Livd Divorce Stories

What happens when you share a life—but not a last name? In this raw and deeply relatable episode, Zoë Nelson opens up about walking away from a long-term relationship that mirrored marriage in everything but legality. Fromraising kids to building a home, Zoë had it all—until it all startedunraveling.

She shares what it means to grieve a relationship that doesn’t get the same social support as “real” divorce, theemotional toll of invisible endings, and how she found strength in choosing herself. This is for every woman who’s ever mourned a breakup that left no legal trail—but tore through her life like a storm.

Three Takeaways:

1. “No ring doesn’t mean no grief.”Breakups without legal ties can still carry the emotional weight of a divorce—and deserve to be honored as such.
2. “Peace is a full sentence.”
   Zoë shares how she knew it was time to leave, even without a very dramatic incident—just a deep knowing that peace was no longer present.
3. “Healing requires visibility.”From therapy to community support, Zoë’s journey highlights how crucial it is for Black and Brown women to have safe spaces that acknowledge all forms of heartbreak.

Divorce doesn’t have to break you—or your bank. In this powerful and practical episode, we sit down with seasoned divorce mediator Joe Dillon to talk about a smarter, more empowering way to separate: mediation.

Especially for Black and brown women who are often sidelined by the legal system, mediation offers a more dignified path forward—one that protects your time, your money, and most importantly, your peace.

Joe shares insider tips, busts myths, and breaks down exactly how mediation works, who it’s for, and why more women are choosing this path over court.

3 Takeaways:

1. Mediation = Control + Clarity – You make the decisions, not a judge. Joe breaks down why that’s game-changing.

2. It’s Cheaper, Faster & Kinder – Learn how mediation reduces legal fees, emotional stress, and long delays.

3. It’s Built for Us – For women of color, especially, it’s a way to protect your mental and emotional wellness while reclaiming your power.

   
   

ABOUT JOE DILLION:

Joe is a pioneer in divorce mediation who has been helping couples navigate the end of their marriages with dignity and financial wisdom for over 17 years. As co-founder of Equitable Mediation Services, Joe combines his MBA in Finance with specialized training from Harvard, MIT, and Northwestern University to guide couples toward agreements that protect both their emotional wellbeing and financial futures.

His practice covers Washington, California, Illinois, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

As a child of divorce who witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of attorney-driven litigation on families, Joe brings personal experience that, combined with his professional expertise, enables him to help couples focus on creating agreements that work for everyone, especially the children.

Joe believes divorce doesn't have to be destructive. With the right guidance and expertise, couples can part ways amicably while protecting what matters most.

SOCIAL CONNECTION:

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

https://www.facebook.com/equitablemediation

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

In this soul-nourishing episode of Livd Stories, Liv Lewis sits down with beauty maven and industry shapeshifter Felicia Walker to talk about what happens when your titles — wife, fixer, doer — no longer fit. From the quiet power of stillness to the blur of heartbreak, Felicia opens up about her 15-year marriage, the unraveling, the rebirth, and the messy, radiant glow-up that followed. Whether you're mid-divorce, post-divorce, or just rethinking who you are and why — this one is for you.

Tune in to hear how Felicia turned exhaustion into wisdom, why letting things "cook" is a radical act of self-care, and what happens when we finally tell the truth — to ourselves.

5 Takeaways for Listeners

• 1. Stillness Isn’t Stagnation – Learn why doing “nothing” might be the most powerful move you can make when your world feels upside down.
  2. Blur is a Blessing – Discover why some moments are meant to be hazy — and how healing often hides in the fog.
  3. The Glow-Up is Internal First – Felicia shares how real transformation begins long before the outside world sees it — and what it truly means to redefine your identity on your own terms.
  4. You Don’t Need Permission to Evolve – Felicia and Liv break down how shedding old identities isn’t failure — it’s freedom. Especially for Black and brown women, unlearning who we were told to be is part of reclaiming who we really are.
  5. Your Pain Has Power – From blurred memories to boardroom wins, hear how sharing your “mistakes” can unlock connection, healing, and even your next big breakthrough. No experience is wasted when you own your truth.

Felicia's Book: Your Glow Guide

Not all stories come with a “World’s Best Dad” mug. As Father’s Day looms, Liv Lewis cracks open a conversation many avoid—but need. This raw, reflective episode gets real about the emotional fallout of growing up without a present or emotionally available father, especially as a Black woman.

With signature wit, warmth, and vulnerability, Liv shares her own story—from a “you’ve got the wrong number” first call to her estranged father, to navigating complex emotions with the help of therapy, prayer, and a deep love for her daughter. She weaves in insights from researchers like Abishag Israel Douglas and Dr. Joy Harden Bradford to break down how father absence can echo through our confidence, relationships, and even our drive to succeed.

Whether you’re lowkey dreading the holiday or just curious why you never ask for help, this one’s for you. It’s not about blame—it’s about truth, healing, and giving yourself the kind of love you didn’t get.

3 Soul-Hitting Takeaways:

• Mentors Matter. Father figures don’t have to be biological. Liv shouts out the uncles, pastors, coaches, and chosen family helping break generational cycles.

Book Recommendations :

1. The Dance of Anger by Harriet Lerner Focuses on breaking unhealthy emotional cycles, especially for women, and reclaiming personal power in relationships.
   

2. Attached by Amir Levine and Rachel Heller Explains how attachment styles—formed in early childhood—impact adult romantic relationships, and how to build more secure connections.

What does it really mean when people say “God hates divorce”? In this deeply honest and soul-nourishing episode of Livd Stories, we unpack that weighty phrase and the spiritual tension it can create—especially for those trying to honor their faith while facing the end of a marriage.

Joined by the wise and compassionate Pastor Craig Holiday, we dive into what scripture actually says (and doesn’t say) about divorce, challenging rigid interpretations and offering new ways to understand sacred texts like Mark 10. We also explore the historical context of Jewish thought from the schools of Shema and Hillel—giving richer meaning to what many have misunderstood for far too long.

I share my own story of wrestling with guilt, fear, and faith as I faced the possibility of divorce, and how my relationship with God evolved along the way. This conversation is for anyone who’s ever questioned their spiritual worth because of separation or divorce.

Together, we reframe divorce not as failure, but as a part of the complex, grace-filled journey of life. You’ll walk away with a deeper sense of compassion, permission to grow, and a renewed understanding of God’s unshakable love.

In this episode, we explore:

• Compassion over condemnation – Why we must view divorce through a lens of grace, not shame

• Spiritual growth in hard places – How faith can deepen even in the midst of heartbreak

• God’s unwavering love – A powerful reminder that divine love does not abandon us in our pain

This is a must-listen for anyone navigating the intersection of faith, heartbreak, and healing.

Divorce isn’t just an ending — it’s a reckoning, a rebirth, and a road to rediscovering yourself.
In this powerful episode of Livd Stories, we sit down with clinical psychologist Dr. Tyshawn Thompson to explore the emotional landscape of divorce — the grief, the guilt, the shame, the unexpected clarity, and the potential for deep personal transformation.

Together, we move beyond the traditional five stages of grief and into the truth of what it really feels like — unpredictable, wave-like, and often catching us off guard. Dr. Ty shares how the pandemic stirred a global moment of reflection, pushing many to question the roles we play in our relationships and the stories we tell ourselves.

Takeaways from the episode:

1. Grief Comes in Waves: Grief isn't linear; it's an unpredictable journey with highs and lows. Recognizing this can help us better navigate the emotional turbulence of separation & divorce.
2. Mindful Self-Compassion is a Game-Changer
   Inspired by Dr. Kristin Neff, we talk about the power of treating yourself with the same grace you offer others.
3. Uncovering Shameful Behaviors: By examining early life experiences and societal pressures, we can uncover behaviors driven by shame and guilt, allowing for healthier patterns to emerge.
4. Empowerment Through Vulnerability: Embracing our vulnerabilities can lead to personal empowerment and resilience, turning the pain of divorce into a stepping stone for growth.
5. Therapy as a Tool for Transformation: Introspection and therapy support the healing process, enabling us to redefine our relationships and personal narratives post-divorce.

This episode is for anyone navigating divorce or life after heartbreak — a reminder that even in the midst of loss, you have the power to write a new chapter.

Books & Ideas Mentioned In This Episode:

Grief:

• The Good Grief Project
• ⁠Lessons of Loss: A Guide to Coping⁠
• Unfuck Your Grief: Using Science to Heal Yourself and Support Others

Mindful Self Compassion

• Why Self Compassion works better than self esteem
• Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself

Give Myself Permission

• I Give Myself Permission: Take Risks. Be Imperfect. Live Boldly.

Going through a separation can feel overwhelming—especially when it comes to finances. But you don’t have to navigate it alone. In this powerful episode, we sit down with financial expert Dr. Darla Bishop, author of How to Afford Everything and founder of FinanSis LLC, to help you take control of your financial future with confidence. As a military spouse, Darla brings a unique perspective and a wealth of practical advice to guide you through this transition.

We begin by tackling the emotional and financial hurdles of early separation, offering actionable steps to help you gain clarity and stability. Learn how to conduct a financial audit, organize your accounts, and distinguish between assets and liabilities—so you can make empowered decisions for yourself and your family.

As we move into post-separation planning, Darla breaks down essential strategies for financial independence, legal considerations, and child support. Plus, we explore the often-overlooked aspects of self-care and emotional healing—because rebuilding your life isn’t just about numbers; it’s about reclaiming your power.

Key Takeaways:

1. Know Where You Stand – Conduct a financial audit to organize accounts, debts, and obligations, setting the stage for informed decision-making.
2. Protect Your Future – Understand the difference between assets and liabilities and plan for key responsibilities like your children’s education.
3. Communicate & Prepare – Open conversations and careful planning can help you navigate financial decisions with clarity and confidence.
4. Understand Your Rights – Gain insights into the legal aspects of divorce, child support, and ensuring financial security.
5. Prioritize Your Well-Being – Financial empowerment isn’t just about money—it’s about self-care, healing, and creating a life that truly supports you.

If you’re facing separation, this episode is your roadmap to financial freedom and emotional resilience. Tune in now and take the first step toward your next chapter.

Join us for an enlightening exploration of marriage and divorce with our guest, Clara Stewart Moore, a self-described "universal teacher of infinite light, peace, and grace." Clara opens up about her multicultural background and her journey through the ups and downs of marriage, sharing how her initial beliefs and spiritual connections shaped her experiences.

As Clara reflects on her marriage, she candidly discusses the unexpected challenges and sacrifices she faced, offering a poignant look at the complexities of relationships and personal growth through adversity.

Listen in as we navigate the intricate path of infidelity and conflict within a marriage. Clara shares her personal experience with suspicions of cheating, the emotional turmoil that ensued, and the critical role of communication and genuine remorse in repairing trust. The conversation highlights the impact of family involvement and the struggle to reconcile relationships amidst external influences. We also discuss the journey of maintaining hope for reconciliation while preparing for independence, especially when dealing with logistical challenges such as immigration status and financial entanglements.

In our final chapters, Clara's journey transitions toward self-love, healing, and gratitude. She emphasizes the importance of moving past grief and anger, focusing on self-care, and nurturing positive thoughts for a brighter future. Clara shares how these experiences have shaped her outlook on life and relationships, highlighting the transformative power of love and gratitude. Through her inspiring story, we are encouraged to embrace mindfulness and positivity as powerful tools for personal growth and empowerment, leaving listeners with a heartfelt message of courage and resilience.

Three Takeaways

In this episode, host Liv Lewis is joined by Lauren Maillian, who shares her personal journey through marriage, divorce, and the resilience she developed along the way. Initially believing that love and loyalty were the foundations of a perfect marriage, Lauren recounts how these beliefs blinded her to controlling behaviors in her first marriage. Through candid discussions, Lauren and Liv explore how youthful ideals can mask deeper issues and emphasize the importance of individuality and maintaining personal relationships within a union.

Communication emerges as a central theme, with both discussing the significance of honest dialogue within families and its impact on professional relationships. Lauren shares insights into fostering open conversations with children, using music as a developmental tool, and the benefits of regular family meetings. They also delve into the challenges of separation, offering guidance on navigating these changes while keeping communication channels open in both personal and professional spheres.

Lauren's inspiring story highlights the emotional and legal challenges she faced during her divorce and young parenthood, emphasizing the importance of self-representation and a supportive network. The episode concludes with reflections on gratitude and hope, encouraging listeners to trust their journey and embrace life's lessons.

Key takeaways from the episode include:

1. Recognizing red flags in relationships and the importance of maintaining individuality within a marriage.

2. The vital role of communication in strengthening family and professional bonds.

3. Strategies for managing life-altering changes, such as separation, while ensuring open communication.

4. The power of gratitude and hope in fostering personal growth through life's unpredictable seasons.

“Years ago, I believed that love and loyalty were the cornerstones of a perfect marriage, but it was that very belief that shielded me from seeing the control lurking beneath.”  L. Maillian

In this enlightening episode, we dive deep into the multifaceted realities of marriage beyond the simplistic notion that love conquers all. Our guest shares her personal journey, providing invaluable insights and practical advice for navigating the complexities of married life. Here are four key takeaways from the episode:

Conflict Resolution and Communication: Understanding each other's conflict resolution styles and the impact of childhood modeling is crucial. The guest highlights the importance of open communication and deeper preparation before and during marriage to address real-life issues like financial responsibilities and adjusting to new environments.

Character and Compatibility: Observing a partner's behavior in various situations, especially under pressure, can reveal critical insights about their nature. The discussion emphasizes the distinction between tolerating and accepting a partner's traits, underscoring the importance of mutual respect and understanding in building a healthy relationship.

Empowering Black Women: The episode addresses the unique emotional challenges faced by Black women, who often prioritize their partner's needs over their own. Setting boundaries and recognizing one's worth are essential steps in maintaining personal well-being and overcoming emotional abuse.

Personal Growth Through Therapy: The transformative journey of therapy is explored, highlighting its role in personal growth and redefining relationships. Our guest shares her experience of finding a meaningful, peaceful partnership, emphasizing the significance of genuine support, mutual respect, and the impact of compassionate, invested partnerships.

Tune in for an insightful conversation that aims to empower and support individuals on their journey through marriage, relationships, and personal growth.