Welcome to the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast! I’m David, and today’s episode dives deep into the overlooked struggles—and surprising strengths—of men over 40 navigating divorce, fatherhood, and even incarceration. 🎙️

We’re joined by Khaled Ashraf, a trailblazing school principal who leads a unique school inside a state correctional facility. Khaled’s journey began as a Philly police officer, but what he discovered in classrooms—and later, behind prison walls—shattered stereotypes about fathers, especially those facing the “double whammy” of divorce and incarceration.

Are you a dad over 40 feeling shut out of your child’s life after divorce? Do shame, outdated stereotypes, or legal barriers make it seem impossible to reconnect? This episode is for you.

Khaled reveals how schools and society often silence and sideline fathers—especially those who are incarcerated—by defaulting to mothers as the main point of contact. He exposes the “hidden curriculum” that keeps dads out, even when they desperately want to be involved. 🏫

But here’s the truth: Disconnection isn’t about dads not caring—it’s about lack of access, voice, and invitation. Khaled shares eye-opening stories of fathers who, despite unimaginable odds, stay engaged with their kids’ homework, milestones, and growth—even from behind bars. 📚✉️

We tackle common misconceptions:

• "Incarcerated dads don’t care." (False! Many fight daily to connect.)

• "Fathers are only called when discipline is needed."

• "You’re too late to rebuild your relationship."

You’ll learn:

• The first steps to re-enter your child’s educational life (hint: start with a simple email or text!)

• How shame and trauma hold men back—and how to break free

• Why schools need to update their approach to father engagement

• The importance of never giving up, even if you can only connect from a distance

• Resources and practical strategies for men over 40 to rebuild connections—no matter your circumstances

Khaled’s message is powerful: Every day is a new chance to reach out. Even a simple “thinking of you” can change everything. Your involvement matters—don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

If you’ve ever felt alienated from your kids, stuck in shame, or unsure how to reconnect after divorce, this episode will inspire you to take action. You are not alone—and it’s never too late.

👇 Drop a comment below:

Have you faced barriers as a father after divorce or incarceration? What’s helped you reconnect with your kids? Let’s support each other—your story matters!

Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE if this episode resonates with you or someone you know. 💬👊

#DivorcedDads #FatherhoodOver40 #Don’tPickTheScab #DivorceRecovery #MenOver40 #RebuildFatherhood #ParentalAlienation #KhaledAshraf #Resilience #MenSupportingMen

Khaled's LinkedIn

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Welcome to another episode of the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast with David! 🎙️ If you’re a man over 40 facing a high-conflict divorce, navigating a custody battle, or dealing with a narcissistic ex, this episode is your life raft. 🛟

Today, I’m joined by Chris and Lisa, founders of Been There, Got Out—internationally recognized strategists and survivors of their own chaotic divorces. They’ve seen it all: weaponized children, draining legal abuse, and exes who just won’t quit. If you’re dealing with a divorce that feels like psychological warfare, this is the conversation you can’t afford to miss.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• 🚩 Early Warning Signs: How to spot if your divorce is about to get ugly—before it’s too late.

• 💡 Biggest Mistakes Men Make: From trusting your ex too long, to underestimating legal games, to not documenting every detail.

• 📝 Documentation & Communication: Why “pause” is your new superpower and how to use strategic communication to stay out of your ex’s traps (and out of trouble in court).

• 👨‍👧‍👦 Co-Parenting Wisdom: How to support your kids and build a parenting plan that stands up—even against a high-conflict ex.

• ⚖️ Courtroom Survival: Debunking myths about family court, understanding judge bias, and presenting yourself like a pro.

• 🛠️ Gut-Punch Recovery: How to bounce back from setbacks and develop the marathon mindset needed to win the long game.

Chris and Lisa break down the real-world tactics they share with clients, from picking the right lawyer (it’s not just about “winning”) to setting boundaries and enforcing your rights. With their blend of hard-won wisdom, empathy, and humor, they’ll help you reclaim control, protect your kids, and move from survival to thriving.

BEEN THERE, GOT OUT WEBSITE

Why Watch?

If you’re sick of feeling powerless, confused, or isolated in your divorce recovery, this episode delivers practical tips without sugar-coating the realities men face. Chris offers the male perspective most divorce resources ignore, and Lisa’s teaching background brings clarity to even the most complicated legal messes.

Let’s Talk!

Have you experienced a high-conflict divorce or custody battle? What’s your biggest challenge right now? Drop a comment below with your story or question—let’s build a community where men support men through the toughest chapters. 👇

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell so you never miss a new episode on thriving after divorce!

#DivorceRecovery #MenOver40 #HighConflictDivorce #CustodyBattle #NarcissisticEx #DontPickTheScab #BeenThereGotOut

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Are you a man over 40 struggling to bounce back after divorce? You’re not alone—and you’re not broken. In this episode of the "Don't Pick the Scab" Podcast, host David sits down with acclaimed divorce recovery expert and bestselling author Raul T. Pereyra for a powerful, honest conversation about turning heartbreak into growth. 💥

Raul brings more than 15 years of experience helping men over 40 rise from the emotional chaos of divorce and reclaim their confidence, identity, and life purpose. Whether it’s dealing with loneliness, rebuilding self-trust, or figuring out how to date again (without using your ex’s Netflix password!), Raul has practical strategies and real-world wisdom to help you thrive.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why reframing your divorce story is the FIRST step to recovery (hint: it didn’t happen to you, it happened for you)

• The 80/20 principle for men’s healing: focusing on the 20% that truly matters and letting go of the baggage 🧳

• How to identify and break free from toxic patterns and old belief systems

• Setting boundaries that actually work—and empower you

• The emotional reset: why real change starts with feeling, not just thinking

• Key differences in emotional recovery for men vs. women (and why men often get stuck)

• How to rediscover self-love, self-respect, and self-compassion—“the three cousins” most men ignore

• Measuring your progress the right way: why chasing confidence or happiness is a trap, and what to do instead

• Turning your “bag” of pain into a jetpack for your next chapter! 🚀

PLUS: Raul shares a FREE 5-day “Tiny Challenge” for men ready to start their transformation. Want a roadmap to your new life? Head to https://www.rtplearning.com/tiny and join Raul’s exclusive challenge—no strings attached.

Whether you’re newly divorced or still struggling years later, this episode is packed with hope, humor, and actionable advice. Grab your coffee, get comfortable, and let’s dive into real recovery for real men.

👉 What’s your biggest challenge after divorce? Drop it in the comments below! Have you tried reframing your story or setting new boundaries? Let’s support each other—your experience could help another man heal.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more episodes on thriving after divorce.

Raul's Main Website

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Welcome back to the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast! I’m David, and today we’re diving deep into the world of dating after divorce for men over 40. If you’re wondering how to rebuild your life, confidence, and identity after a breakup, you’re in the right place! 👊

Joining me is the amazing Dr. Hana Gala—a PhD in business management turned breakthrough neuro coach. Dr. Hana specializes in helping high-achieving men break free from limiting beliefs, conquer overthinking, and reclaim their power using Rapid Transformational Neuro Coaching (RTNC). Today, she shares brain hacks, practical tools, and mindset shifts to help you thrive in today’s wild dating world.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why most divorces are initiated by women—and what that means for your recovery

• How to stop repeating old relationship patterns and rebuild your identity as a man post-divorce

• Why men often jump into relationships too quickly, and how to avoid those traps 🚦

• The real deal about online dating in your 40s and 50s: Is it a blessing or a curse?

• How to filter out red flags, set healthy boundaries, and choose partners who are right for you (and your kids!)

• The importance of letting yourself grieve and reestablish your sense of self before dating again

• Why self-respect, self-confidence, and self-esteem (the “self-cousins”) are your best allies in finding love again

• How to handle realistic vs. unrealistic expectations in dating—and finally break the cycle of chasing the wrong type

• When and how to introduce your kids to a new partner (and why rushing this step can backfire)

• Pro tips for first dates: What not to talk about, how to spark real connection, and when to walk away 🚶‍♂️

Dr. Hana brings her no-nonsense, neuroscience-based approach to help you move from confusion and frustration to clarity and action. If you’re tired of feeling stuck, or if you keep attracting the same old drama, this conversation will help you hit reset and start attracting the kind of relationship you truly want.

Whether you’re just starting to think about dating again or you’ve already jumped back in and hit some bumps, this episode will give you the tools and confidence you need. Remember: your best days are still ahead! 🌅

💬 Let’s talk! What’s been the toughest part about dating after divorce for you? What questions do you want answered in Part 2? Drop your thoughts, stories, or questions in the comments below—I read every one and would love to hear from you! 👇

Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE this podcast with a friend who needs it. More practical tips for men over 40 coming soon!

Hana On the Internet!

RTNC Hana Gala

Supercharge your Divorce Recovery this Holiday Season!

-https://bit.ly/4iQNpfs\

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Welcome back to the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast! 🎙️ In this powerful episode, I’m joined by David E. Feldman—a prolific author, musician, painter, and living testament to the power of transformation. Whether you’re a man over 40 navigating the painful aftermath of divorce or anyone seeking inspiration to rise above life’s darkest moments, you’re in the right place.

Who is David E. Feldman?

David’s life reads like one of his own mystery novels. He’s the author of 15 books, including the Dora Ellison and Hammer and Sharp series, but his greatest masterpiece is his journey from the brink. After 31 years of sobriety, surviving addiction, cancer, depression, spinal surgeries, and so much more, David has emerged stronger and more creative than ever.

Why Should Men Over 40 Listen?

Let’s face it—midlife divorce can feel like a knockout punch. The world tells us to ‘man up,’ but what do you do when you’re left with pain, regret, and a broken sense of purpose? David shares not just his survival, but how he turned trauma into triumph. His story proves it’s never too late to rewrite your narrative.

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

• How to Turn Pain Into Power: David’s turning point came when he realized his pain could be transformed into purpose. Discover practical steps to start your own healing journey.

• The Role of Creativity in Recovery: Whether it’s writing, music, or painting, David explains how channeling pain into creative outlets can be life-changing.

• Finding Your ‘Why’ After Divorce: Learn why reconnecting with your passions—what you loved as a kid—can be the key to moving forward.

• The Value of Community: From 12-step recovery groups to simply reaching out, David highlights why support and helping others are essential for men rebuilding after divorce.

• Coping with Depression and Isolation: David opens up about his battles with depression, offering hope and real strategies for those who feel alone in their struggle.

Are You Ready to Rewrite Your Story?

No matter how dark things seem, you have the power to rebuild and thrive. David’s resilience is proof that your greatest struggles can become your greatest strengths. Whether you’re facing addiction, depression, or the heartbreak of divorce, you’re not alone—and your best days can still be ahead.

👇 Join the Conversation! 👇

What part of David’s journey resonated most with you? Have you found a creative or community outlet that helped you heal after divorce? Drop your thoughts, questions, or your own recovery story in the comments below! Let’s build a community of men supporting men—because healing is better together. 💬

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell 🔔 for more real talk and inspiration for men over 40.

#DivorceRecovery #MenOver40 #DontPickTheScab #Podcast #DavidEFeldman #AddictionRecovery #Inspiration

Supercharge your Divorce Recovery this Holiday Season!

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Welcome to the "Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast" – the safe space where successful men recover, rebuild, and rediscover themselves after divorce. I’m your host, David, and today’s episode is a powerful deep-dive into healing with Nicole Harrington: business owner, animal lover, and outspoken mental health advocate. 🐾

Nicole’s story is proof that you can turn setbacks into the foundation of a new, stronger life. Having faced trauma, daily depression, and the crushing pressure of “starting over,” Nicole brings real-world advice and hope for men navigating the tough emotional aftermath of divorce.

In this episode, we explore:

• Nicole’s 3 Pillars of Transformation: Evidence, Narrative, and Identity—how changing your story and collecting real proof of your progress can transform your life.

• Why Curiosity Beats Criticism: Learn how staying curious about your emotions, rather than beating yourself up, leads to breakthrough growth.

• Nutrition & Micronutrients: Discover how what you eat can radically impact your mental health, energy, and resilience—especially for men rebuilding their lives.

• Breaking Bad Habits: Nicole opens up about her journey quitting unhealthy coping mechanisms and building new routines that actually stick.

• Finding (and Keeping) Support: Why the right community, support groups, and even your pets can play a huge role in your recovery. 🐱

Nicole shares small, practical steps for men who feel stuck, including:

• How to use “setbacks” as signals for self-care.

• The truth about medication, micronutrients, and why depression is NOT a sign of weakness.

• Real talk about the myths of depression and why vulnerability is a superpower, not a flaw.

Whether you’re just starting your post-divorce journey or struggling with old habits and depression, this episode will give you the tools to start rewriting your own story. Nicole’s honest, relatable advice will help you find hope, rebuild your identity, and realize that you are absolutely worthy of happiness and love.

Connect with Nicole Harrington:

Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and more: @NicoleCoachingG

Website: nicolecoachingg.com

Supercharge your Divorce Recovery this Holiday Season!

-https://bit.ly/4iQNpfs\

✨ If you found this episode helpful, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE with a friend who needs some hope. What part of Nicole’s story resonated with you the most? Drop your thoughts and questions in the comments below—I want to hear from you! 👇

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Are you a successful man struggling to recover after divorce? You’re not alone—and today’s episode of the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast with your host David brings hope, wisdom, and real strategies for moving forward. 🎙️

In this powerful interview, we sit down with Wesley Farnsworth, author of “The Blueprint of Becoming.” Wesley shares his deeply personal journey from living with hidden struggles—addiction, codependency, and the pain of divorce—to building a new, authentic life filled with purpose and freedom.

Growing up as a pastor’s kid, Wesley felt intense pressure to fit a mold, leading him to lose touch with his true self. When his marriage hit a breaking point, he was forced to confront his pain head-on. Through faith, counseling, and the support of a recovery community, he discovered how to break free from shame and find healing—and he’s here to share those lessons with you.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why isolation is the enemy of recovery (and practical steps to break free from it) 🚶‍♂️🤝

• How community, faith, and counseling can transform your divorce recovery

• The importance of setting goals and creating a vision for your life after divorce 🎯

• How to overcome feelings of inadequacy, guilt, and shame

• Real-life strategies for building resilience and reclaiming your confidence after loss

• The difference between forgiveness and forgetting—and why forgiveness is crucial for your own peace ✨

• How to adjust your “constellation” or “circle of influence” to support your new life

Key Quotes:

“What’s happened has happened, but it doesn’t define who you are. It’s just a part of your story.”

“Isolation breeds depression. Community brings healing.”

Wesley’s honest reflections and actionable advice offer a roadmap for men who want to recover, rebuild, and thrive—no matter how tough the road has been.

Ready to take the next step?

Check out Wesley’s free guide and resources for group recovery at wesleyfarnsworth.com/start.

Supercharge your Divorce Recovery this Holiday Season!

-https://bit.ly/4iQNpfs\

🔔 Subscribe for more real conversations about life after divorce, resilience, and men’s mental health.

👍 Like this episode if you found it helpful—your support helps us reach more men who need hope!

👇 What’s been your biggest challenge after divorce? Drop a comment below—we want to hear your story, and you might help someone else!

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Are you a man over 40 facing divorce and worried about your kids, your finances, and your future? You’re in the right place. Welcome to the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast—the show for men ready to heal, rebuild, and thrive after divorce.

In this episode, your host David sits down with trailblazing family mediator and “Kids First” advocate, Tina Keyes. With more than a decade of experience, Tina has helped hundreds of families avoid courtroom battles and find real solutions—putting children’s wellbeing at the heart of divorce recovery.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How traditional divorce sets parents up as enemies—and what to do instead

• Why starting with your kids’ needs (not finances) leads to better outcomes

• The secret mindset shift to move from adversaries to teammates as co-parents

• Why your relationship with your kids is more important than controlling your ex

• Common mistakes divorced dads make (and how to avoid them!)

• How to communicate when your ex isn’t cooperative or high-conflict

• Why is healing yourself the key to making good decisions for your family

• Real talk about co-parenting schedules, quality time, and what’s actually best for your kids

• Why mediation is the future of divorce—and how it’s changing lives

Tina shares powerful insights—like her “orange” analogy for compromise and how neutral, positive interactions can transform even the toughest relationships. You’ll also hear real stories about dads who stopped obsessing over their ex and started focusing on building lasting bonds with their children.

Whether you’re just starting your divorce journey, stuck in conflict, or trying to be the best dad you can be, this episode is packed with practical advice and hope.

👉 Ready to take the next step? Share your biggest challenge as a divorced dad in the comments below. What’s worked for you? What still feels impossible? Let’s build a community of men supporting men to put their kids first and reclaim their lives after divorce.

Tina's Websites:

www.floridadivorcemediation.com

www.kidsfirstmediation.com

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with a friend who needs it!

#DivorceRecovery #MenOver40 #CoParenting #DivorcedDads #Mediation #DontPickTheScabPodcast

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Are you a man over 40 feeling lost after an unexpected divorce? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to stay stuck. In this eye-opening episode of the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast, host David sits down with certified divorce coach Lori Heller, whose personal story of heartbreak, confusion, and ultimate empowerment will inspire anyone struggling to move forward after the end of a long marriage.

Laurie was blindsided by divorce after 25 years as a stay-at-home mom. Facing a future she never planned for, she learned not only how to survive—but to thrive. Today, she guides both men and women through the toughest transitions of their lives, helping them avoid costly mistakes, rebuild confidence, and discover a new sense of purpose.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• The biggest emotional differences (and surprising similarities!) between men and women during divorce 😱

• Why men often bottle up anger—and how to process it in a healthy way

• The crucial role of self-care for dads and why it’s not selfish to put on your own “oxygen mask” first

• How to build your tribe and find support when friends and family don’t get it

• The most common mistakes men make (from trying to control what happens at the ex’s house to rushing into new relationships)

• Practical strategies for co-parenting—even if things are contentious

• How to move from just surviving to actually thriving in your new life 🚀

Laurie shares actionable tips for managing finances, rebuilding your sense of self, and letting go of the drama so you can focus on building a better future—for you and your kids.

Whether you’re newly separated or still struggling years after divorce, this conversation is packed with hope, wisdom, and real-world advice you can use right now.

About the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast:

Hosted by David, this show is dedicated to helping men over 40 recover from divorce, reclaim their confidence, and create a life worth living again. Subscribe for weekly conversations with experts, real stories from men who’ve been through it, and practical tools to help you heal.

👇 What’s been your biggest challenge after divorce? Drop your story or question in the comments! Let’s build a supportive community together. If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs it.

Lori's Website

#DivorceRecovery #MenOver40 #CoParenting #DivorceCoach #DontPickTheScab

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Are you a man over 40 struggling to rebuild after divorce? Have you ever felt stuck in “Nice Guy” patterns—always seeking approval, but feeling unseen and unfulfilled? You’re not alone. Dive into this episode of the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast with me, David, and special guest McKenzie—a men’s coach who’s changed the lives of thousands of men worldwide.

🔓 In This Episode:

• McKenzie’s raw journey: From a chaotic childhood to hitting rock bottom, and how joining a men’s group in Chicago transformed his life and purpose.

• What is Nice Guy Syndrome? Learn why so many men fall into people-pleasing patterns, especially after separation or divorce, and how toxic shame keeps you stuck.

• Why it gets worse after divorce: Discover the hidden traps men face when re-entering the dating world or trying to co-parent, and why external validation doesn’t lead to healing.

• The Power of Men’s Groups: Hear why support communities are critical for real recovery, and how having just one emotional outlet (your ex or partner) can set you up for more pain.

• Communication & Curiosity: Practical tools to break out of old beliefs (“I’m bad at feelings,” “I can’t communicate”) and build genuine connection—with yourself and others.

• The Three Ps: How Power, Purpose, and Possibility can replace shame and self-doubt, leading to real transformation, not just symptom management.

• Rebuilding Friendships: Why most men lose touch with friends after marriage, and actionable steps to cultivate meaningful relationships, even if you feel isolated.

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Self-care and emotional availability are essential, not selfish.

• Healing isn’t about avoiding your “bad habits”—it’s about replacing them with something more valuable.

• Community is vital: diversify your support network beyond just your partner.

• Real masculinity isn’t toxic—outdated patterns are. It’s time to embrace the traits that push you (and humanity) forward.

McKenzie also shares how his background in marketing helped him create simple, transformative systems for men to heal and thrive—no matter their past.

👇 Ready to take the next step? Whether you’re newly divorced or years out, this conversation will help you see that real recovery is possible. If you want proven tools and authentic support, check outt www.groupsformen.com for a free week of coaching and connection.

⭐ Let’s make this a conversation:

Have you struggled with Nice Guy Syndrome or finding support after divorce? What’s been your biggest challenge? Drop a comment below—your story could help another man know he’s not alone.

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