Mother’s Day can stir up a lot—especially when you're navigating life after divorce. Maybe your ex’s voice is still echoing in your head, or your teens are too cool (or too cranky) to make plans. Maybe your kids aren't even with you this year. If any of that sounds familiar, this episode is here to help you mute the noise, return to yourself, and reclaim this day as something sacred and satisfying—no matter what it looks like on the outside.

Together, we’ll explore how to celebrate yourself without apology, even if no one else is showing up the way you hoped. I’ll share what it means to be both realistic and radiant—from managing kids who are resistant or unavailable, to creating a solo tradition that fills your soul (including my own story of picnics, peace, and blooming flowers at the Arboretum). Because Mother’s Day isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence.

Whether you're feeling joyful, tender, or somewhere in between, this episode invites you to step into your power, choose your own joy, and design a Mother's Day that honors the incredible mom—and woman—you are. 🌸

Support this podcast:

• Free Gift: An exercise in self love and discovery - https://www.jbddivorcesupport.com/blog/self-love-exercise
• Follow JBD on Instagram: @journey_beyond_divorce
• Book a Free Rapid Relief Call: http://rapidreliefcall.com 

Join Karen McMahon for a powerful and inspiring episode on spiritual resilience and transformation after divorce. In this heartfelt conversation, Karen is joined by Carrie Hopkins-Doubts, a seasoned Spiritual Resilience Coach and long-time member of the JBD team, who shares her wisdom on navigating grief, reclaiming your identity, and finding spiritual strength after the end of a marriage.

Carrie dives into the essential elements of healing after divorce, guiding listeners on how to shift from heartbreak to healing. She emphasizes the importance of embracing your authentic self and leaning into spiritual resilience to not only survive divorce but to grow from it. Through personal stories of grief, recovery, and renewal, Carrie shows how self-compassion and support can empower your journey forward.

Carrie is also the creator of the Rebuilding Your Life After Loss program, offered in both individual and group coaching formats. Her transformative courses are designed to help individuals reconnect with their heart, reclaim their personal power, and re-align with their deeper purpose—laying the foundation for the next meaningful chapter of life.

Whether you're in the early stages of divorce or seeking deeper healing long after, this episode offers the tools and encouragement you need to experience lasting change. Discover how spiritual transformation can become the guiding force in your divorce recovery journey.

To learn more about Carrie’s approach to grief, loss, and spiritual growth, visit her website and explore her programs focused on healing from the inside out.

• Free Gift: Transitions and Transformations Course - https://bit.ly/43mWV3W
• Join the waitlist for Rebuilding Your Life After Loss - https://lifesnextchaptercoaching.mykajabi.com/waitlistrebuilding
• Website: https://lifesnextchaptercoaching.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifesnextchapter/

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

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

In this episode of the Journey Beyond Divorce Podcast, host Karen McMahon speaks with somatic healer and coach Lori James about the powerful role of somatic healing in recovering from the trauma of divorce. They explore how emotional pain from divorce and toxic relationships often becomes stored in the body, manifesting as anxiety, depression, and physical tension.

Lori shares her own post-divorce healing journey and explains how somatic practices — such as breathwork, movement, and body awareness — can help individuals reconnect with their inner wisdom, process deep emotional wounds, and rebuild a sense of safety and empowerment.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking divorce recovery tools, emotional resilience, and a deeper understanding of how the body holds and heals trauma. Discover practical strategies to support your emotional healing after divorce and begin moving forward with clarity and strength.

Connect with Laurie:

• Free Gift: My free Beginner's Guide to Somatic Healing: https://laurieejames.myflodesk.com/bgtsh
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurie.james/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laurie.james.79219754
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-james-8336a0168/
• Website: https://www.laurieejames.com/
• Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/confessions-of-a-freebird-midlife-divorce-heal/id1694026063

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

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

In this powerful episode of the Journey Beyond Divorce Podcast, host Karen McMahon is joined by licensed marriage and family therapist, certified co-parenting coach, mediator, and award-winning author Aurisha Smolarski. Together, they explore effective co-parenting strategies after divorce, with a focus on creating stability and emotional security for your children.

Aurisha shares actionable advice on how to shift from a romantic partnership to a cooperative co-parenting dynamic, while building a foundation rooted in communication, consistency, and connection. You’ll also learn how attachment theory can influence your parenting approach and what it takes to maintain a healthy relationship with your ex for the sake of your kids.

Whether you're newly divorced or years into co-parenting, this episode offers expert guidance to help you feel more empowered, supported, and aligned with your children’s best interests.

In this episode, my guest Aurisha Smolarski, LMFT—a licensed marriage and family therapist, certified co-parenting coach, mediator, and mother—shares her invaluable expertise. As the award-winning author of Cooperative Co-Parenting for Secure Kids: The Attachment Theory Guide to Raising Kids in Two Homes, Aurisha brings a wealth of knowledge and personal experience to the table. She specializes in helping co-parents move from conflict to cooperation, make child-centered agreements, and create a secure two-home family system. If you're feeling stuck or overwhelmed, Aurisha's insights will provide the guidance and support you need to navigate your co-parenting journey with greater confidence and peace. 

Connect with Aurisha Smolarski:

• Free Communication Style Quiz: https://www.aurishasmolarski.com/
• Buy the book Cooperative Co-Parenting for Secure Kids: https://www.aurishasmolarski.com/book/
• Join Aurisha on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cooperativecoparenting/

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

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

In this powerful episode of the Journey Beyond Divorce Podcast, Karen McMahon sits down with Craig Perra, a global leader in sex and porn addiction recovery. Craig explores the deep-rooted causes of compulsive sexual behavior, especially in high-achieving men and women navigating high-conflict divorce. He shares how lack of self-love, shame, and isolation fuel addiction—and how accountability and community drive healing.

For partners of sex addicts, Craig offers empowering insights and guidance on separating their self-worth from their partner’s behavior. Learn how to break toxic cycles, protect your children with healthy conversations about sexuality, and take real steps toward recovery.

Connect with Craig:

• Website: https://mindfulhabithelp.com/
• Book a call with Craig: https://mindfulhabithelp.com/book-a-call9273
• Course Library: https://www.themindfulhabitonline.com/
• Listen to the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sex-afflictions-porn-addictions-with-craig-perra-sex/id556373664

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

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

The divorce conversation has happened—and now you’re still living together.** Tensions are high, emotions are raw, and the atmosphere at home feels like a ticking time bomb. In this episode, we unpack what to do *after* the divorce bomb drops—how to survive and even strategically thrive in the uncomfortable in-between of sharing space with someone you’re separating from.

First things first: before anything escalates, it’s critical to understand your legal rights and quietly begin gathering financial documentation—especially if there’s a risk your spouse might hide or manipulate assets once they know you're serious.** We’ll also explore what it looks like to have the divorce conversation with your children—how to support them honestly without oversharing or putting them in the middle. You'll hear how to create emotional and physical boundaries that protect everyone involved.

From separate bedrooms to shared parenting time, this episode is packed with real talk and practical strategies. You’ll learn how to stop walking on eggshells, communicate calmly, and lead with clarity rather than chaos. Even while still living together, you can begin laying the groundwork for a strategic, empowered divorce—one step, one boundary, one conversation at a time.

Journey Beyond Divorce Resources:

• Book a Free Rapid Relief Call: http://rapidreliefcall.com 
• Join the Free Divorce Paralysis Workshop: https://www.jbddivorcesupport.com/overcoming-divorce-fear
• Follow JBD on Instagram: @journey_beyond_divorce

Disclaimer: This conversation includes discussions of sensitive topics such as rape and trauma, which may be triggering for some listeners.

In this empowering episode of the Journey Beyond Divorce Podcast, host Karen McMahon sits down with Kyera T. Kacey, Author of Rich B$tch Money Goals and founder of LiberateHER™. Kyera shares her transformative journey of overcoming trauma, including sexual assault and two divorces. She emphasizes the power of personal responsibility, self-love, and authenticity in healing and growth.

Kyera discusses how embracing these principles helped her overcome adversity and create a life aligned with her true self. With practical strategies for personal empowerment and navigating life's challenges, Kyera’s insights are a must-listen for anyone on the path of healing after divorce, seeking empowerment, and wanting to thrive despite life's struggles.

Tune in for inspiration, actionable tools, and a roadmap to a more fulfilled, empowered life!

The 9 Rich B$tch Principles are foundational habits that builds a Rich B$tch life. A Rich B$tch always:

R -takes Responsibility (personal)

I- Has Integrity in all she does

C - holds Courageous Conversations

H - Heals for the Highest Good

B - Believes in herself

I - Invests in herself

T - Trusts herself

C - Consciously Creates her life

H - Is Heart-centered in her pursuit of success

Connect with Kyera:

• Website: https://www.kyerakacey.com/
• Rich B$tch Money Goals Membership: https://www.kyerakacey.com/rbe2
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kyerakacey/
• Book: https://www.amazon.com/Rich-tch-Money-Goals-Energetic/dp/B0CM3JJ5GZ

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

• Join the FREE April 16th Workshop: Overcoming Divorce Fear and Paralysis - https://www.jbddivorcesupport.com/overcoming-divorce-fear
• Join the High Conflict Divorce Support Group: https://www.jbddivorcesupport.com/hcdsg
• Follow JBD on Instagram: @journey_beyond_divorce

Divorce often uncovers hidden money patterns that impact both your relationship and divorce negotiations. In this episode, we explore how your money personality—whether you're a spender or a saver—shapes your marriage and divorce. We dive into the deeper financial motivations that may be influencing your decisions and offer strategies to break free from limiting beliefs around money.

Divorce isn’t just an ending; it’s an opportunity to reshape your financial future. Learn how to use this time of transition to create clarity, confidence, and joy in your financial choices. You can emerge from divorce with a healthier relationship to money.

Join financial therapist, money coach, and author Mikelann Valterra, with over 25 years of experience, as she shares insights from her book Rise Above the Money Fog. Mikelann offers grounded and compassionate wisdom to help you navigate financial anxiety, whether you’re in a high-conflict divorce or rebuilding after separation.

Connect with Mikelann:

• Take the Money Fog Quiz: https://seattle-money-coach.mykajabi.com/money-fog-quiz-ebook
• Website: https://www.seattlemoneycoach.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikelannvalterra/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MikelannSeattleMoneyCoach
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelannv/

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

• Join the FREE April 16th Workshop: Overcoming Divorce Fear and Paralysis - https://www.jbddivorcesupport.com/overcoming-divorce-fear
• Follow JBD on Instagram: @journey_beyond_divorce

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

In this episode, expert coach Dawn Smith joins Karen McMahon to dive into marital conflict and how to navigate relationship challenges. With over a decade of experience understanding how men and women process emotions and make decisions differently, Dawn provides strategies for couples facing marriage issues.

Dawn combines couples counseling with practical coaching to help partners break free from disconnection patterns, fostering deeper communication and understanding. Her actionable tools are especially helpful for couples at a crossroads or struggling with communication and conflict.

Throughout the conversation, Dawn also explores how neurodivergent conditions, like narcissism and ADHD, can impact relationships and whether these issues are fixable or foundational. Her insights help couples determine whether the challenges they're facing can be worked through or if deeper, systemic issues exist.

Dawn Smith, founder of Whole Life Solutions, has guided over 1,000 couples through complex transitions. With expertise in mental health, neuroscience, and relationship coaching, she empowers individuals and couples to find clarity and connection. Her work has been featured at TEDx and leading conferences.

Connect with Dawn:

• $50 off an initial session - Mention JBD on initial consultation: https://wholerelationshipcoaching.hbportal.co/schedule/6749db6a41bd770019f400c1
• Website: https://www.relationshipcoachdawn.com/
• Whole Life Solutions Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholelifesolutionscoaching/
• Dawn Smith Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relationshipcoachdawn/

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

• Join the FREE April 16th Workshop: Overcoming Divorce Fear and Paralysis - https://www.jbddivorcesupport.com/overcoming-divorce-fear
• Follow JBD on Instagram: @journey_beyond_divorce

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

Divorce can disrupt every aspect of your life—your home, finances, and family dynamic. Clarity is key to navigating this challenge successfully.

In this episode, I sit down with Andrea Vacca, a leading New York divorce attorney and expert in collaborative divorce, to explore essential steps for a smoother process. We discuss understanding your legal rights, organizing financials, initiating the conversation with your spouse, and co-parenting, especially while living under the same roof. It's about starting strong, staying child-focused, and minimizing conflict.

Andrea also shares strategies for setting boundaries, improving communication, and avoiding court through a collaborative divorce approach. If you're feeling overwhelmed, know that with the right mindset, you can navigate this transition with confidence and dignity.

Andrea Vacca is the founder of Vacca Law and Mediation, specializing in non-adversarial divorce and family law. A certified mediator and collaborative divorce attorney, she’s committed to helping clients achieve peaceful resolutions, protect their families, and move forward without unnecessary conflict.

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

• FREE Pre-Divorce Checklist - https://www.vaccalaw.com/pre-divorce-checklist/
• Join the FREE April 16th Workshop: Overcoming Divorce Fear and Paralysis - https://www.jbddivorcesupport.com/overcoming-divorce-fear
• Learn more about Pre-Divorce Guidance: https://www.vaccalaw.com/pre-divorce-guidance/

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