We Chat Divorce Podcast
We Chat Divorce Podcast explores the financial side of divorce alongside its emotional challenges. Hosts Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan, co-founders of My Divorce Solution, share expert insights, real stories, and proven financial strategies for people considering, going through, or rebuilding after a divorce. Episodes help listeners protect their finances, make informed decisions, and move forward with clarity and confidence. It is presented as a leading podcast for financial divorce preparation, empowerment, and honest talk about money, marriage, and moving on.
Episodes
213. Trauma Bonds, Financial Control & Divorce: Reclaiming Your Power
Why is it so hard to leave a relationship that hurts you—and how can you begin preparing when fear and financial uncertainty keep you stuck?
Before Dr. Nadine Macaluso returns to We Chat Divorce for a new conversation, we’re revisiting our interview from last year about trauma bonds, financial control, and rebuilding trust in yourself.
A therapist, author of Run Like Hell, and former wife of “Th
212. Dividing a Business in Divorce: What the Valuation Doesn’t Tell You
When a business is part of a divorce, determining what it is worth is only the beginning. The company may also be a marital asset, a source of household income and the employer paying expenses for the family. Each of these roles can affect the financial outcome for both spouses.
In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan explain why business decisions should never be
211. From Heartbreak to Independence: Starting Over After Divorce
What happens when the life you planned suddenly falls apart—and you have to decide what comes next?
Three years after her first appearance on We Chat Divorce, bestselling author, filmmaker, and creator Gabrielle Stone returns to share how heartbreak, solo travel, and honest self-reflection transformed her life.
After discovering her husband’s affair and experiencing another devastating breakup s
210. Financial Clarity Before Divorce: Rethinking Prenups, Postnups and Separation Agreements
Financial agreements are often viewed as a way for one person to protect their assets from the other. But a prenup, postnup or separation agreement can begin with a more constructive question: What are we trying to accomplish financially?
In this episode of the We Chat Divorce Podcast’s Divorce Explored series, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan challenge the traditional mindset surrounding fin
209. How to Rewire Your Brain and Rebuild Your Life After Toxic Love
The divorce may be final—or still unfolding—but your mind and body may remain stuck in survival mode.
In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan welcome back Jackie Miller, certified trauma-informed coach, author, speaker, and host of Out of Crazy Town: Your Guide to Divorcing a Narcissist.
Jackie shares insights from her new book, Winning: Rewiring Your Brain and Y
208. Should You Keep the House in Divorce? Why Your Realtor Can't Answer That Alone
Should you keep the house in your divorce — or sell it? Your realtor can give you an answer. But excellent real estate advice can still be a costly divorce mistake.
In this episode of Divorce Explored, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan use the marital home — one of the most common and emotional decisions in divorce — to expose a bigger problem they call "professional silos": your realtor, acco
207. How to Trust Yourself in Divorce: Stop Overthinking and Make Clear Decisions with Amy Armstrong
Divorce can make even the most confident person question every decision. When fear, conflicting advice, and financial uncertainty take over, how do you determine what is truly right for you?
Divorce can make even the most confident person question every decision. When fear, conflicting advice, and financial uncertainty take over, how do you determine what is truly right for you?In this episode of
206. Hidden Assets or Costly Rabbit Holes? How Much Financial Discovery Is Enough?
One missing financial document could change the outcome of a divorce—but spending thousands tracing an account that once held only a few hundred dollars may not. So how do you know when you have enough reliable information to mediate, negotiate, or sign a settlement agreement?
In this Divorce Explored episode, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan explain how to build a clear picture of your marit
205. The 50/50 Divorce Myth: What Equitable Distribution Actually Means
Most people assume divorce means everything splits 50/50. In most of the country, that's not how the law works — and learning it mid-process can cost you dearly.
In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan sit down with Jessica Fagan, founder of Fagan Law Group, an Atlanta-based family law firm focused on complex divorce, custody, and high-asset family matters. Jessic
204. Should You Move Money Before Divorce? Why One-Off Financial Advice Backfires
Someone tells you to move money out of the joint account. Someone else says stop depositing your paycheck. Your attorney raises temporary orders. Each piece of advice may sound reasonable on its own — but divorce decisions rarely stand alone.
In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan break down why making major financial decisions based on one conversation, one prof
203. Why Clients Leave Good Attorneys: Communication, Financial Clarity & AI in Divorce with Jessica Marshall
In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan sit down with Chicago family law attorney Jessica Marshall for a candid conversation about what really protects you during divorce — and where people often put themselves at risk without realizing it.
Jessica shares an attorney’s perspective on why clients sometimes leave good lawyers, how poor communication can derail trust
202. Inheritance and Divorce: What Gray Divorce Couples Don't Know Can Cost Them
Is inherited money really "yours" in a divorce? Not necessarily — and the details of how that money was handled can make or break your case. In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan tackle one of the most misunderstood topics in later-in-life divorce: inheritance.
Sparked by a recent Business Insider article on how baby boomer divorce is "rerouting inheritance" and
201. Is This Gaslighting? How to Recognize, Document, and Protect Yourself in High-Conflict Divorce
Is what you’re experiencing actually gaslighting? In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan sit down with narcissistic abuse expert Tracy Malone — author of Divorcing Your Narcissist — to answer that question with real examples, practical tools, and language you can use right now.
Tracy explains what gaslighting actually looks like in practice — not just the definit
200 Episodes Later: What Ten Years Taught Us About Money & Marriage
After 200 episodes and a decade of helping thousands of individuals navigate one of life’s most difficult transitions, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan step back from the typical divorce topic to explore the deeper patterns they have witnessed over the last 10 years.
The biggest realization?
Divorce was never only about divorce. It has always been about clarity.
Too often, the financial dis
199. Uncontested vs. Contested Divorce: What Every Divorcing Person Needs to Know, with Renee Turner
When people think about divorce, they often assume they can just "choose" an uncontested process. But what most people don't realize is that uncontested divorce requires more than goodwill — it requires preparation, financial transparency, and a clear understanding of your legal rights. Without that foundation, the most well-intentioned divorces can quickly become expensive, adversarial, and emoti
198. Divorce Settlement Agreement: What It Covers and How to Protect Yourself
A divorce settlement agreement may be the most important document you'll sign during your divorce—and one of the least understood.
In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan unpack what a Divorce Settlement Agreement (also known as a Marital Settlement Agreement or MSA) actually covers, why so many costly mistakes happen at this stage, and how to protect yourself bef
197. Thinking About Divorce? What to Know Before You Decide, with Guest Cindy Stibbard
If divorce is something you've been thinking about — even quietly, even just as a possibility — this episode is for you.
Karen and Catherine sit down with Cindy Stibbard, certified relationship and divorce coach and creator of the Relationship Audit, to explore what it looks like to approach one of life's hardest decisions with intention, preparation, and clarity rather than fear or reaction.
T
196. Divorce Mediation, Settlement Conferences, and Court Hearings: How to Walk In Prepared
Divorce mediation, settlement conferences, and court-mandated hearings are among the most searched — and most misunderstood — steps in the divorce process. People want to know what to bring, what happens in the room, and what it means if things don’t settle. But there’s a critical piece most people miss: mediation is not the place to discover you don’t have the documents, don’t understand the numb
195. The Cost of Quiet: Reclaiming Your Voice, Financial Clarity & Emotional Safety in Divorce
What happens when silence becomes survival?
In this deeply personal and powerful episode of My Divorce Solution’s We Chat Divorce, co-founders Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan sit down with licensed psychotherapist, relationship expert, and author Colette Jane Fehr for a conversation about emotional suppression, financial vulnerability, and the hidden cost of staying quiet in marriage and div
194. Divorce Explored: Alimony and Spousal Support Explained: How It's Really Calculated
Episode Summary
Alimony is not a formula. It’s not a calculator output. It’s not what your friend got. In this episode, Karen and Catherine explain what actually goes into evaluating spousal support — and why financial clarity before negotiation is the difference between a settlement that holds up and one that falls apart in six months.
The Right First Question
Most people ask: “What number shoul
193. Divorce Documentation: Turn Chaos Into Court-Ready Proof
This episode of We Chat Divorce dives into a critical but often misunderstood reality of high-conflict divorce: truth alone is not enough—how you organize and present information is what ultimately matters. Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan are joined by family court strategist Courtney Gil Martin, who shares her firsthand experience navigating nearly a decade of post-divorce litigation. Togeth
192. Divorce Explored: How to Prepare for Divorce Financially When Your Spouse Controls the Money
In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan unpack one of the most common—and costly—realities in divorce: financial blind spots within a marriage.
Inspired in part by the broader conversation sparked by the popular book Strangers: a Memoir of Marriage , this discussion moves beyond the emotional narrative and into the financial truth many individuals face when divor
191. Divorcing a Narcissist: How to Protect Yourself, Your Finances, and Your Future
Divorcing a narcissistic or high-conflict partner is one of the most emotionally and strategically complex experiences you can face.
In this episode of We Chat Divorce, we’re joined by high-conflict divorce coach, mediator, and author Victoria McCooey, who shares what it really looks like to navigate divorce when manipulation, control, and emotional abuse are part of the dynamic.
Victoria brings
190. Divorce Explored: Before You Sign: What Divorce Financial Clarity Really Looks Like - Part 2
Episode Summary
The most expensive divorce mistake is usually not legal — it's moving toward an agreement before the financial picture is complete, verified, and understood. In this episode, Karen and Catherine define what divorce financial clarity actually means and what needs to be in place before you sign anything.
The Financial Clarity Gap
Divorce financial clarity means having reliable answe
189. Divorce Explored: Before You Sign: What Divorce Financial Clarity Really Looks Like - Part 1
Episode Summary
The most expensive divorce mistake is usually not legal — it's moving toward an agreement before the financial picture is complete, verified, and understood. In this episode, Karen and Catherine define what divorce financial clarity actually means and what needs to be in place before you sign anything.
The Financial Clarity Gap
Divorce financial clarity means having reliable answe
188. The Hidden Divorce: Why You Feel Stuck—and How Financial Clarity Sets You Free
There’s a quiet kind of divorce that doesn’t start with papers being filed. It starts years earlier—when the relationship has already ended emotionally, but nothing changes on the outside.
In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan are joined by returning guest Karen Covy—divorce coach, attorney, mediator, and author—to unpack what it really means to feel “stuck” in
187. Financial Discovery in Divorce: What Most People Miss Before Settlement
Most people enter divorce focused on legal steps. But divorce is ultimately a financial process—and the biggest mistakes happen before negotiations even begin.
In this episode of Divorce Explored, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan break down financial discovery in divorce—what it is, why it matters, and what happens when it’s skipped.
If you don’t fully understand your financial picture, you’
186. Co-Parenting Without Chaos: Tools That Protect Children After Divorce
Children don’t experience divorce through court documents or financial agreements. They experience it through tone, tension, and the daily communication between their parents.
And when that communication stays reactive, unclear, or emotionally charged, children carry that instability with them.
In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan sit down with family law atto
185. Real Estate in Divorce: Selling, Buying, and Financial Risks - Part 2 of 2
Real Estate in Divorce: Selling, Buying, and Financial Risks
Hosts: Karen Chellew, Legal Liaison & Co-Founder, My Divorce Solution
Catherine Shanahan, CDFA & Co-Founder, My Divorce Solution
In Part 2 of this conversation on real estate and divorce, Karen and Catherine focus on what happens when real decisions are made—buying property, selling the marital home, or dividing proceeds. While these s
184. Divorce Explored: Dividing Real Estate in Divorce - Part 1 of 2
When to Sell, When to Wait, and Why “Feeling Protected” Isn’t the Same as Being Protected
Hosts: Karen Chellew (Legal Liaison & Co-Founder, My Divorce Solution) + Catherine Shanahan (Divorce Financial Specialist, CDFA & Co-Founder, My Divorce Solution)
Real estate is often the biggest (and most emotionally charged) asset in a divorce — and it’s where rushed decisions can create long-term financi
183. The Financial Gap No One Talks About in Divorce — with Emily Pollock
Divorce is not just emotional. It’s economic.
In this powerful episode of the We Chat Divorce, Karen and Catherine sit down with Emily Pollock, partner at Donohoe Talbert LLP and one of Forbes Advisor’s Top 10 Divorce Attorneys in New York City.
With over 15 years of experience in high-net-worth matrimonial law, Emily brings a rare combination of legal precision and psychological awareness to th
182. Amicable Divorce, Uncontested Divorce & California’s 2026 Joint Petition: Why Financial Clarity Still Matters
Many couples going through divorce say the same thing: “We’re amicable. We just want to get this done.”
In this episode of Divorce Explored, a series within the We Chat Divorce podcast, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan unpack what amicable actually means—and why emotional calm is not the same as financial clarity.
With California introducing a new joint divorce petition option in 2026, coupl
181. Forensic Accounting in Divorce: What It Can (and Can’t) Do, with Sarah Nanchanatt
When people hear “forensic accountant” during divorce, expectations run high. Many assume it means hidden money will automatically be uncovered or that every financial mystery will be solved. The reality is more nuanced—and far more strategic.
In this episode, we sit down with Sara Nanchanatt, founder of SN Forensics, to demystify what forensic accounting actually does in divorce, when it’s worth
180. Divorce, Mortgages, and the Cost of Bad Decisions with Jody Bruns
In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew, Legal Liaison, and Catherine Shanahan, CDFA®, sit down with Jody Bruns, founder of the Certified Divorce Lending Professional (CDLP®) certification and the creator of the divorce mortgage planning profession.
The conversation focuses on one of the most expensive and misunderstood parts of divorce: the marital home and the mortgage attached to it.
179. AI vs. Divorce Strategy: Why a QDRO Answer Is Not a Settlement Plan
AI can explain what a QDRO is — but it cannot protect your financial future.
In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan break down why relying on AI for retirement division in divorce leads to costly, irreversible mistakes. They explain what QDROs actually do, what AI misses, and why verified plan rules, tax impact, and liquidity matter — especially in grey divorce.
178. Staying Calm, Clear, and Confident in a High-Conflict Divorce with Karen McMahon
In this powerful episode of We Chat Divorce, we sit down with Karen McMahon, high-conflict divorce strategist, certified divorce coach, and founder of Journey Beyond Divorce.
Karen shares her deeply personal story of surviving a prolonged, high-conflict divorce—and how that experience became the foundation of her life’s work helping others navigate divorce with emotional clarity and confidence.
177. Divorce Is a Business Deal: Strategy for High-Conflict Divorce with Courtney Harkness
High-conflict divorces thrive on chaos. In this episode of We Chat Divorce, hosts Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan sit down with divorce strategist and coach Courtney Harkness to explain why treating divorce like a business deal—not an emotional battleground—can dramatically shift power, protect assets, and preserve peace.
Courtney, creator of the Divorce Is a Business Deal framework, shares
176. Divorce Explored: Your Divorce Financial Roadmap: A Clear Path Forward
Most people would never start a cross-country trip without a map — yet that’s exactly how divorce begins for millions of people every year.
In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan break down the concept almost no one talks about early enough: the financial divorce roadmap.
Divorce is not just emotional — it is one of the largest financial transactions most people
175. Divorce During the Holidays: How to Protect Your Peace, Your Wallet, and Your Future
The holidays are supposed to be joyful — but when you’re navigating divorce, they can feel emotionally overwhelming, financially stressful, and deeply isolating.
In this episode of Divorce Explored on the We Chat Divorce Podcast, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan have an honest, grounding conversation about how to survive the holiday season without falling apart — emotionally or financially.
174. Divorcing a Narcissist: How to Break the Emotional Grip and Get Financial Clarity with Dr. Onalee
Narcissistic partners don’t just manipulate emotions — they manipulate money, security, and your sense of stability. In divorce, that mix is dangerous: fear clouds judgment, and confusion gets expensive.
In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew (Legal Liaison) and Catherine Shanahan (Certified Divorce Financial Analyst) sit down with Dr. Onalee, an expert in narcissistic relationship dyn
173. Expert Divorce Advice with Susan Guthrie: Mediation, Financial Clarity & the Real Cost of Divorce
In this powerful episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen and Catherine sit down with Susan Guthrie—one of the nation’s leading family law attorneys, top divorce mediators, and a recent guest on the Oprah podcast—to break down the realities of navigating divorce in today’s turbulent economic climate.
With inflation, job uncertainty, rising debt, and shrinking safety nets affecting families across the co
172. Divorcing a Narcissist: Post-Separation Abuse, Financial Manipulation & Finding Your Power with Jackie Miller
In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan sit down with high-conflict divorce coach and post-separation abuse strategist Jackie Miller to talk about what it really looks like to divorce a narcissist, survive Crazy Town, and protect yourself from financial abuse during and after divorce.
Jackie shares her story of a 16+ year emotionally and financially abusive marria
171. Thanksgiving, Money, and Divorce: How to Navigate the Holidays With Clarity Instead of Crisis
The holidays can magnify every stress you’re carrying—especially if you’re quietly preparing for a separation, navigating financial uncertainty, or simply trying to hold things together one more season. In this special Thanksgiving episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan break down how to manage holiday emotions and protect your financial stability when divorce is on your
170. Rewiring Fear: Divorce, the Brain and the Path Back to Yourself with Isabelle Ulenaers
Your brain isn’t wired to make you happy — it’s wired to keep you safe. During divorce, that “safety system” often looks like fear, guilt, second-guessing, and staying stuck in situations that no longer serve you.
In this powerful episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan sit down with neuropsychologist and therapist Isabelle Ulenaers, creator of the UNTAMED™ Framework, to
169. Rebranding Divorce: Post-Divorce Growth Cycle, Money & Self-Care
Rebranding Divorce: The Post-Divorce Growth Cycle—Radical Self-Care, Money Confidence, and Community
Founders Mimi Sullivan and Carolyn Bilyak of Rebranding Divorce join Karen and Catherine to unpack the Post-Divorce Growth Cycle—a practical framework that helps women move from survival to confidence through radical self-care, money clarity, and healthy relationships. We discuss why community acc
168. Mediation Mistakes That Can Cost You Thousands | Divorce Financial Clarity Explained
Thinking about divorce mediation? Before you walk into the room, ask yourself one question: What exactly are you mediating if you don’t even know what you have?
In this episode of Divorce Explored, Karen Chellew (Legal Liaison) and Catherine Shanahan, CDFA® (Certified Divorce Financial Analyst) from My Divorce Solution reveal the most common — and most costly — mistake they see every week: people
167. Shove Your Shoulds: Bold Decision-Making After Divorce with Jessica Frew
In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan sit down once again with the inspiring Jessica Frew—wife, ex-wife, mom, stepmom, podcast host, and now author of Shove Your Shoulds. Jessica shares how her unique journey through divorce, co-parenting, and remarriage has shaped her mission to help women step out of overthinking and into powerful decision-making.
Jessica open
166. Truth, Timing & Taxes: When Shortcuts Backfire in Divorce
In this Divorce Explored episode of We Chat Divorce, MDS co-founders Catherine Shanahan, CDFA®, and Karen Chellew, Legal Liaison, reveal how common financial shortcuts can cost divorcing couples thousands—sometimes hundreds of thousands—of dollars. From so-called “honesty policies” that skip verification, to misclassifying home-sale proceeds as income, to cashing out retirement accounts too soon,
165. The Truth About Divorce & Family Law: Why Communication, Costs, and Trust Matter Most, with Kirk Stange
What really happens behind the scenes at a divorce law firm? In this eye-opening episode of We Chat Divorce, co-founders Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan sit down with Attorney Kirk Stange, Founding Partner of Stange Law Firm, to uncover the truth about how family law really works—from the attorney’s side of the table.
Kirk has guided clients through divorce for more than 20 years, leading a
164. Gray Divorce After 50: Silent Divorce, Loud Truths & Finding Financial Clarity
If you’re over 50 and quietly wondering whether to stay or go, you’re not alone. In this episode of We Chat Divorce: Divorce Explored, My Divorce Solution co-founders Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan, CDFA®, break down the real truths behind gray divorce—and why so many couples live in a silent divorce long before they ever make a decision.
They share personal stories, client experiences, and
163. The Hidden Cost of Toxic Love: How Trauma Bonds Impact Divorce | with Dr. Nadine Macaluso
🚨 The Hidden Cost of Toxic Love 🚨
Why is it so hard to leave someone who hurts you? And how do trauma bonds show up in divorce — emotionally and financially?
In this episode of We Chat Divorce, hosts Catherine Shanahan, CDFA® and Karen Chellew, Legal Liaison, sit down with Dr. Nadine Macaluso — therapist, author of Run Like Hell, and survivor of one of the most infamous toxic marriages in modern
162. Real Estate Decisions in Divorce: What You Need to Know Before Buying
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make — but what happens when that decision collides with divorce? In this episode of We Chat Divorce, co-founders Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan dive into the risks, timing, and financial implications of purchasing real estate during divorce.
They share a real client story where a “protective clause” in a sales contract tur
161. Pro Se Mediation and the Kids First Approach with Tina Keyes
In this episode, Karen and Catherine talk with Tina Keyes, a Florida Supreme Court certified family mediator and divorce coach. Tina shares how her own family experiences led her to create a Kids First mediation model, designed to reduce conflict and keep the focus on families—not legal battles.
We cover what pro se mediation really means, how to know if it’s the right fit, and why coming prepare
160. Divorce Explored: Blindsided by Divorce: Why Financial Clarity Should Be Your First Move
In this powerful and timely episode, Karen and Catherine discuss what really happens when you’re blindsided by divorce—whether through infidelity, unexpected papers, or emotional betrayal—and why your first step should not be calling a lawyer, but gaining financial clarity.
They break down the emotional chaos that can follow the shock of divorce and offer a different approach: one grounded in cal
159. Grief, Money, and Moving On: Taking Your Power Back in Divorce, with Virginia Gilbert
Divorce isn’t just a legal or financial process—it’s an emotional one. In this powerful episode, Karen and Catherine are joined by Virginia Gilbert, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and author of Transcending High Conflict Divorce, to talk about a topic most people don’t expect to encounter during divorce: grief.
Together, they explore:
The emotional toll of divorce grief—even if you
Divorce Summer School - Episode 6: Real Life, Real Numbers, Real Divorce Case Studies
We’re wrapping up Divorce Summer School with real-world examples from the divorce frontlines.
In this episode, Karen and Catherine walk through true-to-life financial case studies to show how preparation, clarity, and the right support can completely transform the divorce experience. You’ll hear what went right, what went wrong, and what you can do differently—so you don’t become a cautionary tal
Divorce Summer School: E5: Expert Divorce Tips — What We Recommend (And What We Don’t!)
This week in Divorce Summer School, we’re breaking down a popular article: “7 Things to Do ASAP When Your Spouse Wants a Divorce” from MSN & Money Talks News—and giving you the MDS-approved version.
Karen and Catherine go tip-by-tip to explain what advice holds up, what you should reconsider, and what most people get wrong when panic sets in. If you’re unsure how to respond when divorce is sudden
Divorce Summer School | Episode 4: Who Can Help: How to Build Your Team of Divorce Professionals
This week in Divorce Summer School, we’re answering one of the most overwhelming questions in the divorce process: Who should I hire?
Karen and Catherine break down the roles of attorneys, mediators, CDFAs, coaches, therapists, and more—so you can confidently build the right team for your needs (not someone else’s). You’ll also learn how financial preparation helps every professional on your team
Divorce Summer School | Episode 3: From Secrets to Solutions: Financial Discovery Preparation
This week in Divorce Summer School, we’re getting real about one of the most confusing—and expensive—parts of the divorce process: financial discovery.
In this eye-opening episode, Karen and Catherine break down how the traditional legal discovery process can drain time, money, and energy—and how My Divorce Solution’s Financial Portrait™ helps you take control before things spiral.
If you’ve eve
Divorce Summer School | Episode 2: Dealing with Financial Abandonment in Divorce
In Week 2 of Divorce Summer School, we’re bringing back one of our most talked-about episodes—an honest, eye-opening look at financial abandonment and what to do when you're cut off from money, access, or support during divorce.
Karen and Catherine break down what financial abandonment actually looks like—not just from your spouse, but sometimes even from your own legal team. This episode is pack
Divorce Summer School | Episode 1: Trusting Yourself to Make the Difficult Decision - Tonya Carter
We’re kicking off Divorce Summer School with one of our most powerful and timely past episodes—now more relevant than ever.
This conversation with marriage and relationship exit strategist, Tonya Carter dives deep into the emotional side of divorce: how to stop second-guessing, start trusting yourself, and build the confidence to take control of your financial future.
If you're stuck in fear or
158. Divorce, FAFSA & College Costs – How to Get It Right, with Vicki Vollweiler
Paying for college is stressful—add divorce to the mix, and it gets even more complicated. In this episode, Karen sits down with college planning expert Vicki Vollweiler to unpack what divorcing parents need to know about the FAFSA process, financial aid, and protecting both your future and your child’s dreams.
Vicki brings her unique expertise at the intersection of personal finance, college pla
157. Gray Divorce: Safeguarding, retirement, business and legacy – with Kara Chrobak, Esq
In this eye-opening episode of We Chat Divorce, we welcome Kara Chrobak, a Colorado-based family law attorney who brings deep insight into high-net-worth divorce, complex asset division, and marital agreements. Kara recently launched her own practice—Bespoke Law LLC—after over 15 years in big law.
What we talk about with Kara:
Why mediation sometimes feels more like pressure than resolution—
156. Divorce Explored: What to Know About Lump Sum Alimony Buyouts
Should you take the lump sum or stick with monthly support payments? In this episode, Catherine and Karen unpack one of the most misunderstood yet consequential decisions in divorce: alimony buyouts. Together, they demystify how these lump sum payments are calculated, who truly benefits, and what hidden pitfalls can jeopardize your financial future.
From passive income projections to payout timin
155. Burning money questions, why investing in financial clarity beats guesswork in divorce.
Welcome to another behind-the-scenes episode of Divorce Explored, your unfiltered look at what really happens inside My Divorce Solution. In this episode, Catherine and Karen tackle the five most common — and misunderstood — money questions they hear from individuals considering or starting the divorce process.
If you’ve ever wondered:
"Can you just take a quick look at our agreement?"
154. Peace Over Power Struggles – Co-Parenting Through Chaos, with Dr. Tara Egan
In this empowering and heartfelt episode, Catherine and Karen sit down with Dr. Tara Egan, founder of Egan Counseling & Consulting, to discuss the emotional and practical realities of co-parenting through divorce—especially in high-conflict situations. With over two decades of experience and her own personal journey through divorce, Dr. Egan shares real-world strategies that prioritize peace, prot
153. Let Them: Emotional Freedom Meets Financial Clarity in Divorce
In this empowering episode of We Chat Divorce, Catherine Shanahan and Karen Chellew unpack the viral “Let Them” theory popularized by Mel Robbins—and apply it to the high-stress, emotionally charged context of divorce.
While “letting them” can sound passive, Catherine and Karen reveal how it’s actually a strategy grounded in smart decision-making and emotional control. Learn how to let go of reac
152. Crypto in the Closet: Exposing Hidden Bitcoin in Divorce, with Jacqueline Newman
In this insightful episode of We Chat Divorce, we sit down with New York matrimonial law expert Jacqueline Newman to uncover the real story behind cryptocurrency in divorce. From the early days of “Bitcoin parties” to high-stakes cases involving millions in crypto, Jacqueline shares her experience dealing with digital assets during complex marital dissolutions.
Whether you're navigating a high-as
151. Cool Heads, Smart Wallets, Emotional Mastery & Divorce Finance, with Jenny Stevens
In this powerful episode, Jenny Stevens joins Karen and Catherine to explore how to manage emotions and make smart financial decisions during one of life’s most difficult transitions—divorce.
Jenny shares her personal journey from being a breadwinner navigating her own divorce, single parenting, cancer diagnosis, and career change, to becoming a coach who helps others turn life’s adversities into
150. Divorce Explored: Cut the Burn Rate: 16 Questions to Ask Before You Hire Your Attorney
If you’ve ever stared at a four-figure legal invoice and thought, “Where did my money go?” — this episode is for you.
In this episode, Catherine and Karen break down the true cost of divorce and share how to spot red flags, avoid wasteful spending, and build a lean, efficient legal team. You'll hear about real-life examples of inflated invoices, underused experts, and clients who got burned by no
149. Parenting Plans That Actually Work: How to Avoid the Mistakes That Cost You Time, Money and Peace, with Samantha Boss
In this powerful episode of WeChat Divorce, hosts Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan welcome Samantha Boss, high-conflict divorce coach and certified mediator, to discuss what a real parenting plan should look like—and why the standard legal templates aren’t nearly enough.
Drawing from her personal experience and professional work with divorcing parents, Samantha shares why parenting plans must
148. Divorce Explored: Mediation Without Full Disclosure—Should You Go, Pause, or Pivot?
Hosts: Catherine Shanahan, CDFA & Karen Chellew, Legal LiaisonPresented by: My Divorce Solution
You’ve done the work, your mediation date is approaching—and your spouse has barely provided more than a screenshot or two of their accounts. What now?
In this episode, Catherine and Karen take you behind the scenes of what happens when mediation is scheduled but the documents just aren’t there. T
147. From Uncertain to Unstoppable: Taking Control of Your Finances, with Laura Webb
In this empowering episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan welcome financial powerhouse Laura Webb, founder of Webb Investment Services and an advocate for women’s financial empowerment. Together, they dive deep into the emotional and practical barriers that keep women from owning their financial lives — and how to overcome them. From personal money stories to professional
146. Divorce Explored: Gray Divorce Rebellion – Our Take on Time’s Viral Essay
In this episode of WeChat Divorce, co-founders Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan unpack the themes from Time Magazine’s viral article, “When Having It All Becomes Wanting a Divorce” by Ada Calhoun.
They explore the emotional and financial realities facing Gen X women navigating midlife questions, career shifts, and marriage fatigue. Drawing from personal experience and professional expertise
145. From Disconnect to Discovery: Navigating Marriage, Divorce, and Beyond with Colleen Kowal
In this powerful episode, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan sit down with Imago Relationship Therapist Colleen Kowal to explore the emotional complexities of marriage, divorce, and co-parenting. Drawing from her personal journey and years of professional experience, Colleen shares how relationship dynamics can lead to disconnect—and more importantly, how intentional conversations, discernment,
144. Divorce Explored: From Courtroom to Kitchen Table: Financial Lessons For High-Conflict and High Net Worth Splits
In this episode, Karen and Catherine discuss the financial impact of starting divorce from the courtroom versus the kitchen table — and why preparation is everything, especially in high-conflict and high net worth cases. They break down costly mistakes, emotional traps, and the importance of data-driven decisions over emotional reactions.
Mentioned in the Episode:
AMG National Trust article on fin
143. Divorce Dollars & Activating Your Female Genius with Shannon McGorry
In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen and Catherine sit down with Shannon McGorry, a PCC-level ICF-accredited coach and founder of Love Strength and Grace. Shannon shares her personal divorce journey and how it led her to empower women through coaching. She helps women redefine their future—personally and professionally—by activating their Female Genius.
Key Takeaways:
🔹 The Power of the Pivot
142. Divorce Explored: What to Know About Remarrying After 50
In this episode of Divorce Explored, Karen and Catherine dive into a timely AARP article, "Financial Checklist for Remarrying After 50." Together, they unpack the essential financial considerations and emotional conversations you should have before saying "I do" again—whether you're 50 or not.
Drawing from their personal experiences and professional expertise, they explore topics like:
✅ Exchangi
141. Real People, Real Situations, and Real Divorce: A Real Client’s Journey Through the MDS Process
In this episode of We Chat Divorce, hosts Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan sit down with Nicole Farhat, a Certified Divorce Coach and former My Divorce Solution (MDS) client. Nicole shares her personal journey through divorce and how MDS empowered her with financial clarity, saving her thousands in legal fees while securing a successful financial outcome.
From skepticism about her spouse’s pa
140. Divorce explored: Divorce & Taxes: Considerations Before You File
Tax season comes around fast, and for those navigating divorce, tax decisions can feel overwhelming. In this episode, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan break down the key considerations you need to keep in mind when filing your taxes before, during, or after divorce.
Key Takeaways:
✔️ Filing Status Matters – Understanding the differences between filing jointly, married filing separately, head
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