In this deeply informative episode, I sit down with Michael Podhajsky, a canon lawyer who brings compassion and clarity to one of the most misunderstood processes in the Catholic Church—annulments. As someone who's been married for nearly 28 years and has walked alongside friends and family through divorce, I realized how little I actually understood about this process, which is why I sought out Michael on LinkedIn.

What struck me most about Michael isn't just his expertise in canon law—it's how deeply he cares about the people navigating one of life's most painful chapters. He approaches each case not just as a legal matter, but as an opportunity for healing, reflection, and ultimately, freedom.

I'll walk you through:

✅ What an annulment actually is (and what it isn't)—clearing up common misconceptions about the process

✅ Why annulments focus on the sacramental bond, not invalidating your entire relationship or lived experience

✅ The step-by-step process of seeking an annulment and what to realistically expect in terms of time and cost

✅ How children are never considered "illegitimate" regardless of the annulment outcome

✅ When you might need a canon lawyer versus working directly with your parish tribunal

✅ Why the annulment process, though difficult, can actually be profoundly healing and provide closure

✅ How truth-seeking through reflection helps people understand what went wrong and move forward differently

Whether you're Catholic and wondering if you need an annulment, supporting someone through this process, or simply curious about how faith intersects with the painful reality of broken marriages, Michael offers grounded wisdom and pastoral care. His reminder that canon law exists to serve people—not punish them—is a message of hope for anyone feeling stuck between their past and their future.

🔔 Remember: The annulment process isn't something to fear or avoid. With the right support, it can bring the closure and freedom you need to begin again.

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Michael's relevant links:

Website: https://podhajskylaw.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-podhajsky-a04aa647/