For those of us with furry friends, our pets ARE members of the family and when there is a breakup, how to handle them is complex and filled with an array of emotions. 

Today we’re tackling the issue of pet custody during a breakup or divorce. I speak with Karis Nafte, a certified dog behavior consultant and accredited family mediator, who provides expert guidance on how to navigate this emotional process. We discuss the importance of putting your dog's needs first, common pitfalls to avoid, and the various options available to separating couples, including shared custody arrangements and visitation schedules. Karis also offers practical advice on how to reduce stress for your canine companion during this challenging time.

We explore the common misconceptions surrounding pet custody, discuss how to make informed decisions that prioritize your dog's well-being, and delve into the pros and cons of shared custody arrangements. Karis also provides valuable insights into recognizing signs of stress in your dog and offers practical tips on how to support them through the transition. Whether you're considering divorce, in the midst of separation, or simply curious about pet custody issues, this episode offers essential information and expert advice.

Karis Nafte is the founder and owner of Who Keeps the Dog, Pet Custody Mediation. With 25 years of experience as a dog behavior expert, she's a leading voice in the field of pet custody. Karis is the author of "Who Keeps the Dog: Navigating Pet Custody During Divorce" and has developed the first accredited pet guardianship education course for divorce professionals. Her work has been featured in major media outlets like The Washington Post, The New York Post, and ABC News. 

Connect with Karis:

• Website: www.whokeepsthedog.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karis-nafte-cdbc-b4b9b81a6/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whokeepsthedog/
• Buy The Book: https://www.amazon.com/Who-Keeps-Dog-Navigating-Custody/dp/1617812927 (The first 3 listeners to reach out to [email protected] will be gifted a FREE copy.)

Journey Beyond Divorce Resources:

• Follow JBD on Instagram: @journey_beyond_divorce
• Book a Free Rapid Relief Call: http://rapidreliefcall.com 

A word from our sponsor:

TalkingParents provides a comprehensive platform designed to simplify co-parenting and enhance communication between parents. With secure messaging, a shared calendar, and features for tracking parenting time, TalkingParents ensures that all important details and agreements are documented and accessible. 

We’re grateful for TalkingParents' support in simplifying co-parenting and enhancing communication for our listeners. Discover how TalkingParents can bring clarity and organization to your co-parenting journey at www.talkingparents.com/jbd

Making the decision to divorce is one thing—telling your spouse is another. In this episode, I walk you through the emotional and practical aspects of this pivotal conversation. I know how overwhelming this moment can feel, which is why I want to help you prepare, not just with what to say, but how to say it with clarity and confidence. This is not a request or a debate—it’s your decision, and I’ll guide you in delivering it with strength and compassion.

We’ll explore the key elements of timing, setting, and emotional preparedness, because how and when you share this decision can make all the difference. I’ll also help you anticipate their reaction—whether it’s shock, anger, or grief—so you can hold firm without getting pulled into unnecessary conflict. And if safety is a concern, I’ll offer ways to ensure you have the right support in place.

This is a hard but necessary step, and you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re struggling with how to begin, feeling anxious about their response, or simply need reassurance that you can do this, this episode is for you. Let’s take this step together—with clarity, confidence, and care.

Journey Beyond Divorce Resources:

• Join the High Conflict Divorce Support Group: https://www.jbddivorcesupport.com/hcdsg
• Follow JBD on Instagram: @journey_beyond_divorce
• Book a Free Rapid Relief Call: http://rapidreliefcall.com 

In today's episode, we’re diving into an empowering conversation with intimacy expert and relationship coach Allana Pratt. If you’re navigating divorce, looking to heal emotionally, or seeking to rediscover yourself, Allana’s insights will guide you on your journey to finding love after divorce and creating deeper connections.

Allana is a Certified Master Coach with over 5.6 million YouTube viewers and has been interviewed more than 800 times. Featured on Huffington Post, People Magazine, Forbes, CBS, ABC, FOX, TLC, and iHeartRadio, she has spent 20 years helping men and women embrace their worth and step into their personal power.

Through her proven coaching programs and intimacy retreats, Allana shows how healing your heart and building a strong relationship with yourself leads to attracting a love that truly aligns with your growth, emotional intelligence, and soulful connection. Her authenticity and raw transparency make her a trusted guide on the path to healing and building a healthy, lasting partnership.

Join us as Allana shares her wisdom and inspiration to help you create a fulfilling relationship, starting with the most important one—your relationship with yourself.

Connect with Allana

• Listen to the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intimate-conversations/id1316222992

• Website: www.AllanaPratt.com 

• Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/allanapratt/ 

• Twitter: @allanapratt 

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coachallanapratt 

• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/allanapratt 

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allana-pratt-36b5882

• Free Gift: The Top 5 Mistakes That Destroy A Conscious Relationship: http://www.allanapratt.com/top5mistakes

Journey Beyond Divorce Resources:

• Follow JBD on Instagram: @journey_beyond_divorce
• Book a Free Rapid Relief Call: http://rapidreliefcall.com 

A word from our sponsor:

TalkingParents provides a comprehensive platform designed to simplify co-parenting and enhance communication between parents. With secure messaging, a shared calendar, and features for tracking parenting time, TalkingParents ensures that all important details and agreements are documented and accessible. 

We’re grateful for TalkingParents' support in simplifying co-parenting and enhancing communication for our listeners. Discover how TalkingParents can bring clarity and organization to your co-parenting journey at www.talkingparents.com/jbd

Co-parenting after divorce is hard enough—but when every decision turns into a battle, it can feel impossible. Are you stuck in a cycle of never-ending arguments over schedules, school decisions, or medical choices? Do your attempts at communication seem to fuel more conflict rather than resolve it? If you're navigating a high-conflict co-parenting dynamic, you may be wondering if there’s a way to break free from the chaos. In this episode, we explore an underutilized yet powerful resource: Parenting Coordinators—who they are, what they do, and how they can help you move from constant tension to a more peaceful co-parenting arrangement.

We’ll dive into the complexities of parenting coordination, exploring how these professionals act as neutral facilitators to help parents make decisions, reduce conflict, and create a more stable environment for their children. What does a Parenting Coordinator actually do? When should you consider working with one? And how can they help enforce or modify a parenting plan without dragging you back into court? If you're feeling exhausted by the emotional toll of co-parenting disputes, this episode will give you insights into how a Parenting Coordinator might be the missing piece in your post-divorce journey.

Joining us is Carolyn Kalos, a seasoned family lawyer, mediator, and parenting coordinator with over 25 years of experience in family law. Carolyn has seen firsthand the toll that ongoing conflict takes on parents and children, and she specializes in helping families find practical, sustainable solutions outside of court. From her work as a trial attorney to her extensive mediation and training experience, Carolyn brings a wealth of knowledge on navigating high-conflict parenting situations. Whether you're considering a Parenting Coordinator or simply want to understand your options, this conversation will offer valuable insights into making co-parenting smoother and less stressful. Tune in!

Connect with Carolyn:

• Website: https://www.dfkfamilylaw.com/
• More about Parent Coodinating: https://www.dfkfamilylaw.com/services/parenting-coordination/

Journey Beyond Divorce Resources:

• Join the High Conflict Divorce Support Group: https://www.jbddivorcesupport.com/hcdsg
• Follow JBD on Instagram: @journey_beyond_divorce
• Book a Free Rapid Relief Call: http://rapidreliefcall.com 

A word from our sponsor:

TalkingParents provides a comprehensive platform designed to simplify co-parenting and enhance communication between parents. With secure messaging, a shared calendar, and features for tracking parenting time, TalkingParents ensures that all important details and agreements are documented and accessible. 

We’re grateful for TalkingParents' support in simplifying co-parenting and enhancing communication for our listeners. Discover how TalkingParents can bring clarity and organization to your co-parenting journey at www.talkingparents.com/jbd

For some, Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love. For others, it’s just another day on the calendar—one that can feel a little too loud when you’re single, divorced, or navigating life after a breakup.

If that’s you, this episode is your invitation to laugh, let go, and see this day in a whole new light.

Join me as we:

✅ Uncover the surprisingly weird and wild history of Valentine’s Day (trust me, it’s not what you think).

✅ Share funny and uplifting fables about freedom, fresh starts, and the beauty of moving on.

✅ Drop a few lighthearted truths about why being unattached is something to celebrate.

Because here’s the truth: You’re not missing out. You’re creating something new.

So whether today feels like just another Tuesday or a reminder of what used to be, this episode is for you. Let’s reclaim February 14th—on our terms.

🎧 Listen now and enjoy a few laughs along the way!

Journey Beyond Divorce Resources:

• Join the High Conflict Divorce Support Group: https://www.jbddivorcesupport.com/hcdsg
• Follow JBD on Instagram: @journey_beyond_divorce
• Book a Free Rapid Relief Call: http://rapidreliefcall.com 

"I'm dedicated to dispelling financial uncertainty for women and guiding them toward self-reliance." - Donna S. Cates

Divorce is challenging, especially when significant wealth is involved. Dividing assets, valuing complex holdings, and ensuring financial stability for both parties requires specialized expertise.

In this episode, Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA®) Donna S. Cates provides insights into high-net-worth divorce, covering key topics such as equitable distribution, valuing businesses and real estate, tax implications, and strategies to secure your financial future. Whether you're in the midst of divorce or rebuilding afterward, Donna's advice will help you navigate this complex transition.

Donna, with over 20 years of experience, is a leader in financial empowerment, particularly for women. As the founder of "Money Matters Wealth Solutions" and "Navigating Divorce," she provides expert financial planning and divorce mediation services. She’s also the bestselling author of Divorce Decoded and Financial Trendsetters.

Join us for this crucial conversation on:

• Equitable vs. equal distribution of assets
• Valuing complex assets like businesses and intellectual property
• Tax implications and preserving wealth after divorce
• The benefits of working with a CDFA® during divorce

If you're facing the challenges of high-net-worth divorce, this episode is a must-listen.

Connect with Donna:

• Free Gift: Surviving the Storm: Navigating Through Divorce with 5 Smart Financial Steps - https://go.moneymatterswealth.com/surviving-the-storm
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donnacates
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyMattersWealth; https://www.facebook.com/DivorceDivasAlabama/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnacates/ 

Journey Beyond Divorce Resources:

• Join the High Conflict Divorce Support Group: https://www.jbddivorcesupport.com/hcdsg
• Follow JBD on Instagram: @journey_beyond_divorce
• Book a Free Rapid Relief Call: http://rapidreliefcall.com 

A word from our sponsors:

Soberlink is a revolutionary tool designed to support individuals in their journey to sobriety. As a leading provider of remote alcohol monitoring, Soberlink offers a secure and reliable solution that helps people stay accountable and transparent in their recovery process.

We’re grateful for Soberlink’s commitment to enhancing the recovery process and providing valuable resources to our listeners. Learn more about how Soberlink can make a difference in your journey at www.soberlink.com/jbd

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TalkingParents provides a comprehensive platform designed to simplify co-parenting and enhance communication between parents. With secure messaging, a shared calendar, and features for tracking parenting time, TalkingParents ensures that all important details and agreements are documented and accessible. 

We’re grateful for TalkingParents' support in simplifying co-parenting and enhancing communication for our listeners. Discover how TalkingParents can bring clarity and organization to your co-parenting journey at www.talkingparents.com/jbd

In this episode, Karen McMahon explores the outer journey of divorce—navigating the practical challenges and taking actionable steps toward your new life. From deciding whether to stay or go, to understanding your legal rights, managing overwhelming emotions, and creating stability in your home, Karen offers guidance for the road ahead.

Learn how to build a supportive team, including legal professionals, financial experts, and divorce coaches. Explore different approaches to divorce like litigation, collaboration, and mediation, and find the path that works for you.

Karen also shares tips for navigating negotiations with grace and dignity, and how to prioritize self-care as you rediscover yourself after divorce. Tune in for actionable advice and support as you move forward with confidence after divorce.

Journey Beyond Divorce Resources:

• Join the High Conflict Divorce Support Group: https://www.jbddivorcesupport.com/hcdsg
• Follow JBD on Instagram: @journey_beyond_divorce
• Book a Free Rapid Relief Call: http://rapidreliefcall.com 

A word from our sponsors:

Soberlink is a revolutionary tool designed to support individuals in their journey to sobriety. As a leading provider of remote alcohol monitoring, Soberlink offers a secure and reliable solution that helps people stay accountable and transparent in their recovery process.

We’re grateful for Soberlink’s commitment to enhancing the recovery process and providing valuable resources to our listeners. Learn more about how Soberlink can make a difference in your journey at www.soberlink.com/jbd

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TalkingParents provides a comprehensive platform designed to simplify co-parenting and enhance communication between parents. With secure messaging, a shared calendar, and features for tracking parenting time, TalkingParents ensures that all important details and agreements are documented and accessible. 

We’re grateful for TalkingParents' support in simplifying co-parenting and enhancing communication for our listeners. Discover how TalkingParents can bring clarity and organization to your co-parenting journey at www.talkingparents.com/jbd

Navigating the aftermath of narcissistic abuse, coercive control, and domestic violence can feel overwhelming. The scars left by these forms of abuse run deep, affecting self-esteem, causing isolation, and trapping survivors in cycles of fear. Even after separation, post-abuse struggles continue—often amplified by legal battles, financial control, or ongoing manipulation. For parents, children are often silent victims, suffering from the emotional fallout of abuse.

In this episode, Sybil Cummin, Licensed Professional Counselor and founder of Rising Beyond Power and Control, shares her expertise on healing from narcissistic abuse and coercive control. Sybil offers practical advice for survivors, including those dealing with post-separation abuse and navigating the family court system. As an advocate for legislative change in Colorado, she’s committed to helping survivors reclaim their lives and break the cycle of abuse. Tune in for empowering insights and essential resources for those on their healing journey.

Connect with Sybil:

• Free Gift: List of "Mic Drop" Canned Responses: https://mailchi.mp/risingbeyondpc/micdrop
• Instagram: instagram.com/risingbeyondpc
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sybil-cummin-lpc-acs-50537791/
• Listen to the podcast: https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/podcasts.html

Journey Beyond Divorce Resources:

• Join the High Conflict Divorce Support Group: https://www.jbddivorcesupport.com/hcdsg
• Follow JBD on Instagram: @journey_beyond_divorce
• Book a Free Rapid Relief Call: http://rapidreliefcall.com 

A word from our sponsors:

Soberlink is a revolutionary tool designed to support individuals in their journey to sobriety. As a leading provider of remote alcohol monitoring, Soberlink offers a secure and reliable solution that helps people stay accountable and transparent in their recovery process.

We’re grateful for Soberlink’s commitment to enhancing the recovery process and providing valuable resources to our listeners. Learn more about how Soberlink can make a difference in your journey at www.soberlink.com/jbd

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TalkingParents provides a comprehensive platform designed to simplify co-parenting and enhance communication between parents. With secure messaging, a shared calendar, and features for tracking parenting time, TalkingParents ensures that all important details and agreements are documented and accessible. 

We’re grateful for TalkingParents' support in simplifying co-parenting and enhancing communication for our listeners. Discover how TalkingParents can bring clarity and organization to your co-parenting journey at www.talkingparents.com/jbd

In this episode, Karen McMahon explores the emotional challenges of high-conflict divorce and the vital inner journey that accompanies it. She dives into the intense emotional turmoil, self-doubt, and fear many face, offering practical guidance for navigating this difficult time with resilience and self-awareness.

Karen discusses how to shift from victimhood to empowerment, overcome limiting beliefs, and move from resistance to proactive solutions. She emphasizes the importance of conscious responses over reactive behaviors and encourages listeners to lean into their faith or beliefs for strength.

With a focus on building self-confidence and cultivating curiosity, Karen shows how divorce can be a transformative experience, offering opportunities for profound personal growth. She invites listeners to invest in their inner journey, working with a skilled divorce coach to emerge from the process as stronger, more resilient individuals.

Journey Beyond Divorce Resources:

• Join the High Conflict Divorce Support Group: https://www.jbddivorcesupport.com/hcdsg
• Follow JBD on Instagram: @journey_beyond_divorce
• Book a Free Rapid Relief Call: http://rapidreliefcall.com 

A word from our sponsors:

Soberlink is a revolutionary tool designed to support individuals in their journey to sobriety. As a leading provider of remote alcohol monitoring, Soberlink offers a secure and reliable solution that helps people stay accountable and transparent in their recovery process.

We’re grateful for Soberlink’s commitment to enhancing the recovery process and providing valuable resources to our listeners. Learn more about how Soberlink can make a difference in your journey at www.soberlink.com/jbd

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TalkingParents provides a comprehensive platform designed to simplify co-parenting and enhance communication between parents. With secure messaging, a shared calendar, and features for tracking parenting time, TalkingParents ensures that all important details and agreements are documented and accessible. 

We’re grateful for TalkingParents' support in simplifying co-parenting and enhancing communication for our listeners. Discover how TalkingParents can bring clarity and organization to your co-parenting journey at www.talkingparents.com/jbd

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions about mental health challenges, including depression and suicide, that may be triggering for some listeners. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please reach out for support. You can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), available 24/7. Your well-being matters, and help is always available.

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Did you know that divorced dads are at a significantly higher risk for mental health challenges, including depression and even suicide, compared to other men? The combination of emotional upheaval, societal expectations, and fears around losing contact with their children can take a serious toll.

This episode dives deep into why fathers face such unique and daunting challenges during divorce—and how they can emerge stronger and more connected than ever. How can dads protect their well-being and maintain strong relationships with their children? From mental health strategies to co-parenting tips, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

We explore why divorce often hits fathers so hard and discuss proactive steps to help dads stay healthy, grounded, and resilient while fostering joyful, collaborative relationships with their kids. Whether you’re a divorcing dad or supporting one, these tools are essential.

My guest today is Dr. Eran Magen, an expert in parenting and mental health with a background from Stanford and Yale. As the founder of DivorcingDads.org and ParentingForHumans.com, he’s dedicated his career to empowering fathers to navigate divorce with strength and wisdom.

Dr. Magen’s insights have supported countless dads in overcoming the risks associated with divorce while building enduring connections with their children. Tune in to discover how his groundbreaking approaches can make all the difference for you or someone you love.

Connect with Dr. Magen:

• Website: DivorcingDads.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eranmagenphd/
• Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/divorcing-dads/id1752264970

Journey Beyond Divorce Resources:

• Join the High Conflict Divorce Support Group: https://www.jbddivorcesupport.com/hcdsg
• Follow JBD on Instagram: @journey_beyond_divorce

A word from our sponsors:

Soberlink is a revolutionary tool designed to support individuals in their journey to sobriety. As a leading provider of remote alcohol monitoring, Soberlink offers a secure and reliable solution that helps people stay accountable and transparent in their recovery process.

We’re grateful for Soberlink’s commitment to enhancing the recovery process and providing valuable resources to our listeners. Learn more about how Soberlink can make a difference in your journey at www.soberlink.com/jbd

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TalkingParents provides a comprehensive platform designed to simplify co-parenting and enhance communication between parents. With secure messaging, a shared calendar, and features for tracking parenting time, TalkingParents ensures that all important details and agreements are documented and accessible. 

We’re grateful for TalkingParents' support in simplifying co-parenting and enhancing communication for our listeners. Discover how TalkingParents can bring clarity and organization to your co-parenting journey at www.talkingparents.com/jbd