The D Shift

In this episode, Mardi Winder-Adams is joined by Anisa Palmer, whose life and work offer insight into the power of service, resilience, and purpose in the face of significant adversity. Anisa shares the path that led her to become a combat veteran, author, and dedicated social impact leader, with a special focus on health equity for underserved communities. Drawing inspiration from her father's entrepreneurial compassion and her mother's dedication to serving others even during her battle with breast cancer, Anisa learned early on the importance of connecting with and uplifting those around her.

After two tours in Iraq, Anisa felt called to serve in a new way, driven by personal experiences that echoed her mother's influence during her deployment. The loss of her mother to breast cancer at just 38 shaped Anisa's mission, leading her to found I Will Survive, Inc. The organization started by providing a listening ear. It evolved to address the broader needs of cancer survivors and their families, offering everything from food and rental assistance to transportation and crucial mental health resources. Anisa shares information on the mentoring programs and partnerships that help entire families, acknowledging the ripple effect of a cancer diagnosis on loved ones and caregivers.

Through the discussion, Anisa highlights how finding purpose during life's lowest moments can spark personal transformation. She recounts guiding clients through dark times by helping them visualize a life beyond their diagnosis, and she is candid about her own journey through postpartum struggles and divorce. Anisa emphasizes the importance of accessible support, healthy lifestyle choices, and the small steps that foster long-term well-being.

About the Guest:

Anisa Palmer is a combat veteran, author, and social impact leader dedicated to health equity and community empowerment. Born in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, she served two tours in Iraq before founding the nonprofit I Will Survive, Inc. in 2010, inspired by the loss of her mother to breast cancer.

Based in Atlanta, her organization provides economic support, prevention education, and wellness services to those affected by breast cancer. Anisa holds a B.A. in Speech Communications from Georgia State University and an MPA from the University of Central Florida, focusing on nonprofit management and public health. She is also the CEO of Palmer Firm Group, a veteran-owned consultancy offering coaching and nonprofit strategy.

For more information on how to support survivors directly or join our mission to provide wellness kits, emergency funding, and mental health services:

https://www.iwillsurviveinc.org/donate https://www.youtube.com/IWillSurviveChannel

To connect with Anisa:

Organization Website: https://www.iwillsurviveinc.org

Firm Website: https://www.palmerfirmgroup.com

Books by Anisa Palmer: Purpose: The Ultimate Climax https://www.amazon.com/Purpose-Ultimate-Climax-Guide-Finding/dp/1702351017

Nonprofit Success Blueprint: https://www.amazon.com/Purpose-Ultimate-Climax-Guide-Finding/dp/1702351017

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anisapalmer

Facebook Group: I Will Survive, Inc. https://www.facebook.com/iwillsurviveincPage

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/IWillSurviveChannel

About the Host:

Mardi Winder-Adams is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS®) and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneur, and leadership roles, navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and host of Real Divorce Talks, a quarterly series designed to provide education and inspiration to women at all stages of divorce.

Are you interested in learning more about your divorce priorities? Take the quiz "The Divorce Stress Test".

Connect with Mardi on Social Media:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Divorcecoach4women

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mardiwinderadams/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcecoach4women/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@divorcecoach4women

Thanks for Listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast Review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Divorce can be an emotional and financial grind, but there is more left to do to protect your financial future. In this episode, Mardi Winder-Adams welcomes back Gina Phillips, a certified divorce financial analyst (CDFA) and founder of WNY Divorce Financial Advisors. Together, they focus on the often-overlooked period after a divorce is finalized, a time when many people believe the hardest part is behind them, yet find themselves faced with a host of new financial responsibilities. Gina shares her extensive experience in working with women post-divorce, guiding them through critical steps such as handling property deeds, refinancing mortgages, updating beneficiaries, and navigating qualified domestic relations orders (QRDOs) to ensure a secure future.

The conversation covers practical matters like establishing credit, transferring property titles, and the potential pitfalls of neglecting paperwork, which can lead to complicated situations with insurance or retirement accounts. Gina emphasizes the value of post-divorce financial education, encouraging listeners to carefully review settlement agreements and take proactive steps to set up estate plans, change beneficiaries, and address health insurance options. She shares real-life examples that highlight the challenges and sometimes unexpected consequences that can arise after the legal dust settles.

Mardi and Gina also discuss the importance of taking control of your financial identity, understanding your obligations and entitlements, and protecting your family with thoughtful planning. Throughout the episode, Gina’s warmth and clarity shine as she provides reassurance and actionable advice. Listeners are invited to access Gina’s Post Divorce Financial Checklist, ensuring no critical detail is overlooked as they move forward with confidence and independence.

For Gina's YouTube video about QRDOs go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kl94VzR_zc4

About the Guest:

Gina Phillips is the owner of WNY Divorce Financial Advisors, LLC, where she passionately dedicates herself to empowering individuals navigating marital transitions to regain control over their financial well-being. As a skilled liaison between clients and divorce mediators and attorneys, Gina is driven by personal experience and a deep understanding of the challenges that accompany divorce. Her pursuit of certification as a Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA®) demonstrates her commitment to providing comprehensive support.

With over 30 years of experience in auditing and accounting fields, Gina brings a wealth of knowledge to her practice. Her certification as a CDFA® combined with her expertise enables her to offer compassionate and cost-effective assistance. Whether you are in the early stages of considering a divorce or currently navigating the complexities of the legal proceedings, Gina will guide you with empathy and expertise to ensure your transition is as smooth and financially secure as possible.

For Gina’s gift, the Post-Divorce Financial Checklist: https://6214433.hs-sites.com/post-divorce

To connect with Gina:

Linkedln: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-phillips/

Website: https://www.wnydivorcefinancial.com/default.php

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wnydivorcefinancial

About the Host:

Mardi Winder-Adams is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS®) and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneur, and leadership roles, navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and host of Real Divorce Talks, a quarterly series designed to provide education and inspiration to women at all stages of divorce.

Are you interested in learning more about your divorce priorities? Take the quiz "The Divorce Stress Test".

Connect with Mardi on Social Media:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Divorcecoach4women

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mardiwinderadams/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcecoach4women/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@divorcecoach4women

Thanks for Listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the Podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast Review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

In today’s episode, host Mardi Winder-Adams sits down for a warm and thought-provoking conversation with holistic healing expert Eva Vennari, founder of The Elevate Institute.

Eva brings a wealth of experience, blending ancient healing practices with modern science to guide high achievers and change-makers through life’s most challenging transitions. Drawing from her own journey, including the lessons and growth that came out of her divorce, Eva offers listeners real-world wisdom on how to move beyond merely “getting through” difficult times, and start using those periods as opportunities for personal elevation.

Together, Mardi and Eva unpack some of the most common struggles faced during divorce: feeling lost or disempowered, the temptation to put your own growth on hold, and the social pressure to remain relentlessly positive even when you’re hurting. Eva challenges these narratives, advocating for genuine reflection, embracing both our “light” and “dark” selves, and taking the time to get to know who we truly are, both alone and alongside others. She highlights the importance of recognizing divorce not as a failure, but often as a symptom of deeper misalignments, and encourages a process of healing that goes far beyond legal paperwork.

Eva shares a mix of practical strategies and insights, such as the value of sensory deprivation tanks for quieting the mind, the pivotal role of self-forgiveness, and how daily spiritual and energetic “hygiene” can support long-term transformation. Eva introduces us to her unique Essential Energy Quotient (EEQ) test and blueprint, a complimentary resource designed to help you evaluate and take charge of your healing journey.

If you’re ready to trade overwhelm and self-doubt for clarity, empowerment, and a renewed connection to your true self, this episode provides both inspiration and actionable tools. Whether you’re currently moving through a divorce, reflecting on a past breakup, or simply looking to deepen your personal development, this conversation will leave you feeling understood, uplifted, and ready to make your next chapter your most authentic yet.

And don’t miss Eva’s special offer for listeners—a guided EEQ assessment and action plan, available through her website, to help you take your own next steps toward lasting healing and fulfillment. This is an episode full of wisdom, warmth, and hope for anyone navigating major life changes.

About the Guest:

Eva Vennari supports high-achievers who are called to change the world and heal humanity. Founder of The Elevate Institute, she has combined ancient healing practices with the best of today's science to ease and simplify your mission-driven path.

For Eva’s gift, the Essential Energy Quotient Test: https://mailchi.mp/theelevateinstitute.com/essential-energy-quotient-test-eeq

To connect with Eva:

Website: https://theelevateinstitute.com

About the Host:

Mardi Winder-Adams is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS®) and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneurial, and leadership roles, navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and host of Real Divorce Talks, a quarterly series designed to provide education and inspiration to women at all stages of divorce.

Are you interested in learning more about your divorce priorities? Take the quiz "The Divorce Stress Test".

Connect with Mardi on Social Media:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Divorcecoach4women

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mardiwinderadams/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcecoach4women/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@divorcecoach4women

Thanks for Listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the Podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast Review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

In this episode, Mardi Winder-Adams sits down with Kim Schreffler for a compassionate and practical conversation about the journey through divorce and the often-overlooked process of reclaiming one’s identity afterward. Kim draws on her many years supporting others through major transitions, not only as a phone psychic but as a steady presence for those facing some of life’s biggest hurdles. She discusses how divorce is not just a legal or logistical challenge, but truly the end of a chapter, what she calls “the death of a relationship and the life you thought you’d have.”

Together, Mardi and Kim explore why it’s essential to acknowledge and allow room for grief, rather than simply powering through. They touch on the all-too-common struggle of shouldering every responsibility alone, especially for women who may feel pressured to keep the household running smoothly, even as things fall apart. Kim gently encourages listeners to relinquish the idea of being “Superwoman” and instead accept help in both big and small ways, whether someone cooking a meal, folding laundry, or providing emotional support.

Finances are a critical element of moving forward, and Kim shares her own story of financial surprises during her divorce. She stresses the need to organize assets and debts, establish a basic budget, and approach things step by step, always keeping the tasks manageable and allowing for breathing room.

The conversation turns to regaining a sense of self after divorce. Kim recommends small daily acts of kindness, like enjoying a favorite meal on fine china or turning an everyday shower into a small relaxation ritual. Mardi and Kim discuss the value of creating new routines and traditions, particularly if children are involved, and the importance of allowing joy back into life through simple pleasures. They also offer a word of caution about oversharing online, emphasizing privacy and self-protection during this vulnerable time.

Kim closes the conversation with the reminder that, while the light at the end of the tunnel can feel distant, it’s not an illusion and, with time, the future may hold more than you imagined. Both Mardi and Kim provide reassurance and practical tips for anyone moving through divorce, highlighting the small steps and supportive communities that make recovery and renewal possible.

About the Guest:

Kim Schreffler is a passionate advocate for embracing life’s transitions, having experienced firsthand the loss that comes with the end of a relationship and the dreams it represented. She understands that such endings carry real grief and trauma, and acknowledges the pain—recognizing that it "really does suck." Yet, Kim believes in honoring the grieving process and encourages others to not only breathe through the loss, but also to remain open to new beginnings. Through her journey, Kim inspires others to find hope and possibility on the other side of pain, reminding us that when we accept the end of one chapter, we create space for something potentially even better.

To connect with Kim:

Website: https://www.getwithkim.com

About the Host:

Mardi Winder-Adams is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS®) and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneur, and leadership roles, navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and host of Real Divorce Talks, a quarterly series designed to provide education and inspiration to women at all stages of divorce.

Are you interested in learning more about your divorce priorities? Take the quiz "The Divorce Stress Test".

Connect with Mardi on Social Media:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Divorcecoach4women

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mardiwinderadams/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcecoach4women/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@divorcecoach4women

Thanks for Listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the Podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast Review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

In today’s conversation, host Mardi Winder-Adams sits down with Kirstin Carey, a neuroresilience specialist and serial entrepreneur who’s built multiple six- and seven-figure businesses. Together, they dive into the “beyond” side of divorce by exploring the powerful transformations that can happen when women step out of the shadows, find true alignment in their lives, and consider taking bold steps in their careers.

Kirstin shares her personal journey from supporting her first husband’s entrepreneurial ventures and succeeding in the corporate world, to enduring burnout, grappling with autoimmune illness, and finally realizing that true wellness required a dramatic life and career pivot, including her own divorce. Through stories of self-discovery, resilience, and reinvention, Kirstin opens up about the challenges of leaving a relationship that looks perfect on the outside but just isn’t right on the inside, and how trusting your inner voice can lead you to a more fulfilling, energized, and authentic life.

If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s possible to transition from a traditional job, or even out of a difficult chapter of life, into entrepreneurship, this heartfelt episode will offer encouragement, practical insights, and actionable advice for harnessing your own “butterfly moment.” Don’t miss this empowering discussion about healing, daring to dream, and building the business (and life) that truly aligns with who you are.

About the Guest:

Kirstin Carey a neuroresilience specialist and serial entrepreneur who has built multiple six- and seven-figure businesses—brick-and-mortar and online. After leaving her first marriage and healing from two autoimmune conditions, she learned firsthand that success means nothing if burnout takes over. Now, Kirstin helps high achievers master sales, resilience, and balance. With 30+ years of experience, she know this: if selling feels hard, you’re doing it wrong. Let’s change that.

To connect with Kirstin:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirstincarey/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kirstin.carey

Website: http://evolveminded.com

About the Host:

Mardi Winder-Adams is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS®) and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneur, and leadership roles, navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and host of Real Divorce Talks, a quarterly series designed to provide education and inspiration to women at all stages of divorce.

Are you interested in learning more about your divorce priorities? Take the quiz "The Divorce Stress Test".

Connect with Mardi on Social Media:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Divorcecoach4women

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mardiwinderadams/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcecoach4women/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@divorcecoach4women

Thanks for Listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the Podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast Review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

In this episode, Mardi Winder-Adams sits down with relationship coach Ry Duong for a heartfelt conversation about love, loss, and navigating the world of relationships after divorce or heartbreak. Ry shares her deeply personal story of having grown up in a refugee camp after her family fled the Cambodian genocide, reflecting on how those early experiences shaped her perspective on resilience and hope. She also talks openly about losing her sister, a turning point that inspired Ry to turn her pain into purpose by helping others through her work as the founder of Eternal Love.

Throughout the discussion, Ry and Mardi explore what it means to break old, toxic patterns and truly discover who you are after a long-term relationship ends. Ry draws from her own 17-year marriage and shares how, after losing her sense of identity in that partnership, she had to relearn how to put herself first, which is something she encourages her coaching clients to do as well. They talk about how loving yourself, accepting your imperfections, and setting healthy boundaries are the keys to finding happiness and attracting truly compatible partners.

The episode also covers what unconditional love actually looks like, especially when it comes to balancing compassion for a partner with sticking to your own values and non-negotiables. Ry’s advice is down-to-earth and practical, suggesting that anyone coming out of a divorce should take time to reflect before dating seriously again, to heal wounds and get honest about what you really want from a partner. She reminds listeners that it’s okay to take your time, not to rush into something new, and to be aware of patterns that might lead you back into an unhealthy relationship.

Above all, this conversation feels warm, genuine, and encouraging, full of helpful insights for anyone wondering how to move forward after heartbreak, rebuild their confidence, and invite more real connection into their lives. Ry’s optimism and sincerity are evident throughout, and she leaves you with a gentle reminder that you already have what you need to be happy and fulfilled, even before someone else comes along.

About the Guest:

Ry Duong is the Founder of EternaLove and Author of Choose You, Choose Happiness. A passionate Relationship Coach with a background in Social Work, Ry has helped countless individuals and couples break free from toxic patterns and create lasting, meaningful love. Her signature programs boast a 96% success rate, guiding clients toward relationships rooted in passion, joy, and authenticity.

After leaving a 17-year toxic relationship and losing her sister to depression, Ry turned her pain into purpose—founding EternaLove to help others heal, grow, and attract love by becoming their truest selves. Her book reflects her core belief: "When you choose yourself, you teach the world how to love you." Outside of coaching, Ry enjoys beach walks, gardening, and staying active, fully embracing the beauty of the present moment.

For Ry’s gift of a book excerpt: https://cychexcerpt.now.site/

To connect with Ry:

Website: https://eternalove.net

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ry.duong.940?mibextid=ZbWKwL

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@eternalove043

IG: https://www.instagram.com/eternalove43

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eternalove-duong-805626355

About the Host:

Mardi Winder-Adams is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS®) and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneur, and leadership roles, navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and host of Real Divorce Talks, a quarterly series designed to provide education and inspiration to women at all stages of divorce.

Are you interested in learning more about your divorce priorities? Take the quiz "The Divorce Stress Test".

Connect with Mardi on Social Media:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Divorcecoach4women

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mardiwinderadams/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcecoach4women/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@divorcecoach4women

Thanks for Listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the Podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast Review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

This episode of The D Shift highlights the importance of knowing your options, particularly when going through a gray divorce. Mardi Winder-Adams is joined by Laura Phillips, a respected and seasoned reverse mortgage specialist. Together, they explore the realities and misconceptions surrounding reverse mortgages. Laura brings more than three decades of experience in mortgage lending, and her passion for helping older adults navigate this little-understood financial option is evident throughout the conversation.

Laura traces the origins of reverse mortgages to the Reagan era, clarifying that these products are government-regulated loans intended for homeowners aged 62 and older. She dismantles some of the most stubborn myths, like the fear that the government will take away your home or that a you can be left unprotected. Instead, Laura explains, homeowners retain full title, and the loan simply functions as a means to convert home equity into usable cash, either through lump sums, monthly payments, or lines of credit, all without the obligation of a monthly mortgage payment.

They share a practical comparison between reverse mortgages and traditional HELOCs, highlighting how reverse mortgages can be especially useful for those with limited income in retirement, offering flexibility without demanding repayment until the homeowner sells or moves out of the property. Laura also notes recent legislative changes that further protect borrowers, ensuring better safety if both spouses reside in the home.

The discussion extends to considerations for anyone looking to age in place, including the ability to use reverse mortgage funds to modify homes for accessibility or to pay for in-home care. Laura urges listeners to approach these decisions thoughtfully, consult professionals, and always disclose their circumstances honestly, especially when dealing with properties that have rental units or additional occupants.

This episode is a great resource for individuals contemplating their financial future after divorce, widowhood, or simply as part of their retirement planning. Laura’s expertise makes the sometimes-intimidating topic of reverse mortgages feel much more manageable and relevant for anyone seeking clear information on the subject.

About the Guest:

Laura Phillips is a Licensed Reverse Mortgage Specialist with a mission to guide people through the entire HECM/Reverse loan process, so they feel confident about the options available for their next 30-year financial strategy. From helping real estate professionals, customers, and financial advisers navigate home financing, she helps customers find mortgage solutions that work for them. 25+ years of experience in real estate lending have taught Laura that it is not just a person’s house; it’s their home, and it’s one of the most significant financial commitments a person will make in their life.

She helps people devise strategies to enjoy their best years in their family homes. Licensed in Colorado, Arizona, California, and Florida, Laura specializes in the standard FHA HECM and proprietary PortfolioJumbo Reverse loans. As a Broker, she works with several primary reverse lenders, providing loans to enhance a client's cash flow, preserving retirement assets, or purchasing a home that meets future needs. Married 35+ years, a mother of two amazing daughters, and a pet guardian of a rambunctious King Shepherd, a German Shepherd hybrid. Having hailed from many states, all west of the Mississippi and a couple of overseas homes, she gladly calls Colorado home.

To connect with Laura:

Website: https://lauraphillips.com/

Linkedin.com/in/laurawphillips

YouTube.com/@laurawphillips

About the Host:

Mardi Winder-Adams is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS®) and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneur, and leadership roles, navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and host of Real Divorce Talks, a quarterly series designed to provide education and inspiration to women at all stages of divorce.

Are you interested in learning more about your divorce priorities? Take the quiz "The Divorce Stress Test".

Connect with Mardi on Social Media:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Divorcecoach4women

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mardiwinderadams/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcecoach4women/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@divorcecoach4women

Thanks for Listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the Podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast Review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

In this episode, Mardi Winder-Adams has an uplifting conversation with Stephanie McPhail, who is not only a certified crisis counselor but also someone who has been through the highs and lows of divorce. Stephanie shares how, despite looking like she had it all together as an accomplished teacher and professional, she was struggling behind closed doors in a difficult and even abusive marriage. Her story will resonate with anyone who's ever felt isolated, embarrassed, or stuck in the idea that they must keep up appearances while holding things together.

Stephanie talks about how easy it is to get trapped in comparison, whether it's looking at others in equally unhealthy relationships or scrolling through social media and seeing everyone's happy posts while you're feeling lost or overwhelmed. She discusses the pressure, especially on high-achievers, to pretend everything is fine, even when it's not, simply because opening up can feel risky or shameful. Mardi adds from her experience as a divorce coach and advocate, reinforcing how common these feelings are, and they both agree that the secrecy and pressure to handle everything alone can make things so much harder than they need to be.

They also break down some of the traps people fall into during and after divorce, like waiting until things are legally finalized before reaching out for support, or expecting your lawyer to guide you through emotional healing, when you may need someone who understands the whole picture. Stephanie introduces the Divorce Support Network, a practical resource she co-founded that matches people with specifically vetted professionals, from financial advisors and therapists to real estate agents and mechanics. The goal is to make sure nobody has to fumble through the process alone, so you can spend less time worrying about where to turn and more time focusing on your own well-being and future.

Throughout the conversation, there's a reassuring message: however you're feeling right now, you're not alone, and it is possible to create a new, fulfilling chapter after divorce. With the right kind of help and community, the process doesn't have to be isolating or overwhelming.

About the Guest:

Stephanie McPhail is a Love and Life Success Coach and Co-Founder of the largest Divorce Support Network in the United States. She is a certified Crisis Counselor and Coach with a Double Masters Degree in Health and Education and a Bachelors in Psychology. Bringing together people thinking of/going through/on the other side of divorce with trusted professionals to support them through one of the most stressful time of their lives to help ensure they don't make the same mistakes moving forward and instead create a life they love.

To connect with Stephanie:

Website: https://divorcesupportnetwork.com/

All the socials: @divorcesupportnetwork

About the Host:

Mardi Winder-Adams is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS®) and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneur, and leadership roles, navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and host of Real Divorce Talks, a quarterly series designed to provide education and inspiration to women at all stages of divorce.

Are you interested in learning more about your divorce priorities? Take the quiz "The Divorce Stress Test".

Connect with Mardi on Social Media:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Divorcecoach4women

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mardiwinderadams/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcecoach4women/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@divorcecoach4women

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Welcome back to another episode of The D Shift: Redefining Divorce and Beyond. Today, host Mardi Winder-Adams is joined by business coach and expert Wendy Vaughan, who brings nearly three decades of experience helping heart-centered entrepreneurs turn their passion into thriving, meaningful businesses. In this episode, Wendy shares her journey from aspiring professional musician to successful business owner, offering a refreshingly honest look at the challenges and the breakthroughs that come with starting over, especially after a major life transition like divorce.

Together, Mardi and Wendy dive into the unique hurdles women face when launching or scaling a business during periods of upheaval, unpacking issues around self-worth, confidence, and clarity. Wendy provides practical strategies for discovering your superpowers, identifying your true audience, and building a business that both sustains you and lights you up inside. Whether you’re considering turning a side hustle into your main source of income or simply seeking inspiration to move forward after a difficult chapter, this conversation is packed with insights, hope, and a free resource to help you begin your own journey to success. Tune in for an episode filled with real talk, actionable advice, and a reminder that you already have what it takes to live the life you truly desire.

About the Guest:

Wendy Vaughan is a Business Coach with 29 years of business development experience. Having made her first million by the age of 30 as an entrepreneur, and helped others to generate over $14.8 million in revenue. Wendy is passionate about helping heart-centered experts make the biggest impact they envision and build businesses they love.

To get Wendy’s gift: https://passiontosixfigures.com/six-figure-business-blueprint

To connect with Wendy:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-vaughan-business-coach/

Website: https://impact-makercoaching.com/

Website: https://www.predictablesalesresults.com/

About the Host:

Mardi Winder-Adams is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS®) and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneur, and leadership roles, navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and host of Real Divorce Talks, a quarterly series designed to provide education and inspiration to women at all stages of divorce.

Are you interested in learning more about your divorce priorities? Take the quiz "The Divorce Stress Test".

Connect with Mardi on Social Media:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Divorcecoach4women

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mardiwinderadams/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcecoach4women/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@divorcecoach4women

Thanks for Listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the Podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast Review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

On this episode, I sit down for an inspiring conversation with Ken Miller, whose story is both moving and full of hope. Ken is an author, speaker, and resilience coach who has faced just about every challenge life can throw at a person. Growing up in foster care and later experiencing a turbulent family life, Ken went from being a promising Ivy League student to living on the streets and spending years behind bars. His journey through addiction and life on the streets is not something he hides. Instead, Ken shares it openly because he believes owning your story is the first step in moving forward.

Throughout the episode, Ken talks about how he found his way out of that dark place by getting real with himself. He shares that telling yourself the truth is essential, even when it's painful. Ken also shares how big a role forgiveness played in his healing process. Ken makes it clear that forgiveness isn't just for the people who have hurt you, but also for yourself. We reflect on the idea that everyone's journey is different, and that there's no set timetable for feeling better after hitting rock bottom. Ken reveals that for him, becoming whole again took years, but it started with a little step, including getting outside his pain, finding supportive people to talk to, and learning to quiet the negative self-talk.

We also highlight how important it is not to compare your pain or struggles to someone else's. No matter what you've gone through, your feelings are real and valid. Ken's message is simple: you have value and are worthy of a better future. Even if you're carrying a lot of pain or regret, you can begin again, and sometimes helping others or reaching out for support is what helps you most. Ken's book, Becoming Ken, weaves these lessons together, offering hope that, with honesty, a willingness to face the truth, and the courage to keep going, it is possible to transform your life one step at a time.

About the Guest:

Ken Miller is a powerful speaker, author, and resilience coach who helps people overcome adversity by embracing truth, courage, and self-worth. After battling addiction and hitting rock bottom, Ken rebuilt his life with honesty and purpose—and now shares that hard-won wisdom to inspire others. With a background in nonprofit leadership and a deep commitment to recovery and transformation, Ken speaks from experience, not theory.

His story is raw, real, and deeply human, resonating with audiences who are ready to face their own struggles and rise stronger. On stage and behind the mic, Ken delivers more than inspiration—he offers practical tools, mindset shifts, and a path to lasting change. Whether speaking about addiction, authenticity, or the power of resilience, Ken connects with listeners profoundly, reminding them that no matter how far they've fallen, there's always a way forward—starting with the truth.

To connect with Ken:

Website: www.kenmillerspeaks.com

Personal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ken.miller.10420321

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekenmillerspeaks/

Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenmiller84/

About the Host:

Mardi Winder-Adams is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS®) and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneur, and leadership roles, navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and host of Real Divorce Talks, a quarterly series designed to provide education and inspiration to women at all stages of divorce.

Are you interested in learning more about your divorce priorities? Take the quiz "The Divorce Stress Test".

Connect with Mardi on Social Media:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Divorcecoach4women

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mardiwinderadams/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcecoach4women/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@divorcecoach4women

Thanks for Listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the Podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast Review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.