Divorce is one of those life events that can make capable people feel lost, rushed, and defensive, and that’s exactly when the biggest financial and parenting decisions get made. We’re joined by Shell Sawyer, a certified divorce financial analyst, mediator, and coach, to slow the whole thing down and rebuild it into something more practical: a plan you can actually live with.

We talk about how men often experience divorce differently, why many people default to hiring an attorney first, and what can change when you consider divorce mediation instead of litigation. Shell explains the real advantages of mediation, from cost and time to the way the process reduces confrontation by creating a structured agenda. She also shares state specific context from Connecticut divorce law, including how mediation can follow a different timeline than the traditional court process.

Then we get into the money and the mistakes that follow people for years. Shell lays out what “know your numbers” means during divorce financial planning: organize statements, understand assets and debts, estimate net worth, review tax returns, run a credit report, and finally build a realistic budget for your next chapter. We also name the emotional realities that derail good agreements, including grief that is not linear, and we draw a bright line around when mediation is not appropriate, such as abuse, manipulation, or dishonesty.

If you want a smarter, steadier approach to the divorce process that protects your future and your kids, hit play. Subscribe, share this with someone who needs it, and leave a review so more people can find these conversations.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

• amazon.com - You Are Not Alone: Your Guide for When Divorce is on Your Doorstep

• https://findingstrengthwithshell.com