Welcome back to Intentional Divorce Insights!

In this solo episode, Leah Hadley, Certified Divorce Financial Analyst and founder of Intentional Divorce Solutions, dives into a frequently asked question: What’s the difference between saving and investing, and where should you start after divorce? Leah breaks down these foundational financial concepts in simple terms and offers empowering insights to help you navigate your post-divorce finances with clarity, intention, and confidence.

Key Topics Covered:

- The Financial Reset After Divorce: Understand how your income, expenses, and financial goals can shift dramatically after divorce, and why it’s normal to feel a wide range of emotions about money during this time.

- Saving vs. Investing—Core Differences:

- Where to Start After Divorce:

- Goal-Setting and Time Horizons: Learn why being specific about your financial goals (like buying a home or planning a remodel) helps determine whether savings or investing (or both) is your best bet.

- Practical First Steps:

- The Importance of Regular Review: Your financial situation and goals will evolve—so should your strategy. Leah offers real-life examples of adjusting plans as life changes.

Special Invitation:

Register for the Empowered Money Series  a free three-part webinar designed to help you build financial confidence post-divorce—even if you can’t attend live, you’ll get access to the recording.

Dates: September 2, 9, and 16

Time: 1:00PM ET

Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/ 

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/ 

YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights

Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist.

For more valuable insights on navigating divorce with intention and clarity, be sure to subscribe to Intentional Divorce Insights and leave a review to help others discover empowering divorce resources.

In this insightful episode, Leah Hadley is joined by fellow CDFA, Jacki Roessler, for a deep-dive into some of the most common and costly financial mistakes made during divorce. Drawing from decades of experience, Leah and Jacki share a wealth of knowledge relating to the financial aspect of divorce.

Whether you’re beginning the divorce process, in the thick of negotiations, or advocating for someone you care about, this episode is packed with tips and stories to help you approach financial decisions with clarity and confidence.

Key Topics Covered:

- Biggest Financial Mistakes in Divorce

- Most Commonly Overlooked Assets

- Red Flags in Settlement Offers

- Worst Financial Advice Heard in Divorce

- Why Collaboration Matters

Resources from Jacki Roessler:

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/divorce-rich-with-jacki-roessler-cdfa/id1735150222

Downloadable Resources: https://www.roesslerdivorce.com/resources/

  Connect with Jacki Roessler:

Website: https://www.roesslerdivorce.com/ 

Email: [email protected] 

IG: https://www.instagram.com/jacquelineroessler/?hl=en 

FB: https://www.facebook.com/JackiRoesslerCDFA 

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackiroessler/ 

Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/ 

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/ 

YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights 

Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist. 

For more valuable insights on navigating divorce with intention and clarity, be sure to subscribe to Intentional Divorce Insights and leave a review to help others discover empowering divorce resources.

In this insightful episode, Leah Hadley welcomes Justin Milrad—divorce coach, speaker, and author of You 2.0: A Better Way Forward After Divorce. Together, they explore what it means to choose an intentional, growth-oriented path through divorce. Drawing on both personal experience and professional expertise, Justin shares practical advice, powerful reflections, and the significance of self-care when navigating this challenging transition.

Key Topics:

Justin’s Divorce Journey:

Justin recounts his own tumultuous three-year divorce, including the realization that the traditional system is often adversarial. He emphasizes how intentional choices—especially regarding co-parenting—helped him, his ex, and their children thrive post-divorce.

The Inspiration Behind You 2.0:

Justin discusses why he wrote his book—to offer the resource he wished he’d had. The book provides actionable advice and heartfelt stories to guide others in reclaiming their confidence and rebuilding life after divorce.

The Role of a Divorce Coach:

Many people aren’t familiar with divorce coaching. Justin explains how coaching can support individuals at any stage (contemplating, during, or years after divorce), focusing on mindset, strategy, team-building, communication skills, and personal growth. He describes the coach as a thought partner—helping clients process emotions, plan, and shift from survival to thriving.

Financial Insights:

Finances are a huge concern for most people facing divorce. Justin touches on addressing financial fears, assembling the right team, and understanding that attorneys often lack in-depth financial training—making a well-rounded support system vital.

Self-Care, Music, and Joy:

Justin shares how music, particularly uplifting songs like "Fix You" by Coldplay, helped him heal and push through dark times. He highlights daily practices like gratitude journaling and finding small joys, which made a transformative impact on his well-being.

Advice for Moving Forward:

Whether you are starting the divorce process or in the thick of it, Justin urges listeners to focus on what you can control, seek support, and know that life can be good again—with intentional effort.

Resources Mentioned:

Justin Milrad’s Book: You 2.0: A Better Way Forward: https://a.co/d/0Y9Tw56 

Connect with Justin Milrad:

Website: https://reclaimandreboot.me/ 

Email: [email protected] 

Phone/Text: 404-353-5175 

IG: https://www.instagram.com/reclaimandreboot.me/ 

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/105537078/admin/dashboard/ 

FB: https://www.facebook.com/ReclaimAndReboot 

Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/ 

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/ 

YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights 

Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist .

In this illuminating episode, Leah Hadley sits down with Joe Dillon, a trailblazer in divorce mediation and the co-founder of Equitable Mediation Services. Drawing from his 17+ years of experience and an impressive 98% resolution rate, Joe unpacks the fundamentals of effective mediation, why preparation is critical, and how to approach your divorce with clarity and intention.

Key Topics Discussed: 

Joe’s Approach to Mediation: Discover how Joe blends financial expertise with compassionate mediation to help couples reach fair and lasting agreements—prioritizing budgets, assets, and facts over reactive emotions.

Discovery Before Deciding: Both hosts emphasize the importance of gathering all financial and personal information before making major decisions, debunking the myth that you can “wing it” or rely on hearsay.

Mediation’s Reputation & Success Factors: Why does mediation sometimes get a bad rap? Joe and Leah discuss common misconceptions and the real reasons behind high mediation success rates—plus the pitfalls of coming to mediation unprepared.

Looking Forward, Not Back: Joe explains his philosophy of “looking through the windshield, not the rearview mirror,” helping clients focus on building new lives instead of rehashing past grievances.

Financial Mistakes in Divorce: The hosts candidly discuss the dangers of letting emotions drive financial decisions, such as using money to punish your ex or underestimating the cost of living post-divorce—especially regarding budgets and health insurance.

Child-Centered Agreements: The human impact of divorce on children, and how amicable, well-structured agreements can set the stage for healthy co-parenting relationships.

The Role of Education: Joe shares the value of becoming an educated client and points listeners to a wealth of free resources on his website, including a comprehensive online course on mediation and state-specific guides.

Free Resources Mentioned:

Free Divorce Mediation Course: Understand the basics of mediation, the “big buckets” (parenting, child support, alimony, property division), and how the process works.

State-Specific Divorce Guides: In-depth FAQs and guides for divorce in WA, CA, IL, NY, NJ, and PA.

Access the Resource Center & Courses One-on-One Consultations: Schedule a free call with Cheryl Dillon (divorce coach) to explore if mediation is right for your situation.

https://www.equitablemediation.com/

Connect with Joe:

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.equitablemediation.com/

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephfdillon/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/equitablemediation/ 

FB: https://www.facebook.com/equitablemediation 

Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/

YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights

Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist. 

Welcome to the Season 4 premiere of Intentional Divorce Insights! In this heartfelt solo episode, host Leah Hadley, Certified Divorce Financial Analyst and founder of Intentional Divorce Solutions, invites listeners into a deeply personal space as she honors the recent passing of her mother. Leah shares the powerful life lessons passed down through generations—focusing on resilience, reinvention, generosity, and the importance of intentional financial planning in times of change.

Key Takeaways:

- Reinvention is always possible—with intention, especially with your finances, you can create the freedom to pursue new dreams.

- Resourcefulness is about planning, clarity, and spending with purpose, not necessarily about having more.

- Generosity and connection are healing—not only for others but for yourself, especially during tough seasons.

- Joy matters: make room for it intentionally, even in your financial planning.

- Lifelong learning fuels ongoing growth, adaptability, and confidence.

Links & Resources:

Join the Empowered Sisterhood https://www.watchherthrive.co/empowered-sisterhood 

Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions: IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/ 

YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights 

Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist.

For more valuable insights on navigating divorce with intention and clarity, be sure to subscribe to Intentional Divorce Insights and leave a review to help others discover empowering divorce resources.

In this heartfelt season finale, Leah Hadley guides listeners through one of the most crucial transitions after divorce: moving forward and truly thriving. With compassion and practical wisdom, Leah shares how to honor the journey you’ve just traveled and how to intentionally create a fulfilling life after divorce.

Key Takeaways:

- Honor Your Process: Divorce isn’t just about legal documents – it’s an emotional journey. Whether you’re feeling lost, numb, or curious about what’s next, your experience is valid and you are not behind.

- Redefine Thriving: Thriving after divorce means living in alignment with your values, feeling safe in your finances and relationships, and confidently making decisions for your own future.

- Letting Go: Part of moving forward is releasing guilt, outdated identities, or should-have-been dreams that may be holding you back. Creating space in your life allows for new joy and freedom.

- Financial Empowerment: Know your numbers, define new financial goals, create a plan and get support if you need it.

- Rebuild Your Support Systems: Consider support from professionals, friends, or communities who help you envision what’s possible, not just what’s missing.

- Rediscover Yourself: Ask: What brings me joy? What did I stop doing in my marriage that I loved? What new things do I want to try?

Next Steps and Resources:

Take your healing one intentional step at a time.

Join the free “Watch Her Thrive” Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/watchherthrive

Subscribe to the weekly newsletter for ongoing support https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/signup

Schedule a complimentary call with Leah Hadley, CDFA HERE

Schedule a complimentary call with Liesel Darby (Mediator and Divorce Coach) HERE

Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/

YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights

Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist.

For more valuable insights on navigating divorce with intention and clarity, be sure to subscribe to Intentional Divorce Insights and leave a review to help others discover empowering divorce resources.

Welcome back to Intentional Divorce Insights! In episode 53, hosts Leah Hadley and Dr. Karalynn Royster dive deep into the emotional and practical realities of co-parenting during divorce, with a special focus on supporting children and empowering moms facing high-conflict situations.

Key Takeaways:

Resources Mentioned:

           “How to Raise Emotionally Secure Kids When You Have a Difficult Ex”

           *Replay available to registrants

Connect with Karalynn Royster:

Website: https://learnwithlittlehouse.com/home-page

Email: [email protected]

IG: https://www.instagram.com/learnwithlittlehouse/

Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/

YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights

Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist.

For more valuable insights on navigating divorce with intention and clarity, be sure to subscribe to Intentional Divorce Insights and leave a review to help others discover empowering divorce resources.

In this empowering episode, Leah Hadley welcomes back divorce coach and mediator Liesel Darby to discuss the five biggest mistakes people make during divorce—and, most importantly, how to avoid them.

Drawing on personal experiences, deep industry knowledge, and a sincere desire to empower those navigating divorce, Leah and Liesel break down common pitfalls and offer practical, actionable advice to help you make informed, intentional decisions.

Key Topics Discussed:

The 5 Biggest Mistakes People Make During Divorce:

1. Letting Emotions Drive Major Decisions

2. Expecting Your Lawyer to Handle Everything

3. Underestimating Financial Implications

4. Neglecting Emotional Recovery

5. Trying to “Win” the Divorce

Upcoming Events:

Register now for Liesel’s upcoming workshop “Divorce Coaching: The Unfair Advantage”

Includes a practical workbook!

Tuesday, May 20th 1:00PM (EST)

Register HERE!

Connect with Liesel:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 216-503-7532

Schedule a complimentary meeting with Liesel to learn about divorce coaching and support groups.

Access here calendar HERE!

Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/

YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights

Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist.

For more valuable insights on navigating divorce with intention and clarity, be sure to subscribe to Intentional Divorce Insights and leave a review to help others discover empowering divorce resources.

In this powerful episode, host Leah Hadley welcomes Dr. Mort Orman, a board-certified internal medicine physician, renowned anger elimination expert, and author of 23 books on conquering unwanted emotions.

Dr. Orman shares insights from his forty-year career on why anger is so prevalent during and after divorce, how chronic anger affects health and relationships, and why traditional anger "management" methods often don’t work. 

Key Topics Covered:

- Dr. Mort Orman’s personal journey from struggling with anger to helping others master their emotions.

- The harmful physical, emotional, and relational consequences of unmanaged anger in the context of divorce How anger can both lead to divorce and persist long after, impacting co-parenting, self-worth, and future relationships

- The brain science behind anger, including the three core filters that trigger it: negative judgment, focus on harm, and unilateral blame

- The liberating idea that you can eliminate (not just manage) anger by questioning the automatic thoughts your brain presents

Free Resource:

Download Dr. Orman’s FREE PDF, "The Best Anger Elimination Method You Can Find," for practical tools and deeper explanations on anger elimination.

Access it here: TheAngerSolution.org

Connect with Dr. Mort Orman:

Website: https://docorman.com/

LI: DocOrman

FB: DocOrman

Check out his new book: Dr. Orman's Life Changing Anger Cure

Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/

YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights

Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist.

For more valuable insights on navigating divorce with intention and clarity, be sure to subscribe to Intentional Divorce Insights and leave a review to help others discover empowering divorce resources.

To celebrate the 50th episode of Intentional Divorce Insights, host Leah Hadley brings you a special compilation of standout moments and transformative insights from the show’s most impactful episodes. Whether you've been part of our community from the start or recently joined, this episode is all about honoring your journey through divorce with intention, clarity, and support. Leah is joined by a panel of trusted experts sharing their wisdom on financial preparedness, decision-making, co-parenting, emotional wellness, and the healing power of community

Key Points Discussed:

Practical Financial Guidance

Leah Hadley, CDFA, revisits "Divorce Prep 101," highlighting why financial preparedness should be your anchor during emotional storms—and actionable steps to take even when you feel overwhelmed.

The Science of Clarity in Decision-Making

Dr. Mike Fink explains why deciding on divorce is uniquely challenging and how your brain’s protective instincts can keep you stuck. Don't miss his Rubik’s cube metaphor for making sense of your emotions and priorities.

What Kids Really Need from Co-Parents

Therapist Julia Hoffman breaks down the myths about co-parenting, emphasizing that divorce itself doesn't harm children—parental conflict does. Learn why respect and teamwork make all the difference.

The Power of Self-Reflection During Discernment

Therapist Brittany Baker explores discernment counseling and reveals why focusing on your own role within a relationship is vital, whatever path you choose next.

Community, Support Groups, and Healing

Divorce Coach and Mediator, Liesel Darby, clarifies the difference between therapy and support groups, and how being truly heard in a community can be transformative during divorce.

Connect with our guests:

Dr. Mike Fink- https://www.getabsoluteclarity.com/

Julia Hoffman- https://juliahoffmancoaching.com/

Brittany Baker- https://www.nixbakerwellness.com/

Liesel Darby- https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/

Connect with Intentional Divorce Solutions:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/intentionaldivorcesolutions/

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahahadley/

YT: www.youtube.com/@IntentionalDivorceInsights

Download our free divorce checklist at https://www.greatlakesdfs.com/divorce-checklist.

For more valuable insights on navigating divorce with intention and clarity, be sure to subscribe to Intentional Divorce Insights and leave a review to help others discover empowering divorce. resources.