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

In this short but powerful episode, I share a real-life moment I overheard while standing in line at a youth sporting event. A woman was confiding in her friend about her impending divorce, venting frustration after frustration about her husband. What struck me most wasn’t just her pain, but her friend’s response—she didn’t offer comfort or perspective, she simply fueled the fire by adding more negativity. To me, that’s not friendship.

I believe true friends, neighbors, and loved ones should do better. If we really care about the people in our lives, we should encourage them to explore mediation before ever stepping foot in a courtroom. Divorce is already life-altering, and court battles only make it worse. In just four minutes, I share why guiding someone toward mediation is one of the most supportive, loving things we can do.

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

Divorcing with a Business in California? Here's How Valuation and Income Affect Support

When you're dividing a business in divorce, one key rule matters: you can’t count the same money twice.

In this episode, California divorce mediator and attorney Scott Levin is joined by forensic accountant and valuation expert Sara Nanchanatt, owner of S.N. Forensics, LLC, to unpack the complex relationship between business income, valuation, and support obligations in California divorce cases.

We explore how courts treat business income, retained earnings, and owner distributions when calculating child and spousal support—and how to avoid double-dipping when dividing business value and determining income.

Whether you're a business owner, the spouse of one, or a professional navigating financial divorces, this conversation will help you understand how to protect your interests and simplify the process.

In this episode, we cover:

• What counts as income from a business for support
• How distributions, retained earnings, and salary are treated
• When “double-dipping” becomes an issue
• How a fair replacement salary is determined
• Why agreeing on business value early can streamline everything

Learn more about Sara Nanchanatt and her firm at: www.snforensics.com

Need help with a business-owner divorce in California?
Schedule a free consultation with Certified Divorce Financial Analyst and Mediator Scott Levin at:
www.sandiegofamilylawyer.net/schedule

And learn more about dividing a business in California divorce here. 

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, California divorce mediator and attorney Scott Levin breaks down what you need to know about prenuptial agreements, community property laws, and the creative ways couples can protect their futures. Learn from California prenup attorney and CDFA about when a prenup makes sense, what mistakes to avoid, and how mediation can simplify the process.

Perfect for engaged couples, remarriages, and anyone planning wisely.

Topics Covered Include: 

• How community property laws affect your joint finances
• When a prenup makes sense (and when it might not)
• Innovative clauses and provisions to customize your agreement
• Common mistakes couples make—and how to avoid them
• Why mediation can be a smarter, gentler way to manage legal planning

If you’re interested in learning how to safeguard your assets and foster clarity from the start, this episode is for you. Scott combines legal expertise with practical, client-friendly advice—making complex topics accessible and actionable.

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, Attorney, Mediator, CDFA, and Chief PeaceKeeper™ Scott Levin sits down with Financial Advisor and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst Laurie Itkin to break down one of the most complex issues in divorce: how to divide a 401(k).

401(k)s present a unique set of challenges in divorce. These retirement assets often contain both community and separate property, grow in value over time, and require a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) to divide properly. So how do you determine what portion is marital? How is appreciation handled? What’s the smartest, most tax-efficient way to divide the funds?

👉 Whether you're going through a divorce, advising clients, or simply want to understand the financial intricacies of retirement accounts in family law, this conversation provides essential guidance and real-world clarity.

👩‍💼 About Our Guest – Laurie Itkin

Laurie Itkin is a financial advisor, wealth manager, and CDFA®, and author of the Amazon best-seller Every Woman Should Know Her Options: Invest Your Way to Financial Empowerment. Named one of Investopedia’s Top 100 Financial Advisors, Laurie specializes in divorce-related financial planning through her firm The Options Lady.

🔗 Learn more at: https://www.theoptionslady.com/

🧑‍⚖️ About Scott Levin, Chief PeaceKeeper™

Scott Levin is a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, full-time mediator, and family law attorney serving clients throughout California. Founder of San Diego Divorce Mediation & Family Law, Scott leads couples toward informed, respectful divorce solutions that protect both finances and relationships.

📍 Areas We Serve:

Kensington, La Jolla, Encinitas, Carlsbad, Rancho Santa Fe, Solana Beach, Point Loma, Poway, Del Mar, Santaluz, Coronado, Scripps Ranch, Sabre Springs, Rancho Peñasquitos, Torrey Pines, Bankers Hill — and throughout California.

🌐 https://sandiegofamilylawyer.net/

📲 Connect on Social Media:
 • Facebook: ChiefPeaceKeeper
• Instagram: @SanDiegoDivorceMediation
• LinkedIn: San Diego Divorce Mediation & Family Law

📝 Read the full transcript:
 Transcript – How to Divide a 401(k) During Divorce

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

Hey everyone, it's family mediator Scott Levin, the Chief Peacekeeper™, and I’m excited to share my recent appearance on the Divorce Doesn’t Suck podcast! In this episode, I talk about why I completely shifted my law practice away from litigation and dedicated my career to helping families navigate divorce peacefully through mediation.

I share how my personal journey, including the birth of my third child, made me realize that divorce should not be a war—and how mediation is the key to protecting families, finances, and co-parenting relationships.

🔹 In this episode, we cover:
✅ Why I left litigation behind to focus 100% on divorce mediation
✅ The biggest mistakes I see divorcing couples make—and how to avoid them
✅ How real estate, finances, and child custody are handled in mediation
✅ Why the traditional courtroom divorce model is outdated and harmful
✅ How you can divorce with dignity, clarity, and financial stability

If you’re going through a divorce, thinking about it, or just want to learn more about how mediation can save you time, money, and stress, this episode is for you.

💬 Drop a comment below—what’s your biggest question about mediation?

🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more insights on how to divorce peacefully and protect what matters most!

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

#DivorceMediation #ChiefPeacekeeper #PeacefulDivorce #ScottLevin #FamilyLaw #MediationMatters #DivorceWithDignity #DivorceDoesntSuck

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 my discussion with divorce coach Lara Brunstrom, our discussion sheds light on amicable divorce strategies and mindset needed to navigate a separation process with clear objectives. This discussion focuses on a peaceful path forward to end your marriage with no regret or remorse. 

With a compassionate approach and a wealth of expertise, Lara and I share the same guidance we provide clients to help them make informed decisions that prioritize what matters most to their futures.  From understanding the legal landscape to managing emotional challenges and safeguarding financial stability, our insights will hopefully empower listeners and motivate them to choose an affordable future focused divorce mediation approach.

Discover how to divorce coach Lara Brunstrom helps clients navigate divorce with focus on growth and transformation with her thoughtful guidance.

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

Learn about your mortgage refinancing options during divorce as we help guide you to make informed decisions while in the midst of one of life's more challenging transitions.

In my candid conversation with Sam Mehta of Blue Fire Mortgage Group, we unravel the web of refinancing options for separating couples struggling with high mortgage rates. Sam, with his wealth of expertise, breaks down the steps you need to navigate to ensure that you make sound decisions regarding your primary residence and mortgage loan to help you navigate financial settlements during divorce. 

The discussion hits on numerous options for dealing with your home including how to divide your family home in divorce and under what circumstances it may make sense to agree to continue to co-own your home after divorce.

If you're grappling with the question of how to secure your mortgage future post-divorce, this episode arms you with vital information. By highlighting the significance of a solid 12-month payment history from the party responsible for the mortgage, Sam illustrates how your actions now affect your lending capabilities later.

Tune in to equip yourself with the insights and resources to understand the financial issues of the divorce process so that you can make decisions which put you on the path of financial independence and stability, no matter what personal storms you may face.

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

Discover insights into how integrating legal, financial, and emotional strategies can help achieve the benefits and of a healthy divorce.

San Diego Divorce Mediation Attorney and CDFA Scott Levin is joined by divorce coach Jill Kaufman  for an in-depth exploration of the power of mediation over traditional litigation, which often mitigates emotional harm and financial strain, offering a more peaceful path forward. Learn the importance of selecting the right legal counsel aligned with holistic values, and avoid the pitfalls of adversarial approaches that can complicate and prolong the journey.

Delve into the art of effective mediation tactics and the benefits of assembling a team of financial, legal, and mental health professionals. We discuss the nuances of negotiation, emphasizing the importance of understanding the motivations behind demands to foster a more amicable resolution. Scott and Jill share real-life scenarios where creative solutions, such as involving divorce financial neutral services or opting for settlements, have led to better mental health and family outcomes.  

The discussion underscores the necessity of prioritizing fair settlements that consider the welfare of any children involved, setting the stage for healthier family dynamics.

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