Most parents want to protect their kids during divorce - but what do you do when your co-parent won’t meet you halfway? In this episode, therapist and divorce coach Jill Kaufman breaks down the real-life challenges of co-parenting, especially when emotions run high or you're dealing with a difficult ex. 

Drawing from her own high-conflict divorce, Jill offers a refreshingly honest look at what it takes to shift from emotional chaos to calm collaboration—or at least peaceful parallel parenting.

Jill explains why traditional co-parenting advice often falls short, especially when your ex isn’t playing fair. She walks through strategies like removing emotion from communication, using tools like the B.I.F.F. method, and knowing when not to respond at all. Her examples are specific, practical, and sometimes surprising—like how one small act of kindness completely changed her own co-parenting dynamic.

If you've ever wondered how to stay sane while raising kids with someone you’d rather never speak to again, this conversation is full of actionable insights. From parenting teens in two households to helping your kids build resilience when you can’t control your ex’s behavior, Jill shares grounded advice that puts the focus where it belongs—on the kids.

About  Jill

Jill Barnett Kaufman is a Licensed Therapist, Divorce Coach, Mediator & Co-parenting Expert. After going through her own difficult divorce, she made it her life’s mission to help others not have it so tough. Her book and online course, I’m Getting Divorced, Now What? and her transformational coaching program help parents navigate the overwhelming process of divorce with less stress, more confidence and a greater sense of peace.

Connect with Jill

You can connect with Jill on LinkedIn at Jill Kaufman, on Facebook at Jill Kaufman and in her free Facebook Group Separation and Divorce Support Community.  You can follow Jill on Instagram at Divorce Coach Jill and on YouTube at Divorce Coach Jill.  To find out more about Jill’s work, visit her website at Divorce Coach Jill where you can also find out more about her coaching program, Thriving Through Divorce Coaching Program.

Want to Know More About Parenting Coordination?

Check out this episode about Parenting Coordination in high conflict divorce with parenting coordinators Jennifer Lavin and Gail Petrich.

Karen Covy is a Divorce Coach and Consultant, Lawyer, Author, and Speaker who is dedicated to helping people make the best decisions possible for themselves, their families, and their future - especially in stressful times. You can check out Karen's videos on YouTube.

You can connect with Karen on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and on her own website at karencovy.com.