Doing Divorce Right By Chief PeaceKeeper™ Scott Levin

Divorcing a narcissist is never straightforward—it’s a unique and often overwhelming journey that demands a different set of tools. In this powerful episode, divorce mediator Scott Levin interviews renowned divorce coach Vani Kovitch, who specializes in guiding clients through the storm of high-conflict divorces involving narcissistic partners.

Vani reveals real-world strategies to disarm manipulation, maintain your emotional stability, and sidestep costly mistakes that can drag out the process. Together, Scott and Vani break down the different types of narcissists, why strategy matters more than ever, and what you should—and shouldn’t—do when confronting a spouse who thrives on chaos and control.

You’ll discover how to:

• Recognize the signs and tactics of narcissistic behavior
• Tailor your divorce approach based on the narcissist’s personality style
• Avoid common pitfalls that empower your ex
• Communicate more effectively and set boundaries that stick
• Protect your finances, legal interests, and peace of mind
• Navigate co-parenting with a narcissistic ex-spouse
• Document and prepare for court, mediation, or negotiation

Whether you’re in the midst of a high-conflict divorce, supporting a friend, or simply seeking greater understanding, this episode is full of actionable advice, expert insight, and hope for a brighter future beyond the chaos.

Tune in for a candid, compassionate conversation that will leave you feeling informed, empowered, and ready to reclaim your life.

Connect with Vani Kovitch 
www.vanidivorcecoach.com/
[email protected]

Connect with Scott Levin
www.cafamilylawmediator.com
858-255-1321

Thanks for listening and I hope you'll continue to learn more about how you can peacefully divorce.

As a divorce mediation attorney in California, Scott Levin  helps couples figure out the settlement terms and draft  enforceable settlement agreements so they can divorce fairly without needing to go to court.  Obtain closure peacefully through an amicable divorce. process that protects families and kids.
 
Visit San Diego Divorce Mediation for more information and to learn more about our mission to help divorcing couples make informed decisions and fair agreements through mediation or book a free virtual consultation.  

Scott Levin, attorney, mediator, CDFA®
Chief PeaceKeeper
[email protected]
858-255-1321
San Diego Divorce Mediation & Family Law
www.SanDiegoFamilyLawyer.net

In this episode, I sit down with Sol Kennedy — founder of the BestInterest App, a powerful tool designed to transform co-parenting communication.

Sol built BestInterest out of necessity. Like many parents navigating divorce, he experienced firsthand how quickly communication can break down when emotions run high. Instead of accepting conflict as inevitable, he created a solution: an app that filters out negativity and delivers messages focused on facts, clarity, and what actually matters — the children.

We explore Sol’s personal journey through divorce, the moment he realized something had to change, and how technology can help parents communicate more effectively without escalating conflict. We also dive into practical strategies for co-parenting, reducing emotional triggers, and creating a healthier dynamic for your kids.

If you’re navigating divorce or co-parenting challenges, this conversation offers both insight and a tangible path forward. For more information, visit www.bestinterest.app.

Thanks for listening and I hope you'll continue to learn more about how you can peacefully divorce.

As a divorce mediation attorney in California, Scott Levin  helps couples figure out the settlement terms and draft  enforceable settlement agreements so they can divorce fairly without needing to go to court.  Obtain closure peacefully through an amicable divorce. process that protects families and kids.
 
Visit San Diego Divorce Mediation for more information and to learn more about our mission to help divorcing couples make informed decisions and fair agreements through mediation or book a free virtual consultation.  

Scott Levin, attorney, mediator, CDFA®
Chief PeaceKeeper
[email protected]
858-255-1321
San Diego Divorce Mediation & Family Law
www.SanDiegoFamilyLawyer.net

In this episode, Scott Levin sits down with Amanda Mason, founder of Solagree, to explore a smarter, more modern approach to divorce—one that replaces conflict with clarity, efficiency, and collaboration. 

Amanda shares how her Solagree process is reshaping the way couples navigate divorce by combining elements of mediation, arbitration, and transparent flat-fee pricing into a streamlined system designed to keep families out of court. Together, Scott and Amanda dive into what makes this model so effective, why traditional litigation often fails families, and how professionals can guide clients toward more peaceful and predictable outcomes. 

As Scott often explains to his clients: imagine you’re planning a trip to Hawaii. The goal isn’t to spend all your time dealing with airport security, long lines, and a cramped flight—it’s to get to the beach and enjoy the destination. Divorce can be the same way. The focus shouldn’t be on the turbulence of the process, but on reaching a peaceful resolution and a better next chapter.

If you’re interested in resolving divorce in a way that minimizes stress, reduces cost, and prioritizes long-term success, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. 

And for more information about California divorce mediation attorney Scott Levin,  schedule a free consultation to learn more how he helps our neighbors and friends. 

Thanks for listening and I hope you'll continue to learn more about how you can peacefully divorce.

As a divorce mediation attorney in California, Scott Levin  helps couples figure out the settlement terms and draft  enforceable settlement agreements so they can divorce fairly without needing to go to court.  Obtain closure peacefully through an amicable divorce. process that protects families and kids.
 
Visit San Diego Divorce Mediation for more information and to learn more about our mission to help divorcing couples make informed decisions and fair agreements through mediation or book a free virtual consultation.  

Scott Levin, attorney, mediator, CDFA®
Chief PeaceKeeper
[email protected]
858-255-1321
San Diego Divorce Mediation & Family Law
www.SanDiegoFamilyLawyer.net

 Divorce & Money: The Costly Mistakes Most People Don’t See Coming:

In this episode, Scott Levin, Chief PeaceKeeper™ and California divorce mediator, meets with wealth advisor Jennifer Lee to analyze the financial decisions in divorce that can discreetly cost individuals tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.

They examine the underlying consequences of common decisions, such as retaining the family home, and explain how choices that initially appear beneficial may result in significant financial drawbacks when taxes, fees, and long-term effects are considered.

Jennifer describes her approach to assisting individuals, particularly those lacking financial expertise, in gaining clarity regarding their finances, comprehending the implications of their settlements, and making decisions with confidence rather than apprehension.

Together, they emphasize the significance of assembling an effective divorce team, avoiding decisions driven by emotion, and considering long-term financial security beyond immediate outcomes.

If you are experiencing a divorce or advising someone in this situation, this discussion provides guidance to help you avoid common pitfalls and make more informed decisions throughout the process.

To learn more about Jennifer Lee and her work helping individuals gain financial clarity during divorce, visit: https://modern-wealth.com/

 📍 Learn more about California divorce mediation:
https://www.cafamilylawmediator.com/

📩 Contact:
[email protected]

Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions. Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Modern-Wealth, LLC and Cambridge are not affiliated.

Thanks for listening and I hope you'll continue to learn more about how you can peacefully divorce.

As a divorce mediation attorney in California, Scott Levin  helps couples figure out the settlement terms and draft  enforceable settlement agreements so they can divorce fairly without needing to go to court.  Obtain closure peacefully through an amicable divorce. process that protects families and kids.
 
Visit San Diego Divorce Mediation for more information and to learn more about our mission to help divorcing couples make informed decisions and fair agreements through mediation or book a free virtual consultation.  

Scott Levin, attorney, mediator, CDFA®
Chief PeaceKeeper
[email protected]
858-255-1321
San Diego Divorce Mediation & Family Law
www.SanDiegoFamilyLawyer.net

In this episode, Scott Levin sits down with Tatiana Sunik to explore one of the most overlooked dynamics in divorce: short-term panic — and how it can derail long-term decision-making.

Divorce often triggers fear around finances, housing, security, and the unknown. As a California friendly divorce specialist, Scott speaks about the daily dilmena he sees clients struggle with regarding this very topic.  Tatiana and Scott discuss how that immediate emotional surge can lead to reactive choices during property division — and how to slow the process down enough to make decisions that truly protect your future.

They examine:

• Why short-term financial fear is so common in divorce
• How anxiety influences negotiation and settlement decisions
• The difference between “security today” and “stability tomorrow”
• Strategies to regulate emotion while evaluating asset division
• How mediation supports long-term thinking

Through real-world examples and practical insights, this conversation reframes property division not as a battle to survive the present — but as an opportunity to build a thoughtful financial foundation for the next chapter.

If you are navigating divorce or advising someone who is, this episode offers perspective on how to move from panic-driven decision-making to intentional, future-focused resolution.

Thanks for listening and I hope you'll continue to learn more about how you can peacefully divorce.

As a divorce mediation attorney in California, Scott Levin  helps couples figure out the settlement terms and draft  enforceable settlement agreements so they can divorce fairly without needing to go to court.  Obtain closure peacefully through an amicable divorce. process that protects families and kids.
 
Visit San Diego Divorce Mediation for more information and to learn more about our mission to help divorcing couples make informed decisions and fair agreements through mediation or book a free virtual consultation.  

Scott Levin, attorney, mediator, CDFA®
Chief PeaceKeeper
[email protected]
858-255-1321
San Diego Divorce Mediation & Family Law
www.SanDiegoFamilyLawyer.net

In this episode, Scott Levin sits down with Jamie Lima for a thoughtful conversation about the real practice of divorce mediation: what it looks like in action, how it differs from traditional litigation, and why process design matters when families are restructuring.

Scott shares insights from his work as a California divorce mediator, including real-world stories (with identifying details removed) about helping couples resolve complex financial issues, navigate emotional impasses, and reach durable agreements outside court. The discussion highlights how mediation creates space for clarity, dignity, and forward-looking solutions, even in high-conflict or high-asset cases.

Jamie and Scott also explore the evolving role of technology in mediation. From financial analysis software and support calculators to secure communication platforms and quality legal applications, they discuss how the right tools improve transparency, reduce misunderstandings, and help parties make better decisions. They explain why “good enough” tech is not enough and how investing in quality applications leads to more accurate outcomes, greater efficiency, and increased client confidence.

This episode is for anyone curious about:

• How divorce mediation actually works in California
• The difference between positional negotiation and structured problem-solving
• How financial software and modern tools support better settlements
• Why preparation, neutrality, and process discipline matter
• Real stories of cases resolved with creativity and care

Whether you are a family law professional, a divorce financial advisor, or someone navigating divorce, this conversation offers practical insight into resolving cases thoughtfully and why the right process can make all the difference.

Contact Jamie Lima for more insights about his practice and startup. 

Thanks for listening and I hope you'll continue to learn more about how you can peacefully divorce.

As a divorce mediation attorney in California, Scott Levin  helps couples figure out the settlement terms and draft  enforceable settlement agreements so they can divorce fairly without needing to go to court.  Obtain closure peacefully through an amicable divorce. process that protects families and kids.
 
Visit San Diego Divorce Mediation for more information and to learn more about our mission to help divorcing couples make informed decisions and fair agreements through mediation or book a free virtual consultation.  

Scott Levin, attorney, mediator, CDFA®
Chief PeaceKeeper
[email protected]
858-255-1321
San Diego Divorce Mediation & Family Law
www.SanDiegoFamilyLawyer.net

The financial decisions you make during a divorce can have long-lasting effects. In this episode, we talk with Ryan Finley CPA and Divorce CDFA, and valuation expert who works across the country. He explains practical steps to help you turn a confusing balance sheet into a plan you can follow. Ryan covers how to list your assets and debts, explains tax rules in simple terms, and shows how understanding the numbers can help you feel more confident about your choices.

We talk through real-life choices, like deciding whether to buy a home with cash or take out a mortgage while keeping a Roth IRA invested. Ryan explains how to think about current interest rates and plan for the future, and why a $100,000 IRA is not the same as $100,000 in cash after taxes and penalties. He shows how to look at different scenarios for cash flow, risk, and long-term growth, so you can find stability without giving up future opportunities. We also discuss prenuptial agreements, support waivers, and the risks of mixing separate property, such as how adding a spouse to a deed can change ownership and outcomes for good.

A lot of mistakes happen in the details of dividing assets. We explain QDROs and the expensive error of transferring too much into retirement accounts if one person plans to cash out. We also cover why it’s important to split investments by tax lots to avoid unfair capital gains. The answer is to use clear settlement language that tells custodians to divide each lot fairly. Ryan reminds us that divorce is a math problem with real-life consequences, and he offers a steady, practical approach to solving it.

If you are going through a divorce or helping someone who is, this episode will help you understand all the key issues: taxes, timing, housing, investments, and the emotions that affect decisions. Subscribe, share this episode with anyone who needs guidance, and leave a review with your hardest money question. We might answer it in a future episode.

Why You Should Listen
Divorce is not just an emotional or legal process — it’s a major life transition with financial consequences that last for decades. Ryan and Scott bring complementary expertise to help listeners understand their options, protect what matters most, and plan strategically for life after divorce.

📩 Guest Contact & Booking Info

Ryan Finley — Freedom Financial Services Group
📞 941-745-2846
📧 [email protected]

🌐 https://www.freedomfsg.com/

Learn more about California divorce mediation and family law with Scott Levin:
https://www.sandiegofamilylawyer.net/

 📞 858-255-1321
 📧 [email protected]

Thanks for listening and I hope you'll continue to learn more about how you can peacefully divorce.

As a divorce mediation attorney in California, Scott Levin  helps couples figure out the settlement terms and draft  enforceable settlement agreements so they can divorce fairly without needing to go to court.  Obtain closure peacefully through an amicable divorce. process that protects families and kids.
 
Visit San Diego Divorce Mediation for more information and to learn more about our mission to help divorcing couples make informed decisions and fair agreements through mediation or book a free virtual consultation.  

Scott Levin, attorney, mediator, CDFA®
Chief PeaceKeeper
[email protected]
858-255-1321
San Diego Divorce Mediation & Family Law
www.SanDiegoFamilyLawyer.net

This is a recording of an Online Webinar presentation in which Scott Levin and Daniel Yasharel provided insight to other attorneys, financial experts, and families navigating marriage, separation, divorce, property, or inheritance decisions.  

Presenters:

• Scott Levin CDFA Esq -  California Prenup Attorney Expert — Divorce Mediator (not practicing law) - Certified Divorce Financial Analyst
• Daniel F. Yasharel, MSFS, CFP®, CDFA® — Wealth Advisor & Certified Divorce Financial Analyst

You’ll Learn:

• How California’s community property laws impact family real estate and inheritance
• The difference between Prenups and Postnups — and when each is appropriate
• Common real estate issues in divorce and how to resolve them fairly
• Strategies to safeguard family wealth and minimize future disputes
• Real-world case studies and actionable next steps

Who Should Attend:

• Couples who are engaged or newly married and want financial clarity
• Married individuals seeking to protect inherited or family assets
• Homeowners and real estate investors in community property marriages
• Individuals contemplating separation or divorce who want to understand their financial options before making major decisions

We dig into how California’s community property rules collide with real estate, inheritance, and retirement, and why prenups and postnups create clarity that courts rarely do. We show how mediation and a CDFA protect families from avoidable tax traps, buyout mistakes, and commingling.

• defining community vs separate property in California
• how commingling wipes out separate property claims
• real estate pitfalls with title, refinancing and buyouts
• inheritance protections and tracing burdens
• retirement accounts, QDROs and IRA transfers
• mediation steps that cut time, cost and conflict
• using a CDFA for tax-aware, long-term planning
• structuring fair, enforceable prenups and postnups

We will follow up with an email. As far as the survey. And also, if you have any questions, you’re more than welcome and free to contact us.

For further information and details, you can read our articles on related topics or contact California postnuptial lawyers who care: 

San Diego Divorce Mediation & Family Law
9820 Willow Creek Road, Ste 410
San Diego, CA 92131
858-255-1321

Thanks for listening and I hope you'll continue to learn more about how you can peacefully divorce.

As a divorce mediation attorney in California, Scott Levin  helps couples figure out the settlement terms and draft  enforceable settlement agreements so they can divorce fairly without needing to go to court.  Obtain closure peacefully through an amicable divorce. process that protects families and kids.
 
Visit San Diego Divorce Mediation for more information and to learn more about our mission to help divorcing couples make informed decisions and fair agreements through mediation or book a free virtual consultation.  

Scott Levin, attorney, mediator, CDFA®
Chief PeaceKeeper
[email protected]
858-255-1321
San Diego Divorce Mediation & Family Law
www.SanDiegoFamilyLawyer.net

Jon Bassford joins Mediator and Chief PeaceKeeper™ Scott Levin to share The Co-Parenting Secret—his powerful story of transforming conflict into cooperation after divorce. Together, we explore how curiosity, empathy, and a child-first mindset can turn even the hardest separations into opportunities for peace and growth.

Drawing from his personal journey co-parenting with his former spouse, Jon shares how curiosity and compassion helped him build a peaceful, child-centered relationship grounded in mutual understanding rather than control. Together, Jon and Scott explore the principles of peacekeeping mediation, emotional intelligence, and the daily choices that help families heal and thrive after separation.

🕊️ A must-listen for anyone navigating co-parenting, family conflict, or the path to harmony after divorce.

CONNECT WITH JON
🌐 Get the Book

For other parenting and mediation resources, visit our online co-parenting library for book suggestions, podcasts, great videos, and just a collection of the best, unique, educational sources found anywhere on the web. 

Thanks for listening and I hope you'll continue to learn more about how you can peacefully divorce.

As a divorce mediation attorney in California, Scott Levin  helps couples figure out the settlement terms and draft  enforceable settlement agreements so they can divorce fairly without needing to go to court.  Obtain closure peacefully through an amicable divorce. process that protects families and kids.
 
Visit San Diego Divorce Mediation for more information and to learn more about our mission to help divorcing couples make informed decisions and fair agreements through mediation or book a free virtual consultation.  

Scott Levin, attorney, mediator, CDFA®
Chief PeaceKeeper
[email protected]
858-255-1321
San Diego Divorce Mediation & Family Law
www.SanDiegoFamilyLawyer.net

Panic screams for quick wins like “just keep the house,” but long-term stability depends on what the numbers say five and ten years from now. We sit down with Certified Financial Planner and CDFA Tatiana Sunik to turn fear into strategy—using clear projections to test settlements against time, taxes, liquidity, and real-life constraints. Together, we break down the most costly divorce mistakes and show you how to make one wise decision now that protects the next decade.

We start by reframing the house obsession. A primary residence can drain cash while investment assets quietly fund freedom. When you compare carrying costs, tax friction, and opportunity cost, that “dream home” can sabotage retirement. Tatiana shares practical ways to keep more money in the family—timing property sales before separation when it helps, avoiding unnecessary refinances at punishing rates, and structuring agreements that stabilize kids without sacrificing your future.

Then we stress-test lump-sum alimony: Why is it offered? What’s a fair discount rate? How do taxes hit? When does a buyout actually improve co-parenting by removing monthly money friction?

Career and custody realities matter too. High-earning executives often overestimate income durability past their mid-50s—tenure risk and industry churn make straight-line assumptions dangerous. We model volatile bonuses, negotiate support around actual caregiving hours, and avoid trading all liquidity for illiquid assets that force a fire sale later.

The theme is simple: let the math speak, then let emotions cool. Mediation and collaboration work best when both sides agree on shared facts and use creativity to preserve cash flow, reduce fees, and align with the life you want after the decree.

If you’re standing at the start of divorce and feel the urge to rush, pause. Gather the numbers. Run the scenarios. Choose with a clear head. Subscribe for more practical guidance, share this with someone who needs a calmer plan, and leave a review with the toughest tradeoff you’re facing—we’ll tackle it in a future episode.

Thanks for listening and I hope you'll continue to learn more about how you can peacefully divorce.

As a divorce mediation attorney in California, Scott Levin  helps couples figure out the settlement terms and draft  enforceable settlement agreements so they can divorce fairly without needing to go to court.  Obtain closure peacefully through an amicable divorce. process that protects families and kids.
 
Visit San Diego Divorce Mediation for more information and to learn more about our mission to help divorcing couples make informed decisions and fair agreements through mediation or book a free virtual consultation.  

Scott Levin, attorney, mediator, CDFA®
Chief PeaceKeeper
[email protected]
858-255-1321
San Diego Divorce Mediation & Family Law
www.SanDiegoFamilyLawyer.net