better in midlife. In this episode, Lesa Koski talks with nervous system coach Mitch Webb about anxiety, trauma healing, and how your nervous system impacts your health, stress, and emotional recovery. If you're navigating divorce or high stress, this conversation will help you understand anxiety and begin healing your nervous system in a practical, grounded way.

(00:00) Introduction to anxiety, divorce, and healing

(03:45) Mitch Webb’s story: trauma, illness, and recovery

(10:20) What anxiety really is (and why you can’t “fix” it)

(18:30) Lesa’s cancer journey and wake-up call

(26:15) Nervous system dysregulation explained

(35:40) Why high achievers struggle with anxiety

(44:10) Functional freeze and hidden stress

(52:00) How to stop fixing and start healing

(1:00:25) Co-parenting, triggers, and boundaries

(1:10:40) Building emotional capacity and healing patterns

(1:18:00) Final thoughts + how to work with Mitch

• Anxiety is not a problem—it’s your body communicating

• Nervous system dysregulation is often the root of chronic stress

• Healing comes from awareness and new experiences, not just information

• You can feel anxious and still be safe

• Boundaries and self-awareness are key to emotional healing

Mitch Webb is a nervous system and holistic health coach who helps individuals heal anxiety, trauma, and chronic stress by reconnecting with their body. After overcoming multiple health challenges—including traumatic brain injuries, Lyme disease, and long COVID—Mitch now guides others in regulating their nervous system and creating lasting emotional and physical healing.

Free Nervous System Quiz

https://mitch-webb.involve.me/nervous-system-state-quiz

FREE 30 min Session w Mitch

https://calendly.com/k-mitch-webb/15-minute-meeting

Website and Social Media links:

https://www.instagram.com/kmitchwebb

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kmitchwebb

https://mitchwebb.com

DIY Parenting Plan Course

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anxiety healing, nervous system regulation, trauma healing, divorce recovery, emotional healing, stress management, midlife women, co-parenting stress, functional medicine, anxiety help, nervous system coach, healing after divorce

Trauma healing, nervous system regulation, and hope after abuse are possible — even after unimaginable pain. In this powerful Part 2 conversation, Lesa Koski talks with Dr. Dawn Marie about trauma healing, childhood abuse, vagus nerve regulation, polyvagal theory, and practical tools that can support healing after trauma, divorce, and emotional overwhelm.

If you’ve ever wondered whether trauma healing is truly possible after years of pain, this episode offers both hope and practical next steps. Dr. Dawn Marie shares her personal story of surviving profound childhood abuse, explains how trauma affects the body and nervous system, and offers simple ways listeners can begin supporting trauma healing in their own daily lives.

This episode is especially meaningful for women navigating divorce, childhood trauma, emotional stress, or any season that has left them feeling stuck in survival mode. Trauma healing is possible, and this conversation is a reminder that even after the hardest experiences, hope remains.

(00:00) Introduction to Part 2 and why trauma matters in divorce healing

(02:10) Dr. Dawn Marie begins sharing her childhood trauma story

(06:45) Abuse, early memories, and how trauma lives in the body

(12:20) Revisiting places from the past and uncovering memory

(18:15) Shame, perpetrators, and beginning the healing journey

(26:30) Why trauma is trauma and why it is time to break the cycle

(30:40) A spiritual discussion on women, Eve, and responsibility

(41:20) What healing really looks like after severe trauma

(44:10) Why bad days do not mean you are broken

(46:05) Polyvagal theory and understanding the vagus nerve

(48:30) Grounding techniques and simple tools for nervous system regulation

(51:15) African drumming, weighted hula hoop, and rhythmic healing practices

(55:00) Final encouragement and hope for women healing from trauma

1. Trauma healing is possible, even after severe childhood abuse and long-term pain
2. Healing is not linear, and setbacks do not mean you are broken
3. Trauma affects both the body and the nervous system, not just thoughts and emotions
4. Grounding exercises and vagus nerve regulation can support healing in daily life
5. Hope grows when people begin to believe their story is not over

Dr. Dawn Marie is a board-certified psychiatrist with decades of medical experience and a deep focus on trauma healing, nervous system regulation, and emotional recovery. Through both her professional work and her own healing journey, she helps people understand that healing is possible, even after profound trauma.

Part 1 with Dr. Dawn Marie: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/1cfa0fc7-1d7d-4d31-a9b0-b47aac4a11dc/

Website and Social Media links: https://www.drrisleychilds.com/

to awaken your vagus nerve: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3VuPpgmSPwk7cErnqrNhCH?si=a3824002e9774659

To calm your vagus nerve: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3YC0zMSeGQRqg4XmscoyCG?si=d1b93c15519f4ecc

African Drums: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5z2d4y9MXXjQQiYC8c46Fk?si=10b08e8109634214

Amazon weighted hula hoop: https://a.co/d/06DXlzwC

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