The Divorce and Beyond® Podcast with Susan Guthrie, Esq.

When most people think about divorce, they picture the legal process. They imagine paperwork, lawyers, and courtrooms. But the reality is that divorce often begins long before any legal step is taken.

In this episode, Susan Guthrie sits down with Erin Levine, founder of Hello Divorce, to talk about the stage of divorce that almost no one talks about: the years of uncertainty before a decision is ever made.

For many people, the hardest part of divorce is not the legal process itself. It is the emotional limbo that happens beforehand. The sleepless nights. The constant questioning. The fear about what life might look like on the other side.

Susan and Erin explore why so many people spend years wrestling with the decision to leave a marriage, what happens emotionally during that time, and how having the right information and support can dramatically change the experience.

If you are currently wondering whether to stay or go, this episode will help you understand that what you are feeling is incredibly common and that there are ways to move forward with more clarity and less fear.

• Why many people contemplate divorce for three to five years before taking action

• Why the emotional uncertainty before divorce can be the most exhausting stage

• How lack of information often keeps people stuck in limbo

• Why most divorces do not need to become courtroom battles

• How mediation and other structured processes can help families move through divorce more constructively

• Why preparation and clarity can dramatically change divorce outcomes

Divorce often begins years before anyone files paperwork. Many people spend long periods quietly struggling with whether their marriage can be saved or whether it is time to move on.

The constant question of whether to stay or leave can take an enormous emotional toll. By the time someone actually moves forward with divorce, they may already feel mentally and emotionally exhausted.

Fear thrives in uncertainty. When people begin learning about their options and understanding the divorce process, they are able to make decisions from a place of knowledge rather than panic.

Many couples are able to resolve their divorce through mediation or negotiated agreements outside of court. Understanding these options can significantly reduce conflict and stress.

• Divorce itself is often not what breaks people. It is the years of uncertainty leading up to the decision.

• Many people live in emotional limbo for years before they ever speak to a professional about divorce.

• When people have access to information and structured support, they are far more likely to resolve their divorce outside of court.

• Preparation and clarity allow people to approach divorce more thoughtfully and with less fear.

• Divorce does not have to be a battle. With the right guidance, it can be a transition toward a healthier future.

Hello Divorce is a modern platform designed to support people before, during, and beyond divorce. The platform provides legal information, tools, and access to professionals who help individuals navigate divorce more thoughtfully and constructively.

Explore resources created specifically for Divorce & Beyond listeners:

HelloDivorce.com/Susan

If you are currently in the stage of wondering whether divorce might be the right path, Susan has created a resource to help you begin thinking through the process with greater clarity.

The Divorce Clarity Starter Guide is designed for people who are in the early stages of considering divorce and want to better understand their options before making major decisions.

Inside the guide you will find:

• Questions to help you clarify what is really happening in your relationship

• Practical steps to take before making legal decisions

• Insight into different divorce paths, including mediation

• Guidance to help you approach this transition thoughtfully rather than reactively

Download the free Divorce Clarity Starter Guide here:

https://divorceandbeyondpod.com/latest-episode

Treat yourself to luxury skincare, makeup, and fragrance favorites from Blue Mercury, your destination for beauty and self-care. Divorce & Beyond listeners receive 15% off their first order when they use the special link in the show notes. Because you deserve to look and feel your best,  inside and out.

You must use this link to receive the 15% off on your first Blue Mercury order: https://divorcebeyond.com/Blue-Mercury

Erin’s innovative, disruptive approach to how Americans interact with the law make her both a loved and feared force in the legal world. With her groundbreaking divorce navigator platform, she’s revolutionizing the broken divorce process, making it affordable and available to everyone. Erin’s access to justice work has been recognized by the legal industry and beyond, with awards and recognition from the likes of Women Founders Network, Forbes, Entrepreneur, and the American Bar Association. And though she’s been a sought-after family law attorney for more than 16 years, she vows to never practice law again.

Website: https://hellodivorce.com/

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

Erin's past episodes on Divorce & Beyond:

The FYI on DIY Divorce from the Founder and CEO of Hello Divorce, Erin Levine

If this episode resonates with you, be sure to:

Follow Us Online:

Susan E. Guthrie®, Esq. is one of the nation’s leading family law and mediation experts, with more than 35 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate divorce and conflict with clarity and compassion. She is the Immediate Past Chair of the American Bar Association Section of Dispute Resolution, a best-selling author, and a sought-after speaker, trainer, and practice-building consultant.

Susan recently appeared as the featured expert on The Oprah Podcast, where she shared her insights on gray divorce and the changing landscape of relationships. Her expertise has also been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, The Washington Post, NewsNation, and NBC’s Chicago Today, among many others.

As the creator and host of the award-winning Divorce & Beyond® Podcast, ranked in the top 1% of all podcasts worldwide with more than 3.4 million downloads, Susan brings together top experts and powerful personal stories to help listeners move through divorce and beyond with confidence, insight, and hope.

Learn more about Susan and her work at susaneguthrie.com.

Divorce & Beyond is a Top 1% Overall and Top 100 Self-Help podcast designed to help you with all you need to know to navigate your divorce journey and most importantly, to thrive in your beautiful beyond!  

Whether you're a podcaster looking to expand your reach or an expert ready to share your insights, Divorce & Beyond offers the perfect platform to amplify your voice.  Find out more here: https://divorceandbeyondpod.com/guest-opportunities

DISCLAIMER:  THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE.  YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE WITH RESPECT TO ANY PARTICULAR ISSUE OR PROBLEM

When people talk about gray divorce, the conversation usually focuses on the couple: finances, retirement, and starting over later in life. But there is another group deeply affected by these late in life separations that often goes overlooked: adult children.

The divorce rate for couples over 50 has more than doubled in recent decades, and as more long term marriages end later in life, families are navigating a transition many never expected. Even when children are fully grown, the divorce of their parents can reshape family dynamics, create loyalty conflicts, and disrupt long standing family roles.

In this episode of the Divorce & Beyond Podcast, Susan Guthrie welcomes back Carol Hughes, co author of the groundbreaking book Home Will Never Be the Same Again. Carol first joined the podcast in 2021 with co author Bruce Fredenburg to discuss their research on adult children of gray divorce. She returns to share updated insights from both research and real world experiences about how adult children are affected when their parents divorce later in life.

Together, Susan and Carol explore why gray divorce can be more emotionally disruptive for adult children than many parents realize, the common mistakes parents unintentionally make during this transition, and the powerful ways families can protect relationships even as the family structure changes.

This is an essential conversation for anyone navigating divorce after 50, adult children trying to understand their parents’ separation, or professionals working with families where gray divorce is reshaping the entire family system.

• Why gray divorce affects the entire family, not just the couple

If you want to explore this topic further, be sure to read the companion blog article for this episode on the Divorce & Beyond website.

You can also download Susan’s practical guide:

How to Tell Your Adult Children You Are Getting Divorced: A Conversation Planning Guide

This supportive resource helps parents prepare for one of the most difficult conversations families face during gray divorce, with insights on what adult children often experience, what to say, what to avoid, and how to approach the conversation with empathy and care.

Visit the blog page for this episode at DivorceAndBeyondPod.com to read the article and download the guide.

Carol Hughes holds her doctorate in Clinical Psychology, achieving both summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa honors. She is also a two-time Fulbright Scholar. In 2003, Carol was a co-founder of Collaborative Divorce Solutions of Orange County, an interdisciplinary practice group of divorce professionals dedicated to respectful, peaceful divorce solutions for families. In her practice in Laguna Hills, CA, as a California licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and family-focused divorce professional, for more than thirty years, she has assisted hundreds of divorcing families as a therapist, child and co-parenting specialist, divorce coach, and mediator.

Website: http://divorcepeacemaking.com

Carol’s Workbook for Parents Going Through Gray Divorce:

https://divorcepeacemaking.com/register-for-a-free-gift/

Gray Divorce: What It Takes. What It Gives Back. With Maryjane Sweet

Today's episode has a companion blog article where Susan breaks down the key insights on gray divorce and the impact on adult children. Read it and share it with someone who may need it at divorceandbeyondpod.com.

If this episode resonates with you, be sure to:

Follow Us Online:

Susan E. Guthrie®, Esq. is one of the nation’s leading family law and mediation experts, with more than 35 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate divorce and conflict with clarity and compassion. She is the Immediate Past Chair of the American Bar Association Section of Dispute Resolution, a best-selling author, and a sought-after speaker, trainer, and practice-building consultant.

Susan recently appeared as the featured expert on The Oprah Podcast, where she shared her insights on gray divorce and the changing landscape of relationships. Her expertise has also been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, The Washington Post, NewsNation, and NBC’s Chicago Today, among many others.

As the creator and host of the award-winning Divorce & Beyond® Podcast, ranked in the top 1% of all podcasts worldwide with more than 3.4 million downloads, Susan brings together top experts and powerful personal stories to help listeners move through divorce and beyond with confidence, insight, and hope.

Learn more about Susan and her work at susaneguthrie.com.

Divorce & Beyond is a Top 1% Overall and Top 100 Self-Help podcast designed to help you with all you need to know to navigate your divorce journey and most importantly, to thrive in your beautiful beyond!  

*****************************************************************************

Looking for a clearer and more affordable way to move through your divorce? Check out Hello Divorce. Their guided online platform combines easy-to-follow tools with real legal and coaching support to help you complete your divorce with less stress, less confusion, and far lower costs than a traditional courtroom battle.

They have created a special page just for Divorce & Beyond listeners. Explore your options at hellodivorce.com/susan.

*****************************************************************************

YUMIYU Jewelry is Susan’s favorite source for meaningful, handcrafted jewelry designed to empower women and celebrate individuality. Each piece is made with care, using high-quality materials like real gold and vermeil, and is water-resistant, non-tarnish, and hypoallergenic.

During difficult times, like divorce, wearing a symbol of hope or protection—such as a hamsa or an evil eye—can be a comforting reminder to keep the faith and stay strong.

As a special gift to my listeners, YUMIYU Jewelry is offering 20% off your purchase! Use the code "BEYOND" at checkout to claim your discount.

Explore their stunning collection at yumiyujewelry.com and find your perfect piece today!

Link: https://divorcebeyond.com/YUMIYU  Code: “BEYOND” for 20% off!

*****************************************************************************

Whether you're a podcaster looking to expand your reach or an expert ready to share your insights, Divorce & Beyond offers the perfect platform to amplify your voice.  Find out more here: https://divorceandbeyondpod.com/guest-opportunities

*****************************************************************************

DISCLAIMER:  THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE.  YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE WITH RESPECT TO ANY PARTICULAR ISSUE OR PROBLEM

Time is supposed to heal everything. But for the millions of people navigating divorce after betrayal, that promise falls flat. They're functioning, managing the kids, showing up to work, doing all the things, and still carrying the weight of something that happened years, sometimes decades, ago. Fine, it turns out, is not the same as healed.

In this powerful episode, Susan Guthrie welcomes back Dr. Debi Silber, founder of the Post Betrayal Transformation Institute and author of the new book Unstuck:The Practitioner's Guide to Moving Betrayal Clients from Survival to Transformation. Together, they unpack why so many people who have experienced betrayal, whether infidelity, financial deception, or the shattering of expectations that comes with divorce itself, get trapped in a cycle that looks like survival but feels like anything but living. Dr. Debi's research, drawn from over 100,000 people tested, reveals that healing from betrayal is not just possible. It is predictable.

This conversation is for anyone who has ever asked, "Why am I still not over this?" Whether you are in the middle of a divorce, just discovering a betrayal, or years out and still feeling its grip, the lessons in this episode apply. It is also essential listening for the legal professionals, coaches, therapists, and mediators who want to understand what is truly going on beneath the surface.

Dr. Debi Silber, Founder and CEO of The PBT (Post Betrayal Transformation) Institute and National Forgiveness Day, is an award-winning speaker and 2-time #1 International bestselling author. Her podcast, From Betrayal to Breakthrough, ranks in the top 1.5% globally. Her groundbreaking PhD study revealed 3 discoveries that completely revolutionized our understanding of betrayal-and how to achieve full healing physically, mentally, and emotionally. Creator of the world's #1 betrayal recovery certification for life, business, health, and leadership coaches, Dr. Debi equips practitioners globally with her evidence-based framework so they can deliver exponentially better results with their existing clients. Featured on FOX, CBS, The Dr. Oz Show, and TEDx (twice), she equips practitioners with the missing framework-helping them move from uncertainty to confidence, from using general tools that keep clients stuck to specialized approaches that create genuine transformation.

Website: http://thepbtinstitute.com

If this episode resonated and you are ready to start moving from stuck to unstuck, download Susan's free guided workbook, Rebuilding Self-Trust After Betrayal. It walks you step by step through where self-trust was shaken, how to reset your boundaries, and how to begin the deliberate work of healing. 

Download the guide here: https://6091f38a-6f36-42ef-8f98-d1cf174bdc28.lovableproject.com/episode/b2a06e0a-b3e1-42f6-b9b8-2f1889c9577c#resource

If this episode resonates with you, be sure to:

Follow Us Online:

Susan E. Guthrie®, Esq. is one of the nation’s leading family law and mediation experts, with more than 35 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate divorce and conflict with clarity and compassion. She is the Immediate Past Chair of the American Bar Association Section of Dispute Resolution, a best-selling author, and a sought-after speaker, trainer, and practice-building consultant.

Susan recently appeared as the featured expert on The Oprah Podcast, where she shared her insights on gray divorce and the changing landscape of relationships. Her expertise has also been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, The Washington Post, NewsNation, and NBC’s Chicago Today, among many others.

As the creator and host of the award-winning Divorce & Beyond® Podcast, ranked in the top 1% of all podcasts worldwide with more than 3.4 million downloads, Susan brings together top experts and powerful personal stories to help listeners move through divorce and beyond with confidence, insight, and hope.

Learn more about Susan and her work at susaneguthrie.com.

Divorce & Beyond is a Top 1% Overall and Top 100 Self-Help podcast designed to help you with all you need to know to navigate your divorce journey and most importantly, to thrive in your beautiful beyond!  

*****************************************************************************

Looking for a clearer and more affordable way to move through your divorce? Check out Hello Divorce. Their guided online platform combines easy-to-follow tools with real legal and coaching support to help you complete your divorce with less stress, less confusion, and far lower costs than a traditional courtroom battle.

They have created a special page just for Divorce & Beyond listeners. Explore your options at hellodivorce.com/susan.

*****************************************************************************

Treat yourself to luxury skincare, makeup, and fragrance favorites from Blue Mercury, your destination for beauty and self-care. Divorce & Beyond listeners receive 15% off their first order when they use the special link in the show notes. Because you deserve to look and feel your best,  inside and out.

You must use this link to receive the 15% off on your first Blue Mercury order: https://divorcebeyond.com/Blue-Mercury

*****************************************************************************

Opportunities for Expert Guests and Fellow Podcasters

Whether you're a podcaster looking to expand your reach or an expert ready to share your insights, Divorce & Beyond offers the perfect platform to amplify your voice.  Find out more here: https://divorceandbeyondpod.com/guest-opportunities

*****************************************************************************

DISCLAIMER:  THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE.  YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE WITH RESPECT TO ANY PARTICULAR ISSUE OR PROBLEM

Divorce does not always change living arrangements overnight. Many couples file for divorce, expect everything to shift, and then walk back into the same home… with the same routines… and often even more tension than before. Living under the same roof after deciding a marriage is over can quickly become emotionally volatile if it is not handled intentionally.

That is why Susan Guthrie welcomes back divorce and co-parenting coach Jenny Stevens. Together, they break down what it really takes to live under the same roof while divorcing, including how to create boundaries, communicate without escalating, and protect your emotional stability during a phase that can feel like navigating a daily minefield.

This conversation explores the practical realities of cohabiting during divorce and why structure, communication, and intentional boundaries are essential to getting through this transitional period without creating additional conflict or long-term damage.

Jenny Stevens is a divorce and life transition coach known as The Champion of Change. Based in Chicago and working with clients nationwide, she helps individuals navigate divorce, co-parenting, and major life transitions with clarity and confidence.

With a Master’s in Professional Counseling, advanced training in conflict management and communication, and mediation training from Northwestern University, Jenny brings both clinical insight and real-world strategy to her work. She specializes in helping clients establish healthy boundaries, improve communication, and move through change in a way that protects their well-being and their children.

WATCH THE EPISOE ON YOUTUBE

Website: http://www.jennystevenscoach.com

What a Tsunami of Hard Times Taught Jenny Stevens About Surfing Life’s Changes

If you are navigating divorce while still living under the same roof, you do not have to figure this out alone. Access the companion blog and downloadable guide specifically for this phase called The Under One Roof Divorce Survival Guide.

Inside, you’ll find the seven ground rules we discussed in this episode, along with practical worksheets you can use immediately to clarify boundaries, reset expectations, and reduce unnecessary conflict in your home.

This guide will help you create structure, protect your peace, and move through this chapter with intention.

Read the blog and download the guide here.

https://divorceandbeyondpod.com/latest-episode

If this episode resonates with you, be sure to:

Follow Us Online:

Susan E. Guthrie®, Esq. is one of the nation’s leading family law and mediation experts, with more than 35 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate divorce and conflict with clarity and compassion. She is the Immediate Past Chair of the American Bar Association Section of Dispute Resolution, a best-selling author, and a sought-after speaker, trainer, and practice-building consultant.

Susan recently appeared as the featured expert on The Oprah Podcast, where she shared her insights on gray divorce and the changing landscape of relationships. Her expertise has also been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, The Washington Post, NewsNation, and NBC’s Chicago Today, among many others.

As the creator and host of the award-winning Divorce & Beyond® Podcast, ranked in the top 1% of all podcasts worldwide with more than 3.4 million downloads, Susan brings together top experts and powerful personal stories to help listeners move through divorce and beyond with confidence, insight, and hope.

Learn more about Susan and her work at susaneguthrie.com.

Divorce & Beyond is a Top 1% Overall and Top 100 Self-Help podcast designed to help you with all you need to know to navigate your divorce journey and most importantly, to thrive in your beautiful beyond!  

*****************************************************************************

Looking for a clearer and more affordable way to move through your divorce? Check out Hello Divorce. Their guided online platform combines easy-to-follow tools with real legal and coaching support to help you complete your divorce with less stress, less confusion, and far lower costs than a traditional courtroom battle.

They have created a special page just for Divorce & Beyond listeners. Explore your options at hellodivorce.com/susan.

*****************************************************************************

YUMIYU Jewelry is Susan’s favorite source for meaningful, handcrafted jewelry designed to empower women and celebrate individuality. Each piece is made with care, using high-quality materials like real gold and vermeil, and is water-resistant, non-tarnish, and hypoallergenic.

During difficult times, like divorce, wearing a symbol of hope or protection—such as a hamsa or an evil eye—can be a comforting reminder to keep the faith and stay strong.

As a special gift to my listeners, YUMIYU Jewelry is offering 20% off your purchase! Use the code "BEYOND" at checkout to claim your discount.

Explore their stunning collection at yumiyujewelry.com and find your perfect piece today!

Link: https://divorcebeyond.com/YUMIYU  Code: “BEYOND” for 20% off!

*****************************************************************************

Opportunities for Expert Guests and Fellow Podcasters

Whether you're a podcaster looking to expand your reach or an expert ready to share your insights, Divorce & Beyond offers the perfect platform to amplify your voice.  Find out more here: https://divorceandbeyondpod.com/guest-opportunities

*****************************************************************************

DISCLAIMER:  THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE.  YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE WITH RESPECT TO ANY PARTICULAR ISSUE OR PROBLEM

Susan Guthrie welcomes special guest Michelle Farris for a powerful conversation about codependency, the hidden dynamic beneath many struggling relationships. Michelle is a licensed psychotherapist, codependency expert, and anger management specialist. Together, they explore what codependency really is, why it often begins in childhood, and how it can quietly shape both a marriage and the way a divorce unfolds.

Susan and Michelle unpack the patterns of overgiving, overfunctioning, and self-sacrifice that leave so many people depleted and resentful, often without fully understanding why. They also explore why anger can erupt during divorce, how long-standing relationship patterns repeat when left unexamined, and what it takes to begin building boundaries and self-trust moving forward.

This conversation is especially meaningful for anyone who feels stuck in one-sided relationships, struggles to say no, or wonders why they keep giving more than they receive. It offers an honest, practical look at how recognizing codependency can change not only your divorce, but everything that comes after it.

Michelle Farris is a psychotherapist, codependency expert, and anger management specialist with a passion for helping people break free from codependent patterns and manage emotions with confidence. She's been featured in several online publications and podcasts, known for her down-to-earth approach and expertise. Through her online courses and digital resources, she teaches practical tools for codependency recovery, emotional regulation, self-trust, and lasting relationship success.

Website: https://counselingrecovery.com

Grab Michelle’s Free Resource: 7 Steps to Healing One-sided Relationships https://counselingrecovery.lpages.co/codependent-relationship-freebie/

If this conversation is resonating with you, Susan has created a companion blog and downloadable resource, The Codependent Divorce Mistakes That Cost You Thousands.

It includes a Divorce Boundaries Planning Worksheet to help you define your limits, recognize your emotional triggers, and approach your divorce from a more grounded and confident place.

Read the blog post and download the worksheet here.

https://divorceandbeyondpod.com/latest-episode

If this episode resonates with you, be sure to:

Follow Us Online:

Susan E. Guthrie®, Esq. is one of the nation’s leading family law and mediation experts, with more than 35 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate divorce and conflict with clarity and compassion. She is the Immediate Past Chair of the American Bar Association Section of Dispute Resolution, a best-selling author, and a sought-after speaker, trainer, and practice-building consultant.

Susan recently appeared as the featured expert on The Oprah Podcast, where she shared her insights on gray divorce and the changing landscape of relationships. Her expertise has also been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, The Washington Post, NewsNation, and NBC’s Chicago Today, among many others.

As the creator and host of the award-winning Divorce & Beyond® Podcast, ranked in the top 1% of all podcasts worldwide with more than 3.4 million downloads, Susan brings together top experts and powerful personal stories to help listeners move through divorce and beyond with confidence, insight, and hope.

Learn more about Susan and her work at susaneguthrie.com.

Divorce & Beyond is a Top 1% Overall and Top 100 Self-Help podcast designed to help you with all you need to know to navigate your divorce journey and most importantly, to thrive in your beautiful beyond!  

*****************************************************************************

Looking for a clearer and more affordable way to move through your divorce? Check out Hello Divorce. Their guided online platform combines easy-to-follow tools with real legal and coaching support to help you complete your divorce with less stress, less confusion, and far lower costs than a traditional courtroom battle.

They have created a special page just for Divorce & Beyond listeners. Explore your options at hellodivorce.com/susan.

*****************************************************************************

Treat yourself to luxury skincare, makeup, and fragrance favorites from Blue Mercury, your destination for beauty and self-care. Divorce & Beyond listeners receive 15% off their first order when they use the special link in the show notes. Because you deserve to look and feel your best,  inside and out.

You must use this link to receive the 15% off on your first Blue Mercury order: https://divorcebeyond.com/Blue-Mercury

*****************************************************************************

Opportunities for Expert Guests and Fellow Podcasters

Whether you're a podcaster looking to expand your reach or an expert ready to share your insights, Divorce & Beyond offers the perfect platform to amplify your voice.  Find out more here: https://divorceandbeyondpod.com/guest-opportunities

*****************************************************************************

DISCLAIMER:  THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE.  YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE WITH RESPECT TO ANY PARTICULAR ISSUE OR PROBLEM

Divorce season is in full swing, and for many listeners, that means overwhelm, fear, and financial uncertainty. Susan Guthrie welcomes back two of her favorite returning experts, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan of My Divorce Solution, to talk about what truly matters in the earliest days of divorce: financial clarity before legal action.

Divorce may be a legal process, but in the beginning, it feels emotional and financial. Fear can drive rushed decisions. Anger can fuel unnecessary conflict. And too often, people hire attorneys before they understand what they actually own, owe, or need. Karen and Catherine specialize in helping individuals slow down, gather the facts, and understand what is truly in the marital “pie” before anyone starts slicing it up.

Through their structured preparation platform and signature MDS Financial Portrait™, they help people turn panic into power and confusion into confidence. This conversation is about avoiding early mistakes, preventing unnecessary legal costs, and building a foundation that supports smart, informed decisions from day one.

Episode Blog Article:  What Is the #1 Financial Mistake Before Filing for Divorce?

Free Episode Resource: Before You File: Divorce Financial Readiness Checklist

Catherine Shanahan, CDFA

Karen Chellew, Legal Liaison 

My Divorce Solution

The MDS Financial Portrait™ is a compilation of data and financial records utilizing the family’s key and supporting documentation.  The MDS Financial Portrait provides a clear neutral snapshot of the family’s marital and non-marital estate for purposes of determining alimony, child support, and the division of assets and liabilities.  This comprehensive Portrait can then be used by divorce professionals as verification of marital/non-marital assets, and the blueprint when considering various scenarios, alternatives and the resulting implications of any financial decisions.

Our services, specialties and certifications help individuals and couples develop a transparent and comprehensive financial plan that will optimize the outcome of their divorce.  We meet with couples in our virtual office so we can assist you no matter where you live!

Website: http://mydivorcesolution.com

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

Podcast: https://mydivorcesolution.com/we-chat-divorce-podcast/

If this episode resonates with you, be sure to:

Follow Us Online:

Susan E. Guthrie®, Esq. is one of the nation’s leading family law and mediation experts, with more than 35 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate divorce and conflict with clarity and compassion. She is the Immediate Past Chair of the American Bar Association Section of Dispute Resolution, a best-selling author, and a sought-after speaker, trainer, and practice-building consultant.

Susan recently appeared as the featured expert on The Oprah Podcast, where she shared her insights on gray divorce and the changing landscape of relationships. Her expertise has also been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, The Washington Post, NewsNation, and NBC’s Chicago Today, among many others.

As the creator and host of the award-winning Divorce & Beyond® Podcast, ranked in the top 1% of all podcasts worldwide with more than 3.4 million downloads, Susan brings together top experts and powerful personal stories to help listeners move through divorce and beyond with confidence, insight, and hope.

Learn more about Susan and her work at susaneguthrie.com.

Divorce & Beyond is a Top 1% Overall and Top 100 Self-Help podcast designed to help you with all you need to know to navigate your divorce journey and most importantly, to thrive in your beautiful beyond!  

*****************************************************************************

Looking for a clearer and more affordable way to move through your divorce? Check out Hello Divorce. Their guided online platform combines easy-to-follow tools with real legal and coaching support to help you complete your divorce with less stress, less confusion, and far lower costs than a traditional courtroom battle.

They have created a special page just for Divorce & Beyond listeners. Explore your options at hellodivorce.com/susan.

*****************************************************************************

During difficult times, like divorce, wearing a symbol of hope or protection—such as a hamsa or an evil eye—can be a comforting reminder to keep the faith and stay strong.

As a special gift to my listeners, YUMIYU Jewelry is offering 20% off your purchase! Use the code "BEYOND" at checkout to claim your discount.

Explore their stunning collection at yumiyujewelry.com and find your perfect piece today!

Link: https://divorcebeyond.com/YUMIYU  Code: “BEYOND” for 20% off!

*****************************************************************************

Opportunities for Expert Guests and Fellow Podcasters

Whether you're a podcaster looking to expand your reach or an expert ready to share your insights, Divorce & Beyond offers the perfect platform to amplify your voice.  Find out more here: https://divorceandbeyondpod.com/guest-opportunities

*****************************************************************************

DISCLAIMER:  THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE.  YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE WITH RESPECT TO ANY PARTICULAR ISSUE OR PROBLEM

Dating again in midlife can stir up a mix of curiosity, hope, and very real hesitation. After divorce, it’s not just about meeting someone new, it’s about trusting your instincts and believing that love can feel different this time. Susan Guthrie welcomes back one of Divorce & Beyond’s most trusted and favorite guests, Bela Gandhi, for an honest, encouraging conversation about what it truly takes to move from fear to confidence when dating again in midlife.

Known as America’s go-to dating coach and beloved by the Divorce & Beyond community, Bela brings warmth, optimism, and refreshingly practical wisdom to a chapter that often feels overwhelming. Together, Susan and Bela unpack why midlife dating can actually be better than ever, how to stop repeating old patterns that no longer serve you, and what smart, intentional dating looks like when you’re choosing differently and more consciously this time around.

Bela Gandhi is a dating/relationship expert, TEDx speaker, founder of Smart Dating AcademyÒ and has been featured on most national/local media outlets including Good Morning America, Steve Harvey, the Today Show, Kelly Clarkson, Access, ABC, NBC, Fox, and more. 

Bela realized her gift for love when she was in college and started matchmaking and coaching her friends – watching them sail on to relationship bliss and marriage.  Using her own system, Bela found her own amazing husband of over 20 years, and in 2009, founded Smart Dating AcademyÒ.  Smart Dating Academy teaches singles all over the globe the Smart DatingÒ four phase system – 1) Preparing to Date, 2) Dating, 3) Exclusivity and 4) Happily Ever After.   They specialize in VIP 1:1 coaching, and with clients that have followed their system, they’ve had ‘zero divorces.’  They help singles to ‘fix their pickers’ because their coaches are deep in the weeds with clients, helping read profiles, message, and rate each date after it happens – she makes dating fun, easy and successful!  

Before starting Smart Dating Academy, Bela earned dual degrees in Finance and German from the University of Illinois in Urbana/Champaign.  Bela worked in mergers and acquisitions for Arthur Andersen in Chicago for a year before joining her family's chemicals manufacturing company (called CCC), where she divided her time between Chicago and Europe helping to expand the business. When they sold the business to Fortune 500 company Akzo Nobel, she was asked to remain its leader and became Akzo Nobel Non-Stick Coating’s Global Vice President of Housewares.   While climbing the corporate ladder, she realized it was time to unveil her system to the world, and it was her best decision ever. 

Bela lives in Lincoln Park with her husband Andy and 2 children, Jaden and Max, and is going to be an empty nester next year!   

Website: http://smartdatingacademy.com

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

Podcast: https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/podcast

The Midlife Dating Mindset Reset Guide Download

If this episode resonates with you, be sure to:

Follow Us Online:

Susan E. Guthrie®, Esq. is one of the nation’s leading family law and mediation experts, with more than 35 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate divorce and conflict with clarity and compassion. She is the Immediate Past Chair of the American Bar Association Section of Dispute Resolution, a best-selling author, and a sought-after speaker, trainer, and practice-building consultant.

Susan recently appeared as the featured expert on The Oprah Podcast, where she shared her insights on gray divorce and the changing landscape of relationships. Her expertise has also been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, The Washington Post, NewsNation, and NBC’s Chicago Today, among many others.

As the creator and host of the award-winning Divorce & Beyond® Podcast, ranked in the top 1% of all podcasts worldwide with more than 3.4 million downloads, Susan brings together top experts and powerful personal stories to help listeners move through divorce and beyond with confidence, insight, and hope.

Learn more about Susan and her work at susaneguthrie.com.

Divorce & Beyond is a Top 1% Overall and Top 100 Self-Help podcast designed to help you with all you need to know to navigate your divorce journey and most importantly, to thrive in your beautiful beyond!  

*****************************************************************************

Looking for a clearer and more affordable way to move through your divorce? Check out Hello Divorce. Their guided online platform combines easy-to-follow tools with real legal and coaching support to help you complete your divorce with less stress, less confusion, and far lower costs than a traditional courtroom battle.

They have created a special page just for Divorce & Beyond listeners. Explore your options at hellodivorce.com/susan.

*****************************************************************************

Treat yourself to luxury skincare, makeup, and fragrance favorites from Blue Mercury, your destination for beauty and self-care. Divorce & Beyond listeners receive 15% off their first order when they use the special link in the show notes. Because you deserve to look and feel your best,  inside and out.

You must use this link to receive the 15% off on your first Blue Mercury order: https://divorcebeyond.com/Blue-Mercury

*****************************************************************************

Opportunities for Expert Guests and Fellow Podcasters

Whether you're a podcaster looking to expand your reach or an expert ready to share your insights, Divorce & Beyond offers the perfect platform to amplify your voice.  Find out more here: https://divorceandbeyondpod.com/guest-opportunities

*****************************************************************************

DISCLAIMER:  THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE.  YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE WITH RESPECT TO ANY PARTICULAR ISSUE OR PROBLEM

Gray divorce is one of the fastest-growing divorce trends, yet it remains one of the least talked-about experiences. It is not just the end of a marriage. It is the unraveling of decades of shared life, identity, routines, and expectations.

In this episode, Susan Guthrie is joined by gray divorce coach Maryjane Sweet, whom she first met when they were both featured on the Oprah Podcast in a powerful conversation about gray divorce. Maryjane appeared alongside her adult daughter, and their story stood out for its honesty, depth, and the grace with which Maryjane navigated this life-altering transition.

Together, Susan and Maryjane explore what it truly takes to move through gray divorce with intention, emotional awareness, and integrity. They discuss why gray divorce can feel especially destabilizing, particularly when it arrives unexpectedly, and how the losses extend far beyond the marriage itself. The conversation dives into grief, identity shifts, nervous system overwhelm, and the invisible emotional labor women carry as they work to hold themselves and their families together during profound change.

This is not a conversation about quick fixes. It is about honoring loss, building emotional safety, and discovering what gray divorce can give back on the other side.

Maryjane is a gray divorce coach and consultant. She combines the lived experience of ending a 26-year marriage with deep professional training to help women navigate the emotional and practical complexities of gray divorce. She holds a master's in Organizational Behavior and is an !CF-certified PCC coach with over 1,500 client hours worldwide. She's trained in mindfulness and meditation through Duke University, is a certified trauma-informed yoga instructor, and has taught university courses on well-being and neuroscience-based stress regulation. With more than twenty years in leadership development and human transformation, she offers women a grounded, evidence-based pathway through midlife divorce - one that honors both the unraveling and the rising.

Website: http://maryjanesweet.com

Instagram: @thegreydivorcecoach

📝 Rituals for Grief in Gray Divorce: Why Closure Matters

In this companion article, Susan explores why gray divorce requires more than legal resolution. It requires emotional closure. Drawing from this conversation, she explains how intentional rituals, such as marking the end of a marriage, leaving a longtime home, or acknowledging decades of shared life, can help the nervous system process loss and support healing during profound transition.

You’ll also find a simple, downloadable resource designed to help you reflect on what closure might look like for you.

Read here: https://divorceandbeyondpod.com/blog

***************************************************

If this episode resonates with you, be sure to:

Follow Us Online:

Susan E. Guthrie®, Esq. is one of the nation’s leading family law and mediation experts, with more than 35 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate divorce and conflict with clarity and compassion. She is the Immediate Past Chair of the American Bar Association Section of Dispute Resolution, a best-selling author, and a sought-after speaker, trainer, and practice-building consultant.

Susan recently appeared as the featured expert on The Oprah Podcast, where she shared her insights on gray divorce and the changing landscape of relationships. Her expertise has also been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, The Washington Post, NewsNation, and NBC’s Chicago Today, among many others.

As the creator and host of the award-winning Divorce & Beyond® Podcast, ranked in the top 1% of all podcasts worldwide with more than 3.4 million downloads, Susan brings together top experts and powerful personal stories to help listeners move through divorce and beyond with confidence, insight, and hope.

Learn more about Susan and her work at susaneguthrie.com.

Divorce & Beyond is a Top 1% Overall and Top 100 Self-Help podcast designed to help you with all you need to know to navigate your divorce journey and most importantly, to thrive in your beautiful beyond!  

*****************************************************************************

Looking for a clearer and more affordable way to move through your divorce? Check out Hello Divorce. Their guided online platform combines easy-to-follow tools with real legal and coaching support to help you complete your divorce with less stress, less confusion, and far lower costs than a traditional courtroom battle.

They have created a special page just for Divorce & Beyond listeners. Explore your options at hellodivorce.com/susan.

*****************************************************************************

Treat yourself to luxury skincare, makeup, and fragrance favorites from Blue Mercury, your destination for beauty and self-care. Divorce & Beyond listeners receive 15% off their first order when they use the special link in the show notes. Because you deserve to look and feel your best,  inside and out.

You must use this link to receive the 15% off on your first Blue Mercury order: https://divorcebeyond.com/Blue-Mercury

*****************************************************************************

Opportunities for Expert Guests and Fellow Podcasters

Whether you're a podcaster looking to expand your reach or an expert ready to share your insights, Divorce & Beyond offers the perfect platform to amplify your voice.  Find out more here: https://divorceandbeyondpod.com/guest-opportunities

*****************************************************************************

DISCLAIMER:  THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE.  YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE WITH RESPECT TO ANY PARTICULAR ISSUE OR PROBLEM

It was never about the dishes…

To dig into why so many women feel this strain inside their marriages, Susan Guthrie is joined by Kate Anthony, a globally recognized divorce coach, feminist thought leader, and the author of The D Word: Making the Ultimate Decision About Your Marriage. Kate is also the creator and host of the top-ranked Divorce Survival Guide Podcast.

Together, Susan and Kate talk candidly about how deeply ingrained expectations still shape modern relationships, often in ways people don’t recognize until the damage is done. They explore why patriarchy harms women while also isolating men, what real partnership actually looks like in practice, and how patterns like deflection, denial, and  quietly erode trust over time. The conversation also addresses the very real impact these dynamics have on women’s emotional and physical safety, and why naming them clearly can be a powerful first step toward change.

Kate Anthony is a feminist thought leader, divorce coach, and author of The D Word: Making the Ultimate Decision About Your Marriage. As the host of The Divorce Survival Guide Podcast (3.5M+ downloads; globally ranked in the top 0.5%), Kate brings fierce clarity and grounded compassion to conversations about coercive control, codependency, and the complex dynamics that shape women’s relationships and choices.

For well over a decade, Kate has guided women through the emotional and practical challenges of deciding whether to stay or leave their marriages, helping them rebuild self-trust, navigate high-conflict partners, and dismantle patriarchal conditioning. Her work blends feminist analysis, relational insight, and practical communication tools that empower women to make safe, self-led decisions.

Kate is also developing a groundbreaking project exploring true crime as women’s survival literature, illuminating the coercive control patterns and systemic failures embedded in headline cases.

Website: http://kateanthony.com

Instagram: @kateanthony_divorcecoach

If this episode resonates with you, be sure to:

Follow Us Online:

Susan E. Guthrie®, Esq. is one of the nation’s leading family law and mediation experts, with more than 35 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate divorce and conflict with clarity and compassion. She is the Immediate Past Chair of the American Bar Association Section of Dispute Resolution, a best-selling author, and a sought-after speaker, trainer, and practice-building consultant.

Susan recently appeared as the featured expert on The Oprah Podcast, where she shared her insights on gray divorce and the changing landscape of relationships. Her expertise has also been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, The Washington Post, NewsNation, and NBC’s Chicago Today, among many others.

As the creator and host of the award-winning Divorce & Beyond® Podcast, ranked in the top 1% of all podcasts worldwide with more than 3.4 million downloads, Susan brings together top experts and powerful personal stories to help listeners move through divorce and beyond with confidence, insight, and hope.

Learn more about Susan and her work at susaneguthrie.com.

Divorce & Beyond is a Top 1% Overall and Top 100 Self-Help podcast designed to help you with all you need to know to navigate your divorce journey and most importantly, to thrive in your beautiful beyond!  

*****************************************************************************

Looking for a clearer and more affordable way to move through your divorce? Check out Hello Divorce. Their guided online platform combines easy-to-follow tools with real legal and coaching support to help you complete your divorce with less stress, less confusion, and far lower costs than a traditional courtroom battle.

They have created a special page just for Divorce & Beyond listeners. Explore your options at hellodivorce.com/susan.

*****************************************************************************

Treat yourself to luxury skincare, makeup, and fragrance favorites from Blue Mercury, your destination for beauty and self-care. Divorce & Beyond listeners receive 15% off their first order when they use the special link in the show notes. Because you deserve to look and feel your best,  inside and out.

You must use this link to receive the 15% off on your first Blue Mercury order: https://divorcebeyond.com/Blue-Mercury

*****************************************************************************

Opportunities for Expert Guests and Fellow Podcasters

Whether you're a podcaster looking to expand your reach or an expert ready to share your insights, Divorce & Beyond offers the perfect platform to amplify your voice.  Find out more here: https://divorceandbeyondpod.com/guest-opportunities

*****************************************************************************

DISCLAIMER:  THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE.  YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE WITH RESPECT TO ANY PARTICULAR ISSUE OR PROBLEM

For many people quietly navigating divorce season, one question lingers beneath the surface:

Is this just a rough season, or is this relationship truly over?

In this powerful and deeply honest episode of Divorce & Beyond, Susan Guthrie sits down with renowned psychotherapist Dr. Jenn Mann to explore how to tell the difference, and why clarity, not guilt, is often the most caring path forward.

Inspired by Dr. Jenn’s widely shared insight, “Not every relationship is meant to be saved,” this conversation goes far beyond the familiar stay-or-leave debate. Together, Susan and Dr. Jenn examine how therapy can sometimes help repair a marriage and other times provide the clarity needed to trust yourself enough to let go.

They discuss the emotional cost of staying too long, the deal breakers people often rationalize away, and why ending a marriage can be an act of courage and strength rather than failure.

This is a compassionate, nuanced conversation for anyone questioning what comes next.

How to tell the difference between a rough season and a relationship that has truly run its course

Why therapy is not always about fixing the marriage, but often about gaining clarity

The deal breakers people ignore for years, including emotional unavailability and refusal to seek help

Why “staying for the kids” is far more complex than it sounds and what children actually absorb

How leaving a marriage can build confidence, resilience, and deeper self-trust

Dr. Jenn Mann is one of the most widely recognized psychotherapists in the country, with nearly three decades of clinical experience as a licensed Marriage, Family, and Child Therapist (LMFT).

She is best known as the longtime host and therapist on VH1’s hit series Couples Therapy with Dr. Jenn and Family Therapy with Dr. Jenn, and has appeared as a trusted expert on hundreds of television programs, including The Today Show, Dr. Oz, The Wendy Williams Show, The Doctors, Steve Harvey, Entertainment Tonight, Access Hollywood, and Jimmy Kimmel Live.

Dr. Jenn is the author of multiple bestselling books, including The Relationship Fix, SuperBaby, and The A to Z Guide to Raising Happy Confident Kids, which have collectively spent weeks on national bestseller lists. She is also the co-author of the children’s book Rockin’ Babies, written with her mother, Grammy-award-winning songwriter Cynthia Weil.

In addition to her television and publishing work, Dr. Jenn hosted The Dr. Jenn Show on SiriusXM for five years and has contributed award-winning writing to national parenting and family publications.

She lives in Beverly Hills, California, with her partner and twin daughters.

🔗 Dr. Jenn Mann’s Book:

📲 Connect with Dr. Jenn Mann:

Website: https://doctorjenn.com/

📝 Staying for the Kids? What Children Actually Absorb From Unhappy Marriages

This companion article explores why children are deeply sensitive to emotional environments and how thoughtful decisions, whether staying or leaving, shape their long-term wellbeing.

Read here: https://divorceandbeyondpod.com/blog

🎁 Free Download:

Download here: https://divorcebeyond.com/stayingforthekids

You’ll find the article, the worksheet, and the full episode on the latest episode page at divorceandbeyondpod.com.

If this episode resonated with you:

Subscribe to Divorce & Beyond so you never miss an episode

Share this episode with someone who may need clarity, reassurance, or hope

Leave a 5-star review to help us reach even more listeners

🌐 Website: https://divorceandbeyondpod.com

Susan E. Guthrie®, Esq. is one of the nation’s leading family law and mediation experts, with more than 35 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate divorce with clarity and compassion.

She is the Immediate Past Chair of the American Bar Association Section of Dispute Resolution, a bestselling author, and a sought-after speaker, trainer, and practice-building consultant. Susan recently appeared as a featured expert on The Oprah Podcast, sharing insights on gray divorce and the changing landscape of relationships.

Her work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, The Washington Post, NewsNation, and NBC’s Chicago Today.

As the creator and host of the award-winning Divorce & Beyond® Podcast, ranked in the top 1% of podcasts worldwide with millions of downloads, Susan brings together trusted experts and powerful lived experiences to help listeners move through divorce and beyond with confidence and hope.

Learn more at https://divorceandbeyondpod.com/about

Looking for a clearer and more affordable way to move through divorce? Hello Divorce offers a guided online platform that combines easy-to-follow tools with real legal and coaching support, helping you reduce stress, confusion, and costs.

🎧 Divorce & Beyond listeners can explore a special page here:

Treat yourself to luxury skincare, makeup, and fragrance from Blue Mercury, your destination for beauty and self-care.

💄 Divorce & Beyond listeners receive 15% off their first order when using the special link in the show notes. Because you deserve to feel your best, inside and out.

🔗 https://divorcebeyond.com/Blue-Mercury

Interested in partnering with Divorce & Beyond or appearing as a guest?

Learn more here:

The commentary and opinions expressed on this podcast are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. You should consult an attorney licensed in your state regarding any specific legal issue.