"People think they know what they want, but how would you know if you've never gone through it before?" - Melinda Gould
Melinda Gould is a distinguished divorce guide and strategic support partner known for her unique approach to helping clients navigate the complexities of divorce with clarity and steadiness. Drawing from her own challenging divorce experience, Melinda sees her role as vital in addressing the practical, emotional, and logistical aspects of divorce, offering comprehensive support that includes financial organization, communication management, and emotional grounding. Unlike therapists, attorneys, or coaches, she focuses on strategic and logistical elements, helping clients make decisions aligned with their personal values and children's needs while providing steady emotional support. Melinda believes her approach enables clients to emerge from divorce stronger, clearer, and more centered, ready to embrace the next chapter of their lives with confidence and support.
Key Takeaways
->Support during divorce often includes help with managing practical tasks, organizing financial documents, navigating communication, and addressing emotional needs.
->This type of support typically focuses on strategic, logistical, and communication considerations, while also acknowledging the emotional impact of the process.
->Community-based resources, such as online support networks, can provide valuable tools, guidance, and connection for individuals going through divorce.
->Emotional triggers around money during divorce are common and often tied to feelings of security, identity, and power.
->Trusting one’s intuition during divorce can help individuals prioritize their needs and make informed, grounded decisions.
->Steady, practical guidance can provide clarity and reassurance, helping individuals navigate the complexities of divorce with greater confidence.
Connect with Melinda B. Gould:
https://melindabgould.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/melinda-b-gould-580875/
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
https://miller-law.com/
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"People think they know what they want, but how would you know if you've never gone through it before?" - Melinda Gould
Melinda Gould is a distinguished divorce guide and strategic support partner known for her unique approach to helping clients navigate the complexities of divorce with clarity and steadiness. Drawing from her own challenging divorce experience, Melinda sees her role as vital in addressing the practical, emotional, and logistical aspects of divorce, offering comprehensive support that includes financial organization, communication management, and emotional grounding. Unlike therapists, attorneys, or coaches, she focuses on strategic and logistical elements, helping clients make decisions aligned with their personal values and children's needs while providing steady emotional support. Melinda believes her approach enables clients to emerge from divorce stronger, clearer, and more centered, ready to embrace the next chapter of their lives with confidence and support.
Key Takeaways
->Support during divorce often includes help with managing practical tasks, organizing financial documents, navigating communication, and addressing emotional needs.
->This type of support typically focuses on strategic, logistical, and communication considerations, while also acknowledging the emotional impact of the process.
->Community-based resources, such as online support networks, can provide valuable tools, guidance, and connection for individuals going through divorce.
->Emotional triggers around money during divorce are common and often tied to feelings of security, identity, and power.
->Trusting one’s intuition during divorce can help individuals prioritize their needs and make informed, grounded decisions.
->Steady, practical guidance can provide clarity and reassurance, helping individuals navigate the complexities of divorce with greater confidence.
Connect with Melinda B. Gould:
https://melindabgould.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/melinda-b-gould-580875/
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
https://miller-law.com/
"People think they know what they want, but how would you know if you've never gone through it before?" - Melinda Gould
Melinda Gould is a distinguished divorce guide and strategic support partner known for her unique approach to helping clients navigate the complexities of divorce with clarity and steadiness. Drawing from her own challenging divorce experience, Melinda sees her role as vital in addressing the practical, emotional, and logistical aspects of divorce, offering comprehensive support that includes financial organization, communication management, and emotional grounding. Unlike therapists, attorneys, or coaches, she focuses on strategic and logistical elements, helping clients make decisions aligned with their personal values and children's needs while providing steady emotional support. Melinda believes her approach enables clients to emerge from divorce stronger, clearer, and more centered, ready to embrace the next chapter of their lives with confidence and support.
Key Takeaways
->Support during divorce often includes help with managing practical tasks, organizing financial documents, navigating communication, and addressing emotional needs.
->This type of support typically focuses on strategic, logistical, and communication considerations, while also acknowledging the emotional impact of the process.
->Community-based resources, such as online support networks, can provide valuable tools, guidance, and connection for individuals going through divorce.
->Emotional triggers around money during divorce are common and often tied to feelings of security, identity, and power.
->Trusting one’s intuition during divorce can help individuals prioritize their needs and make informed, grounded decisions.
->Steady, practical guidance can provide clarity and reassurance, helping individuals navigate the complexities of divorce with greater confidence.
Connect with Melinda B. Gould:
https://melindabgould.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/melinda-b-gould-580875/
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
https://miller-law.com/
"You shouldn't exhaust yourself trying to create the perfect Christmas for your children, especially if this is really above and beyond. This is a new reality. This is a new tradition that you and your children are going through." - Katherine Miller
The Christmas holiday season can present unique challenges for divorcing parents, who often grapple with the dual pressures of preserving festive traditions and adapting to new family dynamics. Katherine Miller, a seasoned family therapist, sheds light on this emotional conundrum by emphasizing the importance of emotional presence over perfection. With her extensive experience in helping families navigate transitions, Miller encourages parents to prioritize self-care and focus on creating a nurturing environment for their children, rather than exhausting themselves with lavish celebrations. Her approach underscores the value of flexibility and involving children in establishing new traditions, affirming that the true essence of the holidays lies in emotional support and love.
Key Takeaways
-The pressure to make the holiday perfect for children is highlighted
-Parents should prioritize emotional presence and connection over extravagant celebrations
-Flexibility in creating new traditions and emotional support for children is important
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
https://miller-law.com/
"I think that this period can be one where folks can make mistakes and really leaning on a team of professionals that can help them through the period is of utmost importance." - Sam Kingston
Sam Kingston, a seasoned finance professional, brings over two decades of expertise in financial analysis and portfolio management to the intricate field of financial planning for divorce. With a unique background that spans global firms and family businesses, as well as personal experience being raised by a single mother, Sam is keenly aware of both the emotional and financial challenges inherent in asset separation. He advocates for a comprehensive and empathetic approach, emphasizing the need for a team of professionals—including divorce attorneys, financial advisors, and tax experts—to support individuals through this life transition. By focusing on careful financial planning and open communication, Sam aims to help individuals navigate the complexities of family businesses and shared investments, ensuring fair outcomes and long-term financial stability.
Key Takeaways
-Establishing a separate financial footprint, creating a new budget, and understanding liabilities and assets are crucial during divorce.
-Revising estate plans post-divorce is essential to safeguard assets and achieve financial goals.
-Budgeting post-divorce helps in understanding spending habits and making thoughtful financial decisions.
-Transparency and setting boundaries in financial matters are vital to ensure a fair divorce outcome.
-Being patient, seeking advice from advisors, and making thoughtful decisions during the divorce process can lead to a more favorable financial outcome.
Connect with Sam Kingston:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-kingston-006a26/
https://www.edwardjones.com/us-en/financial-advisor/sam-kingston?msockid=03955cb2509a6eaa2ef34a2e51ab6f8a
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
https://miller-law.com/
"When you are grounded in your own emotions, you don't have to be governed by them. That doesn't mean that it's not emotional. It means that you're at choice." - Kate Anthony
Kate Anthony is a dedicated specialist focused on guiding women through the intricate process of divorce decision-making. Renowned for her empowering approach, she emphasizes the necessity of prioritizing children's well-being in such situations, urging parents to put aside personal desires and conflicts for the sake of their offspring. Through her comprehensive online programs, Anthony assists women in reconnecting with their personal values and needs, fostering self-discovery and reinvention post-divorce. Her book, "The D Word," co-authored with Katherine Miller, further explores these themes, advocating for emotional processing before tackling legal issues and challenging the notion that divorce is inherently detrimental to children when approached with their best interests at heart.
Key Takeaways
->Addressing internal conflict and questioning surrounding divorce empowers women to trust their instincts and prioritize well-being.
->Processing emotions before making legal and financial decisions in divorce minimizes their impact and leads to better outcomes.
->Prioritizing children's well-being during divorce prevents using them as weapons in conflicts between parents.
->Assessing personal happiness, future goals, and children's well-being is crucial in decision-making in divorce.
->Creating safe environments for children to regulate their nervous systems positively impacts their well-being and development.
->Having at least one safe parent and home environment is crucial for children to understand safety and toxicity.
Connect with Kate Anthony:
https://kateanthony.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/divorcesurvivalguide/
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
https://miller-law.com/
"The money is just data. It's numbers and getting at the core of what it means to them, what it represents. It represents their values, their ideals, their hopes, their dreams." - Jon Tanner
Jon Tanner, president of Summit Advisors at William Joseph Capital Management, is a seasoned financial planning expert with over 35 years of experience, specializing in the intricate financial aspects of divorce. A native of Hudson Valley, Jon is celebrated for his empathetic, team-based approach, working closely with lawyers, accountants, and other professionals to craft financial settlement plans that promote compromise and clarity. He believes that a successful financial plan in divorce requires looking beyond the headline numbers, emphasizing the importance of understanding the sustainability and nature of assets such as retirement accounts and real estate. Jon is committed to helping his clients not only manage the immediate financial challenges of divorce but also build a solid foundation for the future, acknowledging the emotional hurdles and guiding them toward confident financial independence.
Key Takeaways
->Financial planning in divorce is crucial for stability and navigating major life transitions.
->Getting organized with financial information such as bank statements and debts is important for understanding one's financial reality.
->Considering the sustainability and nature of assets is essential for making informed decisions for a stable post-divorce future.
->Working with a team of professionals including lawyers and financial advisors can provide cohesive guidance and minimize conflicting information.
->Involving a financial advisor early in the divorce process can prevent irreversible decisions and provide clarity for managing financial future.
->Look for a financial advisor with certifications like a Certified Divorce Financial Adviser (CDFA) and experience in divorce financial matters.
Connect with Jon Tanner:
https://www.williamjosephcapital.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-tanner-71175a3b/
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
https://miller-law.com/
"I'm on a mission to change how people divorce and help them divorce with dignity." - Katherine Miller
Navigating the holiday season after a divorce can be a tumultuous experience, fraught with the challenges of time-sharing with children and the task of establishing new traditions. Katherine Miller, with her insightful perspective, acknowledges the emotional difficulty of spending holidays without the kids, especially during the first year post-divorce. Drawing from her experiences, she advocates for finding new ways to celebrate, be it through altering existing traditions or experimenting with entirely new approaches. Miller underscores the significance of prioritizing children's well-being and the potential long-term effects of parental actions, urging parents to be mindful of how family dynamics and conflicts during this period can shape lasting holiday memories.
Key Takeaways
->Coping strategies when spending holidays without children include making plans with family or serving the needy.
->Maintaining holiday traditions post-divorce can impact children's emotions and may create false hope of reconciliation.
->Seeking professional advice and considering the timing of divorce announcements during the holiday season is important for emotional well-being.
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
https://miller-law.com/
"It has provided me with a different viewpoint, in terms of understanding that there's a lot more involved to an immigration related case beyond being approved for whatever benefit an individual is seeking." - Douglas Lightman
Douglas Lightman is a seasoned professional in immigration law, with a strong foundation in international tax and cross-border transactions, which has significantly shaped his career path. Through his extensive travel and exposure to diverse cultures, Lightman has developed a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in immigration matters, particularly the intricate connection between international tax and immigration law. He is committed to demystifying these processes and tackling prevalent misconceptions, such as the belief that individuals with a two-year conditional green card cannot obtain a ten-year green card if divorced, by providing clear, accurate information to the public. With recent changes in immigration laws making the process more challenging, Lightman's informed guidance is invaluable for clients navigating complex international and family issues, ultimately assisting them in achieving their immigration goals through various pathways.
Key Takeaways
->Understanding the connection between tax and immigration allows for a comprehensive approach to addressing clients' needs in both areas.
->Tax residency, green card status, and long-term plans are key tax issues in immigration cases.
->Foreign nationals facing deteriorating relationships can still apply for a ten-year green card despite divorce.
->Recent changes in immigration laws have led to significant effects on individuals seeking immigration status.
->Individuals seeking immigration status can follow distinct paths such as work visa sponsorship or family-based green cards through marriage.
Connect with Douglas Lightman:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglas-lightman-0aab3211/
https://www.lightmanimmigration.com/
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
https://miller-law.com/
"Yoga is really a way of life. It's a way of living with self compassion for yourself and for the environment and the people around you." - Cathy Eads
Cathy Eads is a dedicated yoga teacher and Ayurvedic wellness counselor, renowned for her expertise in using mind-body practices to manage stress and anxiety. Her journey with yoga began as a form of physical exercise, but it soon transformed into a holistic lifestyle that promotes self-compassion and peaceful living. Cathy believes that yoga, meditation, and structured daily routines can restore calm and balance, even amidst health challenges, financial stress, and struggling relationships. By incorporating techniques like controlled breathing and mindfulness, she helps individuals develop resilience and manage emotions, particularly during stressful life events such as divorce, offering them a pathway to feel more grounded and in control.
Key Takeaways
->Yoga and meditation promote resilience and control in life during chaotic times
->Controlled breathing in yoga impacts the nervous system's fight-or-flight response
->Physical activities like yoga can help discharge stress hormones during divorce proceedings
->Focused breathing techniques can promote calmness and relaxation to manage anxiety
->Silence can be used as a powerful negotiation technique to influence discussions
->Personalized yoga sessions can address specific needs and promote relaxation
Connect with Cathy Eads:
https://findblissyoga.com/about/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathyreads/
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
https://miller-law.com/
"Well, I want to do something that could help the ordinary person. I never wanted to get into law to work for a big corporation. Helping people is what I care about." - Jeffrey Peltz
Jeffrey Peltz, a seasoned Brooklyn-based attorney with nearly four decades of experience, seeks to change the narrative surrounding bankruptcy by emphasizing its role as a strategic financial tool rather than a moral failing. With a compassionate approach that prioritizes clients' needs over corporate interests, Peltz argues that bankruptcy should be seen as a business decision, not a source of shame. He highlights the common misconception that bankruptcy should be avoided at all costs, noting that this belief often leads individuals to make damaging financial choices, such as depleting retirement funds or falling for scams. By offering personalized guidance and treating clients like family, Peltz strives to demystify the bankruptcy process, helping individuals understand that it can offer a fresh start, particularly in the context of divorce and other financial challenges.
Key Takeaways
->Viewing bankruptcy as a business decision rather than a source of shame is crucial for guiding clients through financial difficulties.
->Certain debts like spousal support, child support, student loans, taxes, parking tickets, penalties, and court charges are not dischargeable in bankruptcy.
->Bankruptcy can be a first step towards rebuilding credit, with FICO scores potentially increasing by an average of 100 points over a year.
->Common misconceptions about bankruptcy include the belief that it is a personal judgment or a black mark on one's character.
->Bankruptcy hearings are now conducted via Zoom due to COVID-19 restrictions, providing convenience for clients.
Connect with Jeffrey Peltz:
https://www.aaalawyer.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreypeltz/
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
https://miller-law.com/
"If you don't know about the money, you don't have control over the money or access to the money."
Ed Vargo, the founder of Burning River Advisory Group and Enlighten Her, is a fervent advocate for financial literacy, particularly focusing on empowering women. Inspired by his immigrant mother's struggles with financial independence, Ed has dedicated his career to providing compassionate financial guidance to help women achieve equality through financial strength. He emphasizes the significance of teaching financial literacy from a young age, advocating for parents to model positive financial behaviors for their children and encouraging open discussions about money within families. Vargo also highlights the impact of financial misunderstandings on relationships, especially during divorce, underscoring the importance of assembling a knowledgeable support team and fostering financial education to promote harmony and independence.
Key Takeaways:
->Ed Vargo emphasizes teaching children about money management from a positive perspective and modeling good money behavior.
->Communication about money values and decisions is crucial in relationships to avoid disharmony and resentment.
->Open dialogue about money in relationships can prevent conflicts and build financial harmony.
->Educating oneself about family finances, especially during divorce, is essential to avoid being at a disadvantage.
->Enlighten Her offers resources like white papers on money myths and steps to take during divorce to empower women in managing their finances.
->Early intervention in divorce proceedings is crucial to avoid post-settlement regrets and make informed decisions.
->Enlighten Her aims to empower women to take control of their finances and make informed decisions, especially during major life events like divorce.
Connect with Ed Vargo:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-zweben-17676434a/
https://www.instagram.com/joezweben_/
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
https://miller-law.com/
What are some unique challenges that mid-career professionals face during divorce?
Jamie M. Lima is a renowned certified divorce financial analyst and certified financial planner who specializes in helping mid-career professionals navigate the financial complexities of divorce. As the founder of Allegiant Divorce Solutions and the creator of the Secure Split app, Lima draws on over 20 years of experience to guide clients through asset division and retirement planning, with a particular focus on managing complex workplace benefits like stock options and pension plans. He believes that financial planning is crucial during divorce proceedings, as it helps individuals avoid common pitfalls and make decisions that align with their long-term financial goals. By working closely with tax professionals and leveraging tools like the Divorce Toolkit, Lima empowers clients to prioritize their future and make informed financial decisions, ensuring a secure post-divorce financial future.
Key Takeaways
->Involving financial professionals early in the divorce process is crucial for making informed decisions and planning accordingly.
->The Divorce Toolkit provides resources for understanding topics like dividing retirement accounts, tax impacts, alimony, child support, and budgeting calculators.
->Financial planning tools like the Divorce Toolkit help in streamlining financial planning for divorcing couples, attorneys, mediators, and certified divorce financial analysts.
->Financial planning expertise is essential in managing asset division, retirement planning, and tax implications during divorce.
->Mid-career professionals facing divorce may encounter complex financial challenges related to workplace benefits like stock options, pension plans, and tax implications.
->Alimony, or spousal support, aims to provide financial resources for the out spouse to adjust to single life, cover living expenses, and support individuals during the post-divorce transition period.
Connect with Jamie M. Lima:
https://allegiantds.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamielima/
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
https://miller-law.com/
"Blended families are always a little bit tricky just because you don't have that standard. Everything to the spouse and then down to the kids. And that's just the end of it." - Laura Cowan
Laura Cowan, a distinguished attorney and CPA, brings her expertise in estate planning to the forefront, particularly in navigating the intricate transitions that follow a divorce. Having founded her own law firm after a successful career as a CPA, Laura emphasizes the critical need to reassess beneficiary designations post-divorce, as these can override other estate planning documents. She advises individuals to carefully review and update life insurance and retirement accounts to ensure they align with their current wishes, highlighting the necessity of collaborating with a team of professionals—including estate lawyers and financial advisors—to develop a comprehensive plan. Laura's perspective encourages those experiencing divorce to view it as an opportunity for reinvention, urging them to thoughtfully consider their future personal and professional paths to foster growth and fulfillment in this new chapter of life.
Key Takeaways:
->Revisiting beneficiary designations is crucial to protecting one's financial legacy after a divorce.
->Updating estate planning documents post-divorce is crucial to ensure that beneficiaries and fiduciaries accurately reflect the individual's current circumstances.
->Consulting with an estate planning attorney before finalizing a divorce settlement is crucial.
->Estate planning can provide individuals with a sense of control and stability following significant life transitions like divorce.
->The integrative nature of divorce affects various aspects of life including estate planning, financial planning, and parenting plans.
->Attorneys can create a more fulfilling and effective approach to practicing law by prioritizing client needs over traditional metrics of success.
Connect with Laura Cowan, Esq:
https://www.2hourlifestylelawyer.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/thelauracowan/
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
https://miller-law.com/
"You really want to know what your priorities are and then you want to know what your spouse's priorities are, because they might be different." - Melissa Murphy Pavone
Melissa Murphy Pavone is a seasoned certified financial planner and divorce financial analyst, whose 18 years of experience in the field are deeply influenced by her personal experiences as a child of divorce. She founded Mindful Divorce Partners to guide clients through the intricate financial challenges of divorce with clarity and assurance. Melissa stresses the importance of proactive and holistic financial planning, focusing on understanding settlement options, tax implications, and the long-term effects of financial decisions, especially when children are involved. Her approach goes beyond mere numbers, helping clients design balanced and sustainable financial plans that align with their future goals and risk tolerance, while avoiding common pitfalls such as retaining the family home without considering its long-term financial impact.
Key Takeaways:
->Working with a financial planner post-divorce is crucial for navigating the transition to saving for oneself, contributing to retirement, and bridging the financial gap left by alimony and child support.
->Understanding priorities in financial assets during divorce negotiations is key to ensuring a fair and balanced outcome, particularly when children are involved.
->Having a financial planner as a supportive ally can provide guidance tailored to risk tolerance and financial goals for a secure future post-divorce.
->Offering fee-for-service and assets under management advisory models allows financial advisors to tailor their services to best suit individual circumstances and goals, especially in divorce scenarios.
->Educating clients on the importance of having an emergency fund and considering tax implications is crucial in making informed decisions about the family residence in divorce settlements.
Connect with Melissa Murphy Pavone:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissamurphypavone/
https://mindfulfinancialpartners.com/about/
https://mindfulfinancialpartners.com/
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
https://miller-law.com/
"Depth psychology is a more spiritual approach, a psychospiritual approach to understanding yourself more deeply." - Deborah Lukovich
Dr. Deborah Lukovich is a renowned depth psychologist who offers a unique perspective on navigating the complexities of divorce by delving into the unconscious mind. With a belief that up to 90% of our actions and decisions are influenced by hidden forces, she emphasizes the importance of uncovering these unconscious patterns and behaviors that shape relationships. Through her book "Your Soul is Talking, Are You Listening?" and her engaging podcast and blog, Dr. Lukovich provides valuable insights into the unseen dynamics and hidden agendas that often go unnoticed during the tumultuous process of divorce. By guiding individuals to explore the depths of their psyche, Lukovich aims to foster a deeper understanding of personal and relational dynamics, ultimately aiding clients in transforming their relationship patterns and preventing past experiences from dictating future connections.
Key Takeaways:
->Depth Psychology focuses on uncovering hidden aspects of the unconscious mind to promote personal growth and transformation.
->Anger during divorce can be connected to past experiences and emotions, influencing individuals' reactions and behaviors.
->Dr. Lukovich shares her personal journey through divorce and highlights the importance of understanding the unconscious mind in life transitions.
->Relationship complexes involve patterns of thinking and behaving that impact interactions, hinder personal growth, and can lead to misunderstandings.
->Effective communication in relationships requires honesty, vulnerability, and creating a safe space for open dialogue.
->Unconscious fears and thoughts often hinder honest communication, emphasizing the importance of tools like 'Start with Hearts' to manage emotions and promote authenticity.
Connect with Deborah Lukovich:
https://www.deborahlukovich.com/
https://www.facebook.com/dlukovich
https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-lukovich-phd-5322953/
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
"It will not get any easier if you're avoiding it. Now, don't think that in six months or a year the solution will be, in fact, it's going to get much harder." - Katya Sverdlov
Katya Sverdlov is a distinguished attorney specializing in estate planning and elder law, with a robust background in finance as a chartered financial analyst. Driven by her own unsatisfactory experience with estate planning at a large law firm, she founded her own practice to ensure personalized client care and education. Sverdlov is passionate about empowering families to make informed decisions, emphasizing the critical importance of properly documenting estate planning wishes in writing, as verbal instructions or unsigned documents hold no legal weight. Her approach includes leveraging her financial expertise to help clients navigate complex family dynamics and asset considerations, highlighting strategies like irrevocable trusts for Medicaid planning, ensuring that her clients' wishes are legally binding and protected for the future.
Key Takeaways:
->Proper documentation in estate planning is crucial to ensure individuals' wishes are legally binding and carried out as intended.
->Medicaid planning is essential for individuals with total assets of roughly 3 million and below to ensure coverage for long-term care.
->Irrevocable trusts allow individuals to protect assets, retain certain control, and potentially qualify for Medicaid coverage for long-term care expenses.
->Working with knowledgeable professionals is emphasized by Katya Sverdlov to properly execute and regularly update estate documents.
->Asset protection and ensuring desired outcomes for individuals and their families are key goals of estate planning.
Connect with Katya:
https://sverdlovlaw.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/katya-sverdlov-cfa-esq-3aab406/
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
https://miller-law.com/
"Kids have large antenna on their heads that you can't see, but they're always scanning for information, and that is information that is picked up very easily." - Lisa Herrick
Dr. Lisa Herrick, a renowned family therapist and collaborative divorce coach, has nearly twenty years of experience guiding families in the Washington, D.C. area through the complex transition period of separation and divorce. She emphasizes that this transition varies greatly among individuals, depending on their resilience and specific circumstances, and underscores the importance of allowing adequate time for adjustment, adaptation, and recovery. Dr. Herrick advocates for honest and respectful communication between co-parents, particularly when introducing new partners to children, to minimize confusion and build trust. Drawing from personal experience, she highlights the intricate dynamics involved in shared family activities post-divorce, such as spending holidays together, and the necessity of preparing new partners for their roles within a blended family to foster a healthy and harmonious environment.
Key Takeaways:
->The period of time required for individuals and families to adjust, adapt, and recover from separation and divorce is crucial.
->Nesting during divorce involves sharing living space, household responsibilities, and potential implications for future relationships.
->It is important to go slow when introducing children to new romantic partners after divorce.
Lisa Herrick emphasizes the importance of preparing new partners for interactions with children and ex-spouses in blended families.
->Lisa and Katherine emphasize the benefits of waiting for the right moment to introduce shared holidays and dinners in a blended family.
Connect with Lisa Herrick:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-herrick-009a6128/
https://lisaherrick.com/
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
"The key is that it keeps the children stable. It keeps their routines consistent. There's a lot less upheaval and chaos for the children. It's a very child centered approach to separation and divorce." - Ann Gold Buscho
Ann Gold Buscho, a licensed clinical psychologist, is renowned for her expertise in family dynamics surrounding divorce, with a particular emphasis on child-centered solutions. As the author of "The Parents Guide to Bird Nesting: A Child-Centered Solution to Co-Parenting During Separation and Divorce," she advocates for bird nesting as a strategy to mitigate the negative impacts of divorce on children by ensuring stability and consistency in their environment. Buscho underscores the importance of prioritizing children's welfare by setting aside personal conflicts and fostering effective co-parenting through open communication and collaboration. Her work offers practical tools and guidance to help parents navigate the complexities of bird nesting, including addressing financial and logistical considerations, to create a harmonious and supportive arrangement for their children.
Key Takeaways:
• Bird nesting is a child-centered approach to divorce that provides stability and consistency for children.
• Financial and logistical considerations are crucial when implementing a bird nesting arrangement.
• Short-term nesting can have a positive impact on children by offering a stable transition during separation.
• Having clear agreements in place for nesting arrangements is essential for co-parenting success.
• Establishing a clear budget and separate accounts for nesting expenses is crucial for financial stability.
Connect with Ann Gold Buscho, Ph.D.:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ann-buscho-ph-d-4110437/
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
"I think whether someone wants to admit it or not, we have all been in that space multiple times in our life where we wonder who we want to be, who we should be, and who we are." - Jennifer Teplin
Jennifer Teplin is a licensed clinical social worker and the founder of Manhattan Wellness, where she specializes in helping young professionals navigate significant life changes, including divorce. She advocates for personal transformation through challenging limiting patterns and embracing authenticity, believing that divorce, while difficult, is an opportunity for individuals to redefine themselves. Teplin's human-centered and collaborative approach is uniquely tailored to address the emotional complexities of divorce, providing a safe space for clients to explore and align with their true desires. By encouraging self-reflection and intentional decision-making, she empowers individuals to overcome societal expectations and build lives they genuinely love, viewing divorce as a pivotal moment for personal growth and new beginnings.
Key Takeaways:
->Jennifer Teplin empowers clients to challenge limiting patterns, embrace authenticity, and create meaningful personal transformation.
->Divorce is now happening at younger ages as people are more willing to admit when they are unhappy in a relationship.
->Individuals need to envision a fulfilling life after divorce to have the motivation and courage needed for a new beginning.
->Fear of the unknown can cause individuals to prioritize familiarity over their own happiness in relationships.
->Negative emotions after a breakup can be a catalyst for personal growth and an opportunity for redirection.
Connect with Jennifer Teplin:
https://manhattanwellness.org/jennifer
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferteplin/
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
https://miller-law.com/
"People need to feel safe to be a part of a team. People need to feel safe to be able to contribute." - Rabbi Shlomo Slatkin
Rabbi Shlomo Slatkin is a distinguished relationship expert who dedicates his work to helping couples achieve breakthroughs, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs. He champions the idea that conflicts within relationships are not merely obstacles but opportunities for healing and growth, transforming potential breakdowns into significant breakthroughs. Through his engaging private two-day intensives and group workshops, Rabbi Slatkin provides couples at crossroads with the clarity and strategies needed to foster positive outcomes, grounded in a deep-rooted belief that every conflict holds the potential for constructive change. By advocating for relationship intelligence and understanding through faith, he inspires couples to approach challenges with hope, emphasizing that facing and resolving conflicts can ultimately deepen their commitment and connection.
Key Takeaways:
->Conflicts in relationships can lead to deeper connections and personal development.
->Creating a safe environment is crucial in relationships to enable open communication and prevent defensiveness.
->Understanding and acknowledging the other person's perspective is key to fostering goodwill and productive communication.
->Breakdowns in relationships can lead to breakthroughs and personal growth.
->Imago therapy helps individuals understand the source of conflict in relationships and develop effective communication skills.
->Viewing conflicts as opportunities for healing and growth can strengthen relationships.
Connect with Rabbi Shlomo Slatkin:
https://themarriagerestorationproject.com/
https://www.imagorelationshipswork.com/user/slatkinm
https://www.linkedin.com/in/themarriagerestorationproject/
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
https://miller-law.com/
"It is a rebirth because there is so much of your identity attached to who you were with this other person in the life that you had with this person or that you created with the person." -Karina Diaz
Karina Diaz, a licensed psychotherapist and art therapist with over two decades of experience, offers a compassionate and creative approach to guiding individuals through the emotional journey of divorce. She believes this journey is a deeply impactful experience that often disrupts one's sense of self, particularly affecting children who may feel powerless during such transitions. Karina emphasizes the importance of providing space for children to process their trauma and allowing them a sense of agency, while also highlighting the need for compassion and cultural understanding in supporting all individuals involved. Through her work, she advocates for addressing the emotional complexities of divorce with dignity and empathy, utilizing art therapy as a powerful tool to express and heal from the complex emotions experienced during this challenging life transition.
Key Takeaways:
->Divorce can be a traumatic event for individuals, couples, and families, with each person processing it uniquely.
->Art therapy is used as a tool to express complex emotions and provide a non-verbal outlet for individuals during divorce.
->Understanding and addressing the emotional needs of young children during divorce is crucial.
->Healing after emotionally abusive relationships involves rediscovering oneself and rebuilding a sense of self.
->Support and encouragement are important for individuals leaving toxic relationships to navigate the complexities of the process.
Connect with Karina Diaz:
https://karinadiaztherapy.com/about
https://www.linkedin.com/in/karina-diaz-lcat-lpat-a0831520/
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
https://miller-law.com/
"People think they know what they want, but how would you know if you've never gone through it before?" - Melinda Gould
Melinda Gould is a distinguished divorce guide and strategic support partner known for her unique approach to helping clients navigate the complexities of divorce with clarity and steadiness. Drawing from her own challenging divorce experience, Melinda sees her role as vital in addressing the practical, emotional, and logistical aspects of divorce, offering comprehensive support that includes financial organization, communication management, and emotional grounding. Unlike therapists, attorneys, or coaches, she focuses on strategic and logistical elements, helping clients make decisions aligned with their personal values and children's needs while providing steady emotional support. Melinda believes her approach enables clients to emerge from divorce stronger, clearer, and more centered, ready to embrace the next chapter of their lives with confidence and support.
Key Takeaways
->Support during divorce often includes help with managing practical tasks, organizing financial documents, navigating communication, and addressing emotional needs.
->This type of support typically focuses on strategic, logistical, and communication considerations, while also acknowledging the emotional impact of the process.
->Community-based resources, such as online support networks, can provide valuable tools, guidance, and connection for individuals going through divorce.
->Emotional triggers around money during divorce are common and often tied to feelings of security, identity, and power.
->Trusting one’s intuition during divorce can help individuals prioritize their needs and make informed, grounded decisions.
->Steady, practical guidance can provide clarity and reassurance, helping individuals navigate the complexities of divorce with greater confidence.
Connect with Melinda B. Gould:
https://melindabgould.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/melinda-b-gould-580875/
Connect with Katherine Miller:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/
https://miller-law.com/