In this episode, Mardi Winder has an important conversation with Dr. Alana Sharps, who brings both personal experience and professional expertise to the complex world of high-conflict divorce and child custody. Dr. Sharps shares her own story of navigating a challenging custody battle after escaping a long-term abusive relationship, highlighting the loneliness and confusion that often accompanies the family court process. She talks openly about how difficult it can be when neither friends, family, nor even attorneys fully understand the emotional turmoil involved.
Dr. Sharps explains how her own struggles led her to become a coach for others in similar situations, offering insight, compassion, and practical guidance to those feeling lost or overwhelmed. Together, Mardi and Dr. Sharps discuss the different roles that attorneys and coaches play in the legal process, the business realities of family court, and how important it is for clients to manage expectations. They emphasize that while attorneys provide legal expertise, emotional support often comes best from those who have truly walked the same path.
The discussion also touches on the importance of self-care, therapy (especially trauma-informed approaches), and the empowerment that comes with understanding the court system. Dr. Sharps shares an inspiring success story of a client who, after learning to navigate court procedures on her own, found renewed confidence and happiness. She also offers a glimpse into her book, which draws on her personal experiences and aims to break the silence around life behind closed doors in challenging marriages. This episode provides reassurance, practical advice, and hope for anyone facing the obstacles of high-conflict divorce.
About the Guest
Dr. Alana Sharps, founder of SurThrive Tribe, carries a wealth of experience as both a High Conflict Divorce and Child Custody Consultant and a Best Selling Author. Her expertise extends beyond her professional achievements; it's rooted in her personal triumphs. 
Having navigated through the complexities of a toxic marriage entwined with narcissistic abuse, Alana emerged as a committed advocate for those facing similar trials. Her story is one of transformation—from a victim to an empowered survivor—and it fuels her dedication to guiding others through the challenging landscapes of domestic strife.
To connect with Alana:
Website: https://www.surthrivetribe.com
About the Host
Mardi Winder-Adams is a certified divorce transition and high-conflict divorce coach, credentialed mediator, and international speaker. With over 30 years of experience, she helps people navigate conflict, manage divorce challenges, and create positive transitions. She is the best-selling author of From I Do to I’m Done and The Other Side of Divorce.
Connect with Mardi:
[email protected]
https://www.divorcecoach4women.com/
https://www.newstreamingnetwork.com/team-1/mari-winder-adams
Connect with our channel - https://www.newstreamingnetwork.com/