In this episode of the Queer Divorce Club, we're diving into the intricacies of buying and selling a home while navigating the divorce process. Whether you're looking to purchase a new home or refinance the one you owned with your former spouse, this episode is packed with valuable insights and expert advice to help you make informed decisions.

The episode features Michelle Coulier and Miguel Ruiz-Santos who experts in real estate and lending specifically tailored to the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community. Together, we'll explore the unique challenges and considerations that arise when dealing with property during a divorce, providing you with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate this complex process.

From understanding the legal aspects to ensuring financial stability, we'll cover it all. You'll learn about strategies for dividing property equitably, negotiating with your ex-spouse, and working with lenders who are sensitive to the unique needs of queer individuals. We'll also discuss the emotional aspects of this journey and provide tips for maintaining your well-being throughout the process.

Whether you're embarking on a new chapter in homeownership or seeking to redefine your living arrangements, this episode of the Queer Divorce Club podcast is a must-listen. Join us as we empower you with the information and support you need to make confident decisions and create a secure future.

Michelle was born and raised in West Michigan and knows the area like the back of her hand. She has been a homeowner since the age of 23 and hopes to help others find the joy in homeownership she has found!

Michelle has had a passion for homes as far back as she can remember, pointing at homes from the backseat of her dad’s car on Sunday drives, asking him how much he would pay to own them. She worked in the medical field for over 12 years before transitioning to a natural career in real estate. Michelle says that her experience in these two fields, different as they may seem, combine to make her a caring, thoughtful agent who always keeps her clients’ best interest top of mind as they make the big and sometimes nerve-wracking decisions involved in buying and selling their homes. Her compassion and consideration are on full display when she works with any client. In her free time, she enjoys woodworking, projects around her home, and doing work for her community. (She currently volunteers with Habitat for Humanity’s Carpenters’ Club and Women Build programs).  In addition to that, she is working on getting her builder’s license in hopes that it will make her an even better Realtor® for her future clients! Michelle and her wife, Sarah, have 2 rescue pit bulls and are advocates for the breed and pet rescue in general.  She is also a drummer, ice cream enthusiast, and is a liiiiiiittle obsessed with magic shows.

Raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and now living in Belmont, Michigan. Miguel Ruiz-Santos is a Bilingual Mortgage Loan Originator that focuses on educating his clients about the importance of being a homeowner. As a homeowner himself, he understands the rollercoaster of emotions you experience during the process but with his guidance and passion he hopes to alleviate all those emotions and turn them into excitement! 

With a combined 10 years of Finance and Mortgage experience, Miguel will always go the extra mile to ensure he finds you the solution you need. Why mortgages? “I’ve always been a “numbers guy” and I love helping people. Since I was a kid, I always knew I would be in the financial industry. I’m here today and ready to use my skills and passion to help you achieve the dream of homeownership.

When Miguel isn’t talking mortgages his attending music festivals, spending time with family and love ones, volunteering in his community and traveling.  

Welcome to the latest episode of the Queer Divorce Club Podcast! We are thrilled to bring you an enlightening conversation with Paul Schwen, an esteemed family law attorney and mediator who specializes in supporting queer individuals through the divorce process. In this episode, Paul shares his expertise on the ins and outs of mediation, shedding light on its unique dynamics within the context of queer divorce.

During our insightful discussion, Paul dives deep into the intricacies of mediation and highlights the differences between queer and straight divorces. He emphasizes how mediation can serve as a powerful tool for establishing a solid foundation of understanding and cooperation, even after a divorce has been finalized. Drawing from his personal journey, Paul provides valuable insights into his own divorce experience, touching upon the process he and his ex-wife undertook and how her coming out during that time influenced their approach.

Join us as we delve into this thought-provoking conversation with Paul, where he offers invaluable guidance and illuminating perspectives on navigating the complexities of mediation in the context of queer divorces. This episode is sure to resonate with anyone seeking clarity and empowerment throughout their own divorce journey. Listen now to gain a deeper understanding of the transformative power of mediation and its potential to shape a brighter future beyond divorce.

Paul Jacob Schwen is an accomplished attorney and divorce mediator.

After graduating from high school, Schwen enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. His time in the military instilled in him a deep sense of discipline and a commitment to service that would shape his career for years to come. Much of Schwen's work in the military as an Arabic linguist placed him in situations where he was deescalating problems between local civilians and the military.

After leaving the Marines, Schwen attended the University of Utah and the American University Washington College of Law, where he earned his Juris Doctor degree. He went on to work as an attorney, focusing on family law and divorce mediation. Schwen's background as a Marine Corps veteran gave him a unique perspective on conflict resolution, which he used to help families navigate the difficult process of divorce.

Schwen's dedication to helping others has earned him a reputation as a skilled and compassionate attorney and mediator.

 In addition to his legal practice, Schwen is an active member of his community, volunteering his time to organizations that support veterans and their families. He continues to serve as a source of inspiration to those around him, demonstrating that a commitment to service and a dedication to helping others can lead to a fulfilling and rewarding career.

You can find Paul online on Instagram @newwaymediation and online at newwaymediation.com.

Music in this episode is from Bungalow Heaven. You can find more music from Bungalow Heaven and singer/songwriter Gretchen DeVault at gretchendevault.com.

In this episode of the Queer Divorce Club podcast, we have the privilege of hearing Candace Lefke's inspiring journey as she recounts her transformative experience of ending her marriage, embarking on a profound healing process, and the remarkable role embodiment played in her recovery.

Candace fearlessly opens up about her break up with her husband, unraveling the complexities and emotions surrounding that pivotal moment in her life. Through vulnerability and resilience, she shares the profound lessons learned and the growth she has experienced since then.

What makes Candace's story truly remarkable is her unwavering commitment to healing and self-discovery. She delves into the transformative power of embodiment—a practice she wholeheartedly embraced to support her journey. Discover how she harnessed this powerful tool to nurture her mind, body, and soul, ultimately paving the way for her profound healing and personal growth.

Join us in this enlightening episode as we dive deep into Candce Lefke's remarkable story of resilience, self-discovery, and the empowering role of embodiment in her healing journey.

Candace Lefke is a Michigan native, currently based in West Michigan with her cat Stu and her two giant dogs. She works as a freelancing Makeup Artist and Stylist for events, photography and commercial work. Having a love for teaching as well, she loves to help queer folx master their own makeup and skincare routines so they can express themselves authentically through body art. She has a passion for the healing arts as well and eventually would love to start coaching other queer people in their healing journeys. Outside of work, Candace loves to be out in the woods, camping or at the beach with friends and family. She also loves to try her hand at anything artistic, and has many projects that she may never finish, but enjoys it anyway.

Follow Candace on Instagram @C.Lee.Artistry.

In this episode of the Queer Divorce Club podcast, Tera talks with Devon Gibby. Devon, a proud gay dad, takes us on a transformative journey that began a decade ago when he courageously started blogging about his life as a closeted Mormon married to a woman. In this deeply personal episode, Devon shares his experiences of navigating the complexities of faith, sexuality, and divorce, ultimately emerging as a passionate advocate for co-parenting. Through his Instagram account, Devon invites us into his world, offering an authentic and relatable glimpse into the joys and challenges of raising his two sons. Join us as we celebrate Devon's unwavering dedication to family and his profound message of love, acceptance, and co-parenting. Tune in now and embark on a powerful journey of self-discovery and resilience.

Welcome to episode 1 of the Queer Divorce Club! In this special edition, Tera's partner takes on the role of interviewer as they delve into Tera's personal journey through divorce, coming out, and her current state of being. The conversation explores the intricacies of Tera's divorce, the emotional challenges encountered along the way, and the ongoing healing process following the end of her marriage and the revelation of her true self. Additionally, they discuss the genesis of the Queer Divorce Club and their shared enthusiasm for fostering this empowering community. Join us for this intimate and inspiring conversation as we kickstart the Queer Divorce Club podcast.

The Queer Divorce Club Podcast is a one-of-a-kind podcast created by and for the LGBTQIA+ Divorce Community. Join us as we embark on a transformative journey together, navigating the intricacies of queer divorce with the guidance of guest experts and individuals who generously share their own stories.

Hosted by Tera Wozniak Stortz, the founder of the Queer Divorce Club, this podcast delves into a multitude of essential topics. From making the difficult decision to end a marriage to crafting a fulfilling life after divorce, we'll explore it all. Prepare to trust your intuition, embrace your identity in the aftermath of divorce, master the art of co-parenting, navigate the intricacies of blending families, prioritize self-care, and gain financial empowerment.

At the heart of it all, we firmly believe that everyone deserves a healthy and vibrant life throughout and beyond the divorce process. The Queer Divorce Club Podcast is here to equip you with the tools, knowledge, and unwavering support necessary to accomplish just that.

Join us on this incredible journey as we discover the resilience within ourselves and build a community where understanding thrives. Together, we'll pave the way to a brighter future.

Remember, your story matters. Let the Queer Divorce Club Podcast be your steadfast companion as you embark on this empowering path towards a vibrant post-divorce life.

To find out more about the Queer Divorce Club visit queerdivorceclub.com