In this empowering and heartfelt episode, Catherine and Karen sit down with Dr. Tara Egan, founder of Egan Counseling & Consulting, to discuss the emotional and practical realities of co-parenting through divorce—especially in high-conflict situations. With over two decades of experience and her own personal journey through divorce, Dr. Egan shares real-world strategies that prioritize peace, protect children, and reduce costly legal and emotional power struggles.

Key Takeaways:

Parent Coordination: Dr. Egan explains how a Parent Coordinator acts as a neutral party helping parents follow custody agreements and make day-to-day decisions without returning to court—saving time, money, and stress.

Nesting Isn’t Forever: Nesting (kids stay in the home while parents rotate in/out) can be helpful short-term but rarely works long-term. Stability comes from clear routines and emotionally safe environments—not physical space alone.

Kids Need One Healthy Parent: Divorce doesn’t "mess up" kids—how parents behave before, during, and after does. Kids thrive with at least one emotionally healthy parent showing up with consistency and compassion.

Responding to Financial Blame: When children repeat financial accusations (“Mom took all the money”), avoid defensive responses. Instead, calmly reassure them with facts, warmth, and emotional safety.

Set the Tone in Co-Parenting Conversations: Stay out of judgment. Acknowledge that families change and model positive, future-focused communication, even when your co-parent does not.

Don’t Expect Your Ex to Suddenly Be Different: Your ex won’t magically become a more emotionally responsive or financially generous person post-divorce. Accepting that helps reduce your stress and disappointment.

Resources Mentioned:

Dr. Tara Egan's Website: www.egancounseling.com

TikTok: @taraegan – Bite-sized advice for navigating co-parenting and high-conflict divorce.

Subscribe to We Chat Divorce and explore more insights on financial clarity, parenting support, and emotional empowerment at mydivorcesolution.com/podcast.

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